Photos by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Steller Field N Mercer Rd & E Merry Ave Bowling Green, OH 43402 Bowling Green State Falcons website Steller Field website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 1,100 A Falcon’s Field Like many college baseball facilities, the home of the Bowling Green Falcons is named after a long-time and successful coach. In this case, Steller Field is named for Warren E. Steller who guided the Falcons for more than 30 seasons (1928-1959). The field hosted its first game in 1964, and it was officially dedicated as Warren E Steller Field the next season. The venue has a capacity for 1,100 fans, and is a basic, but comfortable place to watch Mid-American Conference baseball games. Food & Beverage 2 There is one concession cart serving the ballpark with a very basic menu. The totality of food includes hot dogs ($3), peanuts ($3), sunflower seeds ($3), soft pretzels ($4), popcorn ($1), and candy ($2). Drinks include bottled Coca-Cola products ($3) and bottled water ($2). Since Bowling Green has a decent array of restaurants in the downtown area, your best bet is to head into town for lunch before the game, and dinner afterwards. You can also bring your own food or drink with you to the ballpark. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark is small, but functional. There are 15 rows of metal bleachers with pretty good legroom. Seat cushions would be a good idea to bring along if you plan to sit in the bleachers. Sitting in the back row of the bleachers allows you to lean your back up against the press box, and also as an added bonus, you can hear the play by play of the home or visiting team. There isn’t much seating with any shade, so the press box can also be helpful in that regard in a late season, warm game. Alternatively, many fans choose to bring their own chairs and sit along the fence stretching down the right field line. A speaker system perched atop the press box blares out announcements as well as a mix of classic rock and current pop hits. You’ll hear walk-up music for batters on the home side, but not the visitors. The Falcons are situated in the first base side dugout, while the visitors take the third base side. If you have a rooting interest in the game you may want to venture more in one direction, but it really makes little difference here in this intimate seating structure. There are no lights at this ballpark, so you’ll be attending a day game, probably starting no later than 3pm should you make the trip to Steller Field. The scoreboard is the basic line score, with no video capabilities. Just sit back and keep your attention on the game, and you’ll have a nice spring baseball experience. Neighborhood 4 Steller Field is located near the other Bowling Green athletic facilities including the Stroh Center and Doyt Perry Stadium. It is nearest to the hockey arena, BGSU Ice Arena. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding the ballpark. It’s about a mile and a half to downtown Bowling Green from the ballpark, so you could walk if you want the exercise, but it is probably best to drive. There are several good bars or restaurants in the small downtown. Reverend’s Tavern is a favorite for their selection of beers and slightly eclectic menu. Trotters is open for dinner, and has a very cozy atmosphere. This comfortable little pub offers good food, a cozy atmosphere, and friendly service. I love most places with Scotch eggs on their appetizer menu, and theirs is certainly good. Open for lunch is Beckett’s Burger Bar. You can guess what is on offer here. They also have a pool table and several TVs for sports fans to stay on top of what’s happening. Fans 3 The fans at a Bowling Green baseball game are mild-mannered and friendly. You can easily wear gear for the opposing team with no animosity whatsoever from the home crowd. Folks tend to just sit back and enjoy the game, applauding for good plays made on either side, while rooting for their team. If you’re able to catch a foul ball, they’ll ask you to return it, although you can trade in your temporary souvenir for a box of candy. Access 4 Parking is available in the lot near the hockey arena. Signs say it is designated for commuters until 6pm, but you’ll be fine parking your car there during the baseball game. It’s free to park, and just across the street from the ballpark, but also out of range of foul balls. Restrooms at the ballpark are unfortunately the port-a-potty variety. You can also try the hockey arena, which may be open during baseball games. During my most recent visit, the Alumni Lounge was open, located on the side of the hockey arena nearest the ballpark. This is a much better restroom option, but may not always be accessible. All of the Bowling Green athletic facilities are very close to I-75, and you’ll have no trouble quickly leaving the ballpark and getting on your way to wherever you may be going. Return on Investment 4 There is no entry fee to go and see a game at Steller Field, and parking is free as well. Concessions are unspectacular, but reasonably priced. Overall, the price is right if you want to see some college baseball and you’re in the area in northwest Ohio. Extras 2 The Bowling Green Falcons have claimed MAC championships in 1995, 2002, 2008, and 2009. The team has made appearances in the NCAA Regionals in 1972, 1998, 1999, and 2013. All of these successful seasons are commemorated on the outfield walls. In an age of more and more turf fields, especially in the Midwest, it’s nice to see that the Falcons have a natural grass and dirt field. It’s a symmetrical ballpark running 345 down the lines, 375 in the alleys, and 400 feet to straightaway center field. Final Thoughts It may be a basic ballpark, but it suits the purposes of the Bowling Green Falcons, and is worth the trip to see if you’re in the area for business or following your team on the road. Sometimes it’s the basic ballparks like Steller Field that allow you to just sit back and enjoy this pastoral game.