Photos by Jimmy Knight, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field 208 Olympic Dr Jonesboro, AR 72401 Arkansas State Red Wolves website Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 1,000 Home of Arkansas State Baseball Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field was opened in 1993 and is named for J.A. Ike Tomlinson who was a baseball coach and athletic director at the school from 1944 to 1976 and George and Skeeter Kell who both played for Arkansas State and went on to play in the Major Leagues. The bleachers behind the home plate have a reserved seating area and benched general admission area. Both have excellent sight lines and are right on top of the playing field. Food & Beverage 3 Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field’s concession stand is in a great location centered under the bleachers. The area is very clean and appears brand new. The restrooms are also in this area, once again complimenting the central position. All of the usual suspects can be found on the menu including burgers, hot dogs, soft drinks, and candy. The most impressive part is the service. Those behind the counter are very friendly and welcoming. As with most outdoor programs in the late winter/early spring, they have been riddled with cold weather, but the hot chocolate and the heaters were a big hit and an evening saver for me. Atmosphere 4 There is a lot of pride in the Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field grandstands for the Red Wolves baseball team. You can always hear constant chatter praising the previous play, encouraging the players, or obligatory heckling of the umpires. The atmosphere is a definite reason to see a ball game as the intensity spills over from the college kids in the dugout to the fans in the stands. As fans, our seats are close enough to the action that we can hear the player’s interaction with each other as well as razzing between the coaches and umpires. That conflict, especially for the home squad, fuels the players and fires up the fans. I felt like I was in the middle of the action from beginning to end. Neighborhood 3 The neighborhood does not help or hurt the baseball experience. The athletic complexes, including Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field, are set on the edge of campus; the other side is a major thoroughfare with empty fields along the road. Within a couple of miles is a set of chain restaurants that can be used for ‘pre-gaming’ but nothing within walking distance. Campus housing is nearby, but it appears most fans drive the short distance on campus to the games. Fans 4 The Red Wolves have an ardent and loyal fan base. They might not have the size of fan base they want at this time, but if they keep beating their regional opponents such as the University of Memphis (twice in 2014) and Arkansas-Little Rock (three times) the numbers will continue to grow. Whether you sit in the grandstands behind the plate or along the fence line past the dugouts, you will find a fan drawn into the competition that is encouraging on the players. There are two deck areas on both sides of the home plate behind the reserved seating adjacent to the dugouts. On these decks are open areas and picnic tables. This is a prime location to sit and listen to the chatter from the dugouts as well as to have a great view of the game. If your nerves get wrecked easily in competition or you just enjoy pacing in cold weather, this is a great spot for you to stretch your legs and move about. Access 4 Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field is right off Highway 49 in Jonesboro which itself is less than three miles from Highway 63. Highway 63 is the primary access into and out of Jonesboro. When driving up or down Highway 49, you would not be able to miss Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field as it is nestled right up to the road. After turning onto campus you are immediately upon the stadium and the parking area. Return on Investment 4 As I pulled up to the stadium parking lot, I noticed the ticket stand at the entrance of the park. Surprisingly, although there were plenty of cars already there, there were a couple of easy parking spots right up front near this ticket stand. Fortunately, my better judgment prevailed as I noticed this was prime foul ball territory. Thus, I restarted my vehicle and relocated to another spot, this time farther away. Beyond the parking situation, everything else is very simple and fairly cheap. The proximity to the game is the best attribute of Tomlinson Stadium-Kell Field and makes the ticket price worthwhile. Extras 2 If a fan is looking for a different view of the game or just a different environment, then they have to check out Barton’s Baseball Deck along the right field line. Constructed off of a donation from Barton’s Lumber Company, this deck has a premium set-up for watching and enjoying a baseball game. The Barton’s Baseball Deck has a great decorative entrance with slightly raised floors, multiple tables, and grills to cook at. The game I attended had an ongoing Barbeque Contest throughout the game. It is $7 to sit there or $1 entry if you already have a game ticket and want to come in. This is a ‘must try’ for those attending the games.

Photos by David Berger & Marc Viquez Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Beaver Field at Jim and Bettie Smith Stadium Bodenheimer Dr Boone, NC 28608 Appalachian State Mountaineers website Beaver Field at Jim and Bettie Smith Stadium website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 1,000 Appalachian State Baseball Appalachian State has been rising in national visibility over the last few years, primarily through the visibility of its football team. In 2007, they received national recognition for upsetting Michigan while still an FCS school. Since graduating to the FBS level for football in 2013, they’ve continued a string of athletic successes. Most recently, in 2018 Appalachian State football was ranked in the Top 25 for the first time, after narrowly losing to Penn State in overtime. The groundswell of support and visibility has helped App State (as they are known locally) make strides across a number of its athletic programs. Although baseball has not made the NCAA tournament since 2012, it’s not due to a lack of facilities. Beaver Field and the accompanying Jim & Bettie Smith Stadium complex offer a first-class operation set beautifully into the Blue Ridge Mountains. Built in 2007, Beaver Field has 827 stadium seats with backs, as well as grass seating down the right field line that accommodates overflow crowds over 1000 for their “Pack the Park” promotions. Seating is divided into just three sections, and all seats are between the dugouts and protected by safety netting. The press boxes sit directly behind the concourse at the top of the sections, and the concession and ticket booths are behind the press box. Due to unpredictable Blue Ridge spring weather, the playing surface is Field Turf, which can allow for a late Spring snow removal in the morning, with a game still playable in the afternoon. The complex also includes an indoor hitting and pitching facility, as well as a clubhouse and lounge for players and coaching staff. Food & Beverage 3 Options are generally limited at small college baseball, and that’s true here as well. The cooler is well stocked with drink options (When ordering a “blue Gatorade,” we were asked “which blue?”). Hot dogs ($2 – $4), nachos ($3), and s’mores ($4) are your primary options, along with candy ($2), popcorn, and chips ($1 each). Prices are very reasonable, and fans can also bring their own. During our visit, there were a handful of tailgaters in the parking lot as well. People who bring their own have use of a handful of picnic tables as well. The major drawback is the concession stand is out of view of the field. However, even with a decent crowd during our visit, the lines were never long. Atmosphere 3 The primary attraction is the setting. Looking out into the surrounding mountains on a sunny spring day is a better-than-average way to see a baseball game. For our visit, while there was a nice crowd, it was split fairly evenly between home and away supporters (arch-rival Georgia State). With a crowd under 1000, you can’t expect it to get loud. You can hear every heckler individually. That said, the crowd is engaged and supportive. The stadium staff does a nice job of mixing in music and announcements to keep the game moving along without being overbearing. There are promotions nearly every day to entice return visits, including $2 tickets on Tuesdays. The crowd is a mix of students and local supporters and players' families that makes for a welcoming environment. Neighborhood 5 Boone, NC is one of the great little college towns in America and has been growing and improving exponentially over the last few years. Anyone who has spent time here loves coming back, and while it’s still very small (about 17,000 permanent residents), the community still has all the conveniences of a city twice as large, plus all the charm of a small mountain town. King Street is the primary thoroughfare through Boone and rests along the northern edge of the campus. Highway 321 runs north-south along the Eastern edge. These two roads are your primary options for retail and restaurants. Anything you could want is available, from primary chains to local breweries. The Come Back Shack is popular for burgers, as is The Cardinal. New hotels have been popping up over the last few years, making it a little easier to stay in the area. There are multiple skiing hills in the winter, including Appalachian Ski Mountain, and easy access to the Appalachian Trail only a few miles from campus. Any number of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or whitewater rafting are nearby. Blowing Rock National Park and Tweetsie Railroad (a theme park, skewed towards younger kids) are nearby as well. Fans 3 As App State becomes more and more of a “football school,” general interest in baseball is lukewarm. While they draw a nice crowd on a warm Spring day, those fans fall into one of three categories: students looking to enjoy the sunshine and some sports who don’t have a lot of competitive options, friends of the program, like players’ families and a smattering of locals. Ron Hodges was a catcher in the majors in the 1970s, and is their most prominent baseball alumnus. There is one active major leaguer with an App State pedigree currently (Jeff Springs with the Texas Rangers), and five more in the minors – none of whom were picked in the first 10 rounds. There’s not a lot of reason beyond a love of the game or school pride to be a rabid fan of the baseball program yet. Access 4 Attending a game is simple. Interstate 40 is the closest, but your trip to Boone will eventually take you to either highway 321 (N/S) or 421 (E/W). Both are multi-lane highways and very easy to drive. As remote as Boone can be, it’s still just two hours from Charlotte. Once on campus, parking at the stadium complex is plentiful and free. There are also campus shuttle buses that will take you to the field. Return on Investment 4 A game at Beaver Stadium could be the centerpiece of a very enjoyable weekend getaway filled with all sorts of outdoor activities. Parking is free, and tickets are typical $5, with discounts on Tuesdays and other promotional days. Hotels in the area are reasonably priced, and the entire area is family-friendly, with low-cost and free options for things to do. Just walking around campus will offer some tremendous vistas of the surrounding landscape and can make for an enjoyable day by itself, capped off with lunch or dinner on King Street. Extras 5 Boone is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. In any direction, you’ll find a mix of attractions for the whole family. A drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway will have you making multiple stops along the way to gaze out over the mountains and ravines of the area. There’s plenty of fishing and hiking available in parks around the area as well. Just walking and browsing on King Street can be a fun afternoon. King Street has the feel of a mountain town, but it is just a few blocks from shops and restaurants. Nearby Blowing Rock is a little more commercial and has the Tweetsie Railroad and Blowing Rock monument. The Cherokee National Forest is also just to the West. In less than 90 minutes you can also continue west to the Northeast corner of Tennessee, where you’ll find four affiliated minor league ballparks (Johnson City, Kingsport, Elizabethton, and Bristol). Final Thoughts Though baseball is not the primary sport at Appalachian State, a visit to Boone, NC and Beaver Field is an enjoyable way to spend a sunny spring afternoon.

