Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Sewell-Thomas Stadium 241 Paul W Bryant Dr Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Alabama Crimson Tide website Sewell-Thomas Stadium website Year Opened: 1948 Capacity: 5,867 Rammer Jammer, Yellow Hammer The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of the SEC is probably the championship level of football in the conference, and with good reason, as SEC teams have won 15 of the last 30 College Football National Championships. Over that same time frame, SEC baseball has been nearly as impressive, winning college baseball’s ultimate prize 14 times. While the Alabama Crimson Tide have not been one of the six different SEC programs to claim a national championship in that time, they have established themselves as one of the teams to contend with in arguably the deepest college baseball conference in the nation. Alabama has called the now Sewell-Thomas Stadium home since 1948, when the then Thomas Field opened on the corner of the current day Paul “Bear” Bryant Drive and 2nd Street. Sewell was added to the stadium’s name in 1978 in honor of former Crimson Tide player, coach, and National Baseball Hall of Famer Joe Sewell. 2015 would see major renovations that would send Alabama to Hoover to play their home schedule, and give “The Joe”, as it is lovingly known, a face lift that might make many minor league teams jealous.   Food & Beverage   4 Concessions at Sewell-Thomas Stadium offer fans a rather wide variety of options, including combo plates of burgers or chicken tenders with fries, chicken nachos, cheese fries, or the traditional ballpark hot dog. Snacks and candy are also plentiful. Much like concessions in the neighboring Coleman Coliseum , one of the concession stands is also dedicated to sweet treats and the ever popular Dippin’ Dots. Beverages come from the Coca-Cola family of soft drinks, along with Powerade and Dasani bottled water. In addition, Sewell-Thomas Stadium sells various alcoholic beverages, from domestic and premium beers, hard seltzers, pre-mixed cocktails, and individual servings of wine. While there is a decent selection of concessions, prices do seem to be a bit high even for sports stadiums.   Atmosphere   4 The exterior of Swell-Thomas Stadium uses a great deal of brick, accented with concrete and arches to create a rather impressive exterior. Field level seating, though just a few rows deep, runs nearly foul pole-to-foul pole, with upper-level seating of the grandstand a bit lopsided, running from even with third base to nearly the entire length of the right field foul line. Suites and the press box top the grandstand behind home plate, while right field seating is made up of multiple levels of grassy berms – the first two levels, below the outfield concourse, are reserved for students, with the sections above the right field concourse for general admission seating. The field does play a bit small with both lines going 320’, power alleys 360’, and deep center at 390’. Left-handed batters do have a slight advantage, as the outfield wall to right is a lower 8-foot height compared to the 12-foot chain link that makes up the rest of the outfield wall. The lone scoreboard sits just beyond the right field fence and includes the typical line score, sitting just below a large LED screen with batter statistics, previous at bat results, lineup, pitch count and pitch speed, and the next inning’s lineup. The game presentation at Sewell-Thomas Stadium is rather similar to that of a minor league game, with mid-inning contests and games on the scoreboard, conducted by an in-game host. When considering seating options, the sun sets behind the first base stands, so seats along that side of the field, or the right field pavilion, should eliminate contending with its rays. A roof also runs over the upper level of seating from dugout-to-dugout, which provides plenty of protection from the elements.   Neighborhood   5 Sewell-Thomas Stadium is located toward the southeastern corner of Alabama’s campus, so it is a bit separated from the main concentration of extracurricular activities in Tuscaloosa. The surrounding area is heavily populated with off campus student housing, along with chain and international restaurants; the Druid City Brewing Company Tasting Room is also just a short distance from the backside of Coleman Coliseum . The primary entertainment district of Tuscaloosa, “The Strip”, is just over a mile from the southeast athletics neighborhood – this area is full of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. But for those in search of a bit more toned-down experience, that might not have as much of the college life excitement, further up The Strip across Queen City Avenue, in Tuscaloosa’s downtown, is a bit more of a mature vibe with watering holes, restaurants, more boutique shops, and several hotels. In addition, j ust off the I-20/I-359 interchange, about a 5-minute drive from downtown, is another cluster of hotels and several chain restaurants. Tuscaloosa is a classic college town where the university drives much of the heartbeat of the community. Visitors would be hard pressed to find locals who are not either somehow tied to the school, or who are not ardent supporters of at least one of the Alabama athletic programs. These ties go a long way in developing a sense of pride that permeates throughout the Tuscaloosa community.   Fans   4 SEC baseball fans might be just as diehard as their football counterparts, just in smaller numbers. Of the top 25 NCAA teams in terms of attendance, SEC teams claim 11 of those positions. Nevertheless, despite falling in the bottom half of the conference in attendance, the Crimson Tide is still in the top 25 nationally at roughly 3,500 fans per game. It is not just that fans show up, either – they are active participants in creating a fun college baseball atmosphere. They might not be as raucous as other fan bases in the conference, but Alabama fans show up and are supportive; much of that credit needs to go to the student section that inhabits the first couple of sections of tiered berm seating in right field.   Access   4 Interstate 20 and two US highways feed into Tuscaloosa, making Sewell-Thomas Stadium conveniently accessible for fans traveling from any direction. F ree parking  is available in the Capstone parking garage across Paul Bryant Drive from the left field entry point. Two other access points, a cluster of three gates at the home plate entry, and a third in the right field corner, help ease crowds both as gates open and for fans leaving. An outer concourse also runs behind the grandstand housing concessions, restrooms, and the Babe Ruth McAfee Hall of Fame. In addition, the field concourse runs completely around the seating area, allowing fans to navigate the stadium while still being able to keep up with the game. Thought was obviously given to fans having unobstructed views of the game, as seating is elevated above walkways to keep those walking around the concourse from blocking the view of those in the upper sections. The sections are also kept reasonably open, which helps keep fans from having to get up for those trying to get to their seats in the middle of a row.   Return on Investment   4 Pricing is different for non-conference and conference matchups; for mid-week games and early season non-conference series tickets start at $10, with conference series starting at $15. These rates are a bargain when considering SEC baseball as the country's best collegiate baseball conference. Even with such decent ticket prices, tickets on the secondary market can go for as low as $1 before fees. One great perk is that parking in the Capstone garage is conveniently located and free of charge! However, c oncessions are a bit inflated, but eating at the game is not a necessity, and the most expensive items are avoidable – the snacks and other ballpark mainstays at Sewell-Thomas Stadium are much more reasonably priced.   Extras   5 The Babe Ruth McAbee Hall of Fame  gives fans a look at Alabama Crimson Tide baseball history – from players who have played professionally to displays about some of Alabama’s most successful teams, as well as stories of Crimson Tide record holders and artifacts from major moments in program history. Stories of the stadium’s namesakes, Joe Sewell and Frank Thomas, are posted along the concourse on each side of the field. Sewell was an Alabama baseball player, coach, two-time World Series Champion with the Cleveland Indians (1920) and New York Yankees (1932), and National Baseball Hall of Famer, while Thomas led the Crimson Tide to two of the eighteen college football  national championships they claim, in 1934 and 1941. Alabama does a lot in recognizing the history of athletic successes. Outside the stadium beyond the right field line, the Sarah Patterson Champions Plaza recognizes the founding coaches of each team, along with conference and national titles won by each program. More in line with extras from a stadium and game experience standpoint, for parents looking to give their children a bit of an opportunity to get out of their seat and expel some pent-up energy, a decent sized playground also sits just by one of the left field fences, and there are no concerns of bombardment from potential home run balls, as this area is covered by netting. Finally, in a top-notch, classy move, following wins and the team handshake line, Alabama baseball players make a beeline to the student section to thank them for their support, as the players make the rounds with high-fives for fans leaning over the right field wall.   Final Thoughts Baseball at the University of Alabama has quietly blossomed into one of the high-level baseball programs not just in the SEC, but nationally. While the team on the field fills the stadium with plenty of excitement, the positives do not stop there. Considering the in-game fan engagement, fan support, and additional perks enhancing a day at Sewell-Thomas Stadium, Alabama offers one of the top-tier college baseball experiences in the country.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.71 Chuck Stevens Baseball Field 11300 Gainsborough Rd Potomac, MD 20854 Koa Sports Green Wave website Ride the Green Wave The Maryland Collegiate Baseball League is a summer collegiate baseball league based in Maryland, in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area. Most players come from local colleges or are otherwise based locally. The Koa Sports Green Wave is based in Montgomery County, just outside DC. They play their day games at Chuck Stevens Field at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, and their night games at Wheaton Regional Park, as Chuck Stevens Field does not have lights. This review will focus on Chuck Stevens Field. Food & Beverage 0 There is no food or drink for sale at Green Wave games. Fans can bring their own. Atmosphere 1 There are several places at Chuck Stevens Field to watch a game from, but none are particularly good. There is a small set of bleachers behind home plate, but your views of the left field corner from here will be obstructed by the dugout. Bleachers are also located further up the left field line but it is difficult to see home plate from here. In either case, you will be caught through a thick metal fence rather than netting. Some fans also choose to bring their own chairs and sit closer to the fence, often with umbrellas to stay cool. It offers marginally better views but can obstruct other fans' views. Some fans also choose to sit in the outfield, as there is a gap in the fence down the foul line, so this offers an unobstructed view. However, there are no seats here, so you will need to either bring your own or stand. A scoreboard is located in the outfield but is non-functional, so you are on your own to figure out the count and score. Music is played during breaks in the action, but there are no announcements like starting lineups or player introductions. This is an extremely barebones experience, to say the least. Neighborhood 3 Winston Churchill High School is located in a mainly residential neighborhood, so there is not much in the immediate vicinity. However, the Cabin John Village shopping center is located a short drive away and offers many options. Gregorio's Trattoria is a locally popular Italian restaurant and is probably your best option here. Fans 2 The Green Wave only draws a few dozen fans a game, and most of them are friends or family of the players. They do seem to be pretty knowledgeable about the team and the league, which is a plus. Access 2 There is a small lot at Winston Churchill High School next to the football stadium, and a larger one closer to the school. Another lot is located closer to the baseball field but is blocked off by vehicle traffic. It is open to pedestrians, and you will need to walk through it past the tennis courts to get to the stadium. Then you will walk along a gravel path and down a grass hill. It is not easy to get to the field. There are no restrooms at the field itself, but there are some in the football stadium, about a five-minute walk away right next to the entrance. They are of a sufficient size for the crowds. Return on Investment 3 There is no cost to attend a Green Wave game. However, there isn't enough here to earn more than an average value. Extras 1 Look for the plaque honoring the field's namesake, longtime Winston Churchill High School coach Chuck Stevens. Final Thoughts A Koa Sports Green Wave game is an extremely basic experience. True baseball diehards and purists and completions who want to visit as many stadiums as possible may want to check this out, but if you're not in one of those groups, this may not be the ballpark for you.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 NRG Stadium One NRG Park Houston, TX 77054 Houston Texans website NRG Stadium website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 72,000 Houston Texans – NRG Stadium In 1997 the Houston Oilers packed up shop, bid goodbye to the Astrodome and Space City, and moved to the Volunteer State, Tennessee. This left the fourth-largest city in America without professional football for the first time since 1960. The ensuing years would be frustrating for fans and the city alike, as Houston sought to reclaim admittance to the NFL. Businessman Bob McNair was granted the rights to a new Houston franchise in 1999, with the team set to take in 2002. The Houston Texans would take the field during the 2002-03 season with a great deal of promise and fanfare – they would take to the field that inaugural season from the only home stadium they’ve ever known, NRG Stadium. Built as a (giant) neighbor to the historic Astrodome, the now-named NRG Stadium (originally Reliant Stadium) became the latest in the league to feature a retractable roof, annually becoming one of the highest-attended stadiums in the league. This would especially be the case as the Texans fortunes on the field began to rise in the 2010s, as they claimed the AFC South Division championship in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019 (they also recently claimed the title in 2023 and 2024). This rise came from the stellar play of newly enshrined Pro Football Hall of Famer Andre Johnson  and future Canton enshrine J.J. Watt , among others. NRG Stadium is a reflection of everything that makes Houston a great city: it’s bold, it’s diverse, it’s energetic, and it’s very Texan, naturally.   Food & Beverage   5 One of the best things about NRG Stadium is its concession offerings – the offerings are quintessential H-Town, with a heavy focus on barbecue and Tex-Mex. You can find these offerings at the El Tiempo kiosks (street tacos, anyone?) and the Texas Smokehouse and Truth BBQ (brisket sandwiches, y’all) stands on the 100, 300, and 500 levels. Local favorites, such as Laurenzo’s (French dip sandwiches!) and Trill Burgers, are also well represented. There are also plenty of kiosks that offer regular gameday fare like hot dogs, nachos, pizza, chicken fingers and sandwiches, and popcorn (be on the lookout for the Cheeto’s popcorn carts). If you are feeling adventurous you can also try chicken wonton nachos, Asian infusion beef teriyaki tacos, and strawberry cheesecake dessert pretzels, which are new items on the menu this season. Adult beverages can also be found in multiple spots, including the Bud Light Lounge and Bud Light Cantina on the main concourse, as well as Crown Royal Saloon near the south end zone. These seating areas cater to grown-ups looking to take a break in the action, offering seating areas as well as an in-house DJ. These are fun experiences and I’d recommend making at least a pass through one of them on your visit to NRG Stadium. You won’t go hungry at NRG Stadium; my only caveat is these items are all at NFL prices, so just be prepared for a little bit of sticker shock when it comes time to pay.   Atmosphere   4 The Texans – like most of the NFL – do a great job of making game days at NRG Stadium feel like a very big deal. In addition to the regular accoutrements of the division championship banners hanging from the rafters and the Texans Ring of Honor underneath the press box, along with team merchandise stores around every corner on every level of the stadium, the Texans offer up multiple other events and activities that enhance the gameday atmosphere. Each week has a theme; for example, the most recent game I attended was Kids Day and featured junior cheerleaders taking the field before the game, contests (a baby race) throughout the day, and face painters, balloon artists, and games for kids in the concourse, as well as special “kids treats” available for purchase at some of the food stands – think marshmallow treats, cake pops, chocolate pretzel rods, etc. There is also usually a live music artist in and around the stadium on game days, and there is always something big planned at halftime. You’re going to have a good time at NRG Stadium – even if the team you’re rooting for is not winning.   Neighborhood   4 I’ve written numerous times in past reviews expounding on the virtues of Houston and all its numerous attractions. For sports fans, if you plan your visit right you might be able to catch a Houston Astros  game, or a Houston Rockets  game, or a Houston Dynamo  game when you take in a Texans game at NRG Stadium, as all their seasons converge with the Texans at certain times during the calendar year. H-Town is also home to attractions such as Space Center Houston , world-class facilities like the Downtown Aquarium  and Houston Zoo , fantastic urban green spaces like Hermann Park and Buffalo Bayou Park , not to mention the Houston Museum District  offering more things to see and do than anyone could do in a week. In short, there are plenty of things to do before and after Texans games for fans. In terms of dining, this is the one area that keeps the score for NRG Stadium from being even higher – the stadium is removed from Houston’s downtown area, so it’s kind of off by itself in the city. NRG Park is a massive complex and takes up a huge amount of real estate, and as such, there really aren’t any spots to eat at within walking distance of the facility. There are numerous food trucks along the roads leading toward the complex, however, and there are several restaurants that are within a five-minute drive – these include Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant  and Angelo’z Po Boys . There are plenty of other options across the city, though. For lodging, there are a few withing walking distance of NRG Stadium, including Staybridge Suites Houston - Medical Center  and Comfort Suites near Texas Medical Center . As with the dining options, there are plenty of other spots in Houston; the only limit is your budget.   Fans   4 This season the Houston Texans sat in 10th place in the league in terms of attendance. NRG Stadium averaged 71,300 fans per game, which is virtually a sellout each Sunday (or Thursday or Monday). During the last game I attended, I was heartened to see so many fans tailgating in the parking lots and decked out in Texans gear. The crowd was loud and energetic throughout the entirety of the game, which always makes for a better experience. My one point of contention is the sheer volume of opposing team fans in every corner of the stands. This may just be the state of pro football these days with easy access to tickets on the secondary market. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it is definitely something that is noticeable.   Access   4 As mentioned, NRG Stadium is sort of set off from a good chunk of the major metro area of Houston. While it’s not too far removed from Texas Loop 610, it’s just over a 40-minute drive from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Another item I’ve written extensively about in terms of Houston is its traffic – you’re going to be stuck in it no matter what time of day you drive into the city; it’s just an immutable fact. However, if you want to avoid the grind, the Houston METRO  mass transit is a good way to go. Both the light rail and city buses have routes that will drop you off at NRG Park. Once you get to the stadium, parking is plentiful. Depending on how far you want to walk, you can find some relatively affordable options.   Return on Investment   4 Single game tickets for the Houston Texans start at $50 per person, which is pretty on par for the NFL these days. With tickets looking like they’re going to be hard to come by outside of the secondary market, as the Texans enjoy another upswing on the field, costs could easily get higher. When looking at parking near NRG Stadium, I was able to find spots at some intrepid businesses in the area offering parking for the game as low as $20. However, the closer you get to the stadium, the closer the cost gets to triple digit costs. Concessions here match the scale of the overall prices. If you’re bringing a family to the game, you can expect to drop a pretty penny or two to cover everything. The one thing that makes the costs more palatable, however, is how the Texans are playing these days – with Burgeoning stars all over the field, you’re going to (mostly) get your money’s worth at NRG Stadium.   Extras   4 A lot of what the Texans do mirrors what the college game does in this area, and that’s a good thing. Costumed mascot? Meet Toro , one of the best in the league. Cheerleaders? Yep, the Texans Cheerleaders  can be found on both sidelines, performing throughout the game during breaks in the action. How about a band? You can find the Texans Deep Steel Thunder  drumline performing on the main concourse before the game starts, as well as during breaks in the action. Oh, and don’t forget the Texans Mariachis , as you’ll see them during player introductions and at halftime; all great stuff that goes above and beyond what you normally will find in the pro game.   Final Thoughts I’ve been to NFL games at NRG Stadium more than any other facility in the country – though it is now over two decades old, it still feels new somehow. There is also always a new wrinkle or a new amenity to make it feel fresh. Neither the stadium nor the Texans have the history or the championship pedigree that some of the great places in the NFL, such as your Superdome  in New Orleans, your Lambeau Field  in Green Bay, or your Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. However, I would put it right up there with any of the shiny new stadiums that have been built in the past decade or so. If you’re a football fan, I would definitely add NRG Stadium and Houston to your bucket list. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 President’s Field at River Road 23B Boatwright Dr Richmond, VA 23173 Richmond Spiders website President’s Field at River Road website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 700 Spider Soccer Located off of River Road on the Westhampton side of the University of Richmond campus, President’s Field at River Road is the home to the Spiders women’s soccer team since 2019 (there is no men’s soccer team here at Richmond.) Before that time, the Spiders played at the much more spacious Robins Stadium , which also hosts football and lacrosse. However, that stadium was far too large for the crowds the soccer team attracted, and now they have their own soccer-specific home. Food & Beverage 1 Free water bottles are available in a cooler as you come in. Beyond this, there is no food or beverage available, but it is a nice touch. Fans are permitted to bring in items for their consumption, except alcohol. Atmosphere 3 President’s Field at River Road has a very basic layout, with a few rows of bleachers lining one side of the field. The good news is you are very close to the action. However, there is very little here beyond the basics. There is a scoreboard that shows the time, score, and basic stats, but that is about it. The school does very little to promote the soccer team on campus and seems much more focused on the football program during the fall season. However, this stadium does deserve some credit for the up close and personal experience. Neighborhood 3 Richmond’s campus is about 20-30 minutes from downtown Richmond, right on the edge of the city limits. As fans of rival school VCU will love to point out, only about half of the University of Richmond campus is actually in the City of Richmond. The other half is in neighboring Henrico County. If you head down Three Chopt Road, there are a few restaurants and other places available, but your best bet is to head about three miles east on Route 147 to the Carytown neighborhood which has far more options available. We recommend the Galaxy Diner and Carytown Burgers and Fries as your best bets. Fans 4 The Spiders draw well for soccer and seem to have benefited from moving into a much smaller, but mostly full, venue compared to a nearly empty Robins Stadium. Although they will only draw a few hundred fans a game sitting in the bleachers and lawn chairs along the turf, it still seems pretty full. The same crowd at Robins would make it seem almost deserted. Fans are mainly but not exclusively friends and family of the team and are very knowledgeable about the players on the field. They are happy to share that knowledge with fans who may not be as familiar as them and who are coming to check out the Spiders for the first time. Access 3 Getting to the Richmond campus is easy enough. It is conveniently located a couple of miles off I-64, the Downtown Expressway, or the Powhite Parkway, depending on where you are coming from. The first route is toll-free but the second two have small tolls. Unfortunately, once you get onto campus, finding President’s Field can be challenging. No signs are pointing you to the right place, and many GPS apps will take you to the wrong side of the field. You will need to park in the lot across the street by Crenshaw Field, the field hockey stadium, and then simply walk across the street to get here. However, many GPS apps have trouble finding Crenshaw Field as well so it is not as simple as just navigating there. There are no restrooms at President’s Field itself, but there are some at Crenshaw which will be open during games. There is also a port-a-potty right outside the gate if you have an emergency and don’t have time to run across the street to go there. Return on Investment 5 Admission is free and so is parking. If that were all, that would be a good deal, but there wouldn’t be enough here to get the top score. However, when you throw in the free bottled water for all fans, that’s enough to kick this score up a notch. Extras 2 The free bottled water to help fans stay hydrated on hot days, particularly early in the season, is a nice touch. There are free programs available at a table as you come in as well. Final Thoughts President’s Field at River Road suits the Spiders’ soccer program much better than Robins Stadium. Although it lacks many of the amenities that Robins offers, sometimes less is more, and playing in a stadium that is suited for the crowds the team attracts offers a marked improvement over having a few hundred fans in a stadium that seats almost 9,000. The stadium is only two years old and still very basic, so hopefully, the Spiders continue to make improvements to it in future years.