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Recreation Athletic Complex 4350 Banister Creek Ct Fairfax, VA 22030 George Mason Patriots website Recreation Athletic Complex website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 1,550 Volleyball RAC-tion at George Mason Located on the campus of George Mason University, the Recreation Athletic Complex, more commonly known as the RAC, is the home to the Patriots' volleyball and wrestling teams. The current incarnation of this building was renovated and reopened in 2009, although there has been a facility on this spot long before then. Mason's basketball team also played here until 1985, and has played a couple games here since due to scheduling conflicts at EagleBank Arena including a game in the 2013 CBI and a game in 2016 that was moved up due to an impending snowstorm. However, volleyball and wrestling are the only full-time tenants. In addition to the main gym used for athletic events, the RAC also serves as a student gym and recreation facility. The Patriots' men's volleyball team competes in the Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (EIVA), a conference that only sponsors men's volleyball. They have appeared in the NCAA Tournament four times, most recently in 2016. Food & Beverage 1 There is no concession area at George Mason volleyball games. However, there are a few vending machines scattered throughout the RAC that you can purchase from. Atmosphere 2 The RAC is an intimate arena, seating just 1,550. All seats are uncomfortable plastic risers although they do offer a great view of the court. The music played over the PA system is quite loud and is played between every point, which can make it hard to hear the PA announcer. Much of the energy here is created by the players themselves, although the fans can get involved as well. In any event, there is a lot of shouting in addition to the music, which just adds to the volume level here. However, that is just about all that goes on other than the game itself. There is no mascot, no band, and nothing else like that. This is a very simple facility and a very simple, albeit loud, experience. Neighborhood 3 Fairfax is a typical suburban area about 25 miles outside Washington, D.C. There is a shopping center across campus which includes several chain places and a movie theatre. If you’re willing to drive a few miles, the 29 Diner in the City of Fairfax is a local favorite, as is Capital Ale House. While Fairfax doesn’t have the same excitement you’d get in the District, it’s still a nice suburb with plenty to do and places to eat before or after the game. Fans 2 The Patriots average several hundred fans a game, which is typical for men's volleyball. Many of the fans are friends or family of the players or have some connection to the program. Whatever brings them out, they come decked in the green and gold of George Mason and cheer on their team throughout the match. As mentioned above, much of the noise comes not from the fans but from the players, but the crowd can get into it at times. There will also often be a good number of fans for the visiting team as well, though the Mason fans will outnumber them and this will still feel like a Patriots home game. Access 4 George Mason's campus is easily accessible via the Capital Beltway (I-495), Interstate 66, US 50/US 29 depending on where you are coming from. Once on campus, free parking is available on gamedays in Lot J across from the arena, despite signs saying it is faculty/staff parking only. From there, you will have to walk up a few flights of steps to get to the entrance. Fans who require handicap parking can park right outside the building, but others will have to use Lot J and walk a little bit. Once inside, turn left and head down the hall to the arena. The front desk will be happy to direct you, and there will be a table selling tickets as well. There are restrooms in this hallway as well which should be a sufficient size for the volleyball crowd. However, they also serve the rest of the facility, so if the student gym is particularly crowded, this may be a problem. Return on Investment 2 Tickets are $10 and available for sale in advance or on the day of the game. This is on the high end for men's volleyball, and considering the basic nature of the arena, is not a particularly good deal. However, they certainly won't break the bank either. . Extras 4 Look for the free programs on the ticket table as you come in. There are banners in