Photos by Andy Mantsch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 CofC Baseball Stadium at Patriots Point Patriots Point Blvd Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 College of Charleston Cougars website CofC Baseball Stadium at Patriots Point website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 2,000 On Point A charming ballpark in the shadow of the Ravenel Bridge connecting Charleston, SC with the Mount Pleasant area, CofC Baseball Stadium itself doesn’t have to be anything special to impress. The 2,000-person capacity park couldn’t be in a more relaxing location. The park was built in 2001 across the Charleston harbor from the city of Charleston and the school’s main campus. In 2007 the park underwent a $3,000,000 renovation, resulting in its present-day state. Food & Beverage 2 The only concession stand can be located on the concourse behind the home plate. Food options are about what you’d expect at a park this size. Nachos, hot dogs, and barbecue sandwiches are your main course options at $4-$5, with peanuts, popcorn, and candy available as snacks in the $2-$3 range. It wouldn’t be South Carolina without boiled peanuts on the menu, and you can pick up a bag for $3. Sodas come in a 16-ounce or 20-ounce size for $2 or $3, so the value is pretty solid. If you’re feeling a little tired from the South Carolina sun, don’t worry, because Red Bull or a cappuccino can also be purchased for $3 or less. Atmosphere 4 Let me be clear, the in-stadium atmosphere is average, at best. It’s the surrounding area and scenery that give CofC Stadium a boost. You’re surrounded by water on Patriot’s Point, and the ocean air adds to the overall relaxing vacation-like feel of the park. Just driving up to the park enhances your overall experience. Once in the park, you’ll meander through the CofC athletic facilities, including a practice field and a soccer field to reach the park. In the left field, the ivy-covered fence adds character to the park. There are comfortable covered seats behind home plate and bleachers on both the first base and third base lines. Down the first baseline, there is also a pavilion with several picnic tables providing an excellent area to relax and take in a game. Good sight lines and comfortable seats with cup holders add to the overall serene scene that is CofC Stadium. The field itself is pretty plain outside of the left field wall, and there aren’t a ton of stadium frills. Yet, based on the prime real estate of the park itself, it’s really hard to rate the atmosphere as average. Neighborhood 5 There’s not a whole lot to rate negatively here. If you haven’t been to Charleston, just ask anyone that has and they’ll speak of the city with terms like “beautiful” and “favorite” that don’t do justice to the area at all. The stadium is located just minutes from some of the most beautiful beaches in the southeast (Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms are just to the north) and one of the most beautiful cities in the country (historic Charleston is a short drive across the bridge to the south). The immediate area around the park doesn’t lack charm either. Patriot’s Point offers stunning views of Charleston harbor and Fort Sumter. Just a block from the stadium is the aircraft carrier Yorktown and Fort Moultrie. From almost anywhere on the Point you can look up and see the stunning Ravenel Bridge putting its mark on the skyline. Restaurants and hotels aren’t in any shortage in the area. If you’re looking to spend a little more for vacation, Market Street downtown or a rental on Isle of Palms offers all the southern charm of the city at your doorstep. If you’re looking to focus on the game or are sticking to a budget, there are much more affordable hotels in Mount Pleasant near the foot of the bridge. One of my favorite local spots near Patriot’s Point is Shem Creek. You’ll find restaurants and bars on the creek where you can sit outside and watch the boats come and go. Vickery’s or Red’s are both ideal locations for this. Fans 3 This category falls squarely on an average rating. There’s a fair share of passionate alums at the park on any given day to cheer on their Cougars. They seem to know the players and know the game pretty well. They can be vocal, but not in unison, as there’s just not enough to bring “noise” to the game. Students have a light showing at the park, likely explained by the fact that the stadium is off-campus. CofC is located across the bridge and downtown. Access 3 You won’t mind the drive to CofC Stadium no matter where you’re coming from. Coming from the west or south, you’ll get to follow 17 across the Ravenel Bridge, which affords you some stunning views of the area. Coming from the north down 17, you’ll be hugging the coast and passing islands and beaches the whole way down. Once you turn onto Patriot’s Point, you’ll pass the park on your left and turn into the athletic facilities complex to park. Parking is free, but the lot isn’t large. There is some grass parking along the main road, but there’s a decent walk from those spots. Once you pay for your ticket, there’s a short walk through the complex to the stadium. The concourse is wide and it’s easy to walk from end to end of the park with views of the field. Restrooms are located near concessions behind home plate. You’ve probably been to nicer restrooms, but for the size of the crowd, they are sufficient. Return on Investment 3 Nothing here is expensive, but nothing about the stadium itself is particularly standout (other than the surrounding area). You’ll be satisfied to dish out $7 for a ticket and no more than $5 for food to put your feet up and enjoy the ocean air while you take in a Cougars game. But because the in-stadium experience itself won’t be particularly special, the rating here again falls about average. Extras 3 Points here unarguably are assigned for location. As much as I’d normally consider taking points for an off-campus venue, you couldn’t pick a better location for the stadium. The ability to make a trip to a Cougars game or weekend series into an ideal vacation is what bumps the grade to a 3 in this category. Outside of that, there aren’t a whole lot of extras to speak of that are above and beyond the expected experience.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Martire Family Arena 3135 Easton Turnpike Fairfield, CT 06604 Sacred Heart Pioneers men’s hockey website Webster Bank Arena website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 4,400 There's No Place Like Home After playing hockey off campus for 29 and a half years, the Sacred Heart men’s hockey team was able to recite a familiar refrain “There’s no place like home”, as Martire Family Arena opened to a sold-out crowd of 4,200 on January 14 versus Boston College. The state-of-the-art $70 million facility will be home to the men’s and women’s hockey programs and figure skating. The eye-catching, well-lit structure has glass surrounding the outside of the building on three sides and is situated on the West Campus. It sits on the site of the former General Electric headquarters in Fairfield. The windows can be adjusted to allow for more or less light coming into the building depending on conditions outside. Frank and Maria Martire donated $5 million to the building. Frank Martire is an alumnus, who graduated in 1969, and a chairman of the Board of Trustees. He also has an equity interest in the Vegas Golden Knights. As fans enter the arena from an underground parking garage, they are funneled to the suite level and then the choice is stairs, elevator, or escalator down to the lower bowl seating area. There is also an entrance from street level at the front of the arena which leads fans to the top of the lower bowl. The team store is just to your left as you enter from the garage with a large concession stand to the right. Bathrooms are also on the right side of the Sacred Heart side of the rink. Food & Beverage 4 Food choices include two Old Post Market (a respected Fairfield restaurant) stands. For savory, one sells clam chowder ($10) and chili ($8). For sweets, the other mobile cart offers sugar waffles for $8 and $10 with chocolate sauce, hot chocolate ($4), and coffee ($3). Food and Drink Stands at Martire Family Arena, Photo by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey There is a beverage cart selling 16 oz. Coors Light and Blue Moon, Angry Orchard (12 oz), Truly Berry 16 oz, and Truly Vodka 12 oz. all for $8. The conventional food choices include pretzels ($7) with cheese sauce, nachos ($8), crinkle chili cheese ($9.50), cheese or regular fries, Nathan’s hot dogs ($6), chicken tenders, Greco and Sons Italian sausage and peppers and Margherita, pepperoni and pesto bianca pizzas. Snacks include popcorn ($6.50), cracker jacks, peanut M&M's, snickers, sour patch, Twizzlers, deep river chips, and large cookies. Pepsi products are sold. Soft drinks are $5 and water is $4. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere is first-rate. The arena is well-lit, with great acoustics and a clear sound system. The noise level is just right a bit loud, but not overbearing. The band is solid and plays often during breaks. There is a bell just behind the band that is rung at the start of each period and follows Sacred Heart goals. When the Pioneers find the back of the net, the arena lights are turned off and the ice is lit by lavender lights, a roaming spotlight, and a booming goal horn. The high-definition scoreboard is fabulous. The only negative was for some reason replays were not shown on the big board. There is a red signage board above the main scoreboard that wraps around the entire ice surface and keeps fans up to date on the latest real-time stats for both teams. The crowd was enthusiastic and loud throughout the game and the students were noticeable. The only needed touch is some banners to add to the empty rafters but Sacred Heart is yet to win a conference championship or make an NCAA appearance. The Pioneers play in the 10-team Atlantic Hockey Association. Neighborhood 3 There is not much to do nearby as the campus is just off the Merritt Parkway with no stores or restaurants close by. The Westfield Mall in Trumbull is about two miles away and is a good spot to pre-game. There are also some food options on Main Street in Bridgeport. Frank Pepe’s in Fairfield is a 12-minute drive. Fans 4 Fan support has been great since the Arena opened. The Pioneers used to average less than 1,000 per game but the on-campus venue is attracting about 4,000 per contest. The highest average attendance was 2019-20 at 897 when the team played in Bridgeport. This season the team is attracting 2,154 per contest and only seven of the Pioneer’s 16 home games have been played at Martire. The fans are buoyed by the band which plays often and even leads some cheers. Sacred Heart Pioneer School Band, Photo by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Access 4 The Arena is just off the Merritt Parkway Easton Turnpike exit 46 and Easton Turnpike Route 59. There is free parking on campus. The garage has a lower and upper level and fans can enter the arena without going outside. There is an area for Uber pickoff/dropoff outside the front of the building. Campus shuttles bring students from the east campus to the Arena. There is a bus (Greater Bridgeport Transit No. 3) that stops just outside campus, but public transportation is not really an option. The bus runs every 30 minutes on weekends. Metro North railroad stops are in Fairfield and Bridgeport is not close by. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices range from $10-$20 for individual games. The sightlines are stellar from almost any section. The seats with small table tops at the top of each concourse offer a great view of the action. The only drawback is in the upper bowl with slightly obstructed views right next to the Suites. The glass and the railing impede the view of the right side of the ice along the boards in Section 202. Upper bowl seating is only available on the Sacred Heart side of the ice. Extras 4 The arena is well conceived with high ceilings, a wide concourse, good entry points, and a well-presented game presentation. The lower bowl offers an open concourse which allows fans to see the action from all vantage points and the suite level includes a beer garden, an upscale bar area with a hot buffet, a president’s suite, three boxes, and a media center. Final Thoughts Martire Arena is a great venue to take in a hockey game. Both families and local hockey fans should not pass up the chance to check out the impressive new facility and watch Sacred Heart as the program attempts to make its mark on New England hockey.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Thomas & Mack Center 4505 S. Maryland Parkway Paradise, NV 89154 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels men’s basketball website Thomas and Mack Center website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 17,923 A Trip to Thomas & Mack Founded in 1958 and playing in the Mountain West Conference, the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) Runnin’ Rebels basketball squad was a powerhouse back in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, winning the ultimate NCAA championship in 1990. Their last tournament appearance was in 2013. The club plays their home games in the iconic Thomas & Mack Center, just a few blocks from the Las Vegas strip. Grand broad staircases (and escalators) take fans up to the main entry. The building’s facade has video boards on each side of the entryway. The plaza outside is wide open and ready for pregame festivities. The venue is adjacent to McCarran International Airport (now known as Harry Reid International Airport); fans see plenty of planes taking off and landing as they park their car and head into the venue. Thomas & Mack Center also hosts men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, Harlem Globetrotters, concerts, and other entertainment. The building is impressive, and the game day enjoyable. Food & Beverage 4 Thomas & Mack provides a good choice of stadium fare for sports fans. Even before entering the arena, a Sin City Wings food truck is in the plaza and is quite popular. The plaza has tables to eat with heaters (if needed) and a DJ provides music pregame. Inside, hot dogs (Rebel dogs – Nathan’s brand), pretzels, nachos, popcorn, and candy cost $5 - $7. Check for specials. The evening we visited the Rebel dog was half-priced. The South of the Border stand sells tacos, taco salad, and nachos grande ($9 - $11). The Mack Attack concessions sells a variety of hot dogs, chili dogs, and soup ($6 - $14). And another stand specializes in chicken fingers, burgers, fries, bratwurst, and fries ($6 - $11). Pizza & Brew offers three types of pizza ($10 - $11) and premium and light beers ($11 - $12). Several bars are on the concourse offering craft beer for $13. Beer choices include Fosters, Blue Moon, Hop Valley, Sapporo, Miller Light, and more. Hop Valley Brewing has a portable station on the concourse selling draft brews, and it is one of the few cash-only stands in the venue. Thomas & Mack is a Pepsi facility with bottled sodas, Gatorade, and water priced at $5. A few chairs and tables are near the bar areas to sit and enjoy food purchased, but they fill up fast. Atmosphere 4 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels provide an enjoyable game day experience at Thomas & Mack Center. The arena has two levels of seating. Handrails are available for climbing up or down the staircases. All fixtures are a bold red color: the seats, the piping, the handrails, and the banners. The seats are a tad narrow, and there’s not a lot of legroom. The court has an impressive Las Vegas city line silhouette design on the floor. A slew of championship and retired number banners hang from rafters along the sidelines, with the 1990 National Championship banner anchored in the middle. The temperature in the arena is comfortably warm. No need to bundle up. A crisp, clear center-hung, double-decker scoreboard provides video of the game, the score, quarter, time left, and player game day stats. The team provides an impressive introduction using smoke and fire, with the band playing and cheerleaders cheering as the Rebels run onto the court. During halftime, fans get to participate in a basket-shooting contest. Other entertainment includes the dance cam during time outs. The fans love it. One sponsor even has a contest to win a free semester of tuition. Nice prize. The concourse has one souvenir area that sells mostly UNLV Rebels shirts; they carry very few trinkets. Neighborhood 4 The arena is only two or so miles from the Las Vegas strip, even less from some resorts like the MGM Grand. Chain restaurants Buca di Beppo (Italian), Gordon Biersch Brewery, Fogo de Chao Brazilian (Brazilian), and Bahama Breeze (Caribbean) are a mile from the venue. Fast food choices like In-N-Out, McDonald’s, Popeye’s, and more are a few blocks away. The closest brand-name hotels include Virgin Hotel (Hilton), Embassy Suites, and Best Western McCarran Inn. Bear in mind that hotel prices may seem affordable at first, but when you tack on taxes and resort fees, they can double in price. And there’s usually a charge for parking a car. Las Vegas offers nearly unlimited entertainment options from dining, shows, people-watching, shopping, museums, and gambling. If you’re not a gambler, other things to see and do include a Pinball Hall of Fame, a Titanic Museum, and golfing. Other sports to visit in the fall and winter are UNLV’s women’s basketball or football, the NHL Vegas Golden Knights (at T-Mobile Arena), NFL Las Vegas Raiders (at Allegiant Stadium), or the NLL Las Vegas Desert Dogs (at Michelob ULTRA Arena). Fans 3 A good crowd is on hand supporting their team. It’s a mixed crowd of families with kids, retired folks, alumni, and students. The student section cheers the entire game, and the school’s band energizes the crowd with its tunes and songs. Fans stay till the end of the game. Attendance isn’t as high as it was in the team’s glory days or before COVID. The games still draw 6,000 – 7,000 fans. Access 4 Vehicle traffic in Las Vegas is gruesome. That said, getting into the parking lot of Thomas & Mack is painless. Parking attendants direct traffic out after the game, aiding the traffic flow. The arena is only a mile from the airport. Buses can take you to the arena from the airport or the strip with at least a ½ mile walk. Uber and Lyft are readily available in Las Vegas. Thomas & Mack Center’s outside entrance area has plenty of places to sit and wait for late-arriving friends. The box office is outside to the right of the grand entrance with plenty of windows open pregame. Getting through security is a breeze. Clear stadium bags 12” x 6” x 12” are allowed. The concourse is plenty wide, minimizing congested foot traffic at halftime. The bathrooms are icky but serviceable (at least in the ladies’ room). Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices run $16 - $137 with an additional $5 charge if purchased on game day. The price includes the parking fee. You may be better off trying to find a ticket on third-party sites. Students get in free. Food and drink prices are less than the major professional teams in Las Vegas, and if you’re lucky. you may get 50% off on a Rebel dog. It’s a pleasurable time and is priced as expected. Remember to check third-party sites for ticket deals. Extras 4 Customer service is exceptional; from the security to the ticket booth to parking lot attendees and concessions, all staff is polite, friendly, and helpful. I’m quite impressed. The banners hanging from the rafters deserve another mention, as does the student band. The concourse holds numerous historical displays on its interior wall. These include presentations of bankers Parry Thomas and Jerry Mack and their story of how they made the arena a reality. Other exhibits are for Coach Tarkanian, who led the 1990 team to the championship, and for the 1977 Final Four team. It’s well worth strolling the halls and viewing these exhibits. Final Thoughts At one point in time, UNLV was the only sport in Las Vegas. That, of course, has changed in the last decade or two. Thomas & Mack Center has served the basketball team admirably since it opened in 1983. If you’re headed to Sin City in the fall or winter, be sure to check out a Runnin’ Rebels game.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Lynn Cottrell Arena at UNG Convocation Center 180 Alumni Dr Dahlonega, GA 30597 North Georgia Nighthawks website Lynn Cottrell Arena at UNG Convocation Center website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 3,600 There’s a Basketball Goal in Them Thar Hills! The University of North Georgia (UNG) opened in 1873. It is located in Dahlonega, GA, and has a student body of 18,046. Its largest areas of study are biology, psychology, and business. The University of North Georgia is one of only six senior military colleges in the U.S. Students are not required to be in the military programs at UNG, but a sizable percentage of the student body does enroll in the military sciences area of study. The athletic teams at UNG are known as the Nighthawks. They participate in sports at the Division II level of the NCAA as a member of the Peach Belt Conference. This conference includes smaller schools from the states of Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. The home of men’s and women’s Nighthawks basketball is the on-campus UNG Convocation Center. It opened in 2018 and has a seating capacity of 3,600. The Convocation Center also serves as the site for UNG graduation ceremonies, campus concert performances, and large community meetings for the citizens of the city of Dahlonega. Both the men’s and the women’s basketball teams have seen great success since moving into the Convocation Center. The men’s team has won several regular season championships and the women’s team made it to the Elite 8 in 2018, the Sweet Sixteen in 2021, and the Division II Final Four in 2022. Women's Achievements the Last Three Years, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Food & Beverage 4 There is one concession stand located along the concourse at the south end of the Convocation Center. The stand is well-staffed and the lines move relatively quickly, with the exception of halftime and the break in between the women’s and men’s games. The stand serves a very basic arena standards menu. However, the prices at the concession stand are much lower than we find at most college venues. The menu includes hot dogs ($3.75), nachos ($3.75), pretzels ($3.50), candy ($3.75), and chips ($1.50). The stand carries Coca-Cola brand beverages ($2.50) and bottled water ($2.50). Beer is not sold on the University of North Georgia campus. Atmosphere 4 The UNG Convocation Center is a great place to enjoy a Nighthawks basketball game. It is a very modern facility, as it opened in only 2018. The arena features the blue, gold, and white team colors of UNG. One wall of the arena is all glass, letting in much more light into the facility than other sports facilities (Electronic blinds come down in the case of day games) The basketball court is surrounded on three sides by the blue seats of the seating bowl. All seats are below the concourse, which goes 360 degrees around the court. This assures that you will have a great view of the action no matter where you are in the arena. The Convocation Center also features a state-of-the-art electronics package. There are large flat-screen videoboards at each end of the court. A new four-LED screen center-hung scoreboard was also installed in the arena in 2022. The sound system in the building is extremely clear. Neighborhood 4 UNG is located in Dahlonega, GA. Dahlonega was the site of the first Gold Rush in the U.S. in 1828. Gold in very small amounts can still be found in the area. The city of Dahlonega is located 66 miles north of Atlanta in the North Georgia mountains. The heart of Dahlonega is Courthouse Square, which is just two blocks east of the UNG campus. The square is filled with unique shops, great restaurants, and services that fill the everyday needs of both the year-round population and the UNG student body. The old courthouse in the square is now home to the Dahlonega Gold Rush State Historic Site Museum. Among the more popular businesses located on the square are the Dahlonega Brewing Company, and the iconic Smith House Inn and Restaurant. The Smith House Inn opened in 1899 and is still an active lodging site. Its’ restaurant is famous for its family-style dining, and it is packed on a regular basis with both locals and tourists. Dahlonega hosts several festivals each year, with the biggest being Gold Rush Days in October. This festival celebrates both the town’s heritage with gold and the fall leaf colors in the North Georgia mountains. The area is also a hub for the wine industry in Georgia. There are more than 15 wineries amongst the hills surrounding the town. The surrounding mountains also draw many outdoor enthusiasts to the area for hiking, white water rafting, and mountain biking. For more information on things to do during your stay in the area, go to www.dahlonega.org. Fans 4 The fan base at Nighthawk games consists of students and faculty members from UNG and the townspeople of Dahlonega. One of the most striking elements within the student body are the military cadets. They are easy to identify, as each unit in the military population has its own color. They wear all military fatigues for pants, but a T-shirt in their unit’s colors. This results in a rainbow of colors in their section of the arena. The Greeks section of the student body also tends to wear their Greek colors. Rainbow of Colors at a Nighthawks Game, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey UNG and the townspeople of Dahlonega share a great town/gown relationship. UNG literally is the only sports game in town, other than the lone high school in the county. They proudly wear the UNG colors, even if they have no official link to the school. The University of North Georgia Pep Band does a great job of keeping the fans fired up with the assistance of the Nighthawk Drumline. Nigel the Nighthawk is the University mascot, and he does a great job of keeping the fans entertained with his antics. Access 4 The UNG campus and the Convocation Center are located 66 miles North of Atlanta. They are easily reached via Highway 400 and US Highway 19. Directions from Atlanta: Take Highway 400/US 19 North for 32 miles. When Highway 400 ends, continue on Highway 19 North for 8 miles. Turn left at the red light for South Chestatee Street (US 19) This will bring you up and over a steep hill that overlooks the city of Dahlonega. After you have passed the hospital, go down the hill to the next traffic light. Turn left onto Morrison Moore Parkway. Turn right at West Main Street Turn right at Alumni Drive and park in lot L-52 just outside of the UNG Convocation Center. You can park in any space in this lot after 5 pm on weekdays and anytime on weekends. Return on Investment 5 You will not break the bank when you attend a basketball game at the UNG Convocation Center. Parking is free in Lot L 52 just outside the building on Alumni Drive. Ticket prices are $10 for General Admission seats and $7 for Seniors/Students/Military. The items at the concession stand are priced well below the typical costs charged at most college venues. Programs for the basketball program are free, as they are digital, and are available by snapping a photo of the QR code at the entrance to the arena. Lodging in the area can be found for less than $100, except during the leaf-changing season each fall and Gold Rush Days in October. Extras 4 The University of North Georgia turns 150 years old in 2023. Several special observances will be held throughout the season, highlighting the athletic achievements of various Nighthawk teams over the years. Dahlonega gold covers the steeple of the Price Memorial Hall on the UNG campus and the Georgia State Capitol Dome in Atlanta. As an active Senior Military College, UNG still has military observances of Reveille, Retreat, and Taps. While only students in the military studies programs observe Reveille and Taps, all students, faculty, and staff stop when Retreat is sounded at 5 pm. They stop whatever they are doing and put their hands over their hearts and face the Drill Field while the Colors are taken down and the cannon on the field is fired. Zac Brown of the Zac Brown Band is a native of Dahlonega and he took classes at UNG. Final Thoughts The UNG Convocation Center provides a better-than-average experience for a small college basketball fan. Its’ state-of-the-art facility offers a bright facility with an electronics package that you would expect to have at a much larger school. The fan base is a model of town/gown cooperation, with everyone wearing the school colors. The unique nature of UNG’s military programs also adds to the pageantry of the game. Finally, the town of Dahlonega offers visitors plenty of things to do before or after the game.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry and Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum 200 Ficklen Dr Greenville, NC 27858 East Carolina Pirates website Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 8,000 Pirates of the Coliseum Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum is the home of the ECU Pirates out of the American Athletic Conference. It opened on January 27, 1968, when ECU last to West Virginia 77-60. The arena seats just over 7,000 and is the home to ECU men’s and women’s basketball, as well as volleyball. It was originally constructed for a cost of just $2 million and then underwent a $12 million renovation before the 1994-95 season. Food & Beverage 3 Minges Coliseum offers typical concessions, but there is not a lot of variety. Personal Pan Pizza from Pizza Hut is $8, and hot dogs are $4. Other offerings include nachos ($4), soft pretzels ($5), popcorn ($4-7), and candy ($4). There is also ice cream from local creamery Simply Natural available for $8. The Minges name of the Coliseum is from the large donor and local Pepsi bottler Minges Bottling Group, so naturally, ECU is a Pepsi school. 22 oz fountain drinks are $4 and 32 oz souvenir fountain drinks are $5. Aquafina bottled water is also available for $3. One thing to note is that on the upper concourse where we were seated many of the concession stands were either out of certain food items are were closed completely. Our suggestion is to eat before you arrive. Atmosphere 3 Minges Coliseum is a bit of an odd and quirky arena with three seating levels. The lower level seating is eight rows of what looks to be fairly uncomfortable bleacher seating. This seating is accessed from the floor level through the same tunnels where the players enter. The upper concourse offers access to a mini “club level”, which are three rows of cushioned purple seats right above the bleachers. Right above cushioned purple seats is the large upper level where the majority of the seating is located. There is little upper-level seating in the corners of the arena as this is where the video boards and scoreboards are located. There are two scoreboards and two videoboards located in opposite corners of each other above the seating. Minges Coliseum has a very low roof and is also a dark arena. Keep this in mind as the upper seating rows are very dark. PeeDee is the Pirate mascot and is very visible around the seating areas for photos and hi-fives. When we attended over the Christmas holiday break, there was only a handful of cheerleaders and no pep band. It was disappointing that a program at the D1 level has games without a pep band. Our suggestion for seating is to resist the urge to sit in the lower level as it is only bleachers. We suggest sitting in the upper level. Neighborhood 3 Minges Coliseum is located on the southern edge of ECU’s campus, in the vicinity of Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium and Clark-LeClair Stadium. Eastern North Carolina is famous for its barbecue. There are several great barbecue restaurants in Greenville, but be sure that you try one of the following: Parker’s, B’s, or Sam Jones. If barbecue is not your thing, check out Sup Dogs, a hot dog joint near campus that has won the Barstool Best Bar title for three out of the last four years. The Greenville Mall is less than a mile from the coliseum. In its vicinity are restaurants such as Mellow Mushroom and McAlister’s Deli. If you are looking for a place to spend the night, check out hotels near the Greenville Convention Center (Hilton, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn). Fans 2 Minges Coliseum is a small and intimate venue seating only 7,100. Therefore, it does not take many fans for the building to get loud. That being said, the Pirates have never really drawn well for basketball. Expect only 3-4K fans in attendance for a typical ECU game. While the half-capacity can definitely get loud at times, it does not really offer the home-court advantage that a near-capacity crowd would. Access 5 Free parking is readily available adjacent to Minges Coliseum along the north side of Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. If you have never been to Minges, you may get lost trying to enter as there does not seem to be a main entrance, and the entrances are not signed well. The box office is on the Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium side of the arena and seemed to be the entrance that most fans used when we attended. Tickets can be bought at the box office pre-game, but it was backed up quite a bit even for a small crowd. We recommend purchasing tickets online, where you can select your seat, and use your mobile wallet for entry. While security was in place for entry, they did a very little checking. Keep in mind that ECU does have a clear bag policy. Once inside the arena, the concourses and seating sections are well-signed. Concessions and restrooms are located on both the upper and lower concourses. Handicapped seating is located on the upper lever right above the purple cushioned seats. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for youth, regardless of where you choose to sit (upper or lower level). This may seem a tad bit high but is not over the top. ECU does occasionally have ticket specials for $10. Parking is free and concessions are not outrageous either, so ECU is an affordable option to see some quality AAC basketball. Extras 0 There are no extras worth noting at Minges Coliseum. Final Thoughts ECU is often overlooked among the tradition-rich basketball programs in North Carolina, and rightfully so due to their lack of historical success on the court. That being said, the arena has a great little atmosphere even at half capacity and is a great environment when the crowd is into it.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Arena-Auditorium 1000 E University Ave Laramie, WY 82071 Wyoming Cowboys website Arena-Auditorium website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 11,612 The University of Wyoming’s Arena-Auditorium Reaching age 40 can be a moment of reckoning for some. It might beget a midlife crisis, catalyzing thoughts of one’s own mortality and how life should be lived. Fortunately, at age 41, the University of Wyoming’s Arena-Auditorium isn’t experiencing such existential dread. There are no comb-over haircuts or sports cars for the Cowboy basketball team’s home arena since 1982. Instead, the university has ensured that the 11,612-seat Arena-Auditorium, or A-A (“Double A”) as fans call it, endures as a vibrant setting for Mountain West Conference hoops. Not content to allow the A-A to fade into obsolescence, Wyoming in 2017 completed a $30 million modernization project that infused new life into the building. This project saw the addition of a spectacular grand entryway featuring Wyoming’s 1943 NCAA Championship trophy and an 18-foot sculpture of Cowboys’ legend Kenny Sailors, who invented the jump shot. These renovations, as well as an elevation of 7,220 feet above sea level, ensure that the A-A will remain a strong home court for Cowboy teams in the future, just as it did for Cowboy legends such as Fennis Dembo, Eric Leckner, Terrence Dunn, and Theo Ratliff. Food & Beverage 4 There are approximately three times more cattle (approximately 1.3 million, based on a 2017 United States Department of Agriculture study) in Wyoming than there are people (approximately 579,000, per the 2020 U.S. Census). Despite being situated in a state that loves the beef that it produces, the A-A has a sushi stand. That’s right, you can enjoy a California roll ($8), a shrimp tempura roll ($11), or a seaweed salad ($5) while rooting on the Cowboys in Laramie. Fear not, unadventurous eaters. You will still find cheeseburgers ($6), hot dogs ($4), bratwurst ($5), nachos ($4), and Chugwater chili ($5), a Cowboy State specialty. There is a surprising breadth of sides at the A-A, too, including fries ($6), fried pickles ($6), and onion rings ($6). Wyoming is a Pepsi campus, with regular ($5) and souvenir ($7) sodas. The mini doughnuts ($7) are a culinary revelation, available with cinnamon, sugar, and powdered sugar toppings. They pair well with real (i.e., not instant) coffee. Craft beer sells for $10, while domestic beer is $8 and hard seltzer is $8. Glenrock, Wyoming’s Cowboy State Brewing has several beers on tap at the A-A, including its 7220 High Altitude IPA, brewed specifically for Wyoming’s athletic events. Not only is the brew’s nominal “7220” a reference to the University’s altitude above sea level, but the IPA also has 7.220 percent alcohol by volume. Finally, the A-A has the white whale of sporting venues: hand-scooped ice cream. The Big Dipper ice cream shop serves 14 different flavors, including Cherry Jolly Rancher and Wyoming Black Bear. For $10, you can also get a root beer float. This refusal to settle on soft serve, limited to two meager flavors (three if you count “swirl”), is an example that more venues should follow. Atmosphere 4 A game at the A-A meshes the amenities of college basketball with the passion of fans rooting on their hometown high school team. The A-A is a geodesic dome with seating 360 degrees around the floor. There are no bleachers in the arena, as all seats are chairbacks. There are no obstructed seats. Because the seating area curves away from the playing floor in the middle of the building, the seats nearest to the floor’s corners provide surprisingly good sight lines. Because of the building’s design, the A-A doesn’t have a scoreboard hanging over center court. Instead, two large, scoreboard/video boards placed in the A-A’s upper level ensure that fans can see the score, stats, and video from every seat in the building. The recently completed renovations have infused life into the A-A. The grand entryway, located on the building’s east side, provides a nice welcome to fans as they enter. The University uses the A-A’s outer concourse to honor all Cowboy and Cowgirl sports, including a wall highlighting the UW Athletic Hall of Fame and touch-screen displays that fans can use to learn more about the school’s athletic history. Wyoming Hall of Fame Display, Arena-Auditorium, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey The student section is close to the play on the floor. Really close. The UW student section begins on the floor, just beyond one of the A-A’s baselines. One wonders why someone thought that placing unrestrained, enthusiastic college kids within arm’s reach of an opponent’s player would be a good idea. Fortunately, Wyoming students exercise restraint and good judgment. Decorum? That might be another story, but only in a good way. Neighborhood 3 Situated on campus next to War Memorial Stadium, the A-A’s immediate neighborhood lacks bars and restaurants. But it enjoys close proximity to some of the highlights on Wyoming’s campus. Prexy’s Pasture forms the school’s quad. The university’s earliest students grazed their horses in this pasture while attending classes and, even today, UW’s president enjoys exclusive livestock grazing rights on it – although no one has exercised that right recently. Several museums also call the UW campus home, including the University of Wyoming Art Museum and the University of Wyoming Geological Museum, which houses a 75-foot-tall brontosaurus skeleton. Although bars and restaurants are not across the street from the A-A, they aren’t far. Wyoming’s Rib & Chop House (2415 Grand Avenue, Laramie, WY, 82070), Hambone’s Pizza (2405 Grand Avenue, Laramie, WY, 82070), and Coal Creek Coffee (2317 Grand Avenue, Laramie, WY, 82070) all sit within a 10-minute walk of the A-A’s southeast. Alternatively, downtown Laramie has several pubs and restaurants just a five-minute drive to the west. There are two hotels within walking distance of the A-A, both to the east. The Hilton Garden Inn Laramie (2229 Grand Avenue, Laramie, WY, 82070) is a half-mile away from the A-A, next to the UW’s visitor center. Slightly farther away is the Holiday Inn Laramie (204 North 30th Street, Laramie, WY, 82070). Fans 4 As the only NCAA Division I college in the state, Wyomingites love the University’s teams. Fans travel from faraway places like Pine Bluffs, Natrona, and Lander. The A-A doesn’t sell out most of its games but the fans who come are passionate and involved in the action on the floor. The building’s design seems to amplify crowd noise well. Those who don’t wear the school’s brown and gold will instead wear actual cowboy and cowgirl apparel (or, as they call them, “work clothes”). Access 4 The A-A isn’t tough to find. Interstate 80 passes through Laramie’s south side, with an exit on the town’s east side and another on its west. Regardless of the direction from which fans come, the A-A is less than a ten-minute drive from I-80. With War Memorial Stadium next door, the A-A has plenty of parking. Laramie is not large so the A-A is within quick driving distance of anywhere in town. There’s a good amount of room to move in the A-A, particularly when considering that it opened in 1982. The new grand entry on the A-A’s east side is the best place to enter. It has ticket windows, room for fans to congregate, and the Sailors Gallery. Staff moves fans briskly inside. The restrooms were renovated as part of the project that ended in 2017; they’re clean and large. Return on Investment 4 A Wyoming game does not require complex financial transactions to afford. Tickets range from $15-$30. However, a check of third-party ticketing websites shows that tickets can be purchased for even less than that. On-site parking costs $10 and can be pre-purchased through the UW website. However, there is also abundant street parking within walking distance of the A-A that does not cost anything. Notably, one of college sports’ greatest culinary bargains can be found at the A-A. Fans purchase a plastic bucket of popcorn for $7 and then receive unlimited refills for the rest of the season at $4 a pop. A queue of UW fans holding empty buckets snakes along the concourse like Black Friday 1998 shoppers waiting on the chance to buy Furbys. Beyond that, concession prices are reasonable and help make a game at the A-A relatively less expensive than other MWC venues. Extras 3 Fans should not miss the Sailors Gallery inside the grand entrance on the A-A’s east side. Opened in 2017, the Sailors Gallery houses the Cowboys’ 1943 NCAA title trophy, as well as an 18-foot, bronze sculpture of that team’s top player, Kenny Sailors. At age 13, Sailors invented the jump shot. He did so to overcome a height disadvantage playing against his older brother, Bud, on a hoop attached to a windmill on the family’s farm near Hillsdale, Wyoming. The younger Sailors later became a three-time All-American at Wyoming and the point guard on that 1943 title team before embarking on a successful professional basketball career. Sailors played in the Basketball Association of America and its successor league, the National Basketball Association. Sailors was also one of the world’s most interesting people. He worked as a pig farmer, fought in World War II for the United States Marine Corps, was elected to Wyoming’s legislature, and lived in an Airstream trailer in Alaska. Sailors’ contributions to basketball warrant his inclusion in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame yet that induction has not come. Sailors Gallery, Arena-Auditorium, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Check out the team shop, just to the north of the Sailors Gallery. There are several autographed UW jerseys there, including Sailors’s and Fennis Dembo’s. These jerseys are not for sale but help celebrate the school’s basketball history. In a Hunger Games-meets-Lord of the Flies kind of promotion, a “baby crawl” occurs during one of the game’s timeouts. Parents bring their semi-ambulatory babies to the A-A’s north baseline and, engaging in all sorts of coercive behavior, coax their babies to crawl to the race’s finish line at center court. The crowd provides what is doubtlessly a frightening roar to the winning baby. Final Thoughts The A-A isn’t the newest or prettiest basketball venue in the world. But Wyoming’s recent renovations to the A-A honor the school’s athletic history as well as any other such venue. After more than four decades as the Cowboys’ home, the A-A shows no sign of age-induced dread or decline.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 James A. Rhodes Arena 373 Carroll St Akron, OH 44325 Akron Zips website James A. Rhodes Arena website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 5,500 Rubber City Hoops Long before Akron, Ohio was known for being the hometown of LeBron James, it was the rubber capital of the world. The headquarters of major tire manufacturers BF Goodrich and Firestone were found in Akron and the headquarters of Goodyear remain in Akron to this day. It is from this rubber heritage that the Akron Zips took their name. In 1925, a student contest for the University of Akron athletic teams was held. The winning entry was Zippers, which referred to a rubber overshoe that was manufactured by BF Goodrich in Akron. The Zippers were eventually shortened to Zips. The University of Akron is a public university with an enrollment of approximately 12,000 while the City of Akron maintains a population of over 190,000. Home for the Akron Zips basketball team is the James A. Rhodes Arena which is on campus. It was named after former Ohio Governor, Jim Rhodes who was in office from 1963 to 1971 and 1975 to 1983. Affectionately referred to as the JAR, James A. Rhodes Arena has been home to Zips basketball since opening in 1983. The Zips program dates back all the way to 1901 and has remained in the Mid-American Conference since 1992. Food & Beverage 3 Upon entering the JAR at the south end there is a main concession on the main floor. Hot dogs, bratwurst, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, Papa Johns Pizza and Chick-Fil-A items are all available. There are small concession stands at the south end up the stairs on the southwest and southeast sides. Pretzels, nachos, popcorn and candy are available at these sites along with soft drinks and water. Pepsi products are the soft drinks of choice at the JAR. Beer and seltzers are also available on the upper levels. Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra and Yuengling, Goose Island and Rhinegeist are the beers of choice. Concession prices are pretty decent, but the variety isn’t massive. Fans won’t go hungry, but there’s nothing here that will blow you away. Atmosphere 3 The James A. Rhodes Arena definitely looks like a circa 1980s building. Not an overly attractive exterior with brown brick and not much in the way of windows, the JAR’s main entrance is to the south off of Carroll Street. The exterior is best described as drab, however it is at the end of a nice enough courtyard that opens up to the east with views of other athletic facilities, including the football stadium. Once inside the JAR and past the ticket takers, fans are immediately struck with the prevalence of navy blue. The ceilings and walls are all painted navy blue and it gives the arena a dark feeling. There are some accents in the main entryway as well as a concession stand and what appears to be a window for merchandise sales, that was not open on the day of this review. A life-size, full colour, Zippy the Kangaroo statue is present for photo opportunities. Fans will ascend on either the east or west stairs to get to the main seating bowl entry. Fans will pass the modest display of the Summit County Sports Hall of Fame also, which may be of interest to those who enjoy that sort of treasure hunt. Inside the seating bowl, the basketball court is surrounded by separated lower and upper levels. The court runs from north to south and it is best to get the center court logo picture from the west side. The lower east and west seats are plastic arena seats as are the upper west. Benches are found in the upper north, east and south sides. The upper and lower sections are separated by a three lane running track which lends itself to functionality when games are not present, however, fans are not adverse to walking the track when the game is not going on. The cross shaped interior has definitive corners, which should be considered when choosing a seat. Four pillars in at the four corners of the court each have a vertical LED board which features either team stats or individual points and fouls. The ceiling, walls and just about everywhere else have all been painted navy blue, which makes the arena feel very dark. The west side banners commemorate Akron’s 4 MAC Tournament Championships, 7 MAC Season Championships and 13 other Conference Championships. The east side banners commemorate each individual year’s success in the NCAA Tournament. Above center court is a state of the art videoboard, which is just the right size and doesn’t overpower the fan. On either side of the videoboard hang the banners for the honoured numbers of past players, including: Romeo Travis, Eric McLaughlin, Joe Jakubick, Bill Turner, Jim Fenton, Alex Adams, Mike Harkins, Len Paul, Fritz Nagy and Larry Jenkins. The gameday experience is about what one would expect for a mid-major college basketball team. The band, which is excellent, can be found behind the basket in the north end. The cheerleaders and dancers take the floor and lead the crowd in cheers, perform dances or gymnastic stunts. The ZI - PS chant led by the cheer team gets the fans involved. The Zips mascot, Zippy, can be found traversing the JAR, interacting with fans and posing for pictures. Neighborhood 4 The James A. Rhodes Arena is located on the campus of the University of Akron, just east of downtown. There are a number of spots where fans can head for pre or post game libations that are within a very short drive or a bit more of a walk. Some options include the Thirsty Dog, Canal Place and Alexander Pierce. As far as other sporting options in Akron, the Zips field a host of athletic teams, most notably the football team which plays at nearby InfoCisionStadium-Summa Field. Akron is also home to the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, the Akron RubberDucks , which make their home at Canal Park, located downtown. Of course, Cleveland, with their vast array of professional teams, is just a 30 minute drive away. For other cultural and entertainment options, fans should consider the Akron Civic Theatre, Akron Children’s Museum or Cummings Centre for History of Psychology. For fans needing to stay close to the JAR, the Courtyard Akron Downtown and BLU-Tique Hotel Akron are not that far. Fans 3 Akron Zips basketball is averaging around 1,900 fans for the 2022-23 season, which is not abnormal for the program. The Zips rank 6th in the Mid-American Conference in attendance. There is a small student section in A and B at the southwest corner of the court that stands through the game and makes a bit of a ruckus. The band and cheerleaders also make some noise, especially when the visiting team has the ball. The rest of the fans are not loud or over the top or anything, but they know the right time to cheer and do a good job supporting their team. Access 4 Getting to the campus of the University of Akron is not that difficult. It is located just east of downtown, close to major outlets. It is north of I-77 and I-76 and just west of Highway 8. Getting to campus via Highway 8 will leave little of the city of Akron that will require traversing. There are a few parking options around the arena, which are more than enough for a basketball crowd. For fans wishing to use public transit, there are buses that run south of the athletic facilities along Exchange Street. Fans should consult the Akron METRO website for fares, schedules and maps. Inside the arena, the ticketing window and will-call are immediately to the right, through the south entrance. Fans will have to take some stairs to get to the main seating bowl entry, but there is an elevator available. Washroom facilities are okay at the JAR, but could be an issue for a full house. With the security protocols at spectator sports in constant flux, Stadium Journey recommends consulting the Akron Zips website before heading to the James A. Rhodes Arena to get the most up to date protocols regarding bags, procedures and prohibited items. Return on Investment 4 Getting to some MAC basketball to enjoy some MACtion can be very affordable. Akron Zips tickets end at $55 for lower courtside seats, but begin at $35. The west upper deck, with the chair seats, go for $25, but the General Admission benches can be had for $15. Concession prices are pretty decent and parking can be found for around $10 on campus. The return is highly underrated. Although not in a Power 5 conference, Akron floors competitive basketball teams and has a very good gameday atmosphere, which doesn’t try too hard. In the end, Akron Zips basketball is a great experience for not a huge investment. Extras 3 An extra mark for Akron’s rivalry with the Kent State Golden Flashes. They are only a few minutes apart and the rivalry brings out a full house every time. Akron embraces the rubber heritage and the best promotion at an Akron Zips game is the Chuck-A-Duck, which happens at the end of the game where patrons purchase rubber ducks to throw on the floor, at a target for a prize. An extra mark for the unique and local moniker that the Akron Zips enjoy. Final Thoughts A trip to Rubber City may not be high on the travel bucket list for most, however, the Akron Zips provide a solid product both on and off the court that basketball fans will enjoy. Taking a trip to see the James A. Rhodes Arena is worth it and will leave fans considering a return trip. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram . Akron Zips Mascot. Photo by Richie DeVotie, Stadium Journey.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Drass Field 401 Clara St Dover, DE 19904 Delaware State Hornets website Drass Field website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 2,500 Hornet Lacrosse in Downtown Dover Drass Field is the former home of several Wesley College athletics teams, including football, soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey. In June of 2021, Delaware State University purchased Wesley and turned it into its DSU Downtown campus, thus ending the Wolverines' athletic programs. The deal was notable as the first instance of a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) purchasing another school. Delaware State did find use for Drass Field, as its women's soccer and lacrosse programs moved there from Alumni Stadium, which remains home of the Hornets' football program. The stadium is located next to Bob Reed Field, former home of Wesley baseball and current home of Delaware State baseball. Delaware State women's lacrosse has not enjoyed much success recently and has consistently ranked as one of the worst teams in NCAA Division I. However, it did receive one honor following the 2022 season, as student-athlete Sydney Anderson received the Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (WLCA) Advocacy Award after she spoke out following a high-profile police search of the team bus on the way back from the final home game of the season that saw allegations of racism levied against a sheriff's department in Georgia. Food & Beverage 0 There is no food or drink for sale at Drass Field but fans are free to bring their own. There is a water fountain that trickles out water if you are desperately thirsty. Atmosphere 2 There are three sets of bleachers at Drass Field, one on each sideline and a smaller one behind one of the goals. However, the set of bleachers on the far side of the field from the entrance is not in use during DSU lacrosse games. A few fans sit behind the goal, but most sit in the stands on the near sideline. All seats are bleachers, though some are divided into individual seats and others are not. While music is played over the PA system before the game and the announcer introduces the starting lineups, almost nothing happens after that besides the game itself. There is no music during breaks in the action and the announcer does not even announce goal scorers and penalty cards issued to players. The scoreboard also does not show which quarter the game is in, although it is equipped to do so, and showed four timeouts remaining per team for the entire game when Stadium Journey visited even though teams only receive three to begin with. Although the scoreboard was designed for football, it is capable of handling lacrosse without an issue other than not showing the time remaining on penalties, so there is really no excuse for this. Neighborhood 3 Although Drass Field is supposedly located on the DSU Downtown campus, there is not really anything in the immediate vicinity of the stadium other than some houses, a church, a synagogue, and a school bus depot. Your best bet will be to head towards DuPont Highway (US Route 13) which is lined on both sides with restaurants and hotels. Most of the places are chains, but you will find a few independent eateries such as the Speedway Cafe and Wolfie's Grille. The Dover Motor Speedway is also located along DuPont Highway and you can sometimes hear the cars revving their engines as you stand outside. Fans 4 Delaware State averaged about a hundred fans a game last season, but drew over 400 for the home opener in 2023 when Stadium Journey visited. It seems there is a new-found interest in the program and there is excitement in the air. Hornet fans come early decked in blue and red and cheer on their team. While 400 fans may not seem like a lot, this is a loud and rowdy bunch. They cheer following big plays, support their players, and are not afraid to yell at the refs when they feel a bad call has gone against their team. It is good to see the team getting the attention they deserve,, and one hopes the larger crowds will continue throughout the current season and beyond. Access 3 If coming from the north or south, US Route 13 (DuPont Highway) runs right through Dover, but if coming from the east or west, you will have to take a series of local roads to get into town. Once you get to the stadium, street parking is available on Clara Street and the other nearby roads, or you can park in a grass lot across the street from the stadium. Restrooms are available to the left of the bleachers, behind Bob Reed Field. They are small and the men's room was being used as storage for football down and yardage markers, but they should suffice for the needs of the crowd. Return on Investment 4 Admission to Delaware State lacrosse games are free, parking is free, and you won't spend anything on concessions because there aren't any. However, there isn't enough here to earn the top score. . Extras 1 Look for the "Welcome to Drass Field" sign honoring Wesley College athletics. Although the Wesley Wolverines are no more, their history is becoming Delaware State's future. Final Thoughts It would be inaccurate to call the excitement around Delaware State lacrosse a resurgence, since the team never really received the interest it deserved. However, if the attendance and atmosphere for Stadium Journey's visit are any indication, this is a program on the rise with a passionate and rowdy fan base, and there is really no way for them to go but up. While there is certainly room to improve the experience here at Drass Field in many respects, it looks like that is going to happen. It will take some time, but this is a program and a fan experience on the rise, and there will be better days ahead in Dover.