Photo by Bradlee Ross, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 ONEOK Field 201 N Elgin Tulsa, OK 74120 FC Tulsa website ONEOK Field website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 7,833 FC Tulsa at ONEOK Field ONEOK Field is located in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma and is well worth a visit if you ever find yourself in the Tulsa area during those prime soccer-watching spring and summer months. The Roughnecks were originally founded in 1978 and refounded in 2013 (the original incarnation of the team folded in 1984). They currently play in the United Soccer League. They share ownership and ONEOK Field with the Tulsa Drillers . Opening in 2010, ONEOK Field is named for ONEOK natural gas company and has a total capacity of just under 8,000. It is located in downtown Tulsa, next to the historic Greenwood district. Food & Beverage 4 The food options at ONEOK Field are numerous and varied. The standard concession stands are called Tulsa Driller Grille and Oil Capital Concessions and contain the basics of hot dogs, popcorn, soft drinks, etc. These are reasonably priced and of a good quality. But there are also plenty of other options to get your snack and drink on. There're stands like Siegi's Sausage Factory, Steakadelphia, Corner Cantina, Smokie's and Burgertopia selling all kinds of awesome foods like Philly cheesesteaks, gourmet burgers, Tex-Mex, and more. Rita Cabana serves Bud Light margaritas and there are also various beer stands at regular intervals along the concourse. There are plenty of dessert options as well, including Hornsby's Sweet Treats serving lemonade, sno-cones and cotton candy and a Sweet Stand in left center field that serves frozen yogurt. Sadly, there are also quite a few stands that are not open during Roughneck matches for one reason or another. This limitation lowers the venue's score somewhat, especially since all of these places are normally open during baseball games. Still, there are a lot of great options at reasonable prices. If you have trouble deciding what to spend your hard-earned money on, choose the Jalapeno Popper Burger that can be had from the Burgertopia stands. It consists of a ½ lb. beef patty, jalapenos and cheddar cream cheese. It's delicious and a bargain at almost any price. Atmosphere 2 Roughneck matches at ONEOK Field leave something to be desired as far as energy and buzz go. Unfortunately, there really isn't much going on besides the match on the field. There is a Kids' Zone near center field with a splash pad to keep the kids cool during those hot summer months. There's also a grassy area for families to sit picnic-style while they watch the Roughnecks. A few others things of note are the small merchandise stands which allow any fan to show their team spirit, plenty of ATM's for those fans who prefer to use cash, and a variety of seating to choose from (though some obviously costs more). However, other than what's listed here, there really isn't much in the way of atmosphere. Neighborhood 5 ONEOK Field isn't hard to get to at all. Interstate highway 244 goes right by and the Tulsa downtown district itself is surrounded by four or five different highways that all converge, making it easy to get to no matter what direction you are coming from. Once you get off the highway, things can get a bit more difficult, as downtown Tulsa can be a challenge to navigate depending on construction. There is plenty to see and do around ONEOK Field. Downtown Tulsa has much to offer including the Philbrook Arts Museum, Spaghetti Warehouse and the BOK Center, another great venue. The most historically-significant aspect of downtown Tulsa is the Greenwood district, which was once known as the "Black Wall Street of America" because it was the home of many prominent African-Americans. Within it, you can find the Jazz Hall of Fame, Greenwood Cultural Center and the Mabel B. Little Heritage House, all of which are well worth the visit if you are even remotely a history buff. Also don't forget to visit the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park, a free park practically next door to ONEOK that memorializes the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot. As far as eateries go, you should plan to have your pre-Driller-game meal at Burn Co. Barbecue, which has the best barbecue in the state of Oklahoma. However, you'll have to time out your visit, as Burn Co. is only open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm, which leads to very long lines (though they move quickly). It also is a considerable distance from the park. However, when you bite into the best barbecue you've ever had, it will all be worth it. Your post-game meal doesn't need to be far from the ballpark at all. Fat Guy's Burger Bar is actually connected to ONEOK Field, just outside the outfield, but it also has a streetfront. With great burgers and plenty of TVs to watch your favorite ballgames, you won't be sorry you stopped here for a bite. If you need a recommendation, try out the Pizza Burger. It consists of a beef patty, a sausage patty, pepperoni, provolone cheese, basil mayonnaise and marinara sauce. It will change how you feel about pizza and burgers (in a good way). Fans 2 The crowd at Roughneck matches is a very mixed and middling one. They are not all that loud or involved in the action on the field, save for a very loud and vocal superfan section that honestly borders on obnoxious a good amount of the time. The rest of the venue is filled with families with children or young people who just need something to do or somewhere to be. Most fans in attendance simply watch quietly or spend most of the match walking around. It seems to be a social setting for many, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but it does take away from the fan experience somewhat. Access 4 The bathrooms are very clean and large enough to prevent any waiting. The aisles and seating are big enough to be comfortable, and most fans will have a very easy time getting around the concourse as well. The only issue for this venue is parking. It can be very difficult to find in downtown Tulsa. It is particularly hard to find the area immediately surrounding ONEOK Field. Free parking will require a considerable walk. The closest parking will typically run around $10 or so. Roughnecks FC offers a $5 lot at the corner of Archer and Detroit (a block from the stadium). Also, you can find free parking in lots on the OSU-Tulsa campus north of the stadium (Fridays-Sundays). Return on Investment 4 The return on this stadium experience probably depends on the individual fan. That being said, you will not find a better pro soccer experience (or really any other pro soccer experience) near enough by to pass up seeing the Roughnecks at ONEOK. Tickets are available for about $10 a piece at the cheapest, which may not be a value for casual soccer fans. The visit is really worth it if you are going to spend some time in the fantastic neighborhood surrounding ONEOK. Extras 1 One extra for the splash pad near the Kids' Zone. Staying cool is important during the summer, especially for kids and especially in Oklahoma.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Qudos Bank Arena Edwin Flack Ave Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127 Australia Sydney Kings website Qudos Bank Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 18,200 We Are All Kings The National Basketball League (NBL) is experiencing a welcome renaissance, and the Sydney Kings are emblematic of the resurgence of interest in Australia’s domestic competition. The club dates back to 1987, having formed as a result of two foundation teams; Westars and Supersonics. Based out of the Sydney Entertainment Centre in the inner-city, the Kings were chronic underachievers until finally experiencing sustained success in the early 2000’s. Despite this, the Kings had their license revoked after the owner was unable to pay player salaries following a bad sponsorship deal. The iconic franchise was eventually relaunched for the 2010-11 season. Following the demolition of the Sydney Entertainment Centre at Darling Harbour, the club moved west to Olympic Park and now call Qudos Bank Arena home. Qudos Bank Arena was constructed to serve as the main indoor arena for the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics. Originally known as the Sydney Superdome, the venue adopted its current corporate moniker in 2016. With a capacity of 18,200, Qudos is the largest venue in Australia by capacity. During the Olympics the basketball and gymnastic events were held at the Dome but since then it has hosted many concerts, conferences and sporting events including basketball, netball, ice hockey, and tennis. Given its size, the Dome was the site of the largest ever netball crowd in the world during the Netball World Cup in 2015. The arena is operated by AEG Ogden, who also own a majority stake in the Kings. In 2019 a new all-time NBL record crowd was set when 17,513 fans attended a Kings vs Illawarra Hawks game at Qudos. Food & Beverage 3 The selection of food items available for purchase is relatively confined to the basics. Staple items include various hot dogs (American, Loaded, Jalapeno), fries (plain or loaded) and chicken nuggets. Wraps and salads are also on the menu. Expect to pay around $13-$14 for any of these selections, although note that Kings members receive discounts of up to $1 off the headline rate. Soft drinks, bottled water, and energy drinks cost up to $6 per item. At the bar there are a small selection of beers, wines, and pre-mixed spirits for sale for up to $13 per drink (with Kings members receiving a discount of up to $1.50 per drink). Atmosphere 4 There’s no doubt that the move west to Olympic Park, along with new ownership, has breathed new life into the franchise. Similarly, the game-day experience is much improved and continues to draw ever-increasing crowds to Qudos Bank Arena. The reputation of the league is constantly improving, with the recruitment of Andrew Bogut to the Kings effectively creating a snowball effect, as the NBL now looms large as a realistic alternative for North American based players who wish to turn pro rather than head into the college system. Despite being 20 years old, the arena still presents exceptionally well. Upon arrival, there is a small activation precinct located in front of the building. There is a relatively quick security check outside the venue itself before you enter the large open foyer, which is adorned with large Kings banners, and also features a well-stocked merchandise stand. Also, be sure to take the opportunity to have your photo taken sitting in the large replica throne – a nice touch. Indeed for a venue that is used for numerous different events, the Kings do an excellent job of customising it for their fans. The majority of spectators will then need to take the escalator or stairs to access their seats. Once upstairs, the walkways are wide and easily accommodate the crowd. Each bay is well-marked, making the entry hassle-free. Once inside, several features stand out. Firstly, the video screen is huge. Indeed it is reportedly the largest indoor screen in the Southern Hemisphere. This is a welcome addition as many Australian venues are only just now starting to realize the value a large screen can make to the fan experience. Hanging from the rafters above this are the Kings championship and club legends banners. The pre-game introductions are impressive; the “lights out” announcement is a great way to engage the crowd, who respond by holding their mobile phones in the air. During the game, the announcer and musical interludes are well done and add to the experience. Additionally, there are cheerleaders and a mascot. Ushers are stationed at most entrances to the seating area, and are generally friendly and helpful. Neighborhood 4 Prior to being developed as a central hub of sporting venues for the 2000 Olympics, the area that is now Sydney Olympic Park consisted of a mix of polluted former industrial land, and mangrove swamps. Following the Olympics, there has been a significant amount of on-going development to turn the precinct into a thriving live-work-play mini-city. Population within Sydney Olympic Park is expected to reach more than 30,000 in the next 20 years. The Sydney Olympic Park precinct is a modern area consisting of major sporting and recreation venues, hotels, restaurants and bars. There are often multiple events occurring in the precinct on the same day, many of which are community-based. Visitors to the area should almost always have several options for pre or post-match entertainment. The Novotel Sydney Olympic Park has launched The Kings Bar for the 2019/20 season, which the club promotes as its preferred destination for basketball fans. The Accor group also have Pullman and Ibis hotels nearby. There are numerous casual dining options within a short walk of the arena, with Ribs & Rumps always a popular choice. It’s also worth checking the schedules of other summer sports based at Olympic Park to consider double-header opportunities or a sporting weekend at Homebush; specifically, Sydney Thunder BBL cricket at ANZ Stadium. Fans 4 As mentioned, the move west has been a successful one and fan numbers have continued to trend upwards. Average crowd numbers are around 9,000 per game, which is very respectable for the NBL in an over-saturated Sydney sports marketplace. Expect big crowds for the local derby with the Illawarra Hawks , and modern day rivals Melbourne United. Much of the crowd is decked out in Kings purple and yellow, and is loud. There are a number of cheers initiated by the announcer and the crowd responds to all of them, as well as generally remaining vocal and focused on the game at all times. “Go Kings, Go” is a familiar refrain throughout the game. The atmosphere is infectious and you can’t help but be impressed. The Kings have focused on entertainment and their fans obviously agree with what they’re seeing. Access 4 While there are plenty of options to choose from when travelling to Sydney Olympic Park, public transportation is usually the best option. The train station is approximately 600m walk from the arena, and should suit most fans. If you do choose to drive, note that the traffic in surrounding areas can be poor, particularly if there are several events on at the same time – it may take you 30 minutes or more to travel the last kilometer or two. Additionally, parking is expensive. Expect to pay $25 to use one of the parking stations for the duration. P1 is the closest to Qudos Bank Arena and is easily accessed if you are approaching from the west. P2 is a little further away, but still a feasible option if you are driving in from the north. Qudos is well suited to crowds and the concourses are generally wide and easy to negotiate. There are bag searches and security to pass through upon entry but that is fairly common at most venues these days. Bathrooms are clean, plentiful, and remain in good condition. Return on Investment 4 With the tickets for a family of four starting at $40 (Bronze Level), getting into the game itself is not obviously expensive. However, there are several different price points depending on the experience you’re looking for, with the best seats in the house selling for $85 for an adult. Add in parking and food mean it won’t necessarily be a cheap day out, but the fan experience and quality production the Kings are putting on make it worth your cash. Extras 4 It’s the little things that make the difference, and the Kings have delivered. The timing just seems right for the club at the moment; they are rightfully proclaiming a new era yet also are drawing on their impressive history. The pre-game ritual is exciting and the continual entertainment makes the game fly by. Final Thoughts With domestic basketball once again on the rise in Australia, now is a great time to make your acquaintance with the Sydney Kings and Qudos Bank Arena.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Toscano Family Ice Forum 523 Jim Calhoun Way Storrs, CT 06268 UConn Huskies men's hockey website Toscano Family Ice Forum website Year Opened : 2023 Capacity : 2,691 Bringing the Huskies Home   The University of Connecticut ice hockey program started play in 1960. At the time, the team competed at the Division III level, playing at an outdoor rink adjacent to Memorial Stadium. The Huskies played outdoors until the construction of the Mark Edward Freitas Ice Forum  in 1998.   The opening of the Freitas Forum coincided with the squad’s move to Division I. After spending a few seasons in the MAAC/Atlantic Hockey Association, the Huskies moved to the more prestigious Hockey East Conference in 2014. The team also began playing a portion of their schedule at the XL Center  in Hartford. Eventually, the Huskies played their entire home schedule off campus, as the Freitas Forum did not meet NCAA or Hockey East standards. A study done by the university concluded that it cost the school $20,000 to hold a game in Hartford.   Wanting to move back to campus, the university began construction of a new $48 million hockey facility in the school’s athletic district. Named in honor of UConn Board of Trustees Chairman Dan Toscano (’87) and his family in recognition of a donation to the school, the first game at the Toscano Family Ice Forum was played on January 14, 2023. Included in the new rink are team offices, lounges, training areas, and strength and conditioning facilities. The rink is also made available for public skating sessions.   At the current time, the plan is to split UConn’s schedule between Toscano Forum and the XL Center. The Huskies have yet to qualify for the NCAA postseason tournament. Five UConn alumni have played in the National Hockey League.   Food & Beverage 3    In many new sporting venues, the concessions experience is a big focus. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem to be the case at Toscano Forum.   There are small concession stands in each corner of the venue. Each stand contains a slightly different menu, so you may need to wander around to find what you need. There’s not a whole lot offered at these stands, with hot dogs, pizza slices, and assorted snacks comprising the menu.   What saves Toscano from a sub-par score is the presence of Bear’s Barbeque in the southeast corner of the arena. Fans can choose from their popular pulled pork and brisket, served in a sandwich with chips or over mac and cheese.   Bottles of Coca-Cola products are sold at the Toscano Forum. Among the many different beers served at Toscano are two beers brewed especially for UConn athletics, Husky Hops IPA from Kinsmen Brewing and TwoConn Easy Ale from Two Roads Brewing. Fans looking for wine or mixed drinks will be able to find choices at UConn hockey games.   Atmosphere 5   When designing the Toscano Family Ice Forum, the university made a conscious decision to keep the venue small so that it would be filled to near capacity most nights, maximizing the noise and energy during games. After attending a UConn game, it is clear that leadership’s vision has paid off.   Stadium Journey attended a game during the semester break, so there was a very sparse turnout from the student body. This had a minimal effect on the crowd and atmosphere, as the empty student sections were filled up by fans who otherwise might have been shut out from attending a game. The band was in attendance, filling the rink with music during play stoppages and continuing student section traditions, such as turning their backs on the opponents during play stoppages and taunting the visiting goalie whenever the opportunity arose.   The UConn staff put on a professional-level show, with a high-quality video board anchoring the presentation with hype videos, replays, crowd shots, and more. The PA announcer adds energy to the proceedings and an excellent sound system fills the venue with noise during play stoppages along with the band. Since the venue is filled primarily with season ticket holders, the fans in attendance are knowledgeable and enthusiastic.   Neighborhood 3   The University of Connecticut is located in the village of Storrs, which is incorporated within the town of Mansfield. It’s a short drive from Toscano Forum to downtown Storrs. With just over 15,000 residents, Storrs’ population pales in comparison to UConn’s total enrollment of almost 33,000 students. It’s no surprise that the 4,000-acre UConn campus dominates this small town. Visitors to Storrs can still find some solid dining options in town.   Downton Storrs is located right across the street from the main entrance to UConn. While the downtown area has some good choices for dining, the must-see for any visiting fans is the UConn Dairy Bar. The Dairy Bar, operated entirely by students, has been in operation since 1953. All products are made fresh on-site. While enjoying your ice cream you can see the cows grazing in the adjacent fields.   Since there aren’t a ton of options for lodging near UConn, many fans coming to the area will move on to Hartford, located about a 30-minute drive to the west, or the twin casinos of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, located about 45 minutes to the southeast.     Fans 5   The response to the Huskies moving back to campus has been overwhelming. Tickets have been grabbed up almost as quickly as they have been made available, and Toscano Forum is packed night in and night out with rabid Husky fans. Stadium Journey attended a game during the 2023 semester break without much of a turnout from the student body, and the arena was still nearly filled.   Connecticut has never been thought of as a traditional hockey market, overshadowed by New York on one side and Boston on the other. However local hockey fans are as knowledgeable and passionate as any of their neighbors, and they make Toscano Forum an intimidating place for visiting teams.   Access 3   The University of Connecticut is located in rural Storrs, a small village located about a half-hour drive east of Hartford. Storrs is not directly served by any highways, so fans visiting Toscano Forum will have to navigate some country roads to reach campus. Interstate 84 runs about seven miles north of UConn.   Toscano Family Ice Forum is located on the southwest edge of campus alongside UConn’s other athletic venues, including Gampel Pavilion , Elliot Ballpark , Marrone Stadium, and Freitas Ice Forum . Fans who have not been on campus in a while may be quite surprised by the changes in the area, as the baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, and hockey teams all have received new venues in recent years.   Fans visiting Toscano Forum will enter the north side of the venue into a small lobby, climbing a flight of stairs to reach the 360-degree concourse, which runs atop the seating bowl. The standing room and bar rail seating are located at this level.  The seating bowl is steeply pitched, ensuring great sight lines from all seats in this cozy arena.   Restrooms are located on the east side of the facility and are large enough to accommodate even a sellout crowd. Lines are minimal at concession stands but can still form during intermission.   Return on Investment 2   The ticketing system for UConn hockey games at Toscano Forum is unique. Since the venue is very small, the first choice for seating goes to season ticket holders, with a portion of the seating reserved for students, visiting teams, families, etc. As you might imagine, this doesn’t leave very many tickets left over. Those tickets that remain are snapped up quickly when they go on sale to the public.   Most fans must then scour the secondary market for UConn hockey tickets. A recent scan of ticketing websites show that they start at around $45, increasing markedly from there. Add in concessions that are priced a bit on the high side, and attending a UConn game can become an expensive proposition.   Parking in the lots directly adjacent to Toscano Forum is reserved for season ticket holders. Fans attending UConn hockey games who do not hold parking passes must park at the South Garage, about a half-mile walk from the front door of the arena. This can be a tough walk on a cold winter night, and fans pay $15 for the privilege. Extras 4   A great tradition at UConn hockey games is the playing of Brass Bonanza, the old Hartford Whalers goal song, after Husky goals.   Every self-respecting arena needs to have a signature selfie spot for that perfect Instagram post. Toscano Forum has a fire pit in the entry plaza and a giant goalie helmet on the concourse. Both have proven to be very popular locations.   There’s a display on the south wall of the arena that outlines some of the history of the UConn hockey program. Photos of every player on both the men’s and women’s teams are posted on the east wall of the facility.   Final Thoughts   When planning a new venue, size matters. Do you want a small venue that is guaranteed to be filled with rowdy fans, or a large facility that will be mostly empty most nights, but which will come in handy for a few dates each season? The University of Connecticut opted for the former. They could have built bigger, but would it have dampened this excellent facility?   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Morrell Gymnasium 6 Polar Loop Brunswick, ME 04011 Bowdoin Polar Bears website Morrell Gymnasium Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 1,500 Polar Bear Basketball   Bowdoin College was the first university chartered in Maine. Founded in 1794, it actually predates the state, beginning its existence when Maine was still a part of Massachusetts. Today the school boasts an enrollment of 1,850 students who study in 35 majors and 40 minors. Considered a “most selective” university and a “Hidden Ivy”, Bowdoin boasts many notable alumni, including Franklin Pierce, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Joan Benoit Samuelsson and Robert Peary. The school’s athletic teams are named the “Polar Bears” in honor of Peary’s explorations of the North Pole.   Bowdoin athletics have enjoyed a great deal of success over the years, including four national titles in field hockey and another in men’s tennis. Three Olympic gold medalists are Bowdoin alumni. The basketball teams are mainstays in the NCAA tournament, with the men having reached the dance on four occasions and the women on 18 occasions, including finishing as national runners-up in 2004, 2018 and 2019.   Morrell Gymnasium is named for Mal Morrell, class of 1923, who served as Bowdoin’s Athletic Director from 1928-1967. It serves as home to the Polar Bear basketball and volleyball teams. Recent renovations added the Peter Buck Fitness Center, as well as redesigning the entryway, lobby and locker rooms in the facility.   Food & Beverage 2    There is a table in the lobby which provides some basic snacks during Polar Bears games. Hot dogs, chips and candy are sold here, along with cans of Pepsi products. It’s not much, but it will do the trick if you need a snack during the game. Plus, no item costs more than four dollars.   Atmosphere 4   The experience at a Bowdoin basketball game will feel familiar to those who have attended games at this level in the past. It’s not an incredibly loud or extravagant presentation, but you will be entertained while watching a game here. Most impressive is the support the basketball teams receive from the student body. During Stadium Journey’s visit the student section was packed and loud throughout the game. It’s not something you see often at a Division Three game.   There are scoreboards mounted on either end of the gymnasium that display game information. The PA announcer adds some energy to the proceedings without being too intrusive. Music is played during stoppages at a reasonable volume. Part of the charm of watching a game in a small gym like this is that you are close enough to the action that you can hear the squeak of sneakers, coaches barking instructions to the players, and the chatter on the court.   Neighborhood 4   Bowdoin College is the focal point of this small town and is located centrally to many of the points of interest in Brunswick. While there’s no dining or lodging options within immediate walking distance of Morrell Gymnasium, Everything you’ll need in this small town is a short five-minute drive to Maine Street (It’s awesome how they added an “e” to Main Street. Still makes me smile).   For a town of this size, there’s a surprising amount of attractions for visitors. There’s an active arts and entertainment culture here and plenty of Maine charm to experience. The Maine State Music Theater, Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum and Bowdoin Museum of Art are all located on the Bowdoin campus.   Of course, in this area there is no shortage of breweries. Among the offerings in Brunswick are Brickyard Hollow Brewing, Flight Deck Brewing, Moderation Brewing and Black Pug Brewing. If looking for dining options, locals swear by the Brunswick Diner for a bite to eat, or try some farm-to-table eats at 55 North or some wood-fired pizza at Nomad. Among the many fine boutique hotels in town is the Brunswick Hotel and Tavern, located right near campus. Several chains have locations out by I-295.   Of course, visitors wishing to explore the area beyond Brunswick may venture out to Freeport, home of the L.L. Bean Outlet Store, or to Portland, a city with endless dining and cultural options. Portland’s praises have been sung on this site on numerous occasions.   Fans 3   The basketball teams at Bowdoin enjoy good support from the community. Crowds range in size from 100-300 fans. These numbers are pretty typical of other Division Three schools in the area. Stadium Journey visited Bowdoin for the second round of the NCAA tournament in 2024, with a near-capacity crowd of over 1,200 fans in attendance.   Most impressive amongst the typical “friends and family” you see at a small school basketball game was the presence of a packed student section. Just like the student sections you’ll find at larger schools, the kids filled the upper level of Morrell Gymnasium, standing the whole game and taunting the opposition. The gym was filled with noise from this section throughout the game.   Access 3   Brunswick is a coastal town of over 21,000 residents located about a half hour drive north of Portland. Interstate 295 runs through Brunswick on its way from Portland to Augusta. The Bowdoin campus is located about four miles from the highway, easily accessed by Route 1 and Maine Street (notice what the town did there?). Amtrak’s Nor’easter trains have their terminus here in downtown Brunswick, connecting visitors via rail to Portland, Boston and beyond.   Morrell Gymnasium is located on Bowdoin’s main campus, away from the school’s other athletic facilities. Bowdoin is a large campus with lots of green, open space, but you really wouldn’t know it if you’re a visitor unfamiliar with the campus visiting during a dark, winter night. The signage on campus isn’t great, and you may find yourself wandering around Bowdoin as you search for the gym.   There is a small parking lot behind Morrell Gymnasium, but this fills quickly, forcing visitors to park in a lot on the opposite side of College Street. Again, this lot is hidden behind some buildings without any signage to alert visitors to its presence. It’s about a half mile walk from this lot to the gym, which may be uncomfortable on a frigid Maine winter night. The path from the lot to the gym is paved, but there are no signs directing you. It’s very possible that you’ll be taking an unplanned tour of campus on your way to the game or back to your car.   Once you find the Peter Buck Center, you’ll enter into a bright, attractive lobby where you will see many trophy cases and displays showcasing Bowdoin’s athletic success. Front and center in the lobby is a stuffed Polar Bear, kept fresh inside a glass display case. Two doors on your left will allow you to access the gym. Rest rooms were a bit of a walk from the gym, located in the Smith Union Center next door.   There are two levels of seating in Bowdoin Gymnasium, with a few rows of molded plastic bleachers on the lower level and wooden bleachers on the upper level. All seats have great views of the action in this cozy gym.   Return on Investment 3   As mentioned earlier, Stadium Journey visited Morrell Gymnasium during an NCAA Tournament game, with NCAA mandated ticket prices of $15 for general admission seating. You will undoubtedly be paying less should you be visiting during a regular season game. Like many schools at this level, one admission ticket allows you to see both the men’s and women’s teams play, as long as the schedules line up.   Parking is free in the nearby lots, and the concession prices top out at four dollars for any single item. A night watching the Polar Bears play is a most affordable entertainment option for southern Maine sports fans.   Extras 2   Bowdoin is absolutely a regional athletic powerhouse, and their impressive history is displayed throughout Morrell Gymnasium. Banners honoring tournament appearances by the men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the volleyball team, are displayed throughout the gym. Trophy cases and displays in the lobby contain mementos commemorating past Polar Bear victories.   An additional extra point is awarded for the stuffed Polar Bear keeping watch in the Morrell Gymnasium lobby. Final Thoughts   Often touted as one of the premier locations to watch Division Three basketball in the country, Morrell Gymnasium doesn’t disappoint. There’s plenty of Maine charm to go around in Brunswick and nearby Portland. Make a Bowdoin basketball game part of a weekend trip, and you have found yourself a fantastic Stadium Journey well off the beaten path.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Steven Burke, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 CEFCU Arena 702 W College Ave Normal, IL 61761 Illinois State Redbirds website CEFCU Arena website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 10,200 Where the Redbirds Fly The Missouri Valley Conference is synonymous with college basketball, and while not one of the more well-known programs in the venerable conference, the Illinois State Redbirds provide a great game experience in central Illinois. Opened in 1989, Redbird Arena is a 10,200-seat facility on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal, IL. Redbird Arena is also home to the ISU women’s basketball team as well as the women’s volleyball team. Note: In Nov 2022, the arena name changed from Redbird Arena to CEFCU Arena as part of a naming rights and sponsor agreement with the credit union. Food & Beverage 3 Redbird Arena has the usual items in reference to food and beverages. The concourse is lined with permanent concessions stands all featuring the same basic items such as hot dogs, pizza, pretzels, polish sausages, candy, and soft drinks. Prices range from $3-$4 for entrees, $2-$4 for candy and snacks, and $3-$5 for beverages. The inside of the concourse has several free-standing specialty options. A Mexican inspired stand serves nachos and walking tacos ranging $5-$7, the Papa John’s stand serves individual pizzas all costing $7 with choices of cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. All of the permanent concession stands on the concourse accept cash or credit cards, while all the specialty stands only accept cash so plan accordingly. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at Redbird Arena has improved in recent seasons as one of the great players in Redbird history, Dan Muller, has returned as head coach and reinvigorated the fan base. A renewed interest from fans along with aesthetic upgrades has kept Redbird Arena competitive with other mid-major venues. The die-hard basketball fans are rewarded with an upgraded video scoreboard above center-court along with new ribbon boards spanning the upper deck facade along both baselines. The ribbon boards track individual player stats while the center-court scoreboard keeps track of the points, game clock, and team statistics. For families attending games, a variety of contests during team and media timeouts keep the crowd excited and involved. Overall Illinois State does a great job creating an atmosphere that is welcoming to all in a town where the Redbirds are the highest level of entertainment. Neighborhood 3 Redbird Arena is located on College Street in an area of campus that houses many of the ISU athletic facilities, providing a real sense of being on a college campus. As for the neighborhood, it mostly consists of a mixture of university buildings. However, in the Bloomington-Normal area, you are never far from retail or food and beverage options. Many chain options are available in the immediate area and you will drive past most of them on your way into town. A few popular destinations in the area that aren’t of the chain variety include Avanti’s, Schooners, and Destihl Restaurant & Brew Works. Avanti’s is an Italian restaurant, while Schooners is a sports bar. Schooners is famous for itdeep-frieded pork tenderloin sandwich, which is so large that they ask you how many buns you would like with it. Destihl has become fairly well known in Illinois in recent years for their beers including their wild sour series. Fans 4 The student section at Redbird games is pretty lively, many students are dressed in crazy costumes and carrying giant cutout heads of the players and coaches that have become so popular in recent years in college basketball. The student section is located behind one of the baselines as is customary in many college basketball settings and they do their part to rattle the visiting team. The students create an intense raucous atmosphere, and are into the action on the court the entire game. The students are located right next to the pep band and the two seem to do a good job feeding off of each other to create a great college basketball environment. The Redbirds also seem to have a dedicated group of fans from the community. Some are no doubt alumni, but others are just fans of the game. In this area of central Illinois entertainment choices can be limited and that appears to work to the benefit of Redbird basketball as they are the main show in town. Access 4 Parking in the vicinity of Redbird Arena is plentiful and affordable with some lots even being free. While you may have to walk a few blocks from one of the free lots, you can’t beat the price. The school does offer free parking with shuttle service from lots near the ISU golf course as well. While leaving the area around Redbird Arena is generally quick and easy, larger crowds can create a small traffic jam while leaving. Remain patient however as attendants do a good job of directing traffic while vehicles are leaving. Return on Investment 5 The Redbirds host some high quality opponents in the Missouri Valley Conference and offer a great return on investment. Lower level tickets range from $22-$25 depending on the opponent and all lower level seats provide an excellent view of the action. Upper level tickets range from $9-$14 for adults and $6-$9 for children under the age of 12. While all of the seats in the upper level have a great view of the court there are some issues with viewing the new ribbon boards. If you are an intense follower of the action on the court and keep an eye on individual player statistics such as points and fouls be aware when choosing a seat in the upper level. The new video board above center court obscures your view of the ribbon board if you are seated behind either baseline. If seeing these statistics are important to your enjoyment of the game look for a ticket in the lower bowl or on the sides of the upper bowl. Extras 3 An extra point for the school and their understanding of the community involvement in athletics. Recently the school worked out a deal with Heartland Community College, allowing Heartland students to attend Redbird basketball games at a discounted ticket price. Heartland, which doesn’t have a basketball program, has many students from the local area that grew up Redbird fans and this agreement allows them to enjoy the games at an affordable cost. The agreement also allows the Redbirds to sell more tickets and connect with the community so it is truly a win-win situation. Another extra point for the school keeping their connection with former #1 draft pick and the greatest player in program history, Doug Collins. The Redbirds play on Doug Collins Court and there is a statue outside Redbird Arena featuring Collins and his coach, Will Robinson. All programs need to know and celebrate their history while looking to the future. One last extra point for the unique Teflon roof of Redbird Arena, it provides unique lighting for games and also separates the interior of the building from some other sterile arena interiors.