the rafters honoring George Mason volleyball and wrestling accomplishments. Look for the trophy case in the lobby dedicated to Mason volleyball and the other one for the wrestling team that shares the RAC. Finally, look for the banner honoring Uvaldo Acosta, a former Mason volleyball player and later a coach, who tragically drowned in Hawaii in 1998 at the age of just 32. He was later inducted into the EIVA Hall of Fame. Final Thoughts The Recreation Athletic Complex is a very basic arena and it is hard to believe they once played Division I basketball here. In fact, this is the renovated version - it's supposed to be nicer than when it hosted basketball. In any case, a George Mason volleyball game at the RAC is a pretty basic experience. While it can get loud here, mainly due to the music, the relatively high price point for tickets may make fans reluctant to attend.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 E.J. Wade Arena at the Stuart C. Siegel Center 1200 W Broad St Richmond, VA 23284 VCU Rams website Stuart C. Siegel Center website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 7,500 RAM Tough Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) opened in 1838. It is the largest college/university in the state of Virginia with a student body of 28,000 students. The school offers 64 different bachelor’s degrees, 74 master’s degree programs, and 41 doctorate degree programs. It has two campuses in the city of Richmond, VA. It is also the largest employer in Richmond, even surpassing the number of state employees in the state capitol. The athletic team at VCU is known as the Rams. The most successful program in Ram's lineup of teams is the men’s basketball team. The men’s basketball team calls the E.J. Wade Arena at the Siegel Center its home court (we will use the Seigel Center name for brevity’s sake… students just refer to it as “the Stu”). The roundball Rams have won 85% of their home games since the Center opened in 1999. The arena at the Siegel Center holds 7,500 fans in its basketball configuration. The Siegel Center is named for Richmond businessman Stuart Siegel, who contributed more than $7 million towards the facility’s construction. Food & Beverage 5 There are six concession stands spread equally throughout the Seigel Center concourse level. A larger than usual number of food items is carried at each stand. Entrees include BBQ pork sandwiches ($9), Nathan’s hot dogs ($6), hamburgers ($8), Papa John’s Pizza ($9), chicken sandwiches ($9), and nachos w/cheese ($8). The snack selection is also larger than we typically see, including popcorn ($5), candy ($5), pretzels ($5), kettle corn ($8), and Dippin’ Dots ice cream ($5). Beverages sold at the Seigel Center include water ($4), Pepsi brand sodas ($6), canned brand beers ($9), canned craft beers ($12), and canned cocktails ($8). We found that the number of stands is enough to keep the lines short, except at halftime. Atmosphere 4 Even though the Seigel Center was built nearly 25 years ago, it has definitely kept up with the times, thanks to multiple renovations over the years. The inside of the arena is predominately decked out in the black and gold colors of VCU. There are a number of exhibits on the walls describing the Ram's Cinderella season when they reached the Final Four, as well as salutes to star players from past years. The seats in the arena are very comfortable and come with cup holders. The seating bowl is quite steep, providing you with a close-up look at the action, no matter where your seats are in the arena. The electronics package is also very impressive. There is a four-sided center-hung scoreboard, with each panel measuring 11.5’ X 15.5 feet. It constantly updates the stats of each player on the court, as well as information on upcoming events. There are also panel boards above the ends of the court with game information as well. The sound system is excellent, as it must be heard over the noise generated by the crowd, but it is also used for a number of concerts throughout the year. A 360-degree ribbon board also provides information throughout the game. Neighborhood 4 The Seigel Center and a majority of the VCU campus are in the Fan District in Downtown Richmond. It is named the Fan District because the pattern of the streets spread from narrow to wide in the shape of a fan. Richmond is a city with a long history, both as a state capitol and due to its role as the capital of the Confederacy. Like most state capitols, there are several museums in the city. Both the Virginia Museum of History and Culture and the Institute for Contemporary Art are within a few blocks of the Siegel Center. The streets surrounding the Seigel Center are filled with homes that are more than 100 years old. The area is also filled with businesses that service the needs of the students at VCU. This includes coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. The Village Café has been around for decades and is still very popular amongst the students and longtime locals in the area. The Holiday Inn Express Downtown Richmond offers the closest accommodations for games at the Siegel Center. Fans 5 The gameday experience at Siegel Center is loud and full of energy. VCU does not have a football program, so