Photos courtesy of Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium King George St Annapolis, MD 21402 Navy Midshipmen website Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 1,500 Anchors Aweigh Located in a scenic location along College Creek near its confluence with the Severn River, Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium has been home to Navy Midshipmen baseball since 1962. Named after former Navy baseball coach Max Bishop and Naval Academy graduates Ron and Bruce Terwilliger, the stadium seats 1,500 and has a playing surface that is entirely turf except for the pitcher’s mound and the areas around home plate and the bases, which are dirt. Food & Beverage 2 There is one small concession stand located behind home plate. You can see the field from there, which is a big plus as you don’t have to miss any of the action. The only things that could be the main course are hot dogs for $3 and burgers for $6. A box of popcorn, a hot pretzel, and Dippin Dots all cost $4, assorted candy is $2, and chips are $1. To drink, bottled water, coffee, soda (all Pepsi products) and hot cocoa are all $3. During Stadium Journey's visit in spring of 2021, only credit and debit cards were accepted to minimize touch surfaces during the COVID pandemic. It is unclear if they have begun accepting cash again. Atmosphere 4 Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium is a beautiful stadium in a beautiful setting. College Creek runs along the first base line behind the visitor’s dugout and many rowboats from the Academy can be seen docked there. Just beyond the outfield fence, College Creek flows into the Severn River, which itself flows into the Chesapeake Bay a few miles downstream. Parts of the Naval Academy are also visible beyond the outfield fence. As for the stadium itself, all seats are chairbacks and have an excellent view of the field. As it is a small stadium, all seats are very close to the action. The entire seating bowl is behind a net but in this setting with aluminum bats, that is necessary to ensure fan safety. There are several other interesting locations where you can watch the game from. There is an entrance plaza down the leftfield line where fans can stand around and watch the game, as well as an elevated standing room area on top of the team’s indoor batting cages just to the left of that. Some fans also watch the game from atop the grass hill beyond the left-field fence. There is a large scoreboard in left-center field. In addition to the linescore, this board has video capabilities and will show other graphics about the game such as lineups when it is not being used for that. Such elaborate scoreboards are commonplace at bigger college baseball stadiums but almost unheard of in the Patriot League. The game itself involves the standard things such as announcements, between innings music, and not much else, but being in such a nice stadium really adds to the atmosphere. Considering the Patriot League is in the lower tier of Division I and college baseball stadiums in this part of the country are usually not fancy at all, that makes this even more impressive. Neighborhood 5 Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and there is plenty to do here. From checking out Sandy Point Beach along the Chesapeake Bay to heading downtown to the many restaurants, there is so much to do here. Miss Shirley’s is a local favorite and open for breakfast and lunch, and Buddy’s Crab’s and Ribs serves exactly what is in the name and also is known for their buffet on weekends, at least in non-COVID times. Tours are normally offered by the Naval Academy and are well worth it, but at the moment they are suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fans 3 The Midshipmen currently average a couple of hundred fans a game, and while officially they averaged about 600-700 pre-pandemic, the real number was likely closer to what they draw now than what they claimed to draw. Many of the fans that show up are often fans of the other team, but the Navy fans who do show up are passionate and will cheer for the Mids throughout the game. Again, many college baseball stadiums in this part of the country don’t even draw that many fans, especially in the lower tiers of Division I like this is. Access 3 There are several cramped lots surrounding Max Bishop Stadium, but at least on a weekend, you should be able to find a place to park. The lots also serve several other buildings which are closed on weekends, but they may be more crowded for weekday afternoon games. Overflow parking is available for $5 at nearby Navy Marine-Corps Memorial Stadium with shuttle bus service available for Patriot League games only. This presents a rather paradoxical situation, as Patriot League games are typically played on weekends, when it is easier to park close to the stadium for free and fans would have little reason to park at the football stadium, while non-Patriot League games are typically played on weekdays, when the parking situation at the stadium is more challenging. That being said, parking is available at the football stadium for non-conference games, it’s only the shuttle that isn’t, and it’s only about a 15-minute walk. Return on Investment 5 Admission is free, parking is likely to be free, and concessions are affordable. Throw in the ability to watch baseball in a beautiful stadium and the added value offered by the frequent doubleheaders the Patriot League plays, and a visit to Max Bishop Stadium is a great value. Extras 3 One star for the scenic setting offered by views of College Creek, the Severn River, and the Naval Academy itself. A second star for the large flagpole in centerfield reminding you of the fact that you are attending a sporting event at a service academy. A third and final star for offering multiple unique vantage points to watch the game in addition to the conventional seating bowl. Final Thoughts Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium is a beautiful stadium in a beautiful setting. Navy has been at or near the top of the Patriot League for many years so you’re going to see some good baseball here. Throw in the history of the Naval Academy and all there is to do in Annapolis and a visit here has a great deal to offer even the casual fan of college baseball.