Photos by Ben Alkaly Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Great Southern Bank Arena 685 S John Q. Hammons Pkwy Springfield, MO 65897 Missouri State Bears website Great Southern Bank Arena website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 11,000 Big-Time Arena in a Small City Springfield, MO, serves as the gateway to the scenic Ozarks of southwest Missouri and northern Arkansas. Still, there are a few reasons to stop in town instead of just passing through on the way to natural wonders … One of them being college basketball in a pro-style venue.  The Missouri State Bears of the Missouri Valley Conference (moving to Conference USA in mid-2025 as the school steps up to FBS status) ply their trade in Great Southern Bank Arena, an 11,000-seat gem opened in 2008 in the northwest corner of campus. True to Springfield’s roots straddling the Midwest and South, in 2024 the venue also became home to the Missouri Thunder of the Pro Bull Riders Team Series. The venue also hosts a robust concert calendar. Make no mistake, however, college hoops are king – and queen – in these parts. Most of the Bears’ success in men’s basketball came when the program was named Southwest Missouri State before a 2005 rebranding. The Bears were four-time NCAA tournament runners-up at the Division 2 level (1959, 1967, 1969, and 1974), and have been to the Big Dance six times since moving up to D1, the last being a magical run to the Sweet 16 as a No. 12 seed in 1999. Winston Garland is the most accomplished Mizzou State pro, enjoying a nine-year NBA career after being drafted in the second round in 1987. His is one of five men’s hoops jerseys hanging in the rafters. However, the name most synonymous with Missouri State Basketball is Jackie Stiles, who scored a then-NCAA women’s basketball record 3,393 career points from 1997 to 2001, which stood for 16 years. Stiles led the Lady Bears to the 2001 Final Four and won the Wade Trophy as the nation’s top player before becoming the WNBA’s Rookie of the Year in 2002. The Missouri State also reached the 1991 Final Four. Display Honoring the Missouri State Bears Women's Basketball, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Until 2022, the home of the Bears and Lady Bears was named for the late John Q. Hammond, who among many gifts to his alma mater donated $30 million for the venue’s construction. Great Southern Bank secured naming rights for $5.5M. Food & Beverage 4 This is one arena where you won’t go hungry, or be uninspired by the food options. Several concession stands offer the standards – burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches and tenders, fries, nachos, popcorn, etc. – with entrees a bit on the pricy side ($13- $15). Then there are specialty stations; Pizza Ranch, a local chain, does whole pizzas for $35 and slices for $7. On the opposite side of the arena, the Cantina has three tacos for $14, premium nachos for $13, and a rather rare menu item for college hoops, elote (corn smothered in cream, lime juice, and cheese). To satisfy your sweet tooth, there’s an outpost of the local frozen yogurt chain Orange Leaf. For some reason, beers are one dollar cheaper ($9) at Pizza Ranch than other outlets, but all options are identical: Miller, Coors, Bud Light, Budweiser Ultra, Yuengling, plus White Claw for the seltzer fans. There’s a selection of Bacardi and Cutwater canned cocktails for $12 (the mai tai packs a punch!), however, it was explained to me that the full bar only opens for concerts. Wine is $8 a glass, while fountain drinks run $6 and bottled water $5.  For somebody like me who is often struck by menu paralysis, I suggest doing a lap around the concourse to see what strikes your fancy. Atmosphere 4 That trademark Southern (Midwest) hospitality revealed itself the second I stepped inside Great Southern Bank Arena. With my visit falling during the holiday season, cheerleaders in Santa hats were handing out festive Missouri State-branded mugs, with free game programs strewn about the table. Missouri State Bears Guest Services, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Walking from concourse to seats is when one realizes this ain’t your average mid-major college basketball arena. Separating the lower and upper chairback seating sections ringing the court are 22 private suites. Adding to the big-time feel of Great Southern Bank Arena is the PRIME Overtime Club, included with all higher-priced season ticket packages or to all-season ticket holders for an additional $100 membership. This 4,500-square-foot social space just off the concourse, with views of the court, offers elevated food and drink and is where the Bears coaches’ shows are recorded. The concourse is also home to the Missouri State Athletics Hall of Fame, with museum-caliber displays of great Bear athletes and teams. If that doesn’t get your school spirit flowing, a large team shop is located just to the right of the main entrance. Large TV monitors throughout ensure fans don’t miss any of the court action while shopping. Neighborhood 3 Located amid campus buildings and student apartment complexes, there’s not much near Great Southern Bank Arena to hold one’s pregame interest. Thankfully, downtown Springfield’s bars, eateries, and shopping options are just a mile away, making for a short drive or invigorating walk if the weather is cooperating. Nonna’s  is a delicious, traditional Italian trattoria, while a former Springfield resident recommended Black Sheep Burgers  as well as Café Cusco  for Peruvian food on the north side of town. South of campus, along E. Sunshine St., one will find every fast food establishment imaginable. At the corner of Sunshine and Campbell is the Holy Grail for outdoors enthusiasts … The original Bass Pro Shops is an attraction even for those who prefer creature comforts. When in town, sports fans may be able to catch an early season Missouri State baseball game at Hammons Field , just a half mile away. Fans 2 While there is a dedicated courtside student section in sections F through I behind the basket, it was not discernable from the rest of the crowd during the late-December holiday break. The Bears can use all the support they can get, as performances in recent years have seen Great Northern Bank crowds dwindle to a fraction of capacity. With a reversal of fortunes and an engaged student body, the arena is a sleeping giant ready to rock again. Game production is polished but not over-the-top. The lights dim for player intros, cheerleaders and the dance team work to keep the energy high at timeouts, but some of the more modern elements like an in-arena DJ are missing. The four-sided square scoreboard and video board also feel a bit past its prime. Access 4 A Bear statue and glass-strewn atrium welcome guests to Great Southern Bank Arena. The metal detectors were visible (but not set up) during my visit, and fans are limited to one bag sized no bigger than 11x8.5”. General public parking can be found in Bear-Park North at 725 E Cherry St, a four-story structure with 1,241 spaces about a five-minute walk from the arena. Prices vary. Springfield is a remarkably easy city to navigate, as streets generally follow a grid pattern and are hemmed in by four highways. The Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) is located in the northwest corner of town, with non-stops to major hubs throughout the Midwest and South, and flights as far afield as Los Angeles. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices at Great Southern Bank Arena range from $10 in the upper deck and behind the basket, to seats priced at either $26 or $40 along the sidelines. There may be family packs or other promotions available. Ticket prices are in line with a facility of this stature, while concession prices are on the high side given the Heartland location. During these inflationary times, lowering the cost of food and drink may entice more families to the arena. Extras 2 Attached to the aforementioned Bass Pro Shops is Johnny Morris’ Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium.  Opened in 2017 and named for Bass Pro’s founder, it has routinely been voted America’s top aquarium. About 45 minutes south of Springfield in the heart of the Ozarks is Branson known for its theme parks and concert halls that attract top country music acts. Final Thoughts With just over 170,000 residents, Springfield straddles the line between a small city and a big town. However, if you were to close your eyes upon entering city limits and open them only after entering Great Southern Bank Arena, you’d think you were in a major metropolis. Here’s hoping to high-caliber Bear (and Lady Bear) hoops shortly, drawing crowds that are befitting of this stellar venue.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info Harrington Auditorium 100 Institute Rd. Worcester, MA 01609 WPI Engineers basketball website Harrington Auditorium website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 2,800 Home of the Engineers Founded in 1865, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, or WPI for short, was one of the nation’s first engineering and technology universities. With an enrollment of approximately 6,200 students, the school offers 50 graduate and undergraduate programs. It frequently ranks in many “Top 100” lists of universities in the United States. WPI’s athletic teams are known as the Engineers and compete in Division Three as members of the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC). The school has sponsored a varsity basketball program regularly since 1918. The Engineers have qualified for 11 NCAA Division Three Tournaments, reaching the Sweet Sixteen in 2005. An interesting footnote to WPI basketball history is that the school was the opponent for Bobby Knight’s first coaching victory in 1965. Built in 1968, Harrington Auditorium serves as home to WPI’s men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams. It is named for Charles A. Harrington, class of 1895 and Frank C. Harrington, class of 1898. The brothers were instrumental in getting the varsity athletic program started at the school and were responsible for the construction of many of the facilities built in the early 20th century. Harrington Auditorium has served as the home to the MIAA Central Massachusetts Boys and Girls Basketball Championships for decades. Renovations completed in 2015 installed a new floor, bleachers, scoreboard and remodeled the locker rooms. Additional renovations completed in 2019 updated the lobby and added the Athletic Hall of Fame. Food & Beverage 0 There are no concessions available at Harrington Auditorium. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks in to the game. Atmosphere 2 The game day atmosphere at an Engineer game is typical of other small schools in New England. The small size of the arena lets fans hear the squeak of sneakers on the court and the coaches shouting instructions to their players. Game announcements are made over a sub-par public address system and can be difficult to understand, even in a facility as small as this. There are no cheerleaders or pep band here, and music plays only sporadically during play stoppages. Much of the noise during Engineer games comes from the fans themselves, who often have a personal connection with the players on the court. There are scoreboards on either end of the gym, which display basic game stats and little more. The new video board on the far end of the facility is difficult to see from the seating area, as it’s blocked by basket supports. Neighborhood 4 WPI is located in the residential Highlands neighborhood of Worcester, about a mile from downtown. It’s a walkable area filled with great local restaurants, shops and green spaces. The city of Worcester has traditionally suffered from a poor reputation but has made great strides in recent years and has many strengths. Visiting fans may be surprised to learn that Worcester is the second largest city in all of New England. Fans will find plenty to do in the immediate area of WPI. Fans looking for places to eat near WPI should head to The Boynton, which offers large portions of American fare, or Sole Proprietor for some excellent seafood. Visitors to Worcester may head to Shrewsbury Street, home of the city’s legendary “Restaurant Row,” where over 40 of the city’s best eateries are jammed into a 1.5 mile stretch. The downtown area also has a great many choices for lodging and dining. Fans looking for sporting options in Worcester can head downtown, where the Worcester Railers of the ECHL play at the DCU Center . Starting in 2021 the Worcester Red Sox will begin play at their new $101 million home, Polar Park. Despite being the home of many colleges, Worcester’s only Division One school is Holy Cross. Fans can head across town to catch the Crusaders play basketball and hockey at Hart Recreation Center, or football and baseball at Fitton Field. Fans 3 WPI averages around 400 fans per game at Harrington Auditorium, with crowds ranging anywhere from 200-500 fans. The crowd consists of a good mix of locals, families and students. While the crowd is generally laid-back, it’s not unusual to hear some noise when the Engineers get on a roll. Since the WPI schedule consists of many nearby teams, it’s not unusual to see a contingent of visiting fans at Harrington Auditorium. Access 3 The WPI campus is located in the residential Highland neighborhood of Worcester, less than a mile from downtown. It is easily accessed from Interstate 290. Highland Auditorium is located on the eastern edge of the WPI campus, adjacent to the school’s other athletic facilities. The entrance to the auditorium is on the main quadrangle of this attractive campus. Parking is available behind the auditorium in the Park Street Garage. Fans will enter a large lobby, which contains the WPI Athletic Hall of Fame display, and enter the gym area on the second floor. A walkway encircles the gym, offering standing room for fans wishing to take in the action from a different perspective. All seating at Harrington Auditorium is on one side of the facility. The seating area is separated into two levels, bisected by the walkway. Seats in the lower level consist of molded plastic bleachers, with seats in the upper level consisting of individual stadium seats. Be aware that if sitting in the upper sections your view may be obstructed by pedestrian traffic and safety railings. It is recommended to avoid the first few rows. Restrooms are located on the far side of the gym, and are new, clean and more than adequate for a typical Engineer crowd. Return on Investment 4 Admission to an Engineers game costs just five dollars. Children are admitted at no charge. Free roster sheets are available for all fans. With free parking available in the Park Street Garage adjacent to the facility, a basketball game at WPI is a most affordable entertainment option. Extras 2 The WPI Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the lobby of Harrington Auditorium. Featuring a display of Engineer memorabilia, honorees and important moments in WPI sporting history can be searched through a touchscreen that is part of the display. WPI is one of two colleges in the nation that has a goat for a mascot. Gompei the goat, named for Gompei Kuwada, member of the class of 1893 and the school’s first goatherder, is immortalized in two statues on campus. One, of a charging goat, is located behind Harrington Auditorium. The other statue, The Proud Goat, can often be seen wearing a sweater in the winter. Final Thoughts Harrington Auditorium is typical of many small gyms that dot the northeast. It’s far from the bright lights of big-time college hoops, and that is part of its charm. Schools like WPI offer entertaining basketball at an affordable price in an intimate setting. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