basketball games are the premier sports event on campus. It is the norm that you will have a full house for every game throughout the season. The loudest and most energetic section of the crowd is by far the student section, which is known as the Rowdy Rams ( the Rowdy Rams have won the Naismith Award for Student Section of the Year on multiple occasions). VCU students get free admission to every game, so there is always a huge turnout. The Rowdy Rams work very closely with the VCU cheerleading squad, the VCU Peppa pep band, the Gold Rush dance squad, and last but not least… Rodney the Ram, is VCU’s terrific mascot. Mascot Dancing with VCU Cheer Team, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey The remainder of the stands will typically consist of VCU alums (40% of VCU alumni still live in Richmond) and Richmond area residents who see VCU games as their best area sports event during the winter months. There are very few seats allotted for the visiting team. Access 4 The Siegel Center is easily accessible from I-95/I-64 (these two interstates are merged as they pass through Richmond. From the north or west: Take exit 76B (Belvidere Street) Turn left off the exit ramp onto Leigh Street. Turn right at Belvidere Street. Turn right at Broad Street. The Seigel Center will be on your right after the second traffic light. From the south or east: Take exit 76A (Chamberlayne). Get in the left turn lane at end of the ramp. Turn left at the next traffic light. After crossing the bridge bear right onto St. Peter’s Street. At the stop sign turn right onto Leigh Street. Turn left at the next stop light on to Belvidere Street. Turn right at Broad Street. The Seigel Center will be on your right after the second traffic light. There are four parking garages within a block of the Seigel Center. Once you arrive at the Seigel Center, the access is excellent. There are five main entrances into the arena, and doors open one hour prior to tipoff. Inside, the arena has 19 restrooms (nine men’s rooms and ten ladies’ rooms) The concession stands are spaced equally around the concourse level of the arena. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices range from $30 - $35 depending on where you want to sit in the arena. However, keep in mind that VCU has a very large season ticket base, and games are also sold out on a regular basis… so buy your tickets well in advance of the game you plan to attend! The ticket prices are broken down by sideline seats ($35) or end-line seats ($30). Parking at one of the VCU garages is $10. The concession prices at the Seigel Center are. Extras 3 The Rams men’s basketball program has earned a significant number of achievements over the years. They include 2011 Final Four, eight NCAA Tournament appearances, one CAA Tournament Championship, one Atlantic 10 Regular Season Championship, and one Atlantic 10 Tournament Championship. The VCU Basketball Development Center is located just a block north of the Siegel Center. This facility offers practice courts, strengthening and conditioning facilities, training rooms, and classrooms. The Player Development Center is designed around making each player the best they can be, in the classroom and on the basketball court. It is also a major recruiting tool for VCU. “The Stu” also hosts VCU women’s basketball, both men’s and women’s volleyball, and the Virginia State High School Basketball Tournament Finals. It is also used for non-sports activities such as concerts and VCU graduation ceremonies. Final Thoughts The Virginia Commonwealth University basketball team has proven that their trip to the Final Four in 2011 was no fluke, as the Rams are perennial champions in each of the conferences they have played in over the past decade. The VCU student body and the fans in Richmond know a good thing when they see it and have packed the Seigel Center for every game over the last 10 years. It will be no surprise when you hear VCU’s name on Selection Sunday.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Hauser High School Gymnasium 9423 N State Rd. 9 Hope, IN 47246 Hauser High School Jets website Hauser High School Gym website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 1,573 Wowzer, Wowzer, Hauser The Hauser High School Gymnasium is not among the largest in the state but is among the top ranks of the bevy of small-town gyms that dot the Hoosier State landscape. The 1,573-seat venue features an innovative upper deck design that provides a vantage point not found in too many other facilities. The Hauser Jets have made the gym a tough place to play the past few years posting a winning home record. The town of Hope has a population of only 2,158 but on many nights the majority of its residents make their way to the high school to watch Jets basketball during the cold, winter months since both the school and gymnasium opened in the fall of 1966. The original home for basketball in town was the Hope Gym built in 1938 for the Hope High School Red Devils. The town embraced the gym and capacity crowds were the norm on an annual basis until the new school was built. The building still stands, but it needs major repairs to fix mold, a leaky roof, peeling paint, and outdated windows. The gym was at one time considered