Photos courtesy of Lehigh Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park 123 Goodman Dr Bethlehem, PA 18015 Lehigh Mountain Hawks website J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 500 Watching the Hawks J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park is located on the Goodman Campus in Bethlehem, PA, and is another one of those parks that is so small it lacks a real address, so your GPS can only get you very close. Like many smaller schools, the athletics facilities tend to be clustered together at Lehigh, so you will find the baseball diamond right behind the Rauch Field House, next to the tennis courts and not far from the track – if you can get to Goodman Drive you should be able to find the venue, eventually. Food & Beverage 0 Currently there is no concessions stand, so you have to bring your own food and drinks if you want them, and many do – a number of fans sit or stand on the hill overlooking the park (behind the press box), and there is a real tailgating atmosphere there, including numerous food tables and coolers for beer; more on that in the Fans section below. Atmosphere 2 Not a terrible place to see a game; since it is so small you can get really close to the action and clearly hear the crack of the bat and the shouts from the umpire; the attendance is also pretty decent, so you can experience some good crowd noise. However, the facilities are admittedly lacking – it was built so long ago the Internet doesn’t even know when, there are no concessions, and all the seats are metal bleachers (only some have chair back rails, which are at least painted in the team colors). The Mountain Hawks compete in the Patriot League, which has been dominated by Bucknell for the last 25 years, and only has 5 baseball teams besides Lehigh (Army, Bucknell, Holy Cross, Lafayette, and Navy). Neighborhood 3 There aren’t any restaurants close to J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park, which is a bummer since they don’t sell food inside, so to find anything to eat you pretty much have to go downtown, where there are several fast food and local places. But the real jewel in Bethlehem, and probably the only place worth hanging out before or after the game (except for the Sands Casino Resort) is the Apollo Grill, which is located on West Broad Street, and for 15 years has been voted the best restaurant in Lehigh Valley (pretty much every year since it opened). Reservations are suggested because it is so popular. A little on the pricey side, Apollo’s offers a variety of sandwiches as well as seafood options, but also fancier entrees like pork, veal, and lamb. The atmosphere is pretty lively – the only downside is that wine and martinis are the only adult beverage options. If you plan to stay the weekend, the main attraction in Bethlehem is the aforementioned Sands Casino Resort, which opened in 2009, and added the hotel and an outlet mall in 2011 – the resort complex includes nearly a dozen restaurant as well as four night clubs. Sands and the Holiday Inn are the main hotel options in Bethlehem proper, so if neither of those is your scene you may want to try nearby Allentown, which has several Hiltons, a Ramada, a Wingate by Wyndham, and a few off-brand lodging choices. Fans 3 Lehigh draws a pretty good crowd for baseball games. The capacity at J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park is only 500, and the stands tend to get pretty full, so a lot of fans instead choose to watch from the hill behind the press box. You will see a long row of tables up there loaded with food, as well as several beer coolers hidden underneath, and that crowd gets pretty raucous, more so than the folks in the stands. A lot of fans in both areas wear Lehigh gear, and they loudly and proudly support their team, and boo the bad guys. Access 3 I mentioned earlier that J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park is hard to find because it doesn’t have a real address. Once you get to it, though, parking is easy to find – there are small lots all around the park, with plenty of space to accommodate the typical crowd size. The bathrooms are a little odd, however – there are plenty of them, but they are the inside-a-trailer type, not your usual free-standing option. Admittedly they are a step up from port-a-johns, so I guess they do the job, and at least they are clean and close to the stands! Return on Investment 3 Admission to Lehigh baseball games is free, as is parking. However, they don’t have concessions here, which may be problematic for some. Nevertheless, the crowd is pretty solid, so that makes a visit to J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park a lot of fun. If you can suck up the weird bathrooms and the lack of food and drink for a few hours (or haul in your own), it is probably a worthwhile trip. Extras 1 One point for the Sands Casino Resort – this provides a great additional reason (besides the baseball) to make the drive out to Bethlehem. Another point for the tailgating on the hill – you rarely see this at baseball games, so it adds a nice bit of fun and uniqueness. Final Thoughts A decent place to see a baseball game, with a really good crowd, and a great opportunity to do some tailgating, which you can’t do at a lot of other college baseball stadiums. J. David Walker Field at Legacy Park also underwent some renovations since this article was published, so the venue should look even better right now.

Photo courtesy of Lafayette Leopards Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Kamine Stadium 3412 Sullivan Trail Forks Township, PA 18042 Lafayette Leopards website Kamine Stadium website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 500 Lafayette Leopards Baseball at Kamine Stadium Two major renovations over the course of the last 13 years have transformed Hilton Rahn ’51 Field at Kamine Stadium from your typical small northeast college baseball facility into one of the finer complexes found in the Patriot League. Prior to the opening of the Leopard’s 2003 season, the stadium underwent its first major renovation with the addition of a 500-seat grandstand with chair back seating complete with an ample sized press box, equipped with a permanently installed public address system and phone lines for television, radio, newspaper and internet. A new backstop was attached to the bleacher seating with protective netting and the existing dugouts were extended an additional 20 feet and completely refurbished adding more on-field storage area as well. In the outfield, a 15-foot wide crushed stone warning track was installed and assists in defining the dimensions of the fence at 403 feet to dead center field, 332 feet and 335 feet down the left and right field lines respectively. Four regulation bullpens were installed along with permanent batting cages for each team’s use. A few years later in the fall of 2007, the subsurface of the infield was graded, a modern irrigation system was installed along with the placement of new sod and infield mix to create a perfectly finished diamond. The field is one that Hilton ‘Dutch’ Rahn would be proud of. Dutch is a Lafayette alumnus (class of 1951), a serious sports fan, and whom the field is named after. Food & Beverage 3 Not much to discuss here in terms of quantity of choices, however, the quality of the options is excellent. As with most small venues, the concessions are normally very limited, but trust me when I tell you that #PardProvisions, a mini restaurant on wheels located directly behind the grandstand that serves up fresh selections made with local ingredients is a must visit. The Home Grown Burrito, made with local eggs, local sausage, tater tots, cheddar cheese and house-made salsa cream cheese wrapped in a garlic herb tortilla is heavenly, and for $6 is a steal. The Smoked Swine, shredded smoked pork over macaroni and Gouda cheese with sweet honey barbecue sauce and crispy onions is the most expensive item on the menu, but also looks like the most delicious at $9. Atmosphere 2 This is the Patriot League and Lafayette has not been to the College World Series in over 50 years, so if you are looking for a great atmosphere, you better come back in the fall when the Leopards take to the gridiron against Lehigh in college football’s oldest rivalry game. What you do get, is the opportunity to take in America’s pastime at a serene setting allowing for a great view of a surprisingly well-played game of baseball. Neighborhood 2 Lafayette College is located in Easton, Pennsylvania however, Kamine Stadium at the Metzgar Athletic Campus is located in Forks Township, which is approximately a 10-minute car ride from campus. There is not much of note here in this tiny township of 15,000 people so I would seriously suggest visiting downtown Easton if you are in search of lunch or dinner, or looking for some place to grab a cold one. There you will find Two Rivers Brewing Company, located in the 500 block of Northampton Street and home of the Peanut Butter Bacon Cheeseburger. Pair one with an O’Hanlon Irish Stout, a coffee and chocolate flavored brew named after Lafayette basketball coach Fran O’Hanlon and you’ll be sure to return for another. Fans 2 With the exception of players’ family members and friends, or working staff, there are not many fans who make the short commute out to Metzgar Fields Complex to attend a Leopards baseball game. Small college baseball is not a huge draw in the northeastern part of the United States due largely in part to the sometimes cantankerous weather conditions during the few months of the season and this is evident in the diminutive attendance numbers of schools in this geographical region. Access 4 Hilton Rahn ’51 Field is easily accessible on Sullivan Trail no matter from which direction you are traveling. The city of Easton is located at exit 75 off Interstate 78 which is a major interstate in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and is very easily accessible as well. The parking lots are small but adequate and easy to get in and out of, and they are free. Return on Investment 4 “Remember that time is money” is a famous quote that is attributed to Benjamin Franklin, and if that is truly the case, your R.O.I. here is pretty significant as it is time that seems to be your biggest expense considering Lafayette does not charge a penny to park, nor a dime for admission and even issues free game programs to everyone in attendance. Extras 3 The quality level of play in the Patriot League is improving as was evident last year (2015) when the league had one of its best showings in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft when five players representing four different schools were selected, two going as early as the 10th round. This coupled with the fact that you can see it for virtually free is definitely a bonus. Athletic Department staff members at Lafayette College are absolutely amazing in their friendliness and eagerness to always assist in any way that they possibly can. It is a genuine characteristic and not one of a spurious nature that you can pick up on a mile away. There is no “big timing” here, and that can go along way with fans, especially this one. The stadium although diminutive in size, is still state-of-the-art due to the recent renovations and you’d be hard pressed to find one blade of natural grass or a little infield mix out of place. When I tell you that the field is perfect, I mean it is perfect…so an extra point for the grounds crew! Final Thoughts I found Kamine Stadium to be a wonderful place to take in a game. Sure, there were probably only 250 of us in attendance, but the level of play was fantastic and if you can get by the numbers, or lack thereof, you’d probably agree that Patriot League baseball at Rahn Field ’51 is a nice little secret. For now anyway.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Eugene B. Depew Field 19 Bucknell West Dr Lewisburg, PA 17837 Bucknell Bison baseball website Eugene B. Depew Field website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 1000 Historic Town, Modern Turf Bucknell University is located in Lewisburg, PA. The baseball stadium here is named after Eugene Depew, who coached Bucknell’s baseball squad for thirty years in the 80s, 90s, and 00s, and is the longest serving baseball coach in the history of the program. Bucknell currently competes in the Patriot League in NCAA Division 1, which only has 6 baseball schools including Bucknell. The stadium was formally dedicated in 2003 as Eugene B. Depew Field, so Depew actually coached here for almost a decade while it was named after him. Food & Beverage 3 Like many smaller schools, Bucknell offers concessions from a mobile trailer, so the selection is a bit limited, but there are a few unique items, including soup, iced tea, and hot tea, and the prices are low. Hot dogs are $2.50, peanuts are $2, pretzels are $1.75 (note that they are smaller however than the ones you usually find at stadiums), candy is $1.50, chips are $1, and soup is $2 – different varieties are available on different days, including chili on some days, clam chowder on others, etc. There are actually more drink options than food options, including iced tea for $2-$3, PowerAde, bottled water, or soda for $2, hot cocoa for $1.50, and coffee or hot tea for $1.25. Atmosphere 2 The playing surface itself at Eugene B. Depew Field is state of the art due to recent renovations, but the facilities and amenities leave a lot to be desired (one could even say they are rustic). First of all there is not even an actual grandstand, just several sets of low metal bleachers (without chair backs), so while you are technically closer to the action it is a little difficult to see. In fact, a lot of fans don’t even sit on the bleachers, but instead bring chairs and sit farther back on the sidewalk or on the hill overlooking first base. The second issue is that there is not a real press box, just a mobile wooden trailer. This may not seem like an issue to some, but the impact to fans is that one set of bleachers is pushed further away from home plate than would be ideal, because that space is taken up by the trailer. There are also batting cages and such along that same side, which force the bleachers even further to the left; the training paraphernalia at least should have been located elsewhere, and will have to be moved in any case if Bucknell ever builds a grandstand at Eugene B. Depew Field. It is interesting that the visiting fans tend to cluster on that more distant set of bleachers, and not the home crowd – perhaps this placement was intentional. Neighborhood 3 In the immediate vicinity of Eugene B. Depew Field are several other athletic fields, including the soccer field, the football stadium, and the softball field, as well as several small dorms. Therefore, if you are looking for something to do before or after the game, nearby Market Street is the place to be at Bucknell. Located about a mile from the baseball diamond, Market is your classic college strip replete with restaurants and bars, a movie theater, and of course shopping. The Smiling Chameleon offers 30 drafts on tap, as well as sandwiches, sliders, several pasta options, and a variety of seafood dishes. The Towne Tavern is another good option, albeit a little more expensive, but with more typical bar fare including burgers, bar plates, and several dessert options. Probably the best thing about Market Street, however, is the architecture – Lewisburg is a historic town, and the architecture on Market reflects that. The buildings and homes tend to be row style, but with facades that vary in color and material (some stone, some brick, etc.) so it offers some nice variety while still providing a pleasing aesthetic. If you plan to stay for the weekend, and maybe take in a whole series, there are several hotels within a few miles of the field, including Days Inn, Best Western, Comfort Suites, and the Lewisburg Hotel. In terms of local attractions, the Little League Museum in nearby South Williamsport (about half an hour or 40 minutes north of Lewisburg) is well worth a visit. Completely redone in 2012-13, the artifacts and interactive displays powerfully showcase not only the game but also its impact on US and world history, as well as its influence on sports safety for baseball and numerous other sports as well. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for kids 5 and older (free for younger children). The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Fans 3 Bucknell draws a good crowd, although not many of them tend to wear team gear, and there is none for sale at the field. The fans do come prepared for the game; as I mentioned earlier many of them bring their own chairs and sit further back than the stands, so while the bleachers themselves may not be full there is still some pretty good crowd noise. Of the 3 sections of bleachers, the one nearest third base seems to be unofficially reserved for the visiting fans, and most of them do wear gear, and don’t bother to bring their own chairs since there is no higher ground over there to occupy. Access 3 Lewisburg, PA is not hard to find – it is located in a rural area a few miles south of I-80, or west of I-180, but not so far away you have to be on local roads for too long. There is plenty of free parking all around the field, although most of it is fairly close to the fence so beware of balls hitting your car. There are bathrooms near the stadium, but not on-site per se – they are located in a separate building behind the outfield so there is a little bit of a walk to get to them; not the kind you probably want to send your kid to unescorted since he or she would be well out of sight. Return on Investment 4 As with many smaller parks they don’t sell tickets to baseball games at Bucknell, so admission is free, as is parking. Concessions are on the very cheap side, so a pretty cheap date to take in a game here. There is some decent crowd noise, and you can get very close to the action if you are into taking pics to slap on Facebook, so certainly worthwhile in terms of value for the money. As I mentioned the Little League Museum is nearby, so for the true baseball fan this is a great choice for a weekend trip to see some games and immerse yourself a little in the history of the game. Extras 3 One point for the Little League Museum since it provides a related attraction that perfectly complements the action on the field. A second point for the state of the art field – even though it contrasts a bit with the lack of amenities at Eugene B. Depew Field, it is a nice playing surface with modern fences, dugouts, and backstop. A third point for the architecture on Market Street. Nothing to do with baseball I know, but it adds to the beauty of the campus and makes for a more interesting trip since a lot of your time during a visit will be spent off the diamond. Final Thoughts A good place to see a game – while it lacks the amenities of many of the larger parks, if you can overlook that you will find a great playing surface, and there are a lot of cool things to do in the area before or after the game.

Photo courtesy of Army West Point Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Johnson Stadium at Doubleday Field Thayer Road West Point, NY 10956 Army Black Knights baseball website Johnson Stadium at Doubleday Field website Year Opened: 1939 Capacity: 880 Duty, Honor, Country…Play Ball! Baseball and the United States Military Academy at West Point have a long history together. One of its graduates, Abner Doubleday, is credited to having created the game, and the field the Black Knights play on is named for him. Baseball was the first official sport to be sanctioned by the academy with the first games taking place in 1890. The physical location of Doubleday Field has been hosting games since 1909. The field was formally dedicated as Doubleday Field in 1939, baseball’s centennial year. The stadium has undergone numerous renovations over the years, with major work being done in 1996 and again in 2013. The Johnson Stadium part of the complex’s name is a salute to Rupert Johnson, class of 1922, who helped raise funds for these renovations. A number of famous Americans have been members of the Black Knights baseball teams over the years. Among the most famous are Omar Bradley, Douglas MacArthur, and General Bob Neyland, the team’s all-time record holder for wins as a pitcher, who went on to be a Hall of Fame football coach at the University of Tennessee. Babe Ruth hit the longest home run ever at Doubleday Field during an exhibition game in 1934, with the ball traveling more than 500 feet. Hall of Fame pitcher Christy Mathewson also served as Army’s coach for a few of its earliest teams. The present day Black Knights continue the proud history of Army baseball. They have won seven Patriot League championships and made six NCAA tournament appearances. Due to the harsh winters at West Point, the team has pre season training at the Yankees complex in Tampa and the first half of its regular season is on the road in warmer climates. This allows the cadets to have a long string of home games at the end of the season in front of a friendly home crowd and to build momentum heading into the league and NCAA tournaments. Food & Beverage 3 For those who have served in the military, you definitely have better food offerings at Doubleday Field than the MRE’s you once subsisted on! Cadet Food Services brings a fully stocked concession trailer to the field for each game. Among their food offerings are sodas for $3, water for $2, hot dogs and pretzels for $3, while assorted candies and chips are $2. They also offer coffee and hot chocolate as it can get cold on the cliffs above the Hudson far into the spring. Due to security regulations, coolers are not allowed on the campus, and visitors are not permitted in the Cadet Dining Hall, so bringing in or purchasing food other than at the ballpark are not options. Atmosphere 5 Attending a baseball game at Doubleday Field is a unique experience as you are surrounded by history. There are buildings bearing the names of famous generals, the cemetery where many of America’s heroes are buried, and monuments to their accomplishments. All of these are just steps away from Doubleday Field. Over the right field wall are the library and academic complex. Over the left field wall are stunning views of the Hudson River winding past the campus. The stadium is designed for this very purpose. Its low profile does not obstruct the views and its outer walls of granite are meant to emulate the architecture of the surrounding buildings. A nice addition to the exterior of the stadium is a series of engravings of a pitcher, catcher and fielder with West Point buildings in the background. Topping it all off, sitting next to you and playing in front of you are tomorrow’s heroes. You can’t help but to root for the home team and you stand a little straighter and much prouder when the national anthem is played before the game. Another unique moment during Army baseball games comes at 5pm when Evening Retreat (the lowering of the main U.S. flag on campus) is sounded across the campus. The game stops immediately, even if in the middle of a pitch count, and the players, fans and visiting teams all face the parade grounds where the flag is located. Players place their caps over their hearts and anyone in military uniform gives a salute. The campus is completely silent except for the sound of the trumpet until the flag has been lowered. Then the game resumes. Neighborhood 3 The area immediately surrounding Doubleday Field is the United States Military Academy campus. The best way to see the campus is via a free tour bus, as much of the campus is not open to civilians. Outside of the campus is the quaint village of Highland Falls, New York. The town is made up of mom and pop stores, no chain or big box stores. The nicest accommodations in town are right at the entrance to the USMA’s Thayer Gate at the historic Hotel Thayer. It is filled with memorabilia about the Academy and offers stunning views of the Hudson River below the academy. Two other lodging options in town are the West Point Motel and Overlook on the Hudson (a bed and breakfast that was formerly Billy Joel’s home). Among the restaurants to choose from in Highland Falls are Park Restaurant and the Hacienda. Other restaurants and the usual chains are located about 15 miles from the academy in adjoining communities or along I-87. The visitor’s center for the USMA is actually located in the town and is an excellent source of information on the surrounding areas in addition to the Academy itself. Fans 4 The mix of fans you will run into at a Black Knights game is quite a mix. Obviously a large portion will come from the corps of cadets, seeking a short respite from the rigid lifestyle of a military academy and known for its demanding academic standards. Their allegiance to the team is unquestioned and they will cheer loudly, but you will hear no trash talking due to the strict code of conduct at the academy. You are just as likely to be sitting next to a retired general and alumni, who may be on the Board of Directors of a Fortune 500 company now. The third segment of the crowd is the townspeople of Highland Falls, whose lives and jobs are often intertwined with the Academy. Access 3 The United States Military Academy is an active military installation, and has stringent security regulations. All visitors to the campus must enter through the Security Checkpoint located at Thayer Gate. A valid photo ID is required for admittance. Cars may be searched by security personnel during high alert periods, but typically this is not required. You will be given instructions on how to reach Doubleday Field from security. Do not leave the instructed route as many areas of the campus are off limits to civilians. You may want to acquaint yourself with the campus by stopping at the USMA Visitors Center located outside the gates in downtown Highland Falls, which is just outside the Thayer Gate. The nearest airports are in White Plains, NY or Newburgh, NY. By car you would take I-87 to the Highland Falls exit and follow the directions to the USMA. Return on Investment 4 There is no charge to attend a Black Knights baseball game, nor is there any charge for parking. The concessions are limited, but very reasonable in price. Throw in that you are attending a game in one of the most historic and important facilities of United States history as well as a well played game and it is impossible to feel you have not gotten your money’s worth out of the experience. The remoteness of the location and the stringent security requirements are a small price to pay when we realize that national defense depends on the work done on this campus. Extras 3 The best way to see the academy campus is via West Point Tours. They are the licensed vendor with the USMA and are allowed in areas off limits to cars or visitors on foot. One and two hour long tours are available. Bear Mountain State Park is just outside of town and offers great hiking with the views of the Hudson you will never see from the road. Woodbury Commons Outlet Mall is located at the I-87 exit leading into town and has more than 100 stores for those who like to combine shopping on their stadium journeys.