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

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Jake Nevin Field House 800 E. Lancaster Avenue Villanova, PA 19085 Villanova Wildcats website Jake Nevin Field House website Year Opened: 1932 Capacity: 1,500 Volleyball at the Jake Jake Nevin Field House opened on the campus of Villanova University in 1932. Despite seating only 1,500 fans, the arena was home to Villanova basketball until 1986, including their national championship-winning season in 1985. Today, the field house is home to Villanova's volleyball team, which, like all its athletic programs, competes in the Big East Conference. Food & Beverage 1 Concessions are sold at a table in the lobby of Jake Nevin Field House. Only snacks such as candy and chips are available to eat here, as are soft drinks and bottled water, although they ran out of the latter by the third set when we visited. Surprisingly, beer is available for sale here as well. Nothing costs more than a couple of dollars except the beer, which is about $10. Atmosphere 3 Jake Nevin Field House is an old building, almost a century old, and lacks many of the amenities of modern venues. Fans enter through a lobby that has been recently renovated and will then need to walk through a door, behind the team benches, and up a couple flights of steps to get to a concourse that surrounds the seating area on three sides. The area behind the baseline is used for cameras, while fans sit in bleacher seats along the two sidelines. It is a weird angle since you are so close to the action yet pretty high up. There is also a stage with a curtain behind the baseline that doesn't have the concourse above it. This serves no role at volleyball games other than gameday staff occasionally coming out from behind the curtain, but it is a very weird place to have one. The PA announcer loudly announces "Point, Wildcats!" every time Villanova scores, and music is played occasionally as well. This seems like the standard college volleyball experience, albeit in a venue older than most. Neighborhood 4 Jake Nevin Field House is located on Lancaster Avenue on the Villanova campus in suburban Philadelphia. There are a few options along that street within walking distance or a short drive away depending on your tolerance for walking. The Refectory is a popular restaurant within easy walking distance, Campus Corner is a popular pizza place with local students, and there are numerous other options a short drive away including Minella’s Diner. There is no need to deal with traffic and city parking to head into Philadelphia. Fans 4 Villanova draws surprisingly well to volleyball matches, with the field house typically being a third to half full. While some of those in attendance are friends and family of the players, there are many other Villanova fans as well. Even students attend in decent numbers, filling almost a whole section of the stands. Everyone is loud, especially the students, and with the tightly packed crowds and low ceiling, it can get quite loud in here after Nova points. Access 2 Jake Nevin Field House is located just off of I-476. Parking is available at an hourly rate in the I-1 garage across the street from the stadium. It will probably cost between $2 and $5 depending on how long the match goes and how early you get there, but when Stadium Journey visited on a Sunday evening, the gates were up and parking was free. If you are not so lucky, take a ticket as you come in and pay as you leave. If paying with cash, you will need to pay at the station. If paying by credit card, pay the attendant as you go. When arriving, exit the garage on the second level and cross the street to the field house. Finding the main entrance to the field house can be tricky, as several exterior doors along Lancaster Avenue are kept locked. Instead, you will need to walk along the side of the building through the parking lot (which is reserved for permit holders 24/7, so you can't actually park there) and then you will see a ramp leading to the main entrance. Once in the building, you will need to walk up and down a lot of steps to get where you are going, including some that seem completely unnecessary. This can prove to be a challenge, especially for those with accessibility needs. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Villanova volleyball games is free. Your only costs will be parking and concessions, and neither of those should cost you much. That can make a Villanova volleyball game an excellent value. Extras 1 Look for the photos of historical Villanova teams on the concourse behind the seating area. Final Thoughts While Jake Nevin Field House certainly isn't the most modern or glamorous arena, Villanova volleyball has made it their home. The team has a steady fan base, including both students and others, and manages to create an exciting atmosphere here. It has its quirks and isn't the easiest venue to get around, but Jake Nevin Field House is a unique and exciting place to take in a volleyball game.

Photos by Lance Sutehall, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Alabama A&M Events Center 4200 Memorial Pkwy NW Huntsville, AL 35210 Alabama A&M Bulldogs website Alabama A&M Events Center website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 6,000 The Bulldogs Got A New Building In the city of Huntsville sits the campus of Alabama A&M University, one of the largest historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the state. The athletic teams are known as the Bulldogs and since moving to Division One in 1998 the school’s athletic programs compete in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The Bulldogs basketball program played basketball at the T.E. Elmore Gymnasium from 1974 until 2022. The basketball program succeeded at the Division Two level with ten NCAA tournaments and four elite eight appearances before jumping to Division One. The Bulldogs won the 2005 SWAC tournament. The basketball teams moved to the new Alabama A&M Events Center in 2022 leaving behind the volleyball team that continues to call Elmore home. The Bulldogs hope their new venue will help raise the profile of their basketball program. Food & Beverage 2 Three concession stands are selling classic stadium concessions such as hot dogs ($3), chicken tenders ($6), nachos ($4), popcorn ($3), peanuts ($1), and Coca-Cola brand beverages ($4). Alcohol is not sold at the arena and the stands are cashless. Atmosphere 4 The venue's exterior includes a brick Alabama A&M logo on the ground and a main entrance with glass doors. The students walk upstairs passing by an Alabama A&M logo on the wall to enter the student section. Once inside the main entrance, there is a giant maroon and white Alabama A&M logo that you pass by before walking a flight of stairs to head to the seating bowl.  The seats are all chair backs and there are only twenty-one rows meaning that there is not a bad seat in the house. The floor has a bulldog logo at center court and the out-of-bounds area is maroon. There are two scoreboards with each one being behind a basket. Alabama A&M has a very proud and loud band that plays during the breaks in action and has a halftime show that is so loud you can’t hear yourself talking. An emcee also walks around the arena throughout the game to help keep the energy going throughout the game. The cheerleaders and dance team also do their part to keep the atmosphere at a high level. Neighborhood 3 Huntsville is one of the South’s rising cities but to get the most out of a trip to Huntsville you will need to go 4 miles south of the Alabama A&M campus and head downtown. Attractions downtown include the Huntsville Depot Museum, Big Spring International Park, and Huntsville Escape Rooms. If you are willing to travel 5 miles west of downtown I highly recommend spending some time at the U.S. Rocket and Space Center.  Dining options in Huntsville include Big Ed’s for pizza, Jack Brown’s for burgers, and Thai Garden. Bars include Catacomb 405, Baker & Able, and Miller’s Tavern. For lodging accommodations, chain hotels such as Hampton, Spring Hill, and Embassy Suites are available. Fans 3 The fans are very passionate about the Bulldogs and show their appreciation for their efforts on the court. The band, cheerleaders, dance team, and emcee all help the fans keep a high amount of energy throughout the game. Access 3 From I-65 you turn onto I-565 and drive until you get to exit 19B in Huntsville when you merge left onto Highway 431. The arena will be on your right and is very obvious when driving by the venue. There is free parking in a field by the arena (parking directly by the arena was reserved when I visited). After walking by the side of the arena and entering the lobby the walkways were wide enough, there were enough restrooms, and the concession stands did not have long lines. The only complaint is leaving the field parking after the game takes a long time as there is only one exit point. Return on Investment 3 Adult general admission tickets go for $20 and typically include both a women’s and men’s game. Children can attend for $10 provided a parent or guardian accompanies them. If you pay $10 for concessions that means you pay $30 for a day of SWACtion. A date night at the Events Center will be $60 while a family of four is likely to drop around $100. You are getting two games and performances from one of the most proud bands in the country for your money. Extras 2 As of the writing of this article, this is the newest college basketball arena in the state of Alabama.  Final Thoughts Alabama A&M has a modern arena that can be a tough place for opponents to play at. The fans hope that the new arena can help the Bulldogs become a more competitive basketball program.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mullett Arena 411 S Packard Drive Tempe, AZ 85281 Arizona Coyotes website Mullett Arena website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 4,600 Temporary in Tempe, Coyotes To Flee Arizona The story of Mullett Arena must be told in two parts: The first part is the impending departure of the Arizona Coyotes from not only Mullett, on the campus of Arizona State University in Tempe, but from the state of Arizona and winding up in Salt Lake City, Utah to play in the Delta Center next season (2023-24). The second part is the actual review of Mullett Arena which may never host a professional game again and could soon turn back into a college arena for its original intended purpose. First let’s tackle the sudden departure of the Coyotes, who play in the NHL’s Central Division. A new arena was first turned down by voters in Tempe last May which scuttled a potential new home. Then, owner Alex Meruelo, announced a plan to bid on land off the 101 Loop in Phoenix on the border of Scottsdale to build a new majestic home which was planned to open in fall of 2027.  The NHL Board of Governors got impatient with a plan that included much uncertainly including the Coyotes having to first win an auction on June 27 to construct a new arena and entertainment district.  It gets even stranger as Meruelo is expected to have a five-year window to bring an expansion team back to the Phoenix area if they can win the auction on the 110-acre site.  Meruelo will keep the name and trademark for that time. It was a crushing blow for Coyote and Arizona hockey fans and stunned many of the team’s employees and players.  The Yotes have been a part of the Phoenix area for 18 seasons. For what it is, Mullett offers a charming setting for fans who can get close to the action and see and hear everything up close.  It is not an NHL venue, but seeing top-flight players in such an intimate setting is fabulous.  Mullett also hosts ASU men's and women’s hockey, women’s gymnastics, men’s wrestling, and occasional concerts and shows (5000 capacity). The facility is named in honor of Donald and Barbara Mullett, two of the university's benefactors. The building also houses the Mountain American Community Iceplex, offering public ice skating sessions. If the Salt Lake City plan goes forward, the Coyotes will be the first NHL team to relocate since the Atlanta Thrashers moved to Winnipeg in 2011. Food & Beverage 3 The food is basic fare since it is a college venue.   Attendees can bring in one unopened water bottle.  Otherwise, a Dasani runs $5 and the price is $6 for bottled soda (Coca-Cola products). The food options include Sparky’s Hot Spot with Nachos, Bratwurst, and Philly Cheesesteaks, Big Chicken (founded by Shaquille O’Neal), Neighborhood Burger Joint, and a Pizza Place (Venezia’s).  Hot dogs run $6, beer is $14 and a burger costs $16. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere is all about the proximity to the playing surface.  Since the building is not large it can get loud. There's a drum corp behind sections 115 -116 all game, so it can get a bit loud if you're at the back of those sections. The howl of the Coyote and the Coyote's goal song “I’m Howling For You” by the Black Keys gets the joint jumping. The cheerleaders also contribute by dancing in the aisles during stoppages and attempting to energize the fanbase. Howler is the mascot and is often seen roaming the arena. One of the coolest parts is if you go through the main entrance, there's a large concession stand on the left and a merch kiosk on the right. On the left, there is a glass wall where fans can watch the visiting team enter/exit their locker room between periods up close and personal. One drawback is fans cannot go completely around the arena as there is restricted access to The Club area behind sections 119, 120, 101, 102, & 103. Sections 114-117, which is the ASU student section, is bleacher seating with no seat backs. The center-hung scoreboard seems so small compared to the typical big boards at standard NHL venues. Navigating the narrow concourse is a constant challenge since the venue was not designed for a professional team. Neighborhood 4 Mullett Arena is located in the city of Tempe which is a college town.  It is a great place for both pre and post-game activities with a plethora of bars, restaurants, shops, and hotels.  The bar/restaurant scene is most vibrant on Mill Avenue.  There are also two great places for burgers: The Chuckbox at 202 E. University Drive and In-n-Out Burger at 920 E Playa Del Norte Drive. A Marriott Residence Inn and Hyatt House/Place are just outside the confines of Mullett Arena. Another great activity is to Hike Tempe Butte which is just three minutes away from Mullett. The hike is only 0.7 miles up and back with great vistas at the top.  Remember to bring water and enjoy the majestic views of Tempe and downtown Phoenix (including Sky Harbor Airport and Chase Field). Fans 3 The Coyote fans who come to Mullett are enthusiastic but the problem is there are not enough of them in the building. With the inordinate price tag, the tickets are often bought by visiting team fans on vacation to the Phoenix area.  A good chunk of Coyote fans most likely sell their seats on the secondary market to make some money on the high-priced tickets. On this occasion, the arena was filled with probably 85-90% New York Rangers fans many clad in their traditional red, white, and blue. The Coyotes have developed a hard-core group of followers in the Phoenix area who will be following future happenings in hopes of a new iteration of their team returning soon. Access 4 Driving to Mullett Arena is easy with the ASU Campus located just off the 202.  Fans can enter off N. Scottsdale Road or Mill Avenue which runs north and south.  Parking outside the arena is $25 at an ASU-owned lot.  Another option is ParkWhiz, which Stadium Journey used for this visit and paid only $8.48 (booked in advance), for an indoor lot at 117 East 5th Street and was a 12-minute walk.  The greater Phoenix area has one of the best light rail systems in the country, covering over 28 miles and going from north of downtown out to Mesa, with a stop just a few minutes away from Mullett Arena. The cost is only $2 per ride. Return on Investment 1 Ticket prices are astronomical since the Coyotes had to make up for a lack of revenue due to the size of the building.  Standing room ranges from $60-$100 depending upon the opponent. The benches behind the goal that the opponents shoot at during the first and third periods start at about $125-$170.  Center ice seats are $225-$400 depending on the opponent and how close to the glass one sits. Food prices are about average for the NHL maybe a little bit less. Extras 1 The only extra point goes to being so close to the action which is something that is never experienced at the NHL level. The arena allows all fans to feel in touch with the excitement and speed of the game. The other benefit is the arena is new but the highlights end there.  Final Thoughts April 17 could be the last time Mullett ever hosts an NHL game as The Coyotes face the Edmonton Oilers. Mullett Arena was a great experience for NHL fans who had a chance to see a game there.  Still, Mullett is worthy of a Stadium Journey for college events and anything else held there in the future. Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on   Twitter  @VenutoGreg and Facebook .

Photos by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Firestone Fieldhouse 24255 Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, CA 90263 Pepperdine Waves website Firestone Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 3,104 Catch Some Waves Sitting atop a hill overlooking the ocean, Pepperdine University with its trees, grass, and other of nature’s beauty surrounding its campus, without a doubt has to be one of the most scenic campuses in the country. Should you find yourself driving north on Pacific Coast Highway, as you approach Pepperdine you may notice a tall tower marked with a cross overlooking PCH. That is Phillips Theme Tower, one of the more recognizable landmarks on campus. Though this holy landmark does its best to bring positive vibes, it has also been involved in its share of controversy . Not far from the tower and a stone’s throw from Firestone Fieldhouse is Alumni Park, a grassy hill overlooking the ocean that makes for a nice tranquil pregame destination. Just kick back, bring the picnic basket full of goodies along with the picnic blanket, and become one with the cool ocean breeze. Then, of course, there is Firestone Fieldhouse, an intimate venue with a capacity of just over 3,100, perfect for a school with a small student enrollment. That’s not to say that support for the local five is not in evidence, as crowds here can be vocal. Food & Beverage 3 There is only one concession stand that serves the entire venue. Your basic stadium fare is available including hot dogs ($3) bratwursts ($3.50), frozen lemonade ($3), popcorn ($2.50), and chips ($1.50). Aside from the standard fare, specialty sandwiches are also available, including a Caprese sandwich for any vegetarians ($7.50). Vending machines are also on site dispensing bottled Coke products for $1.50, the norm for what you would probably pay for a bottled soda at any vending machine. Kudos for not hiking up the prices on the sodas as most any venue would do. Atmosphere 4 Fans show a great amount of enthusiasm, often times stomping on the wooden floors of the bleachers during various moments to create added noise in their attempt to help halt the visiting team. One of the nice things about watching a game in such an intimate venue is that the seats are never too far away from the floor, and interactions between the coaches, players, and officials can definitely be heard. Because of the close proximity between the stands and the court, officials are never too far away from any in-game commentary fans may have. Neighborhood 5 Words just can’t describe the scenery that surrounds this intimate campus. One of my favorite on-campus sites is Alumni Park, a 30-acre grassy hill that overlooks the Pacific Ocean with breathtaking views of Pacific Coast Highway looking northward. The park is open to the general public so if you should have time to kill before a game (I highly recommend that you do), you may want to bring a picnic blanket, lay it out over the grass, and just soak in the local scenery. Alumni Park also makes for great recreational use, as evidenced by the locals playing a little soccer and football. Also nearby for those of you who are into ancient art and architecture is The Getty Villa, located about 10 minutes south of campus on Pacific Coast Highway. Duke’s Malibu is a popular spot among the locals. Various drink specials are offered every night after 4 PM for Aloha Hour. Depending on the time of year, with its beachside location, you may even see some of the ocean’s wildlife as whales and dolphins can be seen out onto the distant waves. Fans 4 During my most recent visit, it was an afternoon where no pep band or mascot would be spotted, but the fans that did show up proved that they would not need either to get them involved, as they made plenty of noise on the wooden bleachers throughout the entire contest. The fact these fans did not need much to maintain their high energy level throughout the contest speaks highly of those in attendance. Access 3 Though there is really only one major route to arrive by, the view driving along PCH, especially when driving in the afternoon, can be worth the drive to Malibu alone. Unfortunately, Malibu is far from any major locations in Los Angeles. With practically no lodging options nearby campus, chances are great that your drive will be quite a distant one. Also, because you will be arriving via PCH, if arriving from Los Angeles, Santa Monica or points south, traffic can also be an issue, especially if driving during the week, so be ready for your patience to be tested. As you do arrive on campus you will be driving up a hill toward the parking area. The lot, offering free and ample parking, is highlighted by the markings of numerous basketball courts on the black asphalt. I imagine the lot is also used for recreation as well with hoops set up on each court during non-game events. The seating areas are divided by two levels. The lower level is made up of wooden bleacher seating on both sides of the court. While the bleachers can be great for creating noise, the seating is pretty cramped and walking the aisles can also require quite an effort. The upper level, not far from the court, offers actual seats. However, some of those seats can be obstructed by television camera crews. Overall, the seats up here offer a great value and are the best choice. On the south end is a crystal clear video board that also acts as the main scoreboard. While there are scoreboards located on each end of the court, the one on the south end is the most informative, displaying player stats throughout the game. Return on Investment 3 With tickets ranging from $15-$25 the costs, especially for the $15 general admission seats in the upper level, are pretty reasonable. While its scenic location may be worth the drive, the downside to that is that for many, the drive will be quite a distance. Should you make the effort to catch a game here at Pepperdine, I highly recommend that you make a day of it by taking in some of the local pre/postgame spots mentioned. This would be a great way of rewarding your effort in coming out to Malibu. Extras 3 Inside the venue, as you walk through the lobby is a display of Pepperdine’s National Championships, mostly accomplished by their men’s volleyball teams. Banners of their National Title accomplishments are also displayed on the south end inside the arena. If there was ever a category for originality, the pep squad would definitely rank high just for the fact that they come dressed in orange jumpsuits. Final Thoughts I left impressed by the school’s spirit squads, from their yell squad decked out in orange jumpsuits to the dance team, known as the Pom Squad. Of the various dance teams I’ve had the chance to observe, not including USC or UCLA, Pepperdine’s Pom Squad would rank at the top when it comes to originality in both dance routines and presentation. Given the venue’s small capacity, you will never be far from the action. While the commute to Firestone Fieldhouse can take a toll if done regularly, the scenery surrounding the campus and an enthusiastic atmosphere for the home team will certainly be a more than rewarding experience.