for filming for the movie Hoosiers as the home of the Hickory Hoosiers before the Knightstown Gym was selected by producers. Food & Beverage 3 There are two concession stands located on opposite ends of the court in the two main lobbies. The main stand offers affordable concession items such as nachos, pretzels, hamburgers and cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and on select nights pizza slices from local pizzeria Whitt’s. An item on the list will cost you no more than $2.50 and all drinks are of the Coca-Cola variety. On the opposite end is where you’ll find popcorn and freshly baked cookies for your sweet tooth. Atmosphere 4 The first glance at something different is the upstairs seating that forms balconies all around the perimeter of the gym. The upper seating area hovers over the court and provides a view uncommon at many other facilities in the state. Some staircases take patrons to the second level at all four corners and once you find a seat, you have some of the best views in the building. The student section is dubbed the Danger Zone and the small group of 50 students dress up in theme outfits, stand, stomp, and cheer throughout the game in support of their Jets. They are small in size but are deafeningly loud to pose havoc to any would-be opponent attempting a free throw. During halftime and after the game, the student group continues the celebrations with more cheering and dancing around the court. Student Section at Hauser Jets, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The players take the court with the sounds of jet engines blasting in the background and an enthusiastic public address announcer pumps even more energy and excitement into the stands. The sound system works quite well and it’s hard not to get excited about the opening tip-off. Fans stand and clap during the playing of the school fight song. Multiple black and white school championship banners hang against the walls of the upper deck seating area. The railings of the upper level are adorned with mini-painted silver jets, conference opponent banners hang at the center railing, and the school’s 2006 state championship banner is front and center from the rafters. Neighborhood 2 Hope is a small town of just about over 2,000 people located 20 miles in between the towns of Columbus and Shelbyville, Indiana. Access to the town is through S.R. 9 where the school is located. Like many Indiana towns, there is a square that features a few restaurants on Main Street including El Jefe Mexican Restaurant and The Corner Cafe. However, your best bet might be heading south to Columbus to enjoy some of the great breweries and restaurants that the city has to offer including 450 North Brewery. Fans 5 Maybe the town had a case of cabin fever since this was the first game played in well over a week due to truculent weather in sub-zero temperatures, but there were close to 1,000 people in attendance during our visit making up 50% of the town’s population. The school’s principal that it was the norm for a weekend game and that he expected even more in attendance. The crowd wore their school colors, discussed with one another about the team’s play, and told stories about how they remember watching some of the seniors play junior ball. Access 3 The small gym is extremely easy to get around featuring concession items and bathrooms in the main lobby and staircases to the upper deck. Even though the crowd can be large, it does not become cumbersome to move around. The gym is located on State Road 9 with plenty of parking. Return on Investment 3 The Hauser Gym is somewhat located off the beaten path, but being able to drive through the small towns of the state on small roads is somewhat appealing to many individuals. The price of admission is $5 for adults, the parking is free, and the concessions are no more than $2.50 per item. You also get to enjoy basketball in one of the most eclectic-looking facilities perhaps in the area. to me, that’s worth the price of admission. Extras 4 A star is awarded to the Danger Zone, the section made up of 50 high-energy students who provide an atmosphere just as energetic as larger high school facilities and some soccer pitches. The second star is awarded to the mini silver-painted jets that adorn the top rails of the facility. A nice nod to the school’s nickname and a simple way to give the place a little home cooking. A third star is awarded to the upper deck seating which is among the quirkiest in the state. The area provides a different view of the game that is enjoyable and roomy enough to be comfortable at the same time. A final star is awarded to the home announcer who adds a level of boisterous frenzy to the pregame warmups, player introductions, and rest of the game. Final Thoughts I first heard of Hope, Indiana, from a friend at Indiana State over 20 years ago; it had taken me that long to finally visit the small town. In a state that is filled with the largest high school basketball gymnasiums on the planet, it is also home to many smaller-sized venues that are equally enjoyable to watch high school hoops. Hauser High School Gymnasium is a rollicking good time on a cold, winter’s night; if you can pencil in a trip, you’d be pleasantly surprised.