Photos by Meg Minard Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Michelob ULTRA Arena 3950 Las Vegas Blvd S Las Vegas, NV 89109 Map It Las Vegas Desert Dogs website Michelob ULTRA Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 12,000 New Dogs in LAX The Las Vegas Desert Dogs are the newest members of the NLL (National Lacrosse League), joining the league in the 2022-2023 season. The team is co-owned by several well-known sports individuals: Wayne Gretzky, Steve Nash, Dustin Johnson, and Joe Tsai. They play their home matches at the multi-purpose Michelob ULTRA Arena, attached to the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas, NV. The arena also hosts the WNBA Las Vegas Aces as well as concerts, college basketball tournaments, and other entertainment. Box lacrosse is a fabulous, non-stop action indoor sport. It’s one that even leaves fans exhausted after watching a match. The Desert Dogs organization provides a fun, exciting few hours of sports entertainment. If you’re in town in the winter or spring, be sure to check out a game. They only play nine regular season home games, so plan your trip well. Food & Beverage 4 The arena offers a decent variety of food, snack, and drink choices. The concourse includes both stationary stands and carts. A burrito stand offers yummy looking burritos, tacos, and quesadillas ($8 - $14). A burger stand sells fresh burgers ($13.95 - $15.95). Brockwood Farms BBQ provides real pit barbeque pulled pork, beef brisket, and roasted turkey sandwiches with chips and a pickle for $10.50. There’s even a create-your-own ‘you top it’ hot dog stand which offers hot dogs, brats, and seven or so toppings ($11.25 - $11.50). The arena also offers traditional hot dogs ($7.50), nachos ($7.75), and candy ($5.50). The Loop and Kernel sells artisan pretzels ($8) and gourmet popcorn ($6/$8). Another cart sells lemonade and cotton candy. Michelob ULTRA Arena is a Pepsi facility with sodas running $6 - $7.50. Multiple brands of beer are offered - both domestic and craft - on tap and in cans. Hop & Olive sells adult beverages. Cocktails cost $17 or $24 for a double and wine is $15. A bomber beer is $17, with a 16 oz selling for $13. There’s plenty here to keep a lacrosse fan from starving. Atmosphere 4 Box lacrosse is always a fun, sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat game day experience, and a Desert Dogs match is no different. There’s non-stop action on the court and it’s generally a high-scoring game. A DJ constantly plays music throughout the game and strobe lights circle the crowd. Smoke erupts from the scoreboard and corners of the court after a Desert Dog goal. Fans bang on the glass like in hockey. An emcee riles up the crowd, though he’s not always understandable. Players bang their sticks when the 30-second shot clock is about to run out. A crisp, clear scoreboard shows the video of the game, score, quarter, time left, saves, SOG, and penalties. It does not provide closed captioning. Entertainment during the game includes your usual high-pitched screeching female promotions person. Non-game entertainment at the game Stadium Journey visited was a wing-eating contest, T-shirt tosses, a howl cam, and much more. The game day operations staff provides plenty of activities to keep fans entertained during the rare game downtime. Sparkly cheerleaders/dance team with pom poms cheer on the team at breaks, in the aisles, and behind the glass. The seating area is two levels with most fans entering from the concourse and then walking up or down to their seats. Handrails are provided every few rows with more in the upper level. The arena has 13 – 15 rows of grey cushioned seats on both levels around the entire court. The seats are narrow and there’s absolutely no legroom between the rows. A VIP area (The Dog House) with high-top tables, its own bar, and a DJ is behind one of the goals. Michelob ULTRA Arena Seating, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 5 You’re in Las Vegas so there’s an abundance of other entertainment activities, restaurants, casinos, and shops. Within Mandalay Bay, near the arena, a comfortable family-oriented place for a bite to eat is The Citizen. The Border Grill (Mexicana BBQ) has more of a bar-type atmosphere; it’s a hopping place for drinks and appetizers. It closes at 10pm, so if the game runs late, you won’t be able to stop here for an after-game meet-up or drink. Libertine Social Gastropub is also very close. It’s a more upscale place and may not be the best choice for lacrosse fans. Other entertainment at Mandalay Bay includes visiting the Shark Reef Aquarium or a Michael Jackson One by Cirque du Soleil show. And there’s a wedding chapel in case you want to get married or renew your vows. The casino is next to the Luxor (iconic pyramid-shaped casino) which has many of its own entertainment choices. Other sports teams to visit while in town include the NHL Vegas Golden Knights, UNLV basketball or baseball, and the Henderson Silver Knights (minor league hockey). Fans 3 The fan base is certainly into the game, cheering, chanting, and applauding great saves and goals. Desert Dog attire is seen throughout the crowd. The team drew over 7,000 fans for the first game they played at the arena. The other few home games so far have seen 5,000 to 6,000 fans in attendance. It’s still a new team, so time will tell if lacrosse captures more sports fans’ interest in Las Vegas. I suspect it will. Access 4 The arena is in Mandalay Bay Resort on the south end of the strip between the Luxor and Delano Resorts. It’s across I-15 from Allegiant Stadium. Harry Reid International Airport is in its backyard, three to five miles depending on the route. Vehicle traffic in Las Vegas is pretty awful, like most large cities. If driving, Mandalay Bay Parking Garage off Frank Sinatra Drive is the closest garage. Uber and Lyft are convenient transportation choices, and there’s even a designated Uber pickup/drop-off area at Mandalay Bay. The Mandalay Bay Tram Station transports fans to other casinos along the strip. Once arriving, either via the parking lot, tram, or shared ride, fans must walk a distance through the casino and all its bells and whistles to get to the arena. Once arriving, visitors walk up a long corridor from the box office to the security and into the arena. Clear stadium bags (12” x 6” x 12”) are allowed. Doors open an hour before face-off. The concourse is shiny and spacious, so there is minimal congestion when walking the perimeter. Ushers are polite but protective of their sections. There’s a lot of walking involved in getting to the arena. Just be cognizant of that when arriving to watch a match. Return on Investment 3 Tickets start at $35 at the box office. Online, the prices run $25 - $99 plus order fees. The team has promotions throughout the season, like no ticketing fees when purchasing online or jersey giveaways (check their website for details). Food and beverage prices are the standard high-priced stadium fare. Season ticket members get either free parking or discounted parking ($5/game) based on their membership package. Otherwise, fans pay $18 in the adjacent parking garage. All of this seems high for lacrosse, but maybe not for lacrosse in Las Vegas. Box lacrosse is a fun, exciting game, one worth visiting when in town or for a new sports experience. We recommend checking it out at least once or twice. . Extras 4 At the game Stadium Journey visited, pregame Indigenous celebrations and half-time performances were presented. Lacrosse originated from native tribes across the US and Canada as early as the 17th century. This celebration was an honor to witness. It included dancing, singing, and a blessing. Nice job. Michelob ULTRA Arena Indigenous Celebration, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Las Vegas is a fantastic place to people-watch. A Desert Dogs merchandise stand is just inside the main entrance and sells a decent amount of team merchandise and clothing. The stand is one of those team shops where you can see but you cannot touch. Jack Hannah scored a sock trick for the Desert Dogs at the game Stadium Journey visited. A sock trick is when a player scores six goals in a game. Final Thoughts The Las Vegas area is becoming a sports hotbed with a new NFL football arena, hockey, minor league hockey and baseball, and now lacrosse. Lacrosse is probably the more niche sport of the others in the United States, but it’s one that is growing. The Desert Dogs is a perfect example of the growth and popularity of the sport. Attending a match is an entertaining and enjoyable evening out!

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Ball Diamond 3031 N Tillotson Ave Muncie, IN 47306 Ball State Cardinals website Ball Diamond website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 1,500 Chirp Chirp at the Ball Diamond Baseball has been played at Ball State University since 1920. The Cardinals are members of the western division of the Mid-American Conference and have captured eight division titles, four regular season titles, and one tournament title. There have also been three trips to the NCAA regionals in 1965, 1969, and 2006. A new era for the program began in 2016 when the university completely renovated its 45-year-old Ball Diamond. The results feel more like a brand new facility since the new ballpark bears little resemblance to the previous stadium. A $20 million fundraising effort renovation included new dugouts, modernized press boxes, grandstands, and concession stands. The field has a capacity of 1,500 and has added a FieldTurf surface to the infield and outfield that allows the Cardinals to compete in nearly any weather condition. The locker room has also been upgraded and features individual wood lockers for each player plus a team area with large screen television and computer workstation. The benefits of the new stadium help assist Ball State in recruiting as other schools in the region have also upgraded their ballparks. Food & Beverage 2 There is one main concession stand underneath the grandstand and outside of the playing area. The lines can get long during heavily attended games, but the crowds move swiftly. You will find your basics such as hot dogs, hamburgers, brats, nachos, peanuts, candy, and Pepsi products. It is enough to keep you satisfied during the game, but not fill you up. It would be recommended to enjoy dinner somewhere else in town before or after the baseball game. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark provides great seating that is up close and personal. The field is always in pristine condition and there are various spots down the right and left field lines to enjoy the game while hunched over the fence with plenty of space to have the kids run around. The atmosphere will depend on the weather, opponent, and promotion. When it’s Senior Day the crowd is rather large and boisterous, but when commencement is taking place down the street, the crowds are somewhat tepid. The customer should expect a somewhat relaxed atmosphere with baseball being the number one factor for why people are there. If you enjoy baseball without all the noise and gimmicks of the minor leagues, then a Ball State game will satisfy your old-school needs. Neighborhood 3 There are not many options to choose from within walking distance, but Muncie is a small town and your best choices for nightlife or dining would be downtown or near the shopping center to the north. A few downtown options include Scotty’s Brewhouse, Savage’s Ale House, and Cleo’s Bourbon Bar. Amazing Joe’s offers giant tenderloins and steak dishes. Savage’s Ale House is your typical brewpub that features juicy burgers, chicken wings, and a bevy of fried appetizers. Try the aloha burger. Downtown Muncie features Elm Street Brewing Co, The Guardian Brewing Co, Heorot Pub and Draught House, and the Fickle Peach. You will find great beers, pub food, and a college atmosphere during your visit. Muncie is a nice-sized college town. There are more than enough hotel options, including the Hampton Inn, Fairfield Inn, Courtyard, Best Western, and Holiday Inn & Suites. Fans 3 Most of the fans in attendance are diehard Cardinals fans. Many of the supporters can be heard talking about the fundamentals of the game, errors that the players made on the diamond, and past stories of former greats. Ball State has a friendly, knowledgeable, and dedicated fan base, a nice little touch to this small-town ballpark experience. Access 3 The ballpark is located north of the main campus off Tillotson Avenue, directly across from Scheumann Stadium, home of the Ball State football team. Parking is free, available, and plentiful on-site. Once inside the ballpark, it is easy to get around and bathrooms are located adjacent to the concession stand. Arriving at the game can be a little tricky since the baseball field is not identified on most GPS systems. I would suggest searching for the football stadium and you will easily find it across the parking lot. There are various ways to enter Muncie off of I-69, but make sure you take Exit 241 onto IN-332 towards town; it is the easiest and most direct way to campus and only eight miles away. If you decide to follow other routes to town, you may find yourself waiting at a train crossing or two on your way to the game. Return on Investment 4 Admission is free to baseball games, much like many other small collegiate ballparks in the region. There are many new and modern baseball facilities in the state and each one is a vast improvement over its predecessor. They are worth a visit and affordable on anyone’s budget. Extras 2 One extra point for the modern facility that is perfect for collegiate baseball during the truculent Indiana spring season. A second extra point for the synthetic field will hold up quite nicely during wet March and April games during the season. It may take a little getting used to watching from a baseball purist, but the college kids seem to enjoy the playing field. Final Thoughts The original baseball field was quite charming and had a very unique aura about it. The wooden grandstand creaked, seemed a bit off-center, and the faded lime green paint added a little character to the rickety structure. The new ballpark is nothing like that and is quite an impressive-looking facility. The stadium fits in very nicely with the other athletic fields at Ball State University and should provide an excellent day of watching college baseball for anyone in attendance. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Sydney Cricket Ground Driver Ave Moore Park, NSW 2021 Australia Sydney Sixers website Sydney Cricket Ground website Year Opened: 1848 Capacity: 48,000 Smash ’em Sixers The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is one of the oldest sports stadiums still in use in Australia. The land on which the SCG sits was granted to the British Army in 1846 and was originally known as the Garrison Ground, in reference to the troops stationed at the nearby Victoria Barracks who recreated there. The New South Wales Cricket Association began regular use of the ground in the 1870s and the state government commenced work to upgrade the facility. The first cricket test match at the SCG was played in 1882 between Australia and England. Among the most distinctive features of the SCG are the old Members Pavilion and Ladies Stand, which were erected in 1886 and 1896 respectively. Capacity is approximately 48,000. While its use as a cricket venue has been uninterrupted, the SCG was in fact the major sporting stadium for a number of different sports until the 1980s. Major rugby league and rugby union matches were played here until the Sydney Football Stadium opened next door in 1988. The SCG was the main stadium when Sydney hosted the Empire Games (now the Commonwealth Games) in 1938. The major cricket stadiums around Australia also double as AFL venues; the SCG has been home to the Sydney Swans who relocated north from South Melbourne in 1982. Readers from North America may recall the opening series of the 2014 MLB season between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks was staged here. The Sydney Sixers are one of two franchises formed in the harbour city to compete in Cricket Australia’s Twenty20 tournament, the Big Bash League (BBL) in 2011. The Sixers are owned by Cricket NSW and represent the coastal suburbs and inner city, while their cross-town rivals, the Sydney Thunder, are based in the western suburbs. The Sixers are the second most successful club in BBL history, having won championships in 2011/12, 2019/20, and 2020/21. The franchise also has a highly successful WBBL team. Food & Beverage 3 Well-known hospitality group Merivale has the catering rights at both the SCG and Allianz Stadium. While the restricted Member’s area has a wider range of premium items available, the remainder of the ground features largely pedestrian offerings at high prices. Staples such as meat pies, hot chips, and hot dogs are readily available for between $6-$9, with burgers (with chips) around $18. Healthy bowl choices (Kale, grilled chicken miso and lime grilled chicken) are between $17-$19. The aforementioned “premium” outlets include Vinnie's Pizza, Jimmy's Falafel, and Queen Chow Dumplings and Noodles, and the Chicken Shop. Alcoholic drinks range from $9 to $16. As with many sports venues around Australia now, most of the ground does not have access to full-strength (alcohol percentage) beer. Atmosphere 5 Cricket grounds have traditionally been developed as a series of separate grandstands circling the playing field, rather than a continuous seating bowl, giving fans a series of different experiences depending on where they choose to sit. The SCG retains this aspect despite numerous redevelopment projects over the years. The Bill O’Reilly Stand on the eastern side of the ground, and the Brewongle / Clive Churchill Stands in the southwestern corner, were opened during the 1980s. In more recent times, the Victor Trumper Stand was completed in 2008. The latest project saw the M.A. Noble, Don Bradman, and Dally Messenger Stands completely re-built. Naming each stand after great players of days gone by is a wonderful tradition. While it may be the newest form of cricket, the Sixers fit seamlessly with the SCG. Arrive a few hours early and you will find plenty to do outside the stadium along Driver Ave, which is closed to traffic on game days. Enjoy the various fan engagement opportunities and check out the merchandise van – the Sixers predominant colour is magenta, which matches their trendy and flashy identity. Twenty20 cricket is fast and entertaining. Pleasingly, on our latest visit there was a big reduction in the use of loud music between each ball, enabling fans to easily converse with one another without shouting. Neighborhood 4 The SCG is only minutes from central Sydney and all that a global city offers. Sydney is centred around the water and if you’re visiting from out of town be sure to check out the world-famous harbour and beaches – a ferry trip from Circular Quay in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge to Manly Beach should be mandatory. The closest restaurants and bars are in the Entertainment Quarter, which is on the southern side of the SCG, with the Bavarian Bier Café (Entertainment Quarter, 212 Bent St Moore Park) being a solid choice. Heading east, you will find the suburbs of Paddington, Bondi, and Coogee – always popular with tourists and locals alike. A short distance north is Darlinghurst and Kings Cross; a more bohemian district, with “The Cross” being the red-light district. Also, close by is The Rocks, one of the first areas to be settled by the British when they arrived in 1788. If this is your destination then make sure The Hero of Waterloo (81 Lower Fort St, The Rocks) and the Lord Nelson (19 Kent St, The Rocks) are on your list; they’re two of the oldest pubs in the country. As a large city, Sydney also provides many opportunities to see a range of sports while you’re here including soccer (Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers), baseball (Sydney Blue Sox), and basketball (Men: Sydney Kings, Women: Sydney Flames). Of course, cricket fans will likely want to also see the Sydney Thunder at Spotless Stadium. Fans 3 In recent years BBL crowds have declined. Many suggest this is due to an extended season leading to an oversupply of content, and the lack of star power within the league. However, crowds have returned in pleasing numbers for the 2022/23 season. Average attendance has risen to between 15,000 – 20,000 which provides a much-needed lift in atmosphere. The most sought-after game is the “Sydney Smash”, where the Sixers take on their cross-town rivals, Sydney Thunder. The target-market is families – and BBL is unashamedly perfect for this audience. Fans are friendly and supportive of their team. The BBL is universally a great product for a fun and safe environment. Access 4 The SCG is located just south of the Sydney CBD, making it relatively accessible. The Moore Park precinct is serviced by buses and light rail. The closest train station is Central which is a 20-minute walk away, however this is largely uphill on your way to the ground. Sydney’s newest light rail line opened in 2020 and now links Central with Moore Park providing an affordable and quick transfer. Access by public car to the Moore Park area often includes flirting with gridlocked traffic as you get closer to the area. Even though much of the BBL season coincides with school holidays, large crowds will always be accompanied by traffic-jams. Parking is available in the parklands opposite for $30, with payment only accepted by card – no cash. Note that the government is currently in talks with Venues NSW regarding discontinuing the current arrangements and building a new multi-level carpark. As with many other sports and entertainment venues, there are security checks prior to entry including bag checks. It’s also worth remembering you’re not able to circumnavigate the stadium as you’re restricted to the area in which you’re seated. In most cases the upper decks in each grandstand are closed as crowds are less than capacity. Return on Investment 4 General admission tickets represent good value; $25 for an adult, and $5 for children ($50 for a family ticket), make this a very affordable family night out. However, reserved seating is as much as $65 for adults. Be sure to pre-purchase, if possible, otherwise you’ll be charged extra at the gate. While parking and food are expensive, the overall experience is well-priced. If you do decide on general admission tickets, aim to arrive early to claim the best seats. Extras 5 There are numerous additional historical aspects to the Sydney Cricket Ground including the Walk of Honour, which is a series of 14 bronze statues featuring great Australian sportspeople who have strong links to the precinct. The newest addition to this showcase is Belinda Clark, a trailblazer for women’s cricket who has given a lifetime of service to the sport as a player and administrator. There is also a great museum which is best experienced as part of a guided tour. While there is an additional cost, it’s well worth it. Lastly, the media centre was recently renamed in honour of the late, great Richie Benaud. For the uninitiated, Richie Benaud captained the Australian team in 28 test matches between 1958 and 1963 before becoming one of the most recognisable, authoritative, and influential broadcasters of his time. For our North American readers, Benaud is comparable to Vin Scully. Final Thoughts The Sixers have taken the history of the SCG and added the sparkle, fun and excitement of T20 cricket. If you’re in Sydney during the long summer months, the Sixers must be on your “to-do” list.