One of the best aspects of a new baseball team is its branding. Today, we are delighted with creative designs or something with a little nod to the history or tradition of the game. The main objectives are to provide a pleasant-looking aesthetic, durability for the players, and merchandise sales across the nation. Several ball clubs in both minor or partner leagues introduce their uniforms long before the season begins, but that was not the case for one independent ball club a little over 25 years ago. They debuted at home with nothing on their jerseys. The East Chicago Conquistadors were members of the Mid-America League in 1995. The four-team league had all of its clubs in Indiana (Anderson, Merrillville, and Lafayette). Team owner Richard Grottanelli stepped down as president of another independent loop, Mid-South League, to purchase the Conquistadors for $15,000 after the original investors stepped down due to a lack of funds four months before the start of the season. File Photo/The Times The Conquistador name was picked by Grottanelli, even though there was a fan vote that resulted in 120 submissions. A few of the names suggested were the Zebra Mussels, Steelers, Blockbusters, Harbor Lights, and the Harbor Fugitives. When asked why he chose a name, Grottanellis stated that he liked it and it would fit well with the local population. A few of the names suggested were the Zebra Mussels, Steelers, Blockbusters, Harbor Lights, and the Harbor Fugitives. When the Q’s took the field in front of 1,648 people at Block Stadium on June 13, they came out wearing white pinstriped pants, gray tops with green block numbers on the back, and a cap with a cursive Q insignia. There wasn’t any identification whatsoever on the front of the jersey. The only exception was the dark caps that featured an attractive cursive “Q”. The fans must have questioned the person next to them in the stands about their home club’s peculiar look. The plan was to have green, red, and black tops with a big ‘Q’ across the front–perhaps on the right chest of the jersey. The team did feature a massive ‘Q’ letter in its logo, but it is unknown whether the planned design would have been that logo or the cursive ‘Q’ that adorns caps. File Photo Yvette Marie Dostatni/The Times The official logo also incorporates a morion helmet on top of the letter ‘Q’ with two pointed lances crisscrossing behind the helmet. The rest of the wording was in the standard blockish font. It was not a creative logo, and one would assume the club would have made the Zebra Mussel look bland. Grottanelli assured that the team uniforms would be ready soon, but he was not sure when they would arrive. He attempted to contact the team’s supplier-Wilson-but did not have much luck getting through with anyone. He added that he was “terminally on voice mail.” Photos from the Munster Times during the season show photos of the vapid jerseys, absent of team identification or nickname. It had to be odd for both players and fans to witness the drab jerseys that clashed with gray tops and white bottoms. The Q’s did not appear to have road uniforms, based on a photo from a game at Loeb Stadium against the Lafayette Leopards. The same jersey design appears to be identical to what they wore at home. However, there was a lot more for him to deal with that maiden season, which included manager Drayton Patterson’s termination and Grottanelli taking over the position, only to turn it over two weeks later to outfielder Jerrone Williams. Grottanelli accused Merrillville Muddogs pitcher Chris Hall of scuffing balls during a doubleheader and was rejected from both games. This prompted Muddogs manager Ron Kittle to say that “he belongs in the circus”. The franchise was sold to Dave O’Neill on July 23, who also owned the Anderson franchise. A few days later, the team debuted its new uniforms, described by new GM Jennifer Blatt as a reflection of its new image both on and off the field. Photo Frank Oliver/Lafayette Journal and Courier There was a slight mishap from its supplier, Main Sporting Goods, which had a few youth sizes in the shipment. The three players, who were assigned those numbers, opted for extra adult sizes with different numbers instead of squeezing into the youth tops. The club debuted the new red pinstripe white jerseys in a doubleheader sweep against Anderson. They would win the very next game to make it 3-0 in the new pinstripes. David White smacked his first home run of the season and the following to say after the doubleheader. “Now that we have the new uniforms it is like a whole new season for us. Baseball is very much a mental game for us in that new uniforms can change a whole team’s attitude.” Unfortunately, the new uniforms’ mojo wore out very quickly as things came to a head during a doubleheader on August 13. Williams quit as manager, center fielder Darrio Green also left the team, and Jackie Robinson left the club after a player he instructed did not steal a base. Robinson watched the game from the stands at Block Stadium, but he did return for the nightcap. The night concluded with backup catcher Ed Lewis escorted from the stadium by East Chicago Police after he allegedly assaulted Blatt. The next day in a game against Lafayette, players forfeited the second game of another doubleheader due to a lack of players and safety for the remaining ones playing out of positions. File Photo Yvette Marie Dostatni/The Times The Q’s failed to make the playoffs, but the league canceled the season when Lafayette pulled out of the postseason. East Chicago had a 23-35 record, attracting 5,444 fans on the season. Their uniforms, which they only wore for 18 days, were either taken home by players or stashed away by ownership. The East Chicago Conquistadors were a small blip in the history of independent minor league baseball; anyone who witnessed a game at Block Stadium that season has long forgotten about them. However, the formation of new independent leagues has not ended 26 years later, but none will ever, at least I hope not, have such a look as the Q’s did during their lone season. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

This summer, the state of Vermont is all about the Vermont Green FC (VGFC), which plays in the USL2. In short, attending a Vermont Green FC match at Virtue Field in Burlington, Vermont is a pure joy. Their stellar color commentator, Matt Monteil, took a few moments before the team's Eastern Conference Final showdown this Friday night to answer a few questions. STADIUM JOURNEY: For the uninformed, what is the USL2? Is it professional soccer? Semi-pro? As I understand it, it's a summer league composed of elite college players, but please educate. MATT MONTEIL:  The USL2 league is technically a pre-professional league. It's primarily made up of the higher than average quality collegiate players in the country, but you also have some players that are no longer part of their collegiate programs but still able to play and contribute at this level. The USL2 league is also very much similar to a college ID camp. In the four years I've been covering VGFC, I've seen players recruited and signed by professional clubs nationally and internationally mid or late season, and that is in part based on their collegiate and USL2 performances. At the very least, the league is a developmental platform for collegiate players to improve and play at a similar or higher standard in the offseason than what they're used to in their respective collegiate divisions/conferences.  STADIUM JOURNEY: So how special is it to attend a Vermont Green FC soccer game? Have you ever experienced anything like it? What can you compare it to? MATT MONTEIL:  It's kinda surreal to stand on the other side of the field covering the match with Brian and see a sold out crowd of 2500 plus. I grew up in DC about six blocks away from RFK stadium where DC United used to play all of their home matches. I've been to hundreds of DC United matches and whilst it is one of the founding members back in mid 90s, only the lowest tier of seating ever got filled. Soccer hadn't really taken off just yet, but those who attended were all from the surrounding community in southeast DC, and it had a very close knit family feel. Everyone knew everyone more or less. That's the vibe I get with VGFC. Everyone involved in starting this club tapped into something that's been waiting to be released, and it clearly shows. There are numerous development clubs in the immediate and surrounding area such as Capital SC, Nordic, Far Post, and they all do great work with the youth from 5-18 years old. But outside of UVM men and womens soccer, there wasn't really anything in our community at a higher level. VGFC shows the youth what they can potentially achieve later on in their development as a player. STADIUM JOURNEY: What's unique about this year's team? What makes them go? MATT MONTEIL: We've been blessed with some really good teams from the club's inception. I think the overall levels this season in every position has been 8 to 10s, roughly. I can't really think of a weak spot and I mean that. I think maybe something I noticed about this team from the midway point and onward was that the goals come from everywhere. Everyone contributes. When Tattevin was out injured for a while, the team collectively was able to supplement his goal contributions, and they never missed a beat. Another metric I've noticed is the technical floor is actually really high with this team. Soccer has increasingly become more and more about a player's physical attributes, and whilst this team is outrageously athletic, they have so much quality on the ball across the roster. I never fail to mention on the stream with Brian when substitutions are being made, just how much of a luxury it is that I can't see a drop off in quality for the player swap. So much credit needs to go to Adam P. and this coaching staff for their recruitment. It's also worth mentioning you can tell just how much this group of players have all bought into Chris Taylor and his staff's system and ethos of how they want to play. They exude patience in what can be frustrating stretches of a match and even when we've seen them recently go 0-2 down, they don't panic. I could be wrong, but I also think these guys just actually like each other and have formed a brotherhood. That goes a long way when things aren't working out at times.  STADIUM JOURNEY: It's the toughest ticket in town. When were the on field seats added? Have the new amenities at Virtue gone into effect? Will new bleacher seats be added for next season? MATT MONTEIL:  So VGFC has been selling out home matches consistently now for multiple seasons. The community's appetite is ravenous and the commitment unrelenting. The extra seating on the field was set up to further accommodate the demand, especially considering the playoffs and the traveling fans for visiting teams. I don't know much about 'new amenities' and what or when those will be added. As you know, this is UVM's property, and thus they have the final say on whether they want to expand the facility to have another whole section of seating. Considering UVM's men's soccer are national champions and VGFC is consistently selling out the venue, I would imagine the prospect of expanding has jumped a few levels up in priority.  STADIUM JOURNEY: Discuss your playing background. What was your position? What were you like as a player? How did you get into broadcasting? MATT MONTEIL:  Nothing noteworthy, ha ha. As I mentioned earlier, I grew up in south east DC. From as early as five years old, I was playing in what was and still is the DC Stoddart league. I primarily played as a full back both on the left or right and occasionally left or right wing. I played both sides because I had a coach from a very early age that demanded we be able to utilize both feet, and thus I kind of was all over the place. I played for my high school and bits and spurts collegiately but I actually primarily played rugby in college. I would play indoor leagues during the long winters. After college I started coaching for Capital SC year round and I started playing with their men's team for roughly a decade. What was I like as a player? I'd like to think my one quality, and it aint much, was I had an engine. I could run like a dog for 90 minutes and still have gas left in the tank. I think I've given this false perception during the broadcasts about how I like the 'blood and thunder' days of soccer and that must mean I was like that as a player. I wasn't really. I think I was very vocal, had a decent soccer brain and had overall endurance. Like I said, nothing noteworthy, but it's been a blast and I've made so many friends and valuable contacts through soccer and I couldn't be more grateful. To answer your question regarding how I got into broadcasting: It fell into my lap. To this day I still don't know who referred me, but it was someone I've played with over the years in the soccer community. The founders reached out to me one day via email and asked if I was interested. We had a long chat about soccer, our backgrounds, the vision of the club, etc. Next thing I knew, I was sitting next to a bonafide professional in Brian, with an overwhelming fear I was going to make a fool of myself to thousands of listeners. Still feel that way to this day at times, but I'd like to think I've gotten better and learned more and more about how to discuss the details and story of the match since then. Here's Stadium Journey's interview with Matt's broadcast partner, Brian McLaughlin STADIUM JOURNEY: Vermont soccer is definitely having a moment, to say the least. First the University of Vermont wins a national title and now Vermont Green FC is keeping it going. Can you even start to explain why and how this is happening?  MATT MONTEIL:  UVM seemingly has consistently been building up to that pinnacle of college soccer for the last four years. Good recruiting, consistent coaching staff and messaging and it definitely helps having someone like Bazini leading the line to add just that extra quality in front of goal. VGFC has an eerily similar timeline of growth. Knock on wood they keep going to the promised land. Whilst this is Chris Taylor's first year as manager and an entirely new staff, Adam still oversees the recruitment and works closely with the coaches to provide them what they need to take it to the next level. Putting together a succesful or title-winning team in collegiate or USL2 format when you've never won it all, takes years to build brick by brick. You don't have the national player pull yet and without consistently winning titles throughout the years, your program has a tough time growing. I'd argue most title winning teams from collegiate-to-premier league level clubs, have a strong backroom staff top to bottom that backs the manager and gives them the tools they need. There is probably also an argument that can be made about whatever soccer energy is in the air in Vermont right now it's influencing the recent form. Winning is infectious.  STADIUM JOURNEY: So someone's coming to Burlington, what are the must pre-game and post-game spots?  MATT MONTEIL: You're asking the wrong man, as I have become comfortably lame and don't go out often anymore. My finger is very much off the pulse. That being said, for me a great spot for pre/post match festivities is Zero Gravity Brewery. Big beautiful open space for crowds with lots of screens broadcasting matches throughout the year. Good vibes, good beer, good food.  Jon Hart is @manversusball

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 The Hatchet House 608 E Walnut St Washington, IN 47501 Washington High School Hatchets website The Hatchet House website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 7,090 The Hatchet House is a Truly Special In a state that is known for its high school basketball fieldhouses, it may be hard to stand out among the mammoth-size facilities that dot the state from the Ohio River to Lake Michigan. However, in the small town of Washington, Indiana, in the southern part of the state, there is an impressive basketball arena named simply the Hatchet House. The 7,090-seat arena was dedicated on November 23, 1966, and replaced the original Hatchet House that was built in 1925. The arched roof building with its wooden bleacher seats, corner views, retired jerseys, and seven state championship banners is something special to walk into for the first time and when it’s near capacity, the acoustics are a perfect soundtrack to Hoosier Hysteria. The Washington High School basketball program began to play in 1906 and was known as the “Old Gold and Black” until it adopted the name “Undertakers” after star player James (Bud) Gill’s father loaned the team his business’s hearse to travel to games. The name was not popular with some of the town’s populace and a local newspaper columnist for the Washington Democrat, Harold Brouillette, opted to change the name to “Hatchets” after mentioning the team cutting through the opposition just like George Washington’s “hatchet” cut through the cherry tree. When the basketball team opened its new home in 1925, they took the court as the Hatchets and the name has become synonymous with Washington basketball ever since. The program has captured 46 sectional championships, 20 regionals, 6 semi-state, and 7 state championships in school history. It has also produced four, tied for most in the state, Indiana Mr. Basketball players including the Zeller brothers: Luke, Tyler, and Cody. Food & Beverage 4 The arena offers various points of sale concession stands from top to bottom. There are small concession stands on the upper concourse of the interior seating bowl and larger tables on the exterior concourse that wraps around the building. The usual products can be found here, but there are a few varieties that make for a nice change of pace at The Hatchet House during a basketball contest. There is freshly made ice cream by local institution Scoops, Polish sausages, freshly popped popcorn in specially designed Hatchet bags, soft pretzels, mucho nachos with all the toppings, and coneys with chili on top. However, if you enjoy a box of candy, nachos with cheese sauce, and a regular hot dog with mustard, you have that as well. Atmosphere 5 The nanosecond you walk into the building you feel the aura of various championship teams that have played on the court since its inception, the echoing of the crowds, and the smell of the thick wooden bleachers mixed in with the odor of old popcorn, flat soda, and stale hot dog buns. The Hatchet House is as advertised, a perfect example of a Hoosier Temple. The crowds are at near capacity for regional and sectional games, fans travel throughout the state to pack the gym to near capacity levels. The sound of the thundering fans from their seats, the chants from the student section dressed in unison, and the energy from the cheerleaders who hover over the railings of the gym create an ambiance that is found at other gymnasiums but is woven together perfectly for basketball games. This might be because the facility was built to be a basketball arena first and its appearance favors the Hinkle Fieldhouse in many ways. The seating is broken up into two sections that provide great sight lines from various points in the building, even when you are underneath the golden banners that at times swing back and forth from the movement of fans seated below. The upper-level seats behind each basketball hoop act as a porch that puts fans up close and personal with the players on the court. The arena features an electronic scoreboard above the center court that has old-school digital imaging of players and school logos. Although not at tournament games, the school’s mascot “Hatch” is a high-end mascot that entertains fans at regular home games. The wide-eyed hatchet is very impressive at the high school level. Neighborhood 3 The town of Washington, Indiana has a population of a little over 11,000 and is located two hours south of Indianapolis and 45 minutes north of Evansville. The downtown features a few places to visit including the Indiana Theater, built in 1928. It offers balcony seating and ticket prices of $5 and $6 each for first-run movies. The White Steamer has been in business since 1937, offering breakfast and hamburgers from 5 AM to 4 PM. Another favorite among the populace includes Mason’s Root Beer Stand serving root beer in frosty mugs, coney dogs, onion rings, and skyscrapers, a four-patty hamburger. It's a busy location creating homemade ice cream in copious flavors; long lines form during the warmer months of the year. Fans 4 A collection of family members, alumni, town citizens, and students all get a case of Hoosier Hysteria during hole-in-the-wall local restaurants in February and March. Their sounds echo throughout the arch-shaped building and when working in unison, create a deafening harmony that ranks among some of the better venues in the state. There was also a time when 5,000 would pack the Hatchet House for Washington High School basketball games a little over 10 years ago. Those crowds have diminished somewhat due to the play of the basketball team, but it is safe to say that when More local restaurants are the various Hatchets return to prominence you’ll see the larger crowds back. Access 5 The Hatchet House is a very simple facility to get around for patrons and includes an outer concourse that brings fans to various entrances of the seating bowl. The exterior concourse features staircases that bring fans to the upper deck area offering another main concourse that wraps around the entire building. The concession stands and bathrooms are marked at both levels of the arena. The only complaint is the limited amount of parking available for large tournament games. True, one does have to park on the street but it’s only a few short blocks away and there is always a spot to find on the street. Once again, reminding me of taking in Butler Bulldogs games at the Hinkle Fieldhouse. Return on Investment 5 The Hatchet House is worth the trip and may depend on how far you want to travel to see a pristine facility. The price for regular season games is $5 and tournament games range in price between $8-$10. The concessions are plenty at all levels of the building and the arena feels more like a college basketball venue than a high school gym. Extras 4 The arena gets a star for the multiple sale points of concession stands. From top-level corners to outer concourse stands, the volunteers at The Hatchet House have you covered with all your snack needs. There is even a group of students who walk around the top rows selling freshly baked cookies. A second star for the vast amount of history on display in the building. There are 7 state championship banners for boys' basketball hanging from the rafters and 6 retired basketball jerseys. There are also numerous photos of past championship teams from both the boys' and girls' programs neatly displayed on the outer concourse walls. A third star for the original Hatchet House that was erected in 1925 and is still in use next door to the arena as a middle school gymnasium. The first game that took place at the gym was against Martinsville High School featuring a young man named John Wooden. A fourth point is for the acoustics in the building that provides much of its soundtrack. The arched roof creates a beautiful look to the place and provides a canvas for cheering fans and basketball players on the court. Final Thoughts The Hatchet House had been on my list for the last three years as a place to review for Stadium Journey. The arena feels more like a collegiate venue than a high school gym. The place is as advertised; a true classic in any state, any sport, or any decade. If you happen to be in the area during tournament time, the Hatchet House is worth a visit.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Harmon Stadium 1 UNF Dr Jacksonville, FL 32224 North Florida Ospreys website Harmon Stadium website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 1,000 Shore Birds Swinging for the Fences The University of North Florida is located in Jacksonville, Florida and has a student body of more than 16,000 students. It is a relatively young school within the Florida University System, as it opened in 1972. A majority of the student body comes from the surrounding Jacksonville/Duval County area. It offers more than 52 areas of study and 28 different master’s programs. The UNF athletic program is even younger than the school, as sports were not added at the university until 1992. The school teams compete at the Division I level as a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference and are known as the Ospreys (a hawk-like raptor native to the coastal regions of Florida). The Atlantic Sun Conference includes such neighboring schools as Jacksonville University, Stetson University and Florida Gulf Coast University. The baseball program at UNF has been quite successful in its short existence. The team has won six conference championships at the NAIA level, six conference championships in Division II (finishing #2 in the country in 2005) and one Atlantic Sun Conference Championship since joining Division I. The Ospreys call Harmon Stadium at Dusty Rhodes Field their home stadium. The facility was built in 1988 and has a capacity of 1,250. It is located within the athletics complex on the UNF campus. Five Osprey players have gone on to play in the MLB. Food & Beverage 4 There is one central concession stand for Harmon Field. It is located on the outer concourse of the stadium, and is staffed well enough that no backup should occur. While the items sold at the stand are your typical fare, we award one extra point for having a person on hand to grill your order to your specifications . The menu includes hot dogs ($2.50), burgers ($4), chicken sandwiches ($4.50), nachos ($4), pretzels ($4), popcorn ($5), fries ($4), peanuts ($4), and candy ($1.50). Beverages include Coca-Cola brand sodas ($3), bottled water ($2), 16 ounce domestic drafts ($5) and 24 ounce domestic drafts ($7). Atmosphere 3 Harmon Stadium is one of the nicer stadiums in the Atlantic Sun Conference. It features the gray and blue colors of the school throughout the park. The facility includes a concession area, a very spacious press box, a newly installed video board/scoreboard and seating elevated above the field. The seats immediately in front of the press box and behind home plate are chair backs, while the remainder of the stadium features bench back seating. A special seating area, the Osprey Nest, is located along the first base line. The Osprey Nest features an enclosed, climate-controlled environment, with space for groups or VIPS up to 100 people. This provides a wonderful break from the hot and humid spring days along the Florida Coast. This facility also houses the Osprey Baseball Wall of Fame. The Osprey Nest, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 The University of North Florida campus is very isolated, as a substantial portion of its acreage is dedicated as a nature preserve, so there is no development except university-related buildings. That being said, the campus is extremely modern, with less than 50% percent of its buildings more than 10 years old. It is a beautiful campus, with wonderful landscaping, fountains, nature trails and eye-catching architecture. It offers plenty of support facilities for the portion of the student body that does live on campus. Two popular forms of transportation on campus are using bikes or the popular shuttle bus system. The bus system also has routes that take students to the nearby St. John’s Town Center shopping complex. Fans 3 Despite its very successful baseball history, the Ospreys have difficulty in filling the stadium. Even though the students can attend games free of charge, the stands are often only 30% full. There are a number of reasons why the program does not draw well: 1) more than half of the student body are commuter students who leave campus once their classes are over, 2) the Atlantic Ocean and Jacksonville Beach are less than 5 miles from the campus (which would lure any college student away), and 3) due to the relatively young age of the school there is not a large number of alumni to attend the games. Most alumni are still of working age and cannot get away for afternoon games. Harmon Stadium does draw well for specific games. UNF and Jacksonville University are only a few miles apart. The two schools take part in what is known as the River City Rumble. This is an academic year-long competition where points are awarded for victories in every competition held between the schools, no matter what sport. Since baseball is a spring sport, if the competition is close… the stands are full. Access 4 The UNF campus is located more than 10 miles from downtown Jacksonville. However, as long as you have a car, it is easy to get to. The school is located just off I-295, the ring road around Jacksonville. The exit is shown as the University of North Florida /Town Center Parkway and the entry gate for the school is just a few feet away. Once on campus, there is an information kiosk where you can pick up a campus map. There is a parking deck across from UNF Arena that also is used for baseball parking. There is no charge for baseball parking. Return on Investment 5 UNF baseball games provide an excellent return on investment. Seating is all General Admission, with a ticket cost of $5 ($3 for seniors) You will usually not have to fight anyone for a good seat and the bench back seating allows you to spread out. The concessions at Harmon Park are very reasonably priced and parking is free. . Extras 3 The field at Harmon Stadium is named for Dusty Rhodes, a former major league ballplayer who coached the Ospreys through their first 20 seasons. The St. John’s Town Center shopping area is located just a mile from the campus entrance. This open-air mall is a major shopping destination for the Jacksonville area. It has more than 150 stores and restaurants ranging from Tiffany’s to Walmart. In case of a nice spring day, you can enjoy a day at the nearby beach and still have time to make the first pitch at Harmon Stadium. Final Thoughts The University of North Florida is one of the fastest growing schools in the Florida university system. In just a short time it has proven itself to be a power to reckon with in the Atlantic Sun Conference. Being a new school has its advantages as the sports facilities found at UNF are sure to enable recruiting of a higher caliber of athlete in the near future .Harmon Stadium celebrates its past with exhibits about its past successes, but it is always looking forward to the future. The Osprey Nest along the first baseline is sure to attract the attention of athletes within the UNF recruiting zone.