Photo Courtesy of Marists Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 McCann Baseball Field 3399 North Rd Poughkeepsie, NY 13601 Marist Red Foxes' website McCann Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 300 Outfoxing the Opposition Marist College is an independent liberal arts college perched on the east bank of the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, New York. It was founded in 1929 as a training school for Marist Brothers and has become an academic powerhouse with a student population of more than 6,000. Marist offers more than 44 bachelor's programs, 12 Masters' programs, and 21 certificate programs. One of its most unique degrees is in the area of Sports Communications. This program is designed to produce graduates who will go into the fields of sports journalism, sports information, and sports branding and marketing. The athletic teams at Marist are known as the Red Foxes and they compete in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) with schools such as Iona, Canisius, Niagara, Rider, Siena, Fairfield, Quinnipiac, and St. Peters. McCann Baseball Field serves as the home to the baseball program and is hard to miss as it is the first thing you see on your left as you enter the campus through the main gate. Built in 1992, the stadium seats 350 on wooden bleachers located on berms lining both the first and third base sides of the field. Unlike many of the surrounding schools, Marist has a natural turf field with a sand base, which allows it to drain quickly. Dimensions of the field are 390 feet to center and 317 feet down the first and third base lines. Over the years the Red Foxes have won five MAAC championships and made six NCAA tournament appearances. Food & Beverage 1 There is no onsite concession stand at McCann Field, but vending machines are available in the McCann Recreation Center immediately next door to the field. The restrooms servicing the ballpark are also located in this building. Atmosphere 2 A baseball game at McCann Field is a pretty basic experience. The bleachers surrounding the field are wood and they are very weathered, so make sure you bring a seat cushion. Along the third baseline, you will also want to make sure you do not have an obstructed view of the action as the bleachers are set amongst some trees, some of which are in front of the bleachers. For these reasons many people decide to bring lawn chairs, camping chairs, or a towel to sit on as they watch the game from the berms lining the field. A tent is set up behind the backstop for the PA system and scoreboard controls, and the announcer does a good job of updating you on the game. The Red Foxes do have a competitive team so if you just focus on baseball you can have a good time at Marist. Neighborhood 3 Marist College has a beautifully landscaped campus to tour before a ball game, with some terrific views of the Hudson River from anywhere on the college property. Downtown Poughkeepsie is just a few blocks south of Marist, with a wide variety of dining options. These include the Bluestone Bistro, River Station, Mahoney’s Irish Pub, and the Ice House on the Hudson. Many of these restaurants are owned by or utilize graduates of the Culinary Institute of America, which is located in nearby Hyde Park. Nightlife in town seems to center on the Blue Collar Brewery, just a few blocks from campus. Almost any hotel chain you can think of at any budget level will be available to you in Poughkeepsie. Fans 2 A majority of the fans you will see at the games will be students. Attendance at a game will fluctuate greatly depending on who the opposing team is, and the weather, which can be raw in the early spring. A majority of the MAAC teams are either New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut-based so the visitors travel well. Often Marist fans will know players or fans from the opposing team. The students who do come out to the games are very knowledgeable, as many are enrolled in the Sports Communication major at the school. Access 3 Marist is very easy to get to as it is located just off Highway 9 in Poughkeepsie. It is located 75 miles north of New York City and 75 miles south of Albany. Marist is approximately 15 miles north of I-84 via Highway 9. It has frequent commuter rail service, with direct connections to the campus on a regular basis. Once on campus, parking is available immediately adjacent to the baseball field in the McCann Center lot. Dutchess County Transit offers several in town routes that service the university. Return on Investment 3 Going to a baseball game at McCann Field is not going to empty your wallet. There is no charge to park your car or to attend the game. The concessions available are at a vending machine cost, and you are welcome to bring in food from any of the many fast food locations along Hwy 9 that runs right in front of the school. Add to that the easy access and you can have an enjoyable day trip in Poughkeepsie at a reasonable cost. Extras 3 Marist and the surrounding area offer several extras, many of which relate to its location immediately adjacent to the mighty Hudson River. An extra that is hard to miss as it towers above both the campus and the town is the 1.28-mile-long Walkway over the Hudson. This former railroad bridge has now been converted to a pedestrian walkway/bikeway and it offers stunning views of the Hudson River Valley below while providing a unique exercise opportunity for both residents and visitors alike. Another “must do” while at Marist is to visit the museum, home, and library of FDR located just 4 miles from the campus in Hyde Park, NY. Managed by the National Park Service, the Roosevelt complex is accessible via shuttle bus from the downtown railroad station in Poughkeepsie. Those enjoying the great outdoors may want to try one of the many cruises on the Hudson options available along the waterfront.