Photos by Stefano Romagnoli, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Artemio Franchi – Montepaschi Arena Viale dei Mille, 3 Siena, Italy 53100 Italy Robur Siena website Artemio Franchi – Montepaschi Arena website Year Opened: 1938 Capacity: 15,373 Siena Soccer The Artemio Franchi – Montepaschi Arena stadium is the main facility for football in the city of Siena. The stadium is the scene of the home matches of Robur Siena. It was built in the late 1930’s and was inaugurated on December 8, 1938 with a friendly match between Siena and Empoli. A few days later, on December 11, the stadium hosted Siena vs Pisa, a match for the Serie B championship, the second national division in Italy. The stadium was expanded in the second half of the twentieth century: the discovery tribune was made in 1955, the lighting system was added at the football season 1969/1970, the curve Jolly (or Robur), and the curve San Domenico were built between the end of 1980’s and the end of 1990’s, and finally, the promotion of Siena in Serie B, 1999/2000, and then in Serie A 2002/2003, required other extension works. Today, the total capacity of the Artemio Franchi – Montepaschi Arena stadium is 15,373 spectators. Since 1986, the facility has been named after Artemio Franchi, a Siena citizen and president of the UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) from 1973 to 1983. Food & Beverage 3 In the tribune “Danilo Nannini” there is a bar with the following options: coffee € 1; sandwiches from € 2.50 to € 3; pizza and cakes € 2, pasta € 4. Between the first and second half of match Siena vs Sampdoria we bought a cake and a glass of tea, costing us € 3.5. There is another bar in the area reserved for the supporters side. Before going to the stadium we had lunch in a local restaurant with typical dishes of Tuscan cuisine (mixed cured meats, cheese, croutons and “pici”, special handmade spaghetti) at € 17. This would be my recommendation if you’re taking in a match at Siena. The concessions are about average for Italian football, but while in Tuscany, you are much better served when trying some of the authentic cuisine at any of the nearby restaurants. Atmosphere 3 The tribune “Danilo Nannini” is the only covered seating in the stadium and has a capacity of 1,264 spectators. The staircase “Paolo De Luca” and the curves “Robur” and “Vittorio Beneforti” are without coverage, so keep that in mind when purchasing tickets. “Curva Ospiti” (3,000 seats) is reserved for supporters accompanying the guest team. Between the playing field and the stands are still visible parts of the old athletics track. The most anticipated match is against Fiorentina. The match between Siena and Fiorentina are called “Derby Guelfi-Ghibellini.” Many fans are also present for the games against Juventus, Inter, Milan, Napoli, Roma and Lazio. Neighborhood 4 The city of Siena is divided in different “Terzi”: “Terzo di Camollia”, “Terzo di Città”, “Terzo di San Martino”. The Artemio Franchi – Montepaschi Arena stadium is located in the “Terzo di Camollia,” in the north of the city. In this area of Siena are also numerous attractions including the “Fortezza Medicea,” the house shrine of “Santa Caterina” and the “Rocca Salimbeni.” Give yourself plenty of time to explore the many treasures of this city. According to Roman legend, the city was founded by Senius, who was the son of Remus. The city itself is at least 2,400 years old. Fans 2 The most passionate fans of Robur Siena follow matches from curve “Robur.” If you are choosing only one game to attend, then you will want to see one of the derby matches against Fiorentina. Siena’s supporters base is smaller than many of the more well-known teams in Serie A, but the small and intimate setting helps to elevate the overall fan experience. Access 3 To reach the Artemio Franchi – Montepaschi Arena stadium from northern Italy (Florence, Bologna, Milan), you can take the A1 highway at “Firenze Certosa” and then take the “Firenze-Siena” motorway. However, if you are coming from the south (Rome, Naples), then the best route is the A1 highway at “Valdichiana” and then take the road “Bettolle-Siena.” Once you arrive in town just follow the signs for “Stadio.” There is ample parking, with some areas reserved for visiting fans. Return on Investment 4 In the 2012-2013 Serie A season, ticket prices range between a minimum of € 10 for the two curves, “Robur” and “Beneforti,” with discounts for students, to a maximum of € 45 for the staircase “Paolo De Luca.” Tickets for the covered tribune “Danilo Nannini” are more difficult to find and will likely be sold out for most matches, so if you plan to sit here, then be sure to get tickets well in advance. Extras 4 The historic center of Siena has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site. “Fortezza Medicea” is the seat of “Enoteca Italiana” where you can learn and taste the best Italian wines. There are many local culinary products that deserve a taste. Finally, not far from Siena, there are many spas where visitors can relax in the hot water.

Photos by Stefano Romagnoli Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Stadio Silvio Piola Via Massaua 1 Vercelli, Italy 13100 Italy Pro Vercelli website Stadio Silvio Piola website Year Opened: 1932 Capacity: 5,500 Pro Vercelli Stadio Silvio Piola is the main facility for football in Vercelli, a small town in Piedmont, Italy. The town is located about 65 km away from Turin and about 60 km from Milan. The stadium is dedicated to a player who was a world champion in 1938 and holder of numerous records in Italy including number of goals scored in Serie A (274), number of goals scored in a single match of Serie A (6), and the top scorer in Serie A with the jerseys of Lazio, Novara and Pro Vercelli. Silvio Piola began his career in the main Italian football league in the white jersey of Pro Vercelli. Therefore the system built in 1932 and originally named after the aviation hero, Leonida Robbiano was re-dedicated to Silvio Piola in December 1997 “in memory of his sporting achievements in national and international field,” as explained by a plaque next to the grandstand. The FC Pro Vercelli can be counted among those teams that have promoted the spread of football in Italy. In the early twentieth century the club was one of the more famous. The club was able to win the title of Italian championship seven times in 15 years. The first came in 1908, and the last in 1922. Currently FC Pro Vercelli plays in Serie C, the third tier of Italian football. Food & Beverage 3 Inside the Piola are four dining options, three are reserved for the local fans, and one is at the disposal of guest supporters. The menu of sandwiches, bottled water, and coffee costs 5 euro. Fans can also buy sweets or salty snacks, as well as other hot and cold drinks. Outside the facility, there are the classic peddlers and some cafes. The stadium is located in the center of Vercelli and it is easy to reach pizzerias, restaurants, and a market within a few minutes walk. Best to wait until after the game to fill your belly. Atmosphere 3 The stadium was built in 1932, and was recently renovated in the months before the football seasons in 2011-2012, 2012-2013, and finally in the summer of 2015. The work has affected all sectors of the Piola and the playing field (the natural grass was replaced by a synthetic grass). In Tribuna Coperta, the seats are white, black and red, and form the word and logo “FC Pro Vercelli.” In this area of the stadium there is also the Press Tribune dedicated to sports journalist Francesco Leale. Under the covered grandstand is the Gradinata Sud. On the other long side of the field there is the Gradinata Nord where seats of black and white spell out the year 1892, the date when the club was founded. Behind the Curva Ovest, occupied by the warmest fans, there is a billboard reminding fans of the seven league titles won by FC Pro Vercelli, Silvio Piola and other excellent players of the city. The Curva Est, the least roomy sector of the stadium, is reserved for the guest supporters. In total the Stadio Silvio Piola seats 5,500. There is excellent visibility from every sector of the stadium with a playing field at a maximum of about ten meters away. On either side of the doors, between the advertising signs, there are two electronic timers to indicate the playing time. Neighborhood 4 The Stadio Silvio Piola is located in the city center of Vercelli. Around the stadium grounds there are low buildings and numerous activities within easy walking distance including cafes, clothing shops, markets, pizzerias, ice cream parlors and so on. Also behind the Gradinata Nord there is the Park Pietro Camana. It is a nice place to relax if you have time before or after the match. Fans 3 The strongest supporters of FC Pro Vercelli follow the games from Curva Ovest. The colors that dominate this stadium segment are white and black jerseys, flags, and scarves. The main rivalry is with the fans and the team of the nearby Novara, and competition between the two clubs take the nickname of the “derby of rice” because this area of Piedmont is considered the European capital for rice. Also noteworthy is the “derby del Piemonte orientale” between Pro Vercelli and Casale. Access 4 Reaching the Stadio Silvio Piola once you are in Vercelli is really simple. If you arrive by car, my advice is to park near the central station and walk along Viale Garibaldi. If you arrive in Vercelli by train, although the town is in Piemonte, you should use the high speed trains up to Milan and from the capital of Lombardy to take a local train to Vercelli. Return on Investment 4 You can buy tickets to attend home games of the FC Pro Vercelli through some retailers in the city, and online from the official website of the club. Prices vary according to the sectors of the stadium. A place in the Curva Est costs 12 euro, while in the Tribuna Coperta Centrale can rise in price up to 72 euro. On the club’s website you will be able to find any discounts and/or initiatives. Extras 3 The Basilica of Sant’Andrea, the Church of San Cristoforo, the Borgogna Museum are just some of the great places to visit while you are in Vercelli. Vercelli is within easy reach from Turin (famous for the Mole Antonelliana and the Egyptian Museum) and Milan (with its streets dedicated to high fashion). The local cuisine that you should be sure to try is called “panissa,” a risotto that is cooked only in this corner of Piedmont. Food enthusiasts should also look for the “tartufata,” a cake made of chocolate and cream. Finally, the don’t miss the chance to have “bicciolani,” biscuits with spices.

Photos by Stefano Romagnoli, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Stadio Domenico Francioni Piazzale Prampolini, 4 Latina, Lazio 04100 Italy US Latina Calcio website Stadio Domenico Francioni website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 8,000 Football Under the Watchtower Latina is a city founded in 1932, under the name of Littoria, and near the city centre is Stadio Domenico Francioni. The facility hosts the home matches of the Unione Sportiva Latina Calcio, a club founded in 1945, and one that plays, for the 2013–14 season, in Serie B, the second level of the Italian football. The construction of the stadium began in 1932, and ended a little over two years later in 1935, when it was inaugurated. The structure was heavily bombed during the Second World War, and was restored in 1955. In the summer of 2013, the facility was the subject of restyling to meet the needs that the new league demanded. The total capacity is now 8,000 seats (1,500 for the visiting team’s fans). On August 31, 2013, Latina hosted their first game in Series B, where they drew Avellino 1-1. The first Serie B victory came on September 28 of that year when Latina bested Brescia 2-0. Since 1996, the facility is named Domenico Francioni, former president of the “black and blue”. The list of champions who played at least once on the pitch of Francioni includes Diego Armando Maradona, Alessandro Altobelli, Paolo Maldini, and Roberto Baggio. In the past, the facility also hosted events not related to football, such as the concert by British rock band Deep Purple on July 11, 2006, as part of their world tour, “Rapture of the Deep in the World”. Note: all exchange rates are as of the time of this posting, October 2013. Food & Beverage 3 Each section has a food court. We tried one in the Tribuna Centrale. For a hot dog and a Coke (served in paper cups), we spent €6 ($8.10). At the food court, you can buy different types of sandwiches, ice cream, coffee, water, and soft drinks. Atmosphere 3 It is easy to identify Stadio Domenico Francioni. Behind the Tribuna Centrale stands a tall tower in the shape of a mushroom, and is visible from most of the city. Also walking along Via Duca del Mare in the direction of Piazzale Prampolini, you can recognize the monumental entrance to the stadium with its six columns, the inscription “Campo Sportivo D. Francioni,” and flags both with the colors of Italy (green, white, and red) and of Unione Sportiva Latina Calcio (black and blue). The stadium consists of curved seating sections on both ends, and by one set of covered grandstands (Tribuna Centrale and Tribuna Laterale) and one area of bleachers (Distinti Gradinata) along the pitch. On the south side of the stadium (Curva Ospiti) is a metal bleacher section reserved for supporters of the visiting team. Everywhere, black and blue colors dominate, and in the bleachers, some white seats form the words “U.S. Latina”. The view is good from every section of the stadium. The seats closest to the field of play are those in the grandstands. Neighborhood 3 Stadio Domenico Francioni is located near the centre of Latina. Around the facility, there are cafés (where the fans can be found at the end of the match), pizzerias, ice cream shops, and many other vendors. Fans 3 The most fervent fans of Latina Calcio follow the game from the Curva Nord. During the match, they serenade players with songs, along with waving both scarves and black and blue flags. The most important rivalry the team has is with Frosinone Calcio (“Derby del Basso Lazio”). Access 3 It is quite easy to get to Stadio Domenico Francioni coming from Rome (the distance is about 70 km). The distance from the railway station of Latina Scalo is about 10 km. At the train station, there are public bus service links to the city centre as well as taxi service. Return on Investment 4 The ticket prices to watch a single match during the 2013-14 Serie B season are: – Tribuna Laterale A or B: from €12.50 to €25 ($17 to $33.90) – Tribuna Centrale Nord or Sud: from €15 to €30 ($20.30 to $40.65) – Tribuna Centrale VIP: €80 ($108.40) – Curva Norda and Curva Ospiti: from €6 to €12 ($8.10 to $16.25) – Distinti Gradinata A, B, or C: from €9 to €18 ($12.20 to $24.40) There are reductions for children from 5 to 14 years old, and for seniors over 65 years. Extras 1 Latina, one of the youngest cities in Italy, was founded in June 1932, under the name of Littoria. In 1946, the city changed its name to Latina. In the city boundaries, there is part of the Circeo National Park, one of the oldest natural protected areas in Italy.

Photos by Stefano Romagnoli, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Stadio Comunale Via Aldo Gastaldi, 22 16043 Chiavari (GE) Italy Virtus Entella website Stadio Comunale website Year Opened: 1933 Capacity: 5,535 Stadio Comunale Virtus Entella is the main football club in Chiavari, a city 40 km away from Genoa. It owes its name to the river that runs through the city and flows into the Ligurian Sea. The company was founded in 1914 and one hundred years later (after changing several times designation), in the 2014/2015 season, it played for the first time at Serie B championship, the second level of Italian professional football. Its colors are white and light blue (in honor of Argentina), while in the coat of arms appears a little devil with pitchfork in hand and ball for football near the foot (because Dario Costa, president of the Thirties and Forties of the XX century, defined his players “blacks devils).” Since 1933 Vitrus plays their home games at the Stadio Comunale, which was built with the name of the Stadio Littorio. The match of inauguration of the system was Entella vs. Albenga of October 29, 1933, match that ended with a 1-1 score. The facility was renovated several times during its history. In 1935 the grandstand, which still exists, was built. In 1945 it was renamed Stadio Comunale, abandoning the name that had been given during the fascist period. Between 2011 and 2015 further improvements have enabled the structure to receive the OK from the authorities to host competitions of Lega Pro, and later Serie B. Curiosity: Giampiero Ventura, the head coach of Italian National Team after Euro 2016, trained the Virtus Entella for three seasons (1982/1983, 1984/1985 and 1985/1986). Food & Beverage 3 Like all sports facilities, Stadio Comunale is equipped with inside dining options. The bar located in the grandstand sells sandwiches, sweet and salty snacks, and ice cream. Pizza and sandwiches cost 2,00 euros. The water (half-liter bottle) costs 1,00 euro. There is also a cafeteria service. Additional refreshment points are located in other areas of the stadium. Outside the stadium we did not find the classic peddlers of sandwiches and drinks. Not far away stands the Bar Entella, meeting place for fans “Biancocelesti”. Near the facility, there are a few restaurants and pizzerias. Atmosphere 4 Stadio Comunale has a rectangular layout (and remember, in fact, the British systems), with four sectors which are disconnected from each other: Tribuna (in turn divided into: Lateral – Central – Authority), Distinti (central covered – lateral uncovered), Gradinata Sud (reserved for local fans and from October 2015 entitled former footballer Ermes Nadalin), and Gradinata Nord (reserved for visiting supporters). Four towers for lighting rise near the corner flags. Among the Gradinata Nord and the sector Distinti is a big screen on which, before the match, run the names and images of the players of Virtus Entella. The grandstand is covered, the Distinti (with alternating seats in white and light blue) partly covered and partly uncovered. The two tiers are uncovered and made with a metal structure. The playing field measures 103×62 meters and the turf is a natural-synthetic mix. Neighborhood 2 All around the structure are small buildings of five or six floors (during the match some fans view the game from the terrace or the window of the house). Not far away is the touristic port and the course that runs along the Ligurian Sea. Fans 2 The supporters are organized and more passionate following home games of Virtus Entella from Gradinata Sud. Flags and scarves that are white, light blue and black paint this part of the stadium. In Serie B the most heated matches are against Spezia (the two cities are about 50 kilometers away) and Pro Vercelli. However, the historic rivalry (and formerly also political) is the one with Sestri Levante and giving life to the so-called Derby del Tigullio. Access 4 Reaching the Chiavari Stadio Comunale is quite simple. The city is located on the A12 route linking Genoa to Rome. Coming from the south is recommended exit to Lavagna. Coming from the north, use the Chiavari exit. Upon exiting the highway, in both cases, it is necessary to drive for about three kilometers. Chiavari Train Station is about one and a half kilometers from the stadium. The nearest airport is Genoa – Sestri. Return on Investment 4 Both online and in Chiavari, points of sale are given on the website of Virtus Entella. You can buy tickets to attend home games of the team. The cost of tickets varies depending on the chosen section and the day of purchase (the day of competition the price is higher). Season 2016/2017: Tribuna Centrale: 30,00 euro full price (25,00 reduced). Tribuna Semicentrale: 25,00 euro full price (20,00 reduced). Tribuna Laterale: 20,00 euro full price (14,00 reduced). Distinti Centrali: 16,00 euro full price (13,00 reduced). Distinti Laterali: 13,00 euro full price (10,00 reduced). Gradinata Sud “Ermes Nadalin”: 10,00 euro full price (5,00 reduced). Gradinata Nord – Settore Ospiti: 10,00 euro full price. The reduced ticket is reserved for over 65 years old, women, boys aged 12 to 17 years old, and the disabled. Children aged 7 to 11 years pay a 2.00 euro ticket, while children under 6 years and disabled can take advantage of free tickets. For all methods of purchase, the prices and the necessary information is available on the website of Virtus Entella, in the “Stadio” section. Extras 3 Chiavari is a romantic village along the Ligurian Sea to spend pleasant holidays. The Cinque Terre, World Heritage Site, a stretch of the Ligurian coast from Riomaggiore and Monterosso, and Portofino, a famous holiday resort for VIPs and stars of show business, are all in the area. The city of Genoa with its great and famous aquarium and many other attractions, is situated about 40 km away.