Photos by Jason Bartel, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Don Haskins Center 151 Glory Road El Paso, TX 79902 UTEP Miners website Don Haskins Center website Year Opened: 1976 Capacity: 12,222 A Trip Down Glory Road “You’ll play basketball my way. My way is hard.” – Don Haskins The 1966 Texas Western College men’s basketball team is arguably the most important college basketball team in the history of the sport. That Texas Western team took down Adolph Rupp’s Kentucky Wildcats to win the NCAA National Championship, and became the first team to start five black players. Though they didn’t play at Don Haskins Center (opened 10 years later), the presence of that team is felt throughout the arena. It was only one year, and it happened nearly 50 years ago, but it is still quite breathtaking to see everything that is associated with that team throughout the building. In 1967, Texas Western changed their name to University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). Haskins stayed at UTEP until 1999, and then passed away in 2008 in El Paso. UTEP currently competes in Conference USA, with the likes of Memphis and SMU. The Miners current head coach is Tim Floyd, most notably the former head coach at USC during the OJ Mayo days. Floyd is looking to return UTEP back to national prominence, and he has quite the historical building to do that in. Food & Beverage 2 “Taco? Nacho? Burrito?” “No, I’m looking for el hot dog-o.” One of the things missing from Don Haskins Center is a decent food selection. Yes, they serve beer at all of the concession stands for $7-$10, which is weird for me to see coming from Arizona. Other than that, they have $4 hot dogs and sodas, nachos, candy, and that’s pretty much it. The concourse is essentially an octagon around the entire arena, with a concession stand in each of the 8 hallways. A couple hallways have stands set up by “Delicious Mexican Food.” The Delicious people also do a giveaway during one of the media timeouts where they have a guy in a Mexican wrestling costume come out on to the court and throw burritos to lucky fans. Atmosphere 5 There truly is no bad seat at “The Don.” There are no aisles that run through the seating area, so every section goes continuously from the floor to the ceiling. This allows 12,000 fans to fill up the stands and be close to the action, even at the very top. The UTEP logo at center court faces the west side, with the UTEP bench in the southeast corner, and the visiting bench in the northeast corner. The north end of Don Haskins Center is the student section, where the students, their guests, and the band sit. That area is general admission, but the rest of the arena is assigned seating. The pep band and dance team, which has a very unfortunate name (Gold Diggers), take up a pretty large chunk of the center section of the student area. The band doesn’t do too much during the game, it was mostly stuff played over the PA that got the crowd more into the game. The dance team is enormous, and performs during media timeouts pretty regularly. Almost every media timeout also has some kind of contest or promotion. There are four scoreboards, one in each corner, with different stats for either the team or individual players depending on the scoreboard. The actual score of the game is not very easy to find sometimes among all the numbers that they can display. Each end has a video board, which do show some replays during the game, but not too many. They also use it for different in-game videos to get the crowd more pumped up. I recommend entering the arena through the south entrance. The concourse on the south side is full of historic memorabilia. When you enter, you’re greeted by a huge painting of Don Haskins, as well as the 1966 National Championship banner, and banners representing the induction of Don Haskins, as well as the entire 1965-66 team into the National Basketball Hall of Fame. There are also trophy cases for all of the sports in this area, including the 1966 trophy. The building is very simple with no overwhelming features, sort of resembling the man himself, Don Haskins. Neighborhood 5 The Don is located on the corner of Glory Road and Mesa St. Mesa St. has a ton to offer for pre and postgame activities. Within walking distance of the arena, you can find almost any kind of cuisine that you are looking for. To the north, there isn’t as much, but there is Cabo Joe’s, and my favorite name, The Hoppy Monk. Most of the options are to the south, including Aroma, The Palomino, Mesa Street Grill, Rib Hut, Yamato Japanese, and much, much more. Once again, they’re all within just a few blocks of Don Haskins Center. It’s a very diverse and unique street that doesn’t look too promising if you are driving from the north, but it gets better as you go just south of the arena. Fans 4 The student section, the “Miner Maniacs,” is a pretty entertaining group of people. I did go to a winter break game against UNLV, but there were still quite a few people in the student section, and they brought an army of big heads. The best one was an enormous cutout of center John Bohannon, which had working arms and everything to try and distract the opponent’s free throw shooter in the second half. Outside of the student section, everyone was still very into the game the entire time; even when UTEP was down big early in the second half. The fans never gave up, never stopped cheering, and it got ridiculously loud when the Miners almost came back to beat the Rebels at the end of the game. It appears Tim Floyd has restored some hope in the Miner faithful, and brought them back to expecting good things to happen when they go to The Don. Access 4 Getting to Don Haskins Center is fairly easy. The easiest ways are to either take Executive Center Blvd. or Schuster Ave. east from I-10 to Mesa St., and then taking Mesa St. to Glory Road. The Glory Road parking garage is just across the street from the arena, and costs 10 dollars to park on game day for the general public. There are a lot of surface lots in the area, but they are all permit only. There are a lot of handicap parking spots on Glory Road. The building is sort of built into a hill on the north and west sides. If you are coming from that direction from the Sun Bowl or other sports facilities, you may miss it because you can only see the roof. Also, if you are trying to walk from that direction, it is not very handicap accessible, and has a lot of stairs to walk down to get to the entrance doors. The concourse itself is not very wide, which can cause some problems at halftime and after the game. The concession stand lines move sort of slow, causing them to back up into the concourse, and causing a lot of congestion at halftime. Definitely worthwhile to get your food during a media timeout rather than at halftime. The bathrooms have the same problem, there are a lot of them, but they are all small, so lines end up in the small concourse, adding to the traffic jam. Return on Investment 5 Don Haskins Center is really a must-see for any college basketball fan interested in the history of the game. Tickets for UTEP games are very affordable, ranging from $8-$30. With the low ticket prices, sort of low food and drink prices, and 10 dollar parking, it is basically the same price as going to a museum, which is essentially what the arena is. Extras 5 I’ve touched on all the historical significance already, but seeing it all in one place was remarkable. As I mentioned, the south hallway of the concourse is really where you need to start. National Basketball Hall of Fame banners, trophy cases full of memorabilia, and the 1966 Championship banner. In the main area, the rafters are lined with every NCAA and NIT tournament appearance, every WAC and now Conference USA tournament appearance and championship, and the national championship banner. The south end is filled with retired numbers, including those from the 1966 team, plus others such as Tim Hardaway and Nolan Richardson. The campus area around Don Haskins Center is also a sight to see. All of the athletics facilities are sort of built into a hill, especially the Sun Bowl. Just taking a walk around the area is fantastic, and also to go see Memorial Gymnasium, where the historic season took place. One last extra. The dance team’s name is the Gold Diggers.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Ed Robson Arena 820 N Nevada Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Colorado College Tigers hockey website Ed Robson Arena website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 3,407 Worth the Wait: Ed Robson Arena The hockey team at Colorado College, located just north of downtown Colorado Springs, has a long, storied history. Since starting play in 1938, the Tigers have qualified for 20 NCAA Tournament Appearances and four NCAA Tournament Frozen Fours, winning national championships in 1950 and 1957. The program has produced two Hobey Baker Award winners, seven Olympians, and more than 40 players who later played in the National Hockey League. In the program’s 93 years, however, CC never played its home games on campus – or anywhere near it. From their inception in 1938 until 1994, the Tigers played their home games in a converted barn behind Colorado Springs’ renowned Broadmoor resort hotel, five miles southwest of campus, called the Broadmoor Ice Palace (later renamed the Broadmoor World Arena). The Tigers next played “home” games at the United States Air Force Academy’s Cadet Ice Arena , about 15 miles north of campus, between 1994 and 1998 during the construction of the program’s third home. That home was the World Arena (later renamed the Broadmoor World Arena after a sponsorship deal with the hotel), which opened before the 1998-99 season approximately six miles southeast of campus. Broadmoor World Arena II seated 7,750 and had an Olympic-sized rink (100 feet wide). This four-score-and-13-year itinerancy ended in the fall of 2021 when the Tigers moved into Ed Robson Arena on the CC campus. The arena is named for a former CC player who was granted leave from the United States Marine Corps to play hockey for the silver medal-winning United States at the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Robson also donated $8 million for the construction of the building that now bears his name. Robson Arena occupies what was once a full city block just south of campus, across Cache la Poudre Street from the college’s South Hall dormitory and Nava Quad. Students can attend CC games simply by buying a student ticket and crossing the street. The $52 million structure also has a team shop, CC’s health services facilities, a campus mail center, classroom space, and an adjacent parking structure. Robson seats approximately 3,400 fans and is a long-overdue addition to CC’s beautiful campus. Food & Beverage 3 There’s nothing fancy about Robson Arena’s food and beverage offerings. Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chicken strips, and fries are all available at the concession stands along with pretzels, nachos, candy, and drinks. Robson Arena is a Pepsi and Anheuser-Busch facility, with all soft drinks sold in plastic bottles and beer sold either in cans or on tap. Robson Arena’s best food can be easy to miss. Local ice cream shop Josh & John’s has a cart on the concourse in the arena’s southwest corner. There are five, hand-scooped flavors available for $5 apiece. Josh & John’s has even created a flavor, CC Tiger Stripe (golden yellow cake striped with brown sugar caramel), especially for games at Robson Arena. Atmosphere 4 Fans enter Robson Arena on ground level through the main entrance at the building’s northwest corner, located at the corner of Cache la Poudre and Tejon Streets. Once inside, fans can either visit the team store at ground level or proceed via stairs or a nearby elevator to the concourse level. Robson Arena’s concourse circles the rink, and is where concession stands and restrooms are located. The concourse is atop the seating bowl. Robson Arena is intelligently designed to create an excellent college hockey atmosphere. Its size harkens to the late, great AMC Pacer: small but roomy. There is not a bad seat in the house, all of them having unobstructed sightlines to the action. No seat is more than 10 rows from the ice. Robson is noticeably smaller than Broadmoor World Arena II. Robson seats 3,700 – approximately half of what BWAII seats. Fans at Robson sit much closer to the ice, creating an intimate feel that provides the Tigers with a profound home-ice advantage. Additionally, Robson has an NHL-sized rink, which is 85 feet wide – a 15-foot reduction from the Tigers’ rink at Broadmoor World Arena II. The seating bowl is steep, creating the feeling that the fans are on top of the ice. The new confines can be unfriendly for visiting teams. “The atmosphere is much better than their old rink,” the University of North Dakota defenseman Ethan Frisch told the Grand Forks Herald’s Brad Elliott Schlossman on December 11, 2021. CC has placed its student section behind the east goal, where the Tigers attack in the 1st and 3rd periods. Students fill the section and are engaged in the action, “welcoming” opponents during pregame warmups and calling attention to opponents’ misdeeds. The visiting team’s fans sit in Section 101. The building’s primary concession stand is on the south concourse with smaller concession stands in the northeast and northwest concourses. Club seating and the pressbox are a floor above the main concourse on the arena’s south side. The club level has its concession stand. Seats farthest from the ice might be the best in the house. The “Top Shelf” Bar Rail runs along the circumference of the concourse and sits at the top of each seating section, offering ticketholders a high-top table and chair, and unobstructed views of play. Some fans eschewed their chairs in favor of standing. This bar-style seating provides a surface to eat other than one’s ap. There are locations along the concourse for fans to stand while watching the game. The arena has a state-of-the-art sound system that hair metal bands and audiophiles will envy. With 103 speakers, the sound is crisp and clear. Sound can also be loud and startling, however, particularly during pregame player introductions. Fans with auditory sensitivities and those who just don’t like loud music will want to bring headphones or earplugs. A primary scoreboard with four-way, high-definition video screens (493,920 pixels) hangs over the center ice, adorned with CC’s new logo and branding. The video screens do not display any advanced statistics, just the score, time, period, shots on goal, and penalties. But the video display is as sharp as can be found at any venue. Smaller scoreboards have been placed on the walls behind each goal. Robson Arena’s north wall includes large exterior windows that provide natural light and, after sundown, an ethereal quality to the arena as car lights speed by outside on Cache la Poudre Street. Neighborhood 4 Robson Arena is located on the south edge of the 90-acre Colorado College campus, about a mile north of resurgent downtown Colorado Springs. The campus has several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail just west of campus. That 16-mile trail runs and connects with other trail systems. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is also part of the CC campus. Downtown Colorado Springs is enjoying somewhat of a renaissance, thanks in part to the “City for Champions” project that provided funding for the construction of several facilities (including funds to build Robson Arena). One of those is the new United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum , which has received high praise since opening in July 2020. The museum is across the street from another such facility: the 8,000-seat Weidner Field, home of the USL Championship’s Colorado Springs Switchbacks and host of the 2021 NCAA Division II Women’s Soccer Championship. The United States Olympic Committee also moved downtown from its former offices at U.S. Olympic Training Center, east of downtown. There are non-sports-related reasons to visit downtown Colorado Springs, as well. Denver’s Tattered Cover bookstore will open a store in downtown Colorado Springs in 2022. Several new restaurants and shops have opened downtown, as well. Yet downtown still has well-established places to eat and drink, such as the Phantom Canyon Brewing Company and MacKenzie’s Chop House. Italian restaurant Panino’s is a short walk south of Robson Arena on Tejon Street, where CC hockey fans have flocked since 1991. Fans 5 Colorado College has a staunch following of fans who make the Robson Arena experience as good as it is. The Tigers opened the 2021-22 season with eight sellouts (and counting) during which fans have filled Robson’s seats. The best time to visit concession stands and restrooms is during play because fans stay in their seats to watch the game. Again, the student section keys the energy for the rest of the crowd. Access 3 Robson Arena is not difficult to find. From Interstate 25, take the Uintah Street exit and proceed east less than a mile to Nevada Avenue. Head south on Nevada; the arena sits at the corner of Nevada and Cache la Poudre Street. Fans can come to Robson on Mountain Metro’s No. 19 bus route, which travels north and south along Nevada and has a stop a few steps away from the arena at Nevada and Cache la Poudre. Because Robson is part of a college campus, plenty of bike racks are available within a short walk for those cycling to a game. Parking for Robson appears to be available only for pass holders. Fans without passes will not find open parking lots near the arena, perhaps because season ticket holders with parking passes account for a high percentage of Robson’s seats. Parking for a game at Robson is nonetheless easy. Metered and non-metered parking are on the streets to the east and south of Robson. Along Tejon Street, meters cost $1.25 per hour until 10:00 p.m. nightly. Once inside, fans have sufficient room to move and at no point does the arena feel claustrophobic. The concourse is wide enough for fans to congregate without blocking anyone else. Wheelchair-accessible seating is located along the concourse, including from north to south along the center ice, and in the northeast and northwest corners. Return on Investment 2 Robson’s small size cuts two ways. On one hand, it allows fans to sit near the ice to create an intimidating atmosphere for visitors. On the other hand, tickets can be hard to come by, triggering a real-life example of supply and demand. Ticket prices for a recent, Friday night game against perennial power North Dakota ranged from $48 in a corner to $163 for a seat six rows above one of the blue lines. Those prices will likely fall as Robson ages. But tickets will certainly be at a premium when the Tigers are winning or hosting rivals – both of which occur regularly. Food and drink prices align with other college hockey venues. Hot dogs ($5), nachos ($6), pizza slices ($6 for pepperoni, $5 for cheese), fries ($3), and pretzels ($5) are all sold at the arena’s primary concession stand. Robson Arena is a Pepsi facility, with soda and water selling for $4 a bottle. These prices are right in line with other collegiate rinks. Extras 3 Robson Arena’s design merits an additional point. Its smaller size puts fans surprisingly close to the ice without compromising sightlines. This enables the CC faithful to provide a significant jolt of energy to what happens on the ice. A point also goes to the Tigers’ mascot, RoCCy, for not only being a great skater but an adept stick handler. Roy demonstrated serious skill while assisting during a recent teddy bear toss for charity. Josh & John’s ice cream earns a point for creating a flavor specifically for CC and selling it at Robson. All the better is that it’s quite tasty. Final Thoughts College sports are at their best with student support and involvement. For almost a century, CC has had one of college hockey’s premier programs. Students can now enjoy that program’s games without having to arrange travel to other parts of Colorado Springs. It took the Tigers a long time to bring their games onto campus and they now have a sparkling new home that certainly belongs in any mention of college hockey’s finest home facilities. ------ Follow Matt Finnigan’s stadium journeys on Twitter @mattfinniganco .