Photos Courtesy of Canisius College Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Demske Sports Complex Delavan Ave Buffalo, NY 14208 Canisius Golden Griffins website Demske Sports Complex website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 1,200 Demske’s Diamond is Different Canisius College is a Jesuit University located in Buffalo, NY. It was founded in 1870 to serve the largest Jesuit Catholic European immigrants who settled in the greater Buffalo region. Today it has a student body of greater than 4,000 students who attend one of three schools; Arts and Sciences, Business or Education and Human Services. The Canisius athletic teams compete as the Golden Griffins and are part of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. A Golden Griffin is a mythical creature that is a hybrid of the head, forelegs, and wings of an eagle, combined with the hindquarters, tails, and ears of a lion. It was chosen by the school to represent speed and the ability to soar like an eagle while having the strength and courage of a lion. In 2013 the Golden Griffin was named the winner of best Catholic School Mascot in the Country by BustedHalo.com, a Catholic web magazine written by and for young adults. (Notre Dame’s leprechaun could not be reached for the comment). The Golden Griffins baseball team has an overall record of two hundred-plus games under .500, but in recent years has turned the program around, with a winning percentage over .600, a MAAC tournament championship, and an NCAA Tournament appearance. The baseball team’s home, Demske Sports Complex, shares many of the hybrid qualities of the school’s mascot. It is truly one of the more unique athletic facilities you will visit, especially at the college level. Due to the urban setting and a lack of space to expand, along with the harsh weather Buffalo experiences, Canisius has a single 14-acre, artificial turf multi-purpose facility to service its baseball, soccer, lacrosse, and softball programs. The field is made of A-Turf, which is designed to increase shock absorption, decrease injuries and stand up to heavy use by multiple sports. Because of its versatility, Demske has hosted MAAC championship tournaments for soccer, softball, and lacrosse on the same field in the past few years. The complex has permanent grandstand seating for 1,000 and portable bleachers to hold an additional 200 spectators. The baseball portion of the complex is in one quadrant of the complex, and it has an all-artificial surface except for the home plate area, the areas immediately around the bases, and the pitcher’s mound. This minimizes the, of, except, number ground-keeping required on the field, as the turf drains quickly and any snow can be removed with a brushing machine. The main work required to prepare the field for a game is the installation of a temporary fence in the right field to enclose the actual in-play area. The backstop and dugouts and scoreboard are permanently installed along the outer borders f the sports complex. Food & Beverage 4 A very well-stocked concession stand is located in the plaza directly behind home plate. Its food offerings include hot dogs, hot pretzels well-stocked, and nachos (all $2); popcorn, chips, hot drinks, and candy (all $1) and an assortment of drinks priced at $2. The stand is well-staffed and there is usually no line. Atmosphere 4 A Canisius baseball game is a community event, as the turnout draws from the surrounding neighborhoods, teachers, students and alumni. Because of its close proximity to the Buffalo Business District and the rail station across the street, it is not unusual to see a large number of alums in attendance at the games. The design of the field is filled with bright graphics in the yellow and blue colors of the school, adding to the festive mood. The athletic department also is very fan oriented, as they have an onsite merchandise store in addition to a well stocked concession stand, all located where you will not miss any game action. Neighborhood 3 The setting for the main campus is a mixed bag of business and residential neighborhoods within the downtown Buffalo Business District. The campus is several blocks long fronting Main Street, with the Demske Sports facility at the south end of campus. Across Main Street from the campus is the very famous Forest Hills Cemetery, the last resting place for many of Buffalo’s leading citizens. One of Buffalo’s most famous restaurants/bars, the Anchor Bar, the originator of Buffalo Hot Wings is just a few blocks south of the campus on Main Street. The Buffalo Metro Rail System has two stations on campus, allowing easy access to many of Buffalo’s best attractions. Fans 4 The Golden Griffins have a boisterous fan following that fills up the bleachers, the plaza behind home plate, and other nooks and crannies around the uniquely designed Demske Sports Complex. They proudly wear the blue and yellow colors of the school and are not afraid to make their opinions of the umpires’ calls known. The positioning of the baseball infield in one corner of the field layout truly brings the fans as close to the action as possible, so there is not a bad seat in the house. Two sets of bleacher seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Other seating options include picnic tables, as well as park benches directly behind the backstop. Access 4 Due to its urban location, Canisius and the Demske complex rate high for accessibility. It is serviced by the Delevan/Canisius station on the Buffalo Metro Rail System and by bus service provided by Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority. All Canisius students receive an all-zone Metro Pass, which allows them to access hospitals, restaurants, sporting events, and all the nightlife Buffalo has to offer. Free parking is available for cars in a lot immediately adjacent to the field. As a result, many students do not bring their cars to school, which greatly reduces traffic and parking issues on campus. For those coming in from out of town for a game, the Buffalo International Airport is less than 10 miles away. Return on Investment 4 There is no admission charge or parking fee for attending a Canisius baseball game, which is a real rarity in an urban setting. Throw in a well-run concession stand with reasonable prices, immediate access to the public transit rail system, and a team that has been very successful in recent years, and you get an excellent return on your investment. Extras 3 Canisius deserves one point simply for the innovative design of its sports complex. Additional extras include its proximity to the Buffalo theatre district, as well as some of the best restaurants in town, all made very accessible by light rail. Final Thoughts Demske Sports Complex is one of the most “interesting” multi-purpose facilities and is worth a visit when in Buffalo.