Photos by Stefano Romagnoli, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Stadio Armando Picchi Piazzale Montello, 14 Livorno, Tuscany 5726 Italy AS Livorno Calcio website Stadio Armando Picchi website Year Opened: 1933 Capacity: 19,238 Livorno Legacy The Stadio Comunale Picchi is the main facility for football in Livorno city. The building houses the home matches of AS Livorno Calcio, a club that has existed for over 100 years, founded in 1915. Since 1990, the stadium is dedicated to Armando Picchi, born in Livorno and defender of the “Grande Inter” with which he won three national championships, two European titles, and two world titles for the club. Armando Picchi died prematurely at the age of 36, and he took his first steps as a professional football player wearing the shirt of Livorno. In the city, there is also a football team called Armando Picchi. The structure was designed and built for the return of AS Livorno in the Italian Serie A league, 1933/1934, and was originally named Stadio Comunale Edda Ciano Mussolini. The official inauguration took place on the occasion of Italian B vs Austria B match on March 24,1935. However, the first game played by the home team was Livorno vs Fiorentina, October 8, 1933, and finished with a score of 3-0. Turchi, on a free kick, was the first player to score a goal in the new stadium. During the end of World War II, American military troops in Italy (still not far from the city there is the American military “Camp Darby”) used the facility for football and baseball and called this venue Yankee Stadium. Since 2013, a part of the stadium, the staircase, is dedicated to Piermario Morosini, a player for AS Livorno Calcio who died in April 14, 2012, during the match against Pescara in Serie B. The stadium was designed by Raffaello Brizzi, head of the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Florence, and it is the first public work built in reinforced concrete in Livorno. At the beginning of the 1980s, Torre di Maratona was demolished. Measures have been taken over the last decade to improve the safety and capacity of the system. Today, the total capacity of the Armando Picchi stadium is 19,238 spectators. Food & Beverage 3 Each sector of the Armando Picchi stadium has its own food court (including the reserved area for the visiting fans). Look for many of the offerings under the Tribuna Centrale. The menu offers everything from coffee to beer, from liqueurs (try the Ponce alla livornese, beverage derived from the punch) to Coke products. Then there are sandwiches, a variety of cakes, ice cream, and snacks. Atmosphere 3 Stadio Armando Picchi has a ring shape. The seating sections are divided into: Tribuna Vip, Tribuna Coperta, Tribuna Laterale, Curva Nord, Curva Sud, Gradinata, Tribunette di Gradinata, and Settore Ospiti. A glass fence runs all around the field, dividing the public from the players, but it does not restrict the view. Between the field and the stands is the old track for athletics built in 1987. The teams’ entrance takes place by a tunnel that opens between the playing field and the athletics track. The distance between the two stands and the field is about 10 meters. The distance between the two curves and the field is about 25 meters. The presence of old photos on the walls of AS Livorno Calcio and pennants of other teams that have played here help to create a nostalgic atmosphere under the Tribuna Centrale. Some of the preliminary soccer matches for the 1960 Rome Olympics were held in this venue, adding to the historic significance (Yugoslavia won the gold medal for football for these games). Neighborhood 3 The stadium is not far from the city center, about 20 minutes when walking. I recommend that you eat a typical dish while in Livorno, the cacciucco for example, after the match. Cacciucco is a soup with different types of fish, and is a staple of Livorno. Stadio Comunale Armando Picchi is in the Ardenza neighborhood, the southern suburbs of the city and the area where the major sports facilities of Livorno (including the Ippodromo Caprilli and the Palasport Macchia) are located. The area is characterized by numerous elegant villas with two or three floors above which stand out the unmistakable towers for stadium lighting. At about 500 meters from the stadium there is the Naval Academy, a school founded in 1881 where the officers of the Italian Navy are educated. In the neighborhood, there are many restaurants and pizzerias. Wander around and find a spot that suits you after the match. Fans 4 The most passionate fans of AS Livorno Calcio follow the matches from the Curva Nord. In this sector, you’ll find amaranth banners, flags, and scarves dominating the colorscape. Throughout the match, fans incite their favorites with chants and songs. The roar that the teams receive when they emerge from the tunnel before the match is tremendous. The stadium announcer gives the name of the home team goal-scorer, and that name is repeated in unison by the fans. The most strongly felt match is the Derby of Tirreno between Livorno and Pisa. Other rivalries exist with Roma, Lazio, and Milan. Access 4 Getting to Stadio Armando Picchi is quite simple. By car, coming to Livorno from the Firenze-Pisa-Livorno (FiPiLi) motorway or from the A12 (Genova-Roma), just follow the signs for Variante Aurelia and go toward Livorno Sud. There is no shortage of space to park the car from Viale Italia to Via Salvator Allende. Parking for Settore Ospiti is in Via dei Pensieri, located in the La Rosa neighborhood La Rosa. By public transport, buses leave to Ardenza from the Livorno Central Station. Return on Investment 4 In the city, there are seven official retailers from AS Livorno Calcio, but you can also buy tickets for Stadio Armando Picchi online. Ticket prices range from a minimum of €9 for Curva Nord, up to a maximum of €85 Euros for Tribuna Vip. Before each match, it is useful to check the club’s website to see if there are any reductions in pricing or special promotions. Extras 3 Livorno is one of the youngest cities in Tuscany, but there are places and buildings of interest. All of these sites help to make a trip to Livorno special. They are: – The Fortezza Vecchia, site of numerous cultural and musical events, and the Fortezza Nuova, with its public park. – The La Venezia neighborhood, built during the 17th Century, is crossed by canals to mimic the appearance of Venice. – The Terrazza Mascagni, with its checkered floor consisting of about 35,000 black and white tiles overlooking the sea, is well worth a visit for tourists, as well.

Photos by Brian Wilmer Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Corbett Sports Center John W. Mitchell Dr & N. Benbow Dr. Greensboro, NC 27411 North Carolina A&T Aggies website Corbett Sports Center website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 6,700 The Key to The Lock There are many well-known college basketball venues around the nation, with a lot of them residing in North Carolina. You have the Cameron Crazies at Duke, the blue heaven of North Carolina, and many others. These facilities are loaded with storied atmospheres and unrivaled basketball history. For as great as those places are if you consider yourself a true basketball fan, there is nothing like a basketball game on an HBCU campus. One such campus resides in Greensboro, North Carolina at North Carolina A&T. There are so many things of which to take note of in this place. The Blue and Gold Marching Machine. The Greensboro Four. The Lock. The Dawg Pound. Ten-plus NCAA appearances. A visit to the Corbett Sports Center — as with many Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) schools — is not just a visit to see a game. It’s a party, a history lesson and so much more. Food & Beverage 3 There is not an abundance of food and drink at the Corbett Sports Center, but what is around will more than suffice. The vending signs at the three stands (two by the staircases that lead downstairs to the reserved seating, and another near the women’s restroom on the reserved level) are divided into three categories. The entrees consist of barbecue sandwiches, nachos, and jumbo beef hot dogs. Each entry on this portion of the menu is priced at $4. There are also three snack-related items listed on the menu board. Popcorn ($3), candy ($2), and king-size candy ($3) are all listed. Chips hang from a rack behind the counter at some of the stands, though no price was listed on the board when I visited. Bottled Pepsi products ($3) and water ($2) are available to wash down your food purchases. There is also a soda machine available in the lobby, with drinks priced at $1.50. However, you will need to get your drink and go through it as fast as humanly possible before entering the arena or waiting until the game is over. Atmosphere 4 There is a distinct difference between a conference game at A&T and a non-conference game. There are several great rivalries across the MEAC for the Aggies, including North Carolina Central, South Carolina State, and Howard, among others. The magic of these rivalries may be enough to convince you to attend a game with one of these schools in Greensboro. Two separate gates will allow you to gain entry into the gym area. The gates enter on the concourse level, with bleacher seating above the concourse and reserved seating downstairs. The staircases to access the reserved level are opposite the entry doors. The concourse completely rings the seating area, allowing an open view of the game from almost anywhere within the gym itself. Also opposite the entry doors is a bleacher section that almost entirely contains the Blue & Gold Marching Machine. The A&T band is the highlight of the game for many, and it is easy to understand why when listening to them. The band plays an extended set as the teams are warming up before the game, as well as during the halftime break. If anything, though, the band could be featured even more. Some of the breaks in the action are a bit calmer than some of A&T’s conference brethren, and the extremely loud (and fun) band or the musical selection over the PA could stand to be amped up all the more to keep the crowd involved during stoppages in play. The school features an Aggie mascot that wanders through the crowd and occasionally performs dance routines on the floor. He also participates in the musical chairs competition that is held at halftime, usually involving several A&T students. The cheerleading team performs the standard routines, but with a slight twist. The cheerleaders travel to the different seating sections to perform their routines for each section. This is an unusual touch that helps keep the fans involved from the floor to the ceiling. There are no extravagant video boards to be found in the facility. A simple center-hung scoreboard can be seen above the floor from every angle of the gym. There are also wall-hung scoreboards above the floor in two corners. These scoreboards are easy to read but do not offer more than just basic statistical information. It is also impossible to write this piece without mentioning public address announcer John Allen. Allen’s booming voice can be heard throughout the game, and his frequent calls to “Aggie Nation” to make noise or honor their team are a standard at any A&T event. Neighborhood 1 North Carolina A&T’s location along US 29 away from downtown means that pre and post-game activities within a walking distance of the university are extremely limited. As mentioned in the reviews of the other Aggie athletic facilities, most of the opportunities for nightlife and dining areas in the downtown district of the city. Should you want a quick meal near the university, there are several fast food choices available nearby on the Cone Boulevard exits, along with other surrounding areas. Fans 5 North Carolina A&T does not have bandwagon fans. Keep this in mind for any visit you may ever make to Corbett Sports Center. Fans of all ages make their way to Aggie contests, and they are loud from beginning to end. The night I attended featured an attendance that was nowhere near capacity, but it was tough to know that fact without looking around. Whether the team is winning or losing, Aggie fans will show up in their blue and gold and yell from the opening tip to the final buzzer. I also have to commend the Aggie fans on their knowledge of their team and those of the conference. I was approached by a fan as I left the arena, and he and I carried on a 15-minute conversation about A&T basketball and their chances in the conference schedule. That rarely — if ever — happens, even at the larger basketball schools. Access 4 Travel to an A&T game is rather easy by air, car, or mass transit. If you are flying to Greensboro, the Piedmont Triad International Airport is within 15-20 minutes of the university. There are two major interstates (85 and 40) within a few minutes of the university, with Interstates 73 and 74 just miles away. US 29, 70, and 220 are also within five minutes of your parking space. There are several free parking spaces available in the university run lots off Benbow Drive near the facility. Be careful when parking for weeknight games, as some of the lots are restricted by permits. The available parking spaces are within a short walk of the arena, so there is no need to pack your hiking gear before leaving your car. The concourse around the gym is suitably wide and offers plenty of room to maneuver. The restrooms are in somewhat unusual locations, as they can be found under the bleacher seats at the bottom of the staircases. The facilities are clean and suitable for the crowds that attend Aggie games. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices at A&T vary based on where you choose to sit. The reserved chairback seats at the floor level are nice, though it is up to the purchaser whether they are worth the investment. The reserved seats are $25 per game, with the general admission bleacher seats priced at $15. Children (ages 12 and under) are $10. Should you choose the bleacher seats, be advised that even the highest-pitched seats at this price point still provide a reasonable view of the game. With small game programs provided free at the entry gates, the cost for a general admission seat, parking, hot dog, and bottled soda totals $22. This is a reasonable investment for basketball at this level, but the reserved seat pricing cannot enjoy the same claim. Extras 3 One of the more interesting extras about the Corbett Sports Center is immediately apparent when walking into the building. Three trophy cases to the left of the ticket booth illustrate much of the history of A&T sports. All three cases are full, and they provide a fun and educational few minutes of review on your way into or out of the arena. Along with the previously mentioned free programs, there is also a table of free Aggie promotional items between the ticket booth and the gates. Posters, schedules, and other A&T paraphernalia are stacked on the table and are ready for the taking. The history component of the trophy cases has already been mentioned, but there is one more inside the arena. If you look above the gym floor, the banners honoring the numerous championships and NCAA tournament appearances for the men and women ring the rafters. It is always a joy to see a school that honors its history, and A&T certainly has more than its share to put on display. Final Thoughts Though the Corbett Sports Center will never feature groups of students waiting in tents in a camping area named after their coach or anything of the sort, there is much value to be found in a trip to Greensboro. From the interlocking “AT” logo on the floor (known as “The Lock”) to the occasional “Aggie Pride” call-and-response, your location — and level of enjoyment — will never be in doubt.

The Hamilton Bulldogs have a storied, albeit tumultuous, history bouncing up and down through the leagues over the decades. The latest chapter seemed to bring the promise of stability; a position in the Ontario Hockey League as one of the ‘big-market’ clubs, playing in a large arena in a large city. But in the pursuit of that permanency, the Bulldogs are upping sticks and leaving Hamilton for a while. The team, who won the league in the last season before Covid, and then again in the first season after it, will be moving to the nearby city of Brantford for at least three years. The cause is a wholesale renovation of their home FirstOntario Centre, badly needed as the ‘80s-era venue is slated to become the centrepiece of a neighbourhood redevelopment project. The renovation will tear back the arena right down to the studs, before rebuilding it in place. The plan has not been without controversy; American sport development group OVG originally planned to work during the off-season, preventing disruption to playing schedules. However, the group changed their aims abruptly and apparently with little warning to the Bulldogs or their fellow arena tenants Toronto Rock Lacrosse Club and Hamilton Honey Badgers Basketball Club. The 17 500-seat arena should be reopened in 2025, unrecognisable and modern compared to the current state of the facility. The work is to include a completely rebuilt exterior, new concourses, a redesigned seating bowl, new dining and back-of-house facilities, and a new suite level. On a larger scale, the arena will anchor a complete redesign of its city block, with residential, commercial, and cultural development exceeding $500 million. In the interim, the Bulldogs have landed in the nearby city of Brantford, famous as the birthplace of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. They’ll play out of the Brantford Civic Centre, near the city’s downtown and casino districts. The 3 500-seat arena is to receive $9 million in renovations to bring it up to OHL standards, and will host the Bulldogs for at least three years. Darkly, the Bulldogs have not officially stated they intend to return to Hamilton, though that is the general expectation. Management have complained publicly about the lack of transparency that led to their unexpected removal from the arena. Still, the prevailing thought is that the Bulldogs will return to Hamilton when work is complete. So far, season membership sales in Brantford have been very popular, surpassing 2 000 tickets. But the Bulldogs aren’t the only ones displaced by the construction. The National Lacrosse League’s Toronto Rock, who only moved to Hamilton in 2021, are now searching for a temporary home. The leading candidate is rumoured to be Kitchener’s Memorial Auditorium, but nothing has been announced as yet. On the basketball front, the Hamilton Honey Badgers, part of the young CEBL league, will permanently leave the city. They’ve relocated to the Toronto suburb of Brampton, playing out of the CAA Centre (a former OHL rink itself). Though most expect the Bulldogs and Rock to return to Hamilton soon enough, the future is murky at this point. Meanwhile, for the ageing arena at the heart of Hamilton’s central business district, a new era is set to dawn.