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Hohokam Stadium 1235 N Center St Mesa, AZ 85201 Map It! WAC Baseball Tournament website Hohokam Stadium website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 12,500 Learn • Compete • Inspire Attending a championship tournament is an exciting, special outing. The emotions, excitement, ups and downs, disappointments, and triumphs are the same for a WAC (Western Athletic Conference) baseball tournament as for any other ‘higher league’ conference. The WAC baseball tournament began in 1982. The criteria for the tournament participants have varied over the years, with some seasons using the top finishers in the conference and others using top teams in each of the two divisions. In 2023, the top eight teams participated in the tournament. A team is eliminated after losing two games. The tournament winner receives an automatic bid to the NCAA Division I Baseball Tournament. Historic Hohokam Stadium in Mesa AZ has hosted the WAC baseball tournament for the last eight years. Hopefully, it will continue to do so in the future. The stadium is more commonly known as the spring training facility of the Oakland Athletics . The city-owned venue hosts a variety of other tournaments and events throughout the year. Food & Beverage 2 The event manager hires local Arizona food trucks to service the visiting fans. Two trucks are available each game, one offering dessert choices, the other lunch or dinner options. The trucks vary each day. Kudos for hiring local businesses for the event! For dessert, choices in 2023 included Udder Delight (yummy ice cream treats), Maui Wowi (smoothies and coffee refreshments), and Kona Delights (flavored shaved ice, sorbets, etc.). Lunch and dinner choices comprised Brightside Burgers (several choices of juicy burgers), Macology (16 assortments of mac and cheese), and SuperTruck (Mexican-inspired dishes). Water, Gatorade, and soda in cans or bottles are all available for sale at the food trucks. The venue does not serve adult beverage products at this tournament. A very popular lemonade stand was open during the 2023 tournament. Outside food and beverages are allowed during the tournament. We recommend bringing several bottles of water, as it does get hot, especially during the day games. Atmosphere 4 Hohokam Stadium provides an impressive morning, afternoon, and evening out for the tournament. Only Gate C is open for the competition, and fans enter the stadium through the welcoming air-conditioned spring training team store. The inner concourse is only open on the third base side (closed the other way). The stadium offers two levels of seating with a small walkway between the two. The seats are the green stadium-style, fold-down seats with cupholders and decent legroom. Handrails are available for striding up and down the seating areas. Bleachers with backs occupy the last three sections on each side in the 200 level, rarely used at this tournament. A recommendation for visiting fans, bring a towel or two – one to sit on so you don’t stick to the seat from the heat, and to wipe off dust and cobwebs as the seats may be dirty from lack of use. Two covered picnic areas sit down on both the left and right field baselines. Both are good places to eat your meals or snacks between the games. Something a bit uncommon is “horizontally stacked” bullpens in right field. Nets extend across all the infield seats except the very far sections down each baseline. It gets hot at these tournaments in Arizona towards the end of May. Expect temperatures to be in the 90’s °F / 32+ ° C. Sit in the upper level (200’s) behind home and on the first base side for the shade for day games. A recommendation is to sit underneath the press box (one with an open window). You’ll get a breeze from the air conditioner every once in a while (and you get to hear any radio broadcasts and official game staff discussions). A merchandise table is in the entrance area selling conference t-shirts. Suggestion – if you want one, get it early in the tournament; sizes sell out as the series progresses. A crisp, clear video board shines in left field. It shows the line score, the player at bat’s name, number, and photograph. A whole variety of music is played, from Christian to Country to Latino to Hip Hop and more at a loud volume. Bring earplugs if this grates on you. It’s not quite so loud in the first level of seats but those sections get the sun for the day games. Players have walk-up music. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is in a residential area, and while there’s not a whole lot in the immediate area, the stadium is less than two miles from downtown Mesa which has developed significantly over the last several years. Three breweries ( 12 West Brewing – which serves tasty food, Beer Research Institute – which has a classic arcade in it, and Oro Brewing Company ) are downtown, as is a cidery ( Cider Corps ). Chupacabra Taproom is also downtown and offers beer and wine and a place to hang out before or after the ballgames, as is Diamond’s Sports Grill which has traditional sports bar food. For local restaurants, we recommend the delicious New Mexican fare Blue Adobe Grille which is only a four or five-minute drive from the ballpark, and the Que Chevere (Venezuelan cuisine) on Main St. downtown. Tourist things to see and do in Mesa are the Arizona Museum of Natural History or the engaging i.d.e.a Museum (excellent for kids) or visit the popular cultural Mesa Arts Center . The Mesa Historical Museum has an exhibit on the Arizona Cactus League and Arizona Spring Training, as well as Mesa-specific historical exhibits. Though a little distance from Hohokam Stadium (about 5 miles), fans may want to visit Organ Stop Pizza with its Wurlitzer Theater organ, which some say is the world’s largest pipe organ. Hotels are not within walking distance of Hohokam Stadium. The Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa is one and a half miles away. A few lower-priced hotels like Quality Inn or Baymont Inn are three to five miles from the stadium. Other sports near Hohokam Stadium during the end of May tournament can include the Pac-12 baseball tournament played at Scottsdale Stadium. And, depending on schedules, fans can visit Chase Field and see an Arizona Diamondbacks game or the Footprint Center and watch the WNBA Phoenix Mercury or IFL Arizona Rattlers . Fans 3 For the 2023 WAC tournament, every team was represented well by their fan base. The crowds are generally family, friends, and students. Parents, grandparents, siblings, and girlfriends are there cheering on their favorite player. Some residents watch the games as well. Most fans only visit when ‘their team’ is playing, but some stay on to watch the other games. Less than 1,000 fans are in the stands. The biggest fans are the players themselves. Some teams’ fans complain way more about the umpiring than others. Umpires have a thankless job. The fans from GCU (Grand Canyon University), a local team, came out in force to support their players. UTRGV (University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley) had a huge Kade York fan club present. Seattle U fans were a small but mighty bunch. Sam Houston fans were thrilled their team took home the tournament championship. Access 4 The ballpark is located in a neighborhood. Roads getting there are two or four lanes. It is 1 ½ miles south of the 202 (Red Mountain Freeway). Traffic congestion in and out of the stadium is not an issue for the WAC tournament. The city does not charge a parking fee for the event. The closest airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (about 12 miles distance); a smaller regional airport, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, maybe another pick if arriving via Allegiant Airlines. Public transportation is available via Valley Metro , but be sure to check return availability. Bags of any size are allowed. They don’t need to be plastic or clear. One set of restrooms is open on the third base inner concourse with signs marked. The ladies’ room has a changing table (I’m not sure about the men’s room). The bathrooms are old but kept extremely clean and stocked during the tournament. Moving around the concourse and walkways is easy. Return on Investment 5 An all-tournament ticket is $40; single-day tickets are $15. WAC students get in for free. The venue does not charge for parking. For the 2023 tournament, fans could only purchase tickets online. If they don't buy tickets in advance, the stadium has signage with a QR code to scan to buy them on your phone. Attending this tournament is well worth your sports entertainment investment. You just don’t know what you’ll see: a walk-off grand slam in the 11th inning, a DH who also pitched three innings, two mercy rule games, a game that ended in 2 hours 11 minutes, and another at 3 hours and 51 minutes. You get to witness a player’s last-ever game (seniors who are graduating). And, the excitement of the players on the field after winning the championship. All of that is priceless (except maybe the close to a 4-hour game). . Extras 3 Applause to the event manager for hiring local business food trucks for the tournament. It’s nice going to a ballpark and not worrying about which bag type is allowed and how many bottles of water to bring. New for the 2023 season was the use of the pitch clock. And, plays were challenged. The challenges took a long time so hopefully, the timing of those can be minimized next season. Four umpires judge the championship games; three do so during the regular season (so I’m told). All games were televised on ESPN+ this 2023 season. Press Assistant Final Thoughts It’s exciting watching a conference tournament. Although not one of the newer, fancier spring training venues in the East Valley, Hohokam Stadium is worth visiting when the WAC baseball tournament is in town. I recommend the city of Mesa promote it more.

Photos by Ed Pelle, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Joe Nathan Field Circle Rd Stony Brook, NY 11794 Stony Brook Seawolves website Joe Nathan Field website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 1,000 Shock the World Stony Brook University officially began competition in NCAA Division I athletics in 1999 with little to no fanfare. In the years that followed several of the programs made strides in adapting to the new, more difficult level of competition, but the athletics department lacked a singular defining win that would make news on a national level. The men's soccer team did qualify for the NCAA Tournament three times prior to 2012, as did the men's lacrosse team, with a 2010 run to the NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals. The Stony Brook baseball team had also been a successful program with three conference titles prior to 2012, but the culmination of the 2012 baseball season saw the Seawolves make an improbable run to the College World Series in Omaha as the lowest seeded team remaining in the field. No team from the Northeast had accomplished this feat in 26 years and even Big Ten power conference commissioner Jim Delaney had previously complained that teams from the north would not be able to compete with their rivals from the South, demanding changes to the NCAA structure of college baseball. The team adopted the simple mantra of "shock the world" and won on the road at a regional in Miami, Florida and then again at a Super Regional at LSU. After defeating LSU on the road some fans of the prohibitive favorite from Louisiana even began to display "Geaux Seawolves" signs at the College World Series in a gesture of respect. The run to the College World Series is to date the most well-known accomplishment of Stony Brook Athletics and made the program known to more casual fans who resided outside of the Long Island area. Stony Brook baseball plays its games at Joe Nathan Field, which is dedicated to former MLB player and the most prominent baseball figure in the program's history after a large donation by Nathan to upgrade the facilities. The renovations were completed prior to the 2011 season. The current configuration of the field seats 1,000 and has a full FieldTurf playing area. Although Joe Nathan is known for his career as a relief pitcher for several MLB organizations, he began his professional career as a shortstop and was converted to the position despite protesting against the switch. Food & Beverage 1 As is usually customary in the Northeast where there are usually no concessions, supporters bring food for the team. What is unusual at Seawolves games is that supporters tend to bring food for everyone in attendance. The phrase "you can't complain if it is free" seems apt here, though incoming athletic director Shawn Heilbron has stated in interviews that he would like to address this issue by adding better seating and amenities for baseball. Atmosphere 3 Located at the northern most corner of campus adjacent to the softball field, Joe Nathan Field is a symmetrical playing surface 330 feet long down the foul lines and 390 feet from home plate to dead center. There is a bullpen along the third base side and a bullpen behind right field. If you were to circumnavigate the park you would not be able to watch the action from the outfield area as it is fenced off. Fans tend to cluster in the stands behind home plate, though some will prefer to stand along the foul lines. Along the third base line bullpen are large signs highlighting each victory stage in the 2012 post season run. The field of play is entirely artificial which is a significantly better approach than those baseball fields which only have an infield diamond artificially installed. The seating provided for the fans is of the aluminum bench variety with a small press box at the top of the stands behind home plate. Neighborhood 3 Located on the north shore of Long Island, Stony Brook is a quiet town that is very close to the Long Island Sound. Historically the north shore of Long Island had been home to some of the most influential aristocrats and many of these historic estates are still in existence. One such estate belonging William Vanderbilt has been turned into a museum in nearby Centerport. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $3 for children under 12 years of age. There is also a planetarium that Suffolk County, who oversees the property, built there in 1970. For pre or post game libations there are two great sports bars within walking distance of Joe Nathan Field on the other side of the train tracks. The Bench Bar and Grill has several large televisions placed throughout the establishment with sports programming always on. They have 25 beers on tap daily and a full menu of lunch and dinner dishes. Some highlights are steak and mushrooms ($19.99), St. Louis BBQ ($18.99), bourbon glazed pork chops ($16.99), seared tuna ($17.99) and rigatoni chicken alfredo ($15.99). Jake Starr Cafe is located one block east and has a similar set up with sports themed television programming, a full bar and an extensive menu. I would highly recommend a deluxe burger platter here with several combinations at starting at $11.75. Fans 3 Interest in all things Stony Brook has been on the upswing in the last few years. Since the 2012 post season run, baseball fans have turned out in larger numbers than ever. Often visitors to campus on other business will ask if the baseball team is in, and the location of the field hoping to see the Seawolves play while they are in town. Access 3 One of the great things about the Joe Nathan Field is its proximity to a Long Island Railroad terminal. It is very easy to walk from the station to the game. Most people in attendance will drive in headed north on Nicolls Road. Once you make a left on North Boundary Road right before the train trestle you are looking at the center field fence of Joe Nathan Field. Parking is available right next to the field without charge. You could even travel to, or from Southern Connecticut easily on the Bridgeport-Port Jefferson auto ferry which is a sponsor of Stony Brook Athletics. The terminal is only four miles away in neighboring Port Jefferson. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for baseball games and parking adjacent to the field is also free. The only costs here would be transportation to and from the venue. The opportunity to see high level NCAA Baseball up close for free cannot be understated. Extras 2 Behind the grandstand is a tree with two flat large rocks next to it. This shady outpost is constantly one of the most popular spots to watch the action from, though it may not have even been placed there by design. Stony Brook has a very large, interesting campus filled with modern buildings, large outdoor art pieces and a hospital on the eastern side of campus. Taking one of the free campus buses through the University would give you a sense of just how much is going on here. Final Thoughts After the post season run in 2012 the pressing question was, could this success be the product of a team that had all its parts magically come together at the right time or was this run the dividend of many years of hard work by the people involved with Seawolves athletics. As a few seasons have passed since 2012 it seems apparent that a consistent high level of play is the new benchmark for the baseball team. The future seems bright as the University has taken a renewed interest in providing a better experience for the fans in every athletic program.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Sebring International Raceway 113 Midway Dr Sebring, FL 33870 24H Sebring website Sebring International Raceway website Year Opened: 1950 Twice ‘Round the Sebring Clock The historic Sebring 12 Hour sportscar race began in 1950 and has grown into one of the world’s most revered motorsports events during its long history. Now in 2021, the Creventic 24 Hour series has brought their annual American 24 hour race to the facility. The Sebring 24 Hours features a race twice as long as the annual IMSA event, featuring many of the same cars on track. Food & Beverage 4 There is no shortage of food vendors around the track at Sebring. From the main paddock and the ever popular Track Shack (get the Beast…it is probably the best item you can eat at the track and is only known on the secret menu at Sebring) to the various drink and snack stops around the track, you never have to go too far to get something to quench your thirst or ease the pain of hunger. The cost of everything is also what one may consider to be moderately fair, as food and snack items range from just a few dollars to $12-$14 for bigger items at the Snack Shack. Atmosphere 5 Nothing compares to Sebring – words are barely able to even describe it either. This is one giant party for everyone who attends. Some wild stories can be told of the goings on at Green Park (the infield area on the north side of the track), and perhaps it may be best to keep the young ones away from that part of the course at night. This event is unlike the 12 Hours , however, as it is much more laid back. Featuring support races and fan laps on track, this race feels more like a celebration of motorsports than the high intensity of the IMSA event. This also features a more family-friendly environment. Neighborhood 3 There isn’t exactly anything around Sebring International Raceway, as it is quite literally located in the middle of nowhere. Sebring itself is a town located in the middle of Florida, at least an hour and a half away from the nearest major city or population center. Thus, while the town of Sebring itself may have some shopping and dining as well as a few hotels, you are likely better off camping at the track and staying there the whole weekend. Fans 4 The fans at Sebring are insane! Not only are they very sport knowledgeable, but they know how to decorate their campsites. Some have gone as far as erecting massive scaffolding at their camping sites to get a better view of the action, while others prefer a ground-level chair next to a campfire. There are even make-shift bars that pop up around the facility that are fully operational and open to anyone who wants to come visit. The majority of these fans have been coming to the race for years, introduced by their parents to the event, and are now passing it on to their kids. Unlike the Sebring 12 Hours , the Creventic 24 Hours is much more family friendly. The paddock is open to all fans and there are less drunk fans roaming the grounds. Families can worry less about bringing their kids to this race, that features twice the amount of endurance racing as the more expensive event in March. Access 3 The roads in and out of Sebring aren’t exactly major highways, with the biggest road being US-27 running towards Miami to the south and Orlando to the north. There is plenty of parking at the track, however, and trams help take you from parking lots farther away from the main grandstands and paddock to points of interest around the track. You never feel like you are too far from anywhere either, as there are several perfectly placed crossover bridges around the track to get you to points of interest throughout the weekend. Any fan can also come down to the paddock and get up close to the stars and cars of the Creventic series who are in attendance. Return on Investment 4 There really is nothing like Sebring – a weekend ticket gets you into all the action Wednesday through Saturday and you can come and go as you please. While ticket prices can soar over $100 a person for the 12 Hours, tickets for the new Creventic event are much less expensive, meaning you can easily bring a family of four to this event for the same price for one person at IMSA. Extras 5 Taking in the race at Sebring has its perks for fans, with various autograph sessions being held throughout the race weekend. In addition, fans also have the opportunity to get into the paddock area of the track free of charge, giving you an up-close view of the teams as they prepare for one of the biggest races of the year. Before the main event on track, all the teams bring their cars out to the front stretch for a fan walk before the race starts, and fans can come see the cars and drivers up close before they head out onto the track. Then after each race, the victory celebration is held in the new victory lane complex at the track, giving fans access to an area of the track that was previously farther away on pit road. Final Thoughts Thinking about visiting a sports facility of great historic value with incredibly exciting action for you to see during the entire event? Look no further than the Sebring 24 Hours. This race has it all, and you get twice the amount of racing as you would for the annual IMSA race in March. It is hard to put into words what a weekend at Sebring feels like, but as the sun sets each day and the roar of engines fills the air, you can understand why this track has become one of the biggest draws in all of sports, let alone racing.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium E Superior St Kokomo, IN 46901 Kokomo Wildkats website Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1949 Capacity: 5,200 The Kats Are Back! Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium was dedicated on October 20, 1949, and was named in honor of the men and women from the town who lost their lives in World War II. The 7,200-seat physical education building was one of the largest in the world when it first opened, ushering a new era of bigger and better high school basketball gyms, but subsequent renovations have brought it down to its current capacity of around 5,200 people, ranking it as the 33rd largest high school gym in the world. The home of the Kokomo High School Wildkats basketball programs cost $680,000 to build. It replaced the venerable Hawthorn Gymnasium that stood for 21 years before burning to the ground in the wee hours of March 22, 1944. The team would find a temporary home at the Kokomo National Guard Armory for the next five seasons, while the town contemplated building a new facility. Basketball had always been a hot ticket in town and a new gym was constructed to convince state officials to host regional tournaments to raise revenue. The opening of the modern and more spacious gymnasium gripped the town with a fever known as “Hoosier Hysteria.” Fans would line up overnight to purchase tickets. Standing room only was the only option for those without tickets, according to a former Wildkat who starred in the late 1950s. He added that when he walked into practice on Saturday mornings, there would be lines of people in the frigid cold bundled up and waiting for the ticket window to open. Game nights would be packed and the Wildkats would build off that momentum earning three trips to the state Final 4 championships in 1959, 1961, and 1962. They won it all in 1961. The girls' team captured back-to-back state titles in 1992 and 1993 and a championship one in 2003 The Art Moderne architectural building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005, complete with a memorial marker on the corner of Apperson and Superior Streets. It was designed by architect Elmer Dunlap who also helped design various schools, courthouses, and parks in Indiana that are now also on the National Register of Historic Places. Food & Beverage 3 Two small concession stands look as if they have not changed since the gym opened. The items for sale include hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, pickles, candy, chips, and Coca-Cola products. On busy nights, the lines can get long and stretch through the lobby. Atmosphere 5 The play of junior center Flory Bindunga has attracted fans from all over the city to the historic gym this season. He is among the state’s leaders in block shocks, and the student cheer section has created a dunk meter for him, as he can average several a night. He has also been offered scholarships to 15 colleges and universities, with Michigan State’s Tom Izzo making an appearance the day before our review. As a result, Kokomo has experienced unprecedented levels of noise, fan reaction, and excitement in decades. Some say it reminds them of the old days when fans would wait outside in the cold and the gym would be crammed to the rafters. Memorial Gym is a small, cozy, and comfortable facility that is not your typical basketball gymnasium. It is packed with delightful colors, signage, banners, and other little nooks and crannies. Tickets are taken at the door from workers sitting down at tables at one of the four entrances to the building, conversations are brewing among friends young and old, and students line up to grab a bite to eat at the concession stands. The bleacher seating is separated into two sections on the south side and into three sections on the opposite end. All upper-level sections are reachable by stairs and ramps directly from the lobby. On both ends are two more seating sections that are above the playing court and operate as balconies; one of these sections is populated by the band. All of the seats, except the third level section, are pull-out bleachers. The sturdy wooden permanent seats on the third level are cornered off at the ends which makes for a little abnormality of seating style, but one that is welcomed. All around the gymnasium are banners and signage that celebrate the multiple accomplishments of both the men’s and women’s basketball programs, highlighted by the 1961 boys' state championship and 1992, 1993, and 2003 girls' state championship banners. At one end of the arena, it reads “Home of the Kats” on the wall, and Kats are spelled out in one of the upper sections of seats as well. A basic scoreboard hangs above the center court, while a few more pictures and photos add to the aesthetics of the building. The venue is one of only a handful to include a video board that was installed in 2019. Neighborhood 3 You’ll find a variety of chain restaurants and retail outlets on US-931 in Kokomo, which is not too far from the gymnasium. However, if you are looking for a few interesting sites to see or places to eat, then there are some local suggestions. Harvey Hinklemeyers features great pizza and sandwiches and is also great for the kids. Half Moon Restaurant and Brewery is a great stop for a bite to eat or enjoy a craft beer after the game. Enjoy a giant tenderloin sandwich at Windmill Grill or Artie's Tenderloin. A tenderloin sandwich is a giant breaded piece of pork that is deep-fried and big enough for two. Ray’s Drive-In is a funky little place that makes a killer beef Manhattan sandwich. Dan's Variety Bakery is a popular destination that opens at 1 AM featuring hot, freshly baked donuts. Fans 3 There is a great abundance of fans who attend Kokomo High School games, but not like the good old days when they used to pack the house to the gills. However, enough fans are out here supporting their local basketball team to easily confirm that there is still a lot of love for the Wildkats in Kokomo. Fans are supportive, dedicated, and interested in the game at hand. Access 3 Arriving at the gymnasium is also fairly simple. There is plenty of signage directing visitors towards the historic facility with parking available on the streets or in one of the small lots outside of the gym. Once inside the gym, the number of people will impact the accessibility during the game. There are points of the two main levels where walkability is easy, but there are sections where it ends due to seating arrangements. The outer hallways outside the seating bowl make it easy to move around, but it does not wrap around the building. Bathrooms and concessions are located on the main floors of the outside lobby. Many of the signs posted appear to date back to the gym’s early years, providing a time portal for fans and visitors to the venue. The one thing to keep in mind, at this time of writing, is that regular season games are near sell-outs many nights; it is advisable to arrive early for games to find parking on the streets or in the main lots near the gymnasium. Return on Investment 5 Adult tickets are $6 for all home games which is on par with other high school games in the state. The parking is free, concession prices are extremely affordable, and it makes for a great night of high school basketball hoops in a historic and cozy basketball gymnasium. The level of play the Kats are playing around this time, including the number of people attending games, and providing the soundtrack, makes this one of the best nights out for sports in the state. Extras 5 The exterior of the Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium is noteworthy for a few reasons. The historic building design features photos and headlines from when the team won the state title in 1961 above the main exterior entrance. There is also a bronze statue of a wildkat and a historical marker describing the facility. The John Turner Memorial Room is located at the west end of the main lobby and was dedicated by his parents, Earl and Ellen Turner. Turner was an All-State basketball player who died during battle in World War II. The room features a portrait of Turner in uniform draped by two U.S. flags, while furniture from that era is set up behind a rope fence. On the opposite wall are three stained-glass windows listing every major battle of the war. Visitors walk through the area to look around and take photos, but no one is allowed to sit in the chairs or couches. The school features a taxidermy wildkat encased behind a glass cube. It is wheeled out to center Court during warm-ups by a group of students and then wheeled back to the John Turner Memorial Room until it is ready for the next basketball game. The wildkat dates back to 1951. The overall aesthetics of the gymnasium are pleasing to the eyes. The red and blue banners hang proudly from the rafters, the seats are also colored red and blue, and little touches on the walls make it a visually pleasing facility for the first-time visitor. It is a classic Indiana fieldhouse. The video board hovers over the center court and features a four-sided video panel that displays ads, photos, scores, and other information. It is one of only a handful of gyms in the state that offers a video display board. Final Thoughts Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium is the perfect-sized facility for high school basketball in Indiana. It is dripping with nostalgia, brimming with history, and a wonderful place to watch basketball in the 21st century. If these walls could talk, they would have a lot to say about the history of basketball. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Tucson Arena 260 S Church Ave Tucson, AZ 85701 Map It Arizona Wildcats Hockey website Tucson Arena website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 6,521 Bear Down Rise Up The Arizona Wildcats hockey team (University of Arizona) plays their home games at Tucson Arena.   The Wildcats share the arena with the Tucson Roadrunners of the AHL (American Hockey League) and the Tucson Sugar Skulls (IFL – Indoor Football League).    The Arizona Wildcat s are in the ACHA (American Collegiate Hockey Association) as part of Men’s D 1 in the WCHL (Western Collegiate Hockey League) conference.   The team hoisted back-to-back WCHL championship banners in the 2018 – 2019 and 2019 – 2020 seasons.  You wouldn’t believe it based on how they played the day of Stadium Journey’s visit in late 2023.  Arizona Wildcats Hockey History Display, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Built in 1971, Tucson Arena, part of the Tucson Convention Center, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2015.   Updated features within the last few years include:   ·       Small ribbon boards on each side of the video board ·       Video boards on th e back side of t he camera wells ·       Loge boxes (used for Roadrunner hockey) ·       An upgraded plaza area outside ·       New parking garages ·       Additional party areas (again, used for the Roadrunners)     Before 1979, the team was a student-run sports club.   From 1979 – 2011, the team became the Arizona IceCats.  It was a founding member of the ACHA.  In 2011, the University of Arizona took over the administration and changed the name to the Wildcats.  Food & Beverage 2 Only one  of the two permanent concession stands is open for a Wildcats game. Only a few portable stands are operational.   This suits the lower attendance crowd.  It’s enough to get you by if you’re hungry.   Choices include macho nachos, regular nachos, hot dogs, pretzels ($7 - $12), and snacks like chips and candy.   Other munchies include kettle corn ($5), cotton candy ($5), and lemonade. A well-needed coffee/expresso cart is on one concourse, which sells a variety of coffee, expresso, chai, lattes, and more.   Pepsi products are the soda of choice ($5/$6), and beer and alcoholic beverages are offered ($8 - $18).    One big downside… staff at a table on the outer concourse require showing ID to get a drinking age verified wristband, certainly not uncommon and much smoother than pulling out ID at a drink cart. The table attendees insist on putting the band on the right wrist even if a paying visitor wants it on their left.  There’s no debate, not even a question asking whether it’s a medical need.  This response demonstrates awful customer service, which the Arizona Wildcats or the Tucson Arena game day operations need to revisit. Atmosphere 3 Seating is U-shaped with rows of seats on three sides; the concourse is above the seating area, and the game is in view the entire time when walking the concourse.   The best seats are on the sidelines, and I’d recommend the second level to get a better look at the whole ice surface.   The seats are tight, have cupholders on the sides of the seats, and there’s enough legroom.   The arena does not have a center-hung scoreboard.  Instead, a video scoreboard is on the top end of the U, while a standard stat board is on the wall above the bottom of the U.  Neither shows the shots on goal stat.   They do announce the shots on goal after the end of each period.  The PA announcer does a fantastic job.  His voice is clear and understandable.   The arena temperature is freezing.   Be sure to wear and bring extra layers including a hat, gloves, a scarf, and a blanket.  The ceiling at the top of the U proudly hangs the two WCHL championship banners and two retired Wildcat jerseys. There’s minimal indication that the Arizona Wildcats play at Tucson Arena.   The arena is  all about the Tucson Roadrunners.   Pregame, the video board shows a nice interview with Coach Chad Berman. The video staff displays a fantastic Bear Down intro before the start of the game.   Between periods, the video board shows pre-recorded player interviews, and there’s a Chuck-a-Puck contest at every game where the winner gets something, like a free meal at Rudy’s Bar-B-Q (a sponsor).    Arizona Wildcats Hockey Banners, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Honestly, the play of the game I saw on this visit was ghastly.   Passes didn’t connect.  Wildcats’ players couldn’t clear the zone.  The players were not aware of where the other players were positioned on the ice.  The opposing team scored short-handed goals against them.   They have had great teams.  As of this writing, their record is 8 – 10, so I guess they just had a very bad day when we visited.   Neighborhood 4 Visiting Tucson is a treat.  It is not as commercialized as the Phoenix area, and it maintains much of its natural beauty by not building and destroying its land and natural settings and landscape. The arena is downtown near El Presidio Park, the old county courthouse, and the Pima County courthouse.  Several museums are within walking distance, including the Children’s Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.  Or, if it’s a pleasant fall day, walk the Turquoise Trail, a historical walking tour of downtown Tucson.  A good place for a pregame dinner within walking distance (1/2 mile) of the arena is the El Charro Café .  Other places include The HUB (ice cream, food, and drinks), Miss Saigon Downtown (Vietnamese), or Empire Pizza & Pub (New York-style pizza). Tucson offers several breweries near the arena.  Barrio Brewing, Pueblo Vida Brewing Company, and Iron John’s might be worth a visit if craft breweries are your thing. Not walking distance but worth visiting when in the Tucson area are the Mission San Xavier del Bac (founded in 1692), the Saguaro National Park (home to the nation’s largest and most abundant cacti), or t aking a drive up to the top of A Mountain (Sentinel Peak) for a beautiful view.   The biggest event in Tucson is the Gem and Minera l Show a t the end of Jan / beginning of Feb each year. One hotel, Double Tree by Hilton Tucson Downtown Convention Center, is right next to the hot el,   but it’s pricey.  We recommend Hotel McCoy about 2.5 miles from the arena.  It is a reasonably priced hotel and has all sorts of nifty items. Other sports to see during hockey season include the Tucson Roadrunners (AHL) , and the A rizona Wildcats (University of Arizona) football , basketball , and baseball teams.  Fans 1 Not a whole lot of fans show up for Wildcats games.   Crowds are much larger when rival ASU comes to town. Those in attendance groan, moan, and applaud at the appropriate times . Access 3 Currently, quite a bit of construction is in process around the area. Click here  for a parking map.  Visitors first enter a wide outer concourse which contains the ID check table. Then, they enter the inner concourse through additional glass doors. Parking is available right next to the arena for $10, which is ludicrous for club hockey. Other lots and garages a little further away run $3 - $5. Street parking is available a few blocks away for free.  Tucson has a Sun Link Streetcar service (a light rail) that drops fans off just a few blocks from the arena, which is an alternative option to get to Tucson Arena for a game. The nearest airport is Tucson International Airport, about 8 miles south of the arena.  Tucson is about a two-hour drive from Phoenix.    Upon entering the arena, fans must go through a metal detector and security check.  Backpacks and large bags are not allowed. Standard sports clear bags (14” x 16”) are permitted, though security does ask you to open everything inside your bag (but does not provide a table to place your bag while trying to maneuver this).   I’m not quite sure the reason for the clear bag if they’re going to make you take out and open everything anyway.  Security procedures at arenas always baffle me. Doors open 60 min before puck drop.   Fans enter at the top of the concourse and head  down to the seating areas. The seating areas provide handrails in the middle of the steps. Sufficient wheelchair-accessible seating is on the top of the seating bowl with good views of the action on the ice.   Once inside, walking the concourse is easy as few fans attend Wildcats hockey games. Tucson Arena Ice Hockey Corner View, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Well-kept and clean bathrooms are at each end of the U and downstairs at the bottom end of the U.  Return on Investment 3 Be sure to check promos on their website.   And ask about them when purchasing tickets at the ticket office.  The Wildcats offer Kids Day, Senior Day, Bogo Tickets, and more.   Tickets generally run $13; games against ASU (Arizona State University) are $18. Seniors, kids, and the military get in for $7.   The first 200 students with a CatCard (University of Arizona identification card) get in for free.  Tickets are general admission.   Concession prices are what is expected for an AHL-first arena.   Parking in the garage is astronomical for club hockey.  The best games to attend are against ASU, as there’s some heated competition during those. Extras 1 Be sure to pick up a single-page roster sheet of both teams when entering the rink .   Final Thoughts Tucson, AZ is a fantastic city to visit.   The Arizona Wildcats hockey clu b has ha d great success in previous years.    If in the area in the fall/winter, check their schedule to see if you can attend a game.