Photo Courtesy of UC Davis Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Phil Swimley Field at Dobbins Stadium Orchard Rd Davis, CA 95616 UC Davis Aggies website Phil Swimley Field at Dobbins Stadium website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 3,500 Dobbins Stadium - Home of the UC Davis Aggies UC Davis is relatively new to the NCAA Division I scene and their facilities are equal to the level of play they are now playing in. Dobbins Baseball Complex opened in 1986 as Community Stadium after being "built almost completely with volunteer time, materials and funds" according to the 2013 media guide. In 2002, Dobbins was upgraded with permanent restrooms and concession stands as well as a press box. These additions could help to make Davis a legitimate host for the NCAA regionals. Perhaps the most well-known former Aggies baseball player is Daniel Descalso, current infielder of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Food & Beverage 3 Dobbins Baseball Complex is a cash-only facility and there is one concession stand. Their entrees (hot dogs, polish dogs, nachos, soft pretzel) are reasonably priced between $3.50 and $5.50, while their peripheral items like sunflower seeds and candy are at a high $3 clip. Bottled soda and water, Minute Maid juices, hot chocolate, and coffee are available from $3 to $3.50. No alcohol is served at Dobbins Baseball Complex. Atmosphere 4 I really enjoyed my experience at the Davis baseball game. It's certainly a baseball-only experience but that is a good thing in this case. All of the seating aside from right behind home plate is bleacher seating. Fortunately all of the bleachers had backs to them and went well down each base line. This is nice as you're able to move around to take in the game from different viewpoints. My favorite spot to sit is about halfway up the 10 rows of bleachers, in line with far end of the dugout. This allows fans to be clear of the backstop netting and close to the action. In one of the more unique aspects at a stadium I've seen, Dobbins and adjacent Aggie Soccer Field share a concourse. Therefore, when you walk down the concourse you turn right down the stairs to baseball seating and left down the stairs to soccer seating. The soccer seating has an awning while the baseball seating does not. The playing surface is probably the best I've seen amongst Northern California college stadiums. It makes for a clean look to go with clean lines of the seating. Neighborhood 4 Dobbins Baseball Complex shares a parking lot with the Activities & Recreation Center and The Pavilion, home of the Aggie basketball team. Aggie Stadium is a few blocks southwest of the baseball field. The UC Davis campus butts up against the downtown Davis neighborhood. This area is a vibrant mix of students and families and visitors should take advantage of the atmosphere that the neighborhood provides. Popular restaurants downtown are Froggy's Grill, Woodstock's Pizza, and Burgers and Brew. The best place for a pregame beer is The Grad. It's your typical college-town sports bar with plenty of TVs, 50 plus beers on tap, and a full kitchen. All this within staggering distance to the front gates. Microbrew enthusiasts take note that there is indeed a brewery in Davis serving up some suds. Sudwerk is a brewery that creates their own versions of traditional German-style beers while still providing some of the California staples like pale ales and IPAs. A farmer's market is held year-round, rain or shine, on Saturdays at Central Park. Davis is a well-known bicycle paradise; heck, a bicycle is even in their town logo. Davis is also the home to the US Bicycling Hall of Fame and has plenty of bike lanes. One of my favorite things about visiting the UC Davis campus is all the activities that students take part in on a sunny day. Just beyond the right field wall was a huge green open-space where there were four ultimate frisbee games going on. On the other side of campus, a rugby match was taking place. It seems students make sure to get out and exercise on the weekends. Fans 3 Aggie baseball fans seem on-par with the rest of the college baseball landscape. They are polite and altogether engaged in the game. Most of the fans were gathered near home plate while they were otherwise sprinkled down the baselines. There were quite a few students that were there taking advantage of the free admission to the baseball game. I should mention the strong showing the fans from Cal-State Fullerton who probably made up about a third of the fans in attendance. I've seen Fullerton play on the road twice now and both times many of their fans were in attendance. Access 5 The UC Davis campus is located conveniently off of highway 80, 15 miles west of Sacramento and 75 miles east of San Francisco. Getting there isn't difficult but you should certainly expect significant traffic during peak hours after work. Downtown Davis is easy to get around for first-timers as many of the streets progress numerically and alphabetically, so you never feel like you're unsure of your location. There is a local bus service, UniTrans, operated by UC Davis that services much of the city and all of the campus. Buses are driven by university students and cater to the inevitably odd schedules of college students. Beyond the local buses, there is also an Amtrak stop that stops downtown. This train goes through Sacramento with bus connections that can take passengers as far as Tahoe and Reno. Going the other direction, the "Capitol Corridor" train passes through Berkeley, Oakland, and San Jose, with connections to San Francisco. The parking lot is right next to Dobbins Baseball Complex and is free on weekends. There may be a small fee during normal school hours. Once inside the baseball stadium getting around is a breeze as there are plenty of walkways to get you where you need to go. Restrooms are clean and plenty for the amount of patrons. The one place things back up a bit is at the concession stand as its line uses the walkway between itself and the press box. Return on Investment 3 General admission tickets are $8 and parking was free the day that I went. There isn't much in the way of extras at Dobbins but you can't beat the price to catch a game. You can bring in your own snacks so you can avoid any additional expenses. I'd make a whole day of it and hit a nearby restaurant or bar. Extras 0 There is no reason to award extra points for extras. The closest item would be their new scoreboard in right-center field. I really wish they would find a place to honor the greatest players and teams from their history like many other schools do.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Journey just visited the Cintas Center on the campus of Xavier University for the first time in six years, and the school has released details on a new round of renovations for the home of the Musketeers basketball program. The renovations will begin this summer for the 23-year building with a complete fresh of the 22 suites that have been left unchanged. The building will be modernized with changes to The Lookout section, along with the addition of a New Center Court Club, The Brew House, and additional ADA seating. “Each of the changes we’re making will enhance the fan experience in the Cintas Center,” said Brett Sanders, Xavier Assistant Athletic Director, in a press release. “It’s critical for us to upgrade that experience, and the chance to add a new club at the same time is an opportunity too good to pass up. Demand for more variety is driving the three major seating changes.” New Center Court Club: Located on the east concourse, will be at mid-court, offering the best vantage points to watch games. The area will include plus club seats, all-inclusive food with an elevated menu, private restrooms, and a full bar. The Brew House: An open-air bar on the main concourse with seating and standing-room views of the court. The space was created with community and gathering points in mind in hopes of modernizing the feel of the building. Changes to The Lookout: Key changes to sections of the area. Row A will remain untouched, but Row B will have a new seating style similar to a desk chair with the goal of comfort and conversation. Row C will be raised into a high bar top seat with drink rails. Additional ADA Seating: Improvements to opportunities to accommodate fans with accessibility needs. The changes will reduce seating from 10,250 to 10,224 and be completed during the summer of 2004, in advance of the 2024-25 basketball season. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunterand his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena 300 A Philip Randolph Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32202 Jacksonville Icemen website VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 15,000 The Icemen Cometh The VyStar Veteran’s Memorial Arena serves as the home of the Jacksonville Icemen of the ECHL. The arena opened in 2003 and has been the Icemen’s home ice since 2017, when the team relocated from Evansville, Indiana. The team is an affiliate of the NY Rangers. The facility holds 13,141 in its hockey configuration, with 28 luxury suites. All seats in the arena are theatre-style seatbacks. The “Memorial” in the name of the arena refers to first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice. There is a memorial wall and statuary located just to the right of the arena saluting firefighters, police members, and paramedics. The choice to salute first responders in the arena name was decided well before the events of 9/11 and the pandemic. Food & Beverage 4 The VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena offers a wide variety of concession items at Icemen games. The Seven Bridges Pizza stand offers personal pizzas featuring cheese, pepperoni, or sausage for $9. The stand also offers margarita-style flatbread ($12) and garlic knots ($6). Duval Street Dogs offers several gourmet hot dogs, including footlongs, chili cheese dogs, slaw dogs, mac n cheese dogs, and BBQ pulled pork dogs all for $9. Duval Street also carries popcorn and candy for $4 each. The Arena Grill has Arena Burgers ($9), giant pretzels ($6), grilled chicken sandwiches ($9), chicken tenders ($8), nachos with cheese ($6), and fries ($5). On the beverage front, the arena serves Coca-Cola brand products. Sodas cost $5 and water is $4. Adult beverages include beers starting at $7, $8, or wine and craft drinks going for $9. There are multiple locations for each stand, so you should not encounter much of a line when purchasing your food. Atmosphere 4 Even though the capacity of the arena is over 13,000 for hockey, the Icemen typically use only the lower level in the seating bowl. This means you are never more than 24 rows from the action on the ice. The arena does an excellent job of keeping the energy up throughout the evening, with plenty of contests being held between periods and breaks in the game. The canine mascot for the team, Fang, and superfan Jax Ice Bluman roam the stands and are more than happy to pose with your family members. Neighborhood 4 The VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena is in the Jacksonville Sports and Entertainment District. This includes the TIAA Bank Stadium (home of the Jacksonville Jaguars), 121 Financial Park (home of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp baseball team), and the VyStar Veteran’s Memorial Arena). These sports venues have drawn sports bars, restaurants, and microbreweries to the area. You no longer need to leave the area for a pre or postgame meal or drink. If you continue past the Sports District heading east over the Hart Bridge you will reach Jacksonville Beach and other attractions surrounding the Atlantic Ocean. Fans 4 You might wonder how knowledgeable the locals are about ice hockey. Jacksonville has always been an attractive place for retirees to escape the harsh winters they experience in the north. These transplants are usually well-versed in hockey from their former working lives. They typically are glad to educate a local about the intricacies of the game. Icemen fans quickly adopt the team as their hometown favorite, and often help to lead the crowd in cheers. The Jacksonville area also has a large Navy base, with lots of sailors who grew up on hockey present at Icemen games. The ECHL has made a concerted effort in building fan interest in the game in its Southern Division. This has resulted in building some rivalries amongst teams along the south Atlantic seaboard. There are now teams located in the neighboring ports of Charleston, SC, and Norfolk, VA. A new expansion team in Savannah, GA will begin to play in time for the 2022-2023 season. It is not unusual to see fans wearing the visiting colors at a game, which results in some good-natured banter with the locals. Access 4 VyStar Veteran’s Memorial Arena rates very well in our accessibility ratings. There are several routes you can take to get to the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. The arena has more than enough entry points into the building, with an entire bank of doors along the front of the building. Doors open one hour before the opening faceoff. Elevators are available on each level of the building in addition to the stairs. Parking is readily accessible, as there are more than 6,500 parking spaces shared between the three sports venues in the Sports District. A covered parking deck is located next door to the arena at the corner of A Philip Randolph Boulevard and East Duval Street. The arena has 44 restrooms (16 men,14 women, and 10 family) available. Return on Investment 3 A night out at an Icemen’s game will not freeze out your budget. Tickets run from $18 (behind the goals) to $49 (center ice). Intermediate prices are $23 (corner seats) and $39 (seats on the sides). Parking on game nights is $15. Concession prices are very reasonable compared to many sports facilities. Extras 5 Former NFL players Tim Tebow, Myles Jack, and Reggie Hayward are part owners of the Icemen. The arena also serves as the home of the Jacksonville Giants of the American Basketball Association and the Jacksonville Sharks of the National Arena League (arena football). The Memorial Arena is the major concert venue for the Jacksonville region. Artists including Aerosmith, Carrie Underwood, Elton John, Garth Brooks, Jimmy Buffett, Miley Cyrus, Prince, and Taylor Swift have performed there. The Jacksonville Sports Hall of Fame is in the lobby of the arena. It features exhibits about the University of Georgia/University of Florida football game, the Gator Bowl, and recognizes local athletes who have excelled in a wide variety of sports at the high school, college, and professional levels. The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is a frequent visitor to the arena. It has hosted first and second-round games in 2006, 2010, 2015, and 2019. The ECHL All-Star game was held at the arena in January 2022. Final Thoughts ECHL hockey has created a strong Southern Division, with several franchises located along the Atlantic coastline. The Jacksonville Icemen call the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena their home ice. Located in Jacksonville’s Sports District, the arena is in use throughout the year as the home of the Icemen, the Jacksonville Giants ABA basketball team, and the Jacksonville Sharks arena football team. The venue also serves as the primary concert venue for the Jacksonville region of northern Florida.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.28 Cool Insuring Arena 1 Civic Center Plaza Glens Falls, NY 12801 Adirondack Thunder website Cool Insuring Arena website Year Opened: 1979 Capacity: 4,744 Third League’s a Charm? Surely you will understand if the hockey fans of the upstate New York town of Glens Falls have become somewhat jaded. This small town of 14,700 residents built an arena in 1979 to house the top farm team of the Detroit Red Wings. After 20 years and four Calder Cup Championships, the Red Wings folded the team and moved their affiliation to Grand Rapids. The United Hockey League’s Adirondack IceHawks (later renamed the Frostbite) moved into the Civic Center in 2000. The Frostbite suspended operations in 2006, and it looked like the Civic Center had seen the end of professional hockey in Glens Falls. The city and arena got a second chance when the Philadelphia Flyers, looking for a temporary home for their American Hockey League Phantoms, placed the team in Glens Falls in 2009. What was originally planned to be a two-year stay in New York turned into five seasons. The overwhelming support given to the Phantoms by Glens Falls made the city a legitimate option for teams looking for a minor league home. The Calgary Flames stepped in with their AHL affiliate for the 2014-2015 season. The Flames signed a three-year agreement with the Civic Center, but from day one, there were rumors that the Flames would be part of a group of western conference teams that would move their affiliates to a new, Pacific Division of the AHL. This Pacific Division became a reality for the 2015-2016 season, leaving the Glens Falls Civic Center once again without an AHL tenant. Luckily, the building did not go without a team for long. The Flames placed their ECHL team in Glens Falls, christening them the Adirondack Thunder. With the Flames organization’s dismal track record in keeping their farm teams in one place for any significant period, only time will tell if Glens Falls third different minor league will have any staying power. So far, Adirondack hockey fans appear to be taking a ‘wait and see’ approach. Food & Beverage 3 Concession stands are set up in each corner of the arena, with each stand featuring a different theme (Pie in the Sky Pizza, Hot Dog Nation, Black Angus, and Fresh Classics). The menus don’t stray very far from your typical arena fare, and the prices are typical for this level of hockey. You won’t get any gourmet offerings here, but you also won’t need to take out a mortgage to feed yourself at a Flames game, either. There is a decent selection of beers available in bottles at the main stands and draft stands located throughout the concourse. Bud Light, Shock Top, Stella Artois, Labatt’s, and craft brews from local favorite Davidson Brothers can all be found here. Prices start at eight dollars. Thunder fans seeking non-alcoholic beverages can choose from various Pepsi products. Davidson Brothers also operate a pub in Heritage Hall, located underneath the stands during game nights. The Birch room, also located in Heritage Hall, offers a space for birthday parties, events, and buffet-style meals for fans before Friday and Saturday night games. The Ice Lounge, located here, offers discounted drink specials to season ticket holders. Unfortunately, the arrival of the Thunder meant the exit of the classic flaming “A” logo sported by the Adirondack Flames. Fans looking for Thunder merchandise will find a small area of the lobby set aside for sales of the new squad’s gear. Atmosphere 3 The Glens Falls Civic Center has a wonderful old-school feel to it. Part of that feeling is because the arena lacks many of the modern amenities that so many of the newer rinks possess. The center scoreboard is the old dot-matrix style of unit, and two large video screens hang in opposite corners of the rink. One of the highlights of attending a game at the Glens Falls Civic Center in the past was the noise and excitement generated in the old barn. While very little has changed in the game day presentation from the days of the Phantoms and Flames, the atmosphere at the GFCC feels very different this year (2015-2016). While there are still some old-school fans who try to make their presence felt with their non-stop heckling of the opposing team and officials, for the most part fans seem quieter and more subdued than in years past. Perhaps with some on-ice success and continued presence in the community, the team can regain the support of Glens Falls hockey fans. The Thunder employ a mascot, Gunnar, who isn’t too much of a presence during the game, and an ice crew who also take some time to throw t-shirts into the crowd. The team offers 50/50 raffles and jersey raffles to benefit local charities. Overall, the Glens Falls Civic Center and the Thunder put on a very family-friendly event. Neighborhood 4 The Civic Center is located right on the edge of downtown and is easy to get to from all parts of Glens Falls. I know what you may be thinking, what kind of downtown can there be in a town of 15,000? Despite the city’s small size, there are a surprising number of places to eat within walking distance of the Civic Center. Local establishments such as Dango’s, Davidson Brothers, Sandy’s Clam Bar, Sully’s West, and O’Toole’s Pub all attract Adirondack hockey fans before and after games. Fans who visit Glens Falls during hockey season may choose to travel a couple of hours north to the ski areas of the Adirondacks. Hockey historians will be drawn to Lake Placid, home of the 1980 “Miracle on Ice.” During the summer months, the nearby village of Lake George is a popular tourist attraction. Fans 2 Adirondack is averaging a shade over 2,400 fans per game two-thirds through their inaugural season in the ECHL, which ranks them 27th out of the 28 teams in the league. This mark also represents a decrease of 33 percent from their attendance in their final AHL season. Fans in this region are passionate and knowledgeable about their teams, so there is hope that they will return to the GFCC. Some fans at the Civic Center may be a little too loud and vulgar, but their passion is contagious throughout the building. Many fans choose to stand along the railing at the top of the seating bowl throughout the game. With the steep pitch of the stands, it’s a great vantage point from which to take in the game. Access 4 The Glens Falls Civic Center is located in downtown Glens Falls, just a couple of miles from Interstate 87, at the intersections of Routes 9 and 32. While the Greater Glens Falls Transit Company has several routes that serve downtown, most fans drive to the Civic Center for games. There are numerous lots within walking distance of the arena, most charging under $10. There are also many options for on-street parking nearby for fans who arrive early. There isn’t a whole lot of room to maneuver once inside the Civic Center. There is a small entry lobby that contains a concession stand, the New York State Basketball Hall of Fame, and the Adirondack Hockey Hall of Fame. Pass through two sets of doors and you will enter the top of the sharply-pitched seating bowl. There is a single concourse that circles the top of the seating bowl. This walkway can become quite crowded at times, but crowds move around without too much backup. There are restrooms located underneath the seating area which are accessible by stairs at all four corners of the building. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Adirondack Thunder games range in price from $15-$27, which is a small increase over prices charged last year. Purchasing your tickets on game day will cost you an extra two dollars. Youth tickets can be purchased for $13 and $15 on game days. Since charging more money for a lower level of hockey may not be the best business strategy, the Thunder have come up with some ways for fans to save some money. Buy one get one deal and reduced ticket specials on selected games have been instituted. Factor in inexpensive parking and concessions, and the Adirondack Thunder continue to be an affordable entertainment option for local hockey fans. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded to the Adirondack Hockey Hall of Fame and the New York State Basketball Hall of Fame, which are both located on the concourse outside of the seating bowl. Another extra point is awarded for the Calder Cup Championship Banners still hanging from the rafters of the Civic Center 15 years after the Red Wings left town. Final Thoughts Adirondack hockey fans have been slow to embrace the Thunder and AA hockey after many years in the AHL. The team has stepped up its community presence and the organization is beginning to understand that it will take increased effort to bring local hockey fans back to the Glens Falls Civic Center. The GFCC is a great old hockey barn, and having a stable tenant occupying the building should go a long way toward ensuring a successful franchise after so many years of uncertainty. ---- Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium 400 Oriskany St W Utica, NY 13502 Utica Comets website Adirondack Bank Center website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 5,700 Aud Lang Syne The landscape in the American Hockey League has changed dramatically in recent years. The league, which is the top developmental partner of the National Hockey League, has morphed from a league with most of its teams located in the northeast United States and Canadian Maritimes into a coast-to-coast circuit. In 2015 several of the NHL’s western teams moved their top farm teams out west into more geographically convenient locations, abandoning many long-term, established AHL cities. Bucking this trend over the past few seasons are the Utica Comets. Established in 2013, the Comets are the top farm team of the Vancouver Canucks. Despite being separated by more than 2,900 miles, the Comets have thrived in upstate New York, playing to near-capacity crowds since their arrival in the Mohawk Valley. The Comets play their home game in the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium, known locally as “The Aud.” Completed in 1960, the arena was built using the first pre-stressed dual cable roof system. Food & Beverage 5 You wouldn’t expect a smaller arena like the Aud to have a very expansive concessions menu, but the choices here are many and varied. You can find all your standard arena fare here, including hot dogs, chicken tenders, nachos, and french fries. Coca-Cola products are featured and can be purchased in a refillable souvenir cup priced at seven dollars that can be brought back any time for five dollars. To get a proper taste of Utica, head to the Oriskany Street Grill, where local favorite Zweigle’s hot dogs are served with a variety of toppings. Also served here are Dino’s Sausages, assorted wraps and subs, and walking tacos. Pair one of these sandwiches with some onion rings, waffle fries, or sweet potato fries, and you’ll be set for the night. In addition to the high quality of the food, prices are reasonable. Another popular spot at the Aud is Kookie’s Q stand. Named for longtime Aud volunteer Kevin “Kookie” Dowling, a variety of barbeque items cooked in an on-site smoker are sold here, including pulled pork, pulled chicken, and brisket. Served over macaroni and cheese, nachos, in a bowl, or as a sandwich, Kookie’s is a popular choice among Comets fans. Many brands of beers are sold at the Aud, including Budweiser, Coors, and Labatt’s, but we advise passing on those national brands and heading over to the Utica Club stand, where several varieties of locally brewed Saranac and Adirondack Lager beers are sold. Fans looking for wine or other mixed drinks should head to the One 9 Five 9 stand, where several varieties of local Bully Hill Vineyards and mixed drinks are served. Atmosphere 5 The Aud is packed to the rafters on most nights and the small barn echoes with chants of “UTICA! UTICA! UTICA!” throughout the game. Capacity crowds create a great deal of noise and a significant home-ice advantage night in and night out. Most of the fans come dressed in the Comets’ blue and green colors, and some traditions from the Pacific Northwest have found their way to the Mohawk Valley. A pair of fans mimic the Canucks’ famed green men, and the team’s dance squad, the Comettes, perform and lead cheers during play stoppages. Just be careful when traversing the inner walkway around the dance team. Many a fan has lost their beverage or nachos after bumping into one of these lovely ladies during their routines. If you want to experience a Comets game like a season ticket holder, the team has several unique options to check out. The Horton Room, located behind section 218, is named for former Utica player and coach Bill Horton. This lounge boasts a line-up of top-shelf liquors and Labatt Blue beer and is decorated with Utica hockey memorabilia. Another option is Kilfoil’s Irish Pub. Fans looking for a pint of Guinness can watch the action in an authentically decorated Irish pub while enjoying a cold one during the game. Members looking for another new spot from which to take in the action can head to Zetlin’s Lounge. Featuring 17-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and a 22-foot bar, Zetlin’s lounge offers excellent views of the action while enjoying cold beverages. If you want to experience a Comets game like a season ticket holder, the team has several unique options to check out. The Horton Room, located behind section 218, is named for former Utica player and coach Bill Horton. This lounge boasts a line-up of top-shelf liquors and Labatt Blue beer and is decorated with Utica hockey memorabilia. Another option is Kilfoil’s Irish Pub. Fans looking for a pint of Guinness can watch the action in an authentically decorated Irish pub while enjoying a cold one during the game. Members looking for another new spot from which to take in the action can head to Zetlin’s Lounge. Featuring 17-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and a 22-foot bar, Zetlin’s lounge offers excellent views of the action while enjoying cold beverages. Neighborhood 2 The Aud is located on the edge of downtown but is not integrated into the downtown region due to the presence of railroad tracks, highway off-ramps, and abandoned buildings. The city of Utica is similar to many mid-sized cities in the northeast in that it has seen better days and is struggling to recover. Visiting fans will find little in the immediate area in terms of places to eat or stay, but there are some choices located a short drive from the Aud. Utica’s Brewery District is located about a mile from the arena, and tours of the Saranac Brewery are very popular with out-of-town fans. Architecture buffs will be sure to check out the Stanley Theater and the Utica Union Station. Fans 4 In a building with a listed capacity of 3,860, Utica has averaged over that figure in each of the past four seasons. Utica proudly touts their sellout streak, which reached 100 games during the 2017-18 season. The team has a season ticket membership of 3,300 fans, which leaves less than 500 tickets available for each game. These tickets are snapped up quickly, forcing fans to search the secondary market for available seats, a rarity in the minor leagues. Comet fans do more than just fill the seats, as they provide the team with a significant home-ice advantage. Chants of “UTICA-UTICA-UTICA” reverberate through the Aud every night. The fans here are fully aware of the shifting landscape of the AHL and are doing their best to prove they are worthy of inclusion in this exclusive club. Access 3 Located on Oriskany Street West on the edge of downtown, the Aud is easy to get to via city streets, Interstate 790, and Route 12. There are a pair of large parking lots adjacent to the Aud, as well, as ample on-street parking within a few blocks of the facility. The Aud is set up in a horseshoe layout, with a stage on one end of the ice surface. The blue and red stadium seats that make up the seating bowl all provide excellent views of the ice. There is a walkway about a third of the way up the seating bowl, where the Comettes dance team performs throughout the evening. There is constant traffic on this walkway, so choose seats a few rows up to avoid an obstructed view. There is a small concourse located underneath the seating bowl, which can become crowded during intermissions. Recent renovations have expanded and renovated the restrooms, improving traffic dramatically. Still, plan your trips to concession stands and restrooms wisely. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Comets games range in price from $18-$28. While these prices are a bit higher than neighboring American Hockey League teams in Syracuse, Binghamton, and Rochester, they are not out of line with other teams at this level. Helping to make going to a Utica Comets game more affordable is the wealth of free parking available around the Aud, both in municipal lots across the street and on street within a few blocks of the arena. With reasonable concession prices at the Aud, a night at a Utica Comets game is the most affordable entertainment option for Mohawk Valley sports fans. . Extras 3 An extra point is given for The Aud’s unique roof design. The arena was constructed using the world’s first pre-stressed dual cable roof system, designed by Lev Zetlin. This design influenced many modern dome designs seen today, including Madison Square Garden. The Aud was designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers in recognition of its innovative cable-suspended roof. Scenes from the 1977 hockey cult classic movie Slap Shot starring Paul Newman were filmed at the Aud. The arena hosted 1962 Frozen Four. The place still has that old-time look that has remained unchanged. A final extra point is awarded for the sense of history and community present at the Aud. From the murals that decorate the walls of the arena to the War Memorial honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice to our country to the memorabilia present throughout the building, there’s a vibe here at the Aud that just can’t be replicated in a bigger building in a bigger city. Final Thoughts The city of Utica was awarded a team at the worst possible time for a small city in the northeast when teams were fleeing established American Hockey League markets throughout the area to head out west and begin a new Pacific Division. When it was announced that Utica would affiliate with the distant Vancouver Canucks, it was widely assumed that the Comets would soon head west to a more geographically convenient location. Five years later, despite constant rumors of relocation, support for the team has swelled, and the Comets look to be solidly entrenched in the Mohawk Valley. Recent improvements to the Aud have served to improve what was already one of the top fan experiences in the American Hockey League.