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

Photos by Bradlee Ross, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 BOK Center 200 S Denver Ave Tulsa, OK 74103 Tulsa Oilers website BOK Center website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 17,096 The BOK Center Delivers in Tulsa The BOK Center, home of the Tulsa Oilers, opened on August 30, 2008. It offers 19,199 seats for concerts, with 17,096 of that available for its hockey games. It is owned by the city of Tulsa itself and was designed by the famous architect Cesar Pelli. In addition to the Oilers, it also hosts the Tulsa Shock of the WNBA. The Tulsa Oilers currently play in the ECHL and have played their home matches at the BOK since it opened in 2008. The current incarnation of the team was founded in 1992, though the first hockey team in Tulsa nicknamed the Oilers was established way back in 1928. Food & Beverage 4 The quality and variety of concessions available at the BOK is top-notch. Regular concession stands sell some great items like burgers, chicken tenders, shrimp, and fish and chips. They also sell Pepsi products exclusively and have plenty of beers on tap. The prices at these regular stands are a bit high, but the quality makes it worth it for most items. It is important to note that not all of these stands have the same menu. Items like pizza and chips and dip vary. But, for those fans who are looking for other things to snack on, there are plenty of options. This arena has a specialty popcorn stand, The Dog House which sells gourmet hot dogs and many other foods. Fans who are looking for adult beverages also won’t be disappointed. Stands selling beer, tequila, and frozen drinks are also easily found. Atmosphere 4 When it comes to atmosphere, fun is the most important thing. The BOK has nailed this aspect of the sports experience. A real effort is made to sell team merchandise and get fans involved in promotions with huge booths. They play music over the PA during breaks in the action, and not the old stale music you will often hear in arenas. There is also a great jumbotron hanging above the ice that makes it easy to follow the action. There are quite a few promotional booths for area businesses that allow fans to get involved in promotions and contests and a first aid center, something all venues should have. Overall, the BOK has an energetic, lively air to it that makes it an enjoyable sports experience for all sports fans. Neighborhood 4 The BOK is located in downtown Tulsa and stands out as a beacon in the area. However, there are still some great things to do while in the area. The Brady Theatre, Cain’s Ballroom, and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center are the places to check out for performances musical or theatrical. There are also plenty of hotels and restaurants to make use of. The Hyatt Regency and the Doubletree are very close to the arena. Boston Avenue Grill, Casa Laredo, and Caz’s Showhouse are just a few of the excellent restaurants that are nearby. Fans 4 The Oilers draw a nice crowd, particularly in a city that is not traditionally all that crazy about hockey. It also strikes a good balance between young people looking to have a good time and families with children. The venue does a good job of catering to both. The arena usually is at least half full, maybe a little less on a slow night. Fans are not super intense about the action on the ice, but they have fun and get involved at key moments. Access 3 The concourse and aisles are spacious enough to allow one to get around easily, even with a large crowd. The seating is comfortable and provides plenty of room for any fan. The bathrooms are too small for the size of the arena, but they are kept immaculately clean. Handicapped seating is also plentiful, and the entire arena is very handicapped-friendly. Downtown Tulsa can be hard to navigate at times, depending heavily on the time of the day and construction (which seems to always be going on somewhere). There is a lot of parking around the arena, but it can be hard to find for free. However, after 5 pm, all metered parking is free. Return on Investment 4 The BOK is a bit more expensive than other sports venues in the area. However, it is worth it given the rise in quality when compared to those other arenas. It truly is top-notch in almost every way possible. Its fun and festive atmosphere combined with great concessions and high-quality facilities make it worth the bump in price. Oklahoma isn’t known for its hockey, but the BOK makes hockey fun for anyone. Extras 2 This venue receives one extra point for its promotion honoring survivors of breast cancer. Not only did they have promotional booths, but they also had many of their employees and the Oilers players wearing pink. Final Thoughts This venue BOK Center is more than just an ECHL venue. It is a place for entertainment from fan excitement and the action on the ice.

Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Caesar Uyesaka Stadium 600 Stadium Rd Isla Vista, CA 93117 UC Santa Barbara Gauchos website Caesar Uyesaka Stadium website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 1,000 UCSB Baseball While baseball is often synonymous with beautiful spring and summer days, few venues can compete with the weather and surrounding natural settings of Caesar Uyesaka Stadium in Santa Barbara. With the city being located on an east to west strip of the coast, it has a rather comfortable Mediterranean climate. Being one of the few campuses located on the Pacific Ocean, the ballpark is exposed to cool ocean breezes and stunning views of the Santa Ynez Mountains beyond the outfield wall. When the stadium opened in 1964, it was originally known as Campus Stadium. A UCSB booster named Caesar Uyesaka had larger visions for the program and ultimately led the charge for major renovations. The stadium would later be renamed for his efforts in 1994. Many outside fans visiting Santa Barbara often inquire about the team's nickname, one of the most unique in college sports. The UCSB website states that the Gaucho, or "Argentine cowboy," dates back to 1936 when it was inspired by the 1927 film known as The Gaucho . Fans have embraced this nickname, often swinging boleadoras in the air, tossing tortilla onto the playing surface, and wearing sarapes or sun hats. Food & Beverage 2 When facing home plate, fans will find a single concession area on the left side of the grandstand. The items offered here include the Gaucho hot dog ($4), Gaucho nachos ($4), soft pretzel ($3.50), peanuts in shell ($3.50), cracker jacks ($3), sunflower seeds ($3), cotton candy ($3), chex mix ($3), honey roasted peanuts ($3), candy ($2), and finally potato chips ($1). The beverage options include Monster Energy ($4), Powerade ($3), apple juice ($3), iced tea ($3), lemonade ($3), soda ($3), and Dasani water ($3). Single dessert option for those warmer Santa Barbara days is frozen lemonade for $4. Atmosphere 4 It's difficult to imagine a setting much better for baseball than the one at UCSB baseball games. On most days, fans are treated to clear blue skies, the cool ocean breeze, and spectacular views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. I love the seating structure as it really gives a great vantage point to see all of the plays develop and standing in the lower concourse is an interesting novelty; as fans can envision his or her self as the batter with the pitcher straight ahead at eye-level. While the "Thunderdome" (home of the UCSB basketball team) has a more raucous crowd and atmosphere, Casear Uyesaka Stadium is certainly a more reserved, relaxed atmosphere. While some may want a little more engagement from the crowd, there will be no complaints from me as I watch the baseball unfold below in front of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Neighborhood 4 The UCSB campus is probably one of the most unique in all of America. On one side, it faces the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport/Santa Ynez Mountains and on the other side the Pacific Ocean. Visitors to campus can walk around the UCSB Lagoon and admire the many varieties of bird life taking refuge here. From the campus beach, or even the nearby Goleta Beach County Park, visitors can spot the Channel Islands of California. While the campus itself is located west of downtown Santa Barbara, a short ten minute drive will allow visitors to take in the delights of the "American Riviera." Popular attractions include Mission Santa Barbara, downtown red tile walking tour, Stern's Wharf, Museum of Natural History, and Lotusland. Should a visitor not have time to visit the downtown attractions, there are still plenty of options in terms of bars and restaurants in the nearby town of Isla Vista. Some of the more popular options include the Beachside Bar-Cafe, Silvergreens Restaurant, Woodstock's Pizza, McMaster's Steak and Hoagie, or the Elephant Bar Restaurant. Whether fans are on State Street in downtown or Embarcadero Del Mar, they are sure to find a variety of food and shopping options. Fans 3 The stadium is a smaller venue in terms of the Southern California college baseball venues, so the fans do seem a bit more muted than others I've experienced. There is a rather notorious portion fan base known as the "Hammerheads." These fans got their nickname years ago after wearing cardboard concession carriers on their heads. The sideways orientation made them resemble the head of a hammerhead shark and while the look is less practiced today, the lore is still there. The fans are engaged throughout the game, cheering for their team at the appropriate times. Many of them are also active in participation of the UCSB trivia conducted between innings. Access 3 The UCSB campus is difficult to miss along Route 101, or the Coastal Highway 1, as it is seated by the freeway, the airport, and the ocean. The parking is a bit confusing as there is a single meter among a large parking lot outside of the stadium. It's easy to miss the sign stating that fans need a permit to park and it seems that the cost varies from day to day. It seems that parking is actually higher on weekdays with the influx of students, but the fee on the Saturday that I was there was merely $3. The restroom options are limited to three portable toilets down the first base side. Due to the small size of the crowd, accessing them is never a difficulty, but you would like to see a more permanent option for a Division I program. Return on Investment 4 Fans of the Gauchos can see their team play for just $7 per ticket and just $4 for youth/senior tickets. There are a variety of package deals that provide incentive to buy more, including season tickets for just $75. The season tickets are a great option because fans get 27 games and a $25 credit towards UCSB merchandise. There is also a great program for fans with younger children known as the "GKids." A small fee gets the children a tshirt, coloring book, and free admission to most sporting events. Reasonable ticket prices, reasonable concessions, and reasonable parking provides great reason for fans to visit the UCSB campus and take in a baseball game. Extras 4 The first of the extras is evident upon entering the ballpark. To your left upon entering the stadium, fans will find a large baseball with a Gauchos logo on it and a plaque beneath. The plaque reads "An invincible determination can accomplish almost anything and in this lies the great distinction between great men and little men. Gino Filippin was a great man who through love, honor, friendship, generosity, and hard work helped to shape UCSB's athletic heritage." Next is the large imagery of Gaucho players of the past all displayed all over the grandstand. Michael Young, Skip Schumaker, and Ryan Spilborghs are just a few of the past players from UCSB that are shown in contrasting blue colors. I would also be remiss to not simply mention the design and location of the stadium. As I've probably stated too many times in this review, the stadium is a five minute walk from the Pacific Ocean and the seating stares directly at the towering Santa Ynez Mountains. In regards to the stadium design, when fans first enter the grandstand, they are below the bleachers standing at field level. After climbing a set of steps, the seating area is situated higher than the dugouts, with fans looking down upon the field. Lastly in terms of extras, is the concourse that resembles a botanical garden as fans walk the paths. Here fans can admire the ferns, palm trees, red flowers, lavender plants, and birds of paradise as they walk to their seats. If fans need to step away from the action for a moment, this is certainly the perfect spot. Final Thoughts What is possibly most exciting is that the program is hoping to upgrade Caesar Uyesaka Stadium. As fans enter the stadium, they will notice a sign showing the "Campaign for Gaucho Park." The program is attempting to raise $1.8 m to add a plaza, more landscaping, Gino's corner (tribute to Gino Filippin), Big Leaguers Lane (paying tribute to Gauchos in the majors), Hammerhead wall, field upgrade, and adding lights to allow for night games. All of these additions would certainly be a huge plus for Gauchos' baseball (and the summer baseball team known as the Santa Barbara Foresters) fans and players at the stadium. Even without the renovations, I still consider the UCSB campus one of the prime spots to catch a college baseball game in Southern California.