McCoy Stadium Sunset. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Since the relocation of the Pawtucket Red Sox to Worcester, MA, baseball fans have wondered what was to become of beloved McCoy Stadium. Rumors circulated about an independent baseball team moving to the old ballpark or of a plan to convert the facility into a soccer stadium, but nothing came to fruition. The answer finally came this past November, when Pawtucket voters approved a measure to demolish the stadium and build a $300 million high school on the site. The Pawsox had planned to close out their time in the Ocean State with a final season in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the entire season. Many fans felt that they never had a chance to say goodbye to their team or the ballpark. Before McCoy Stadium comes down, the administration of Pawtucket Mayor Donald R. Grebien wants to give fans one last chance chance to enjoy the stadium. PawSox Celebrate a walk-off home run in McCoy Stadium's final game. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Barry Richard of 1420 WBSM reports that there are plans for a final celebration at McCoy. "We are planning on having it around this coming Fourth of July and hoping to make it a multi-day celebration," stated Pawtucket Administration Spokesperson Grace Voll. For many years, a highlight of every PawSox season were the fireworks held on and around the Foruth of July. "The goal is to tie it into the fireworks display, but I don't have anything confirmed, and that could change," Voll said. Voll said nothing is definite yet regarding the ultimate demolition of McCoy Stadium. "We still don't have a timeline on demolition. I would say it is more likely to happen after the summer," she said. McCoy Stadium closed with a whimper. Sending it out with a bang seems a much more appropriate way to say goodbye to this Rhode Island landmark. McCoy Stadium Grandstand. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.

Photo Courtesy of Cal Poly Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Robert A. Mott Gymnasium One Grand Ave San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 Cal Poly Mustangs website Robert A. Mott Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 3,032 The Asylum Located smack in the middle of California’s Central Coast region, California Polytechnic State University is a remotely located member of the public California State University system. Far from the bustle of Los Angeles and San Francisco, Cal Poly is surrounded by an oasis of wineries, beaches and mountain charm. The centerpiece of San Luis Obispo, the university is home to over 20,000 students in a town of just over 45,000 residents. San Luis Obispo County however makes up a large coastal county north of Santa Barbara with a population of over 250,000, giving the Mustangs a large local fan base to draw from. Robert Mott Gymnasium (aka Mott Athletic Center), the home of Mustangs basketball, is a portrait of well-maintained longevity. Opened in 1960, the facility manages to look brand new while simultaneously harkening back to an era of low bluegrass basketball played in a quaint fieldhouse. Seating just 3,032, it’s easy to question the need for a larger and more modern arena. But if you asked the Cal Poly faithful, it would no longer be The Asylum. Food & Beverage 2 At first, it’s hard to even tell if food is an option at Mott Gym. The one concession stand (two tables pushed together) is tucked away in one corner of the gym practically underneath the end court bleachers. Operated by two friendly college students, the concessions include tri-tip, Johnsonville brats, hot dogs, nachos (with plenty of toppings), kettle corn and beef sticks. Fortunately, the brand quality is considerably better than the high school concessions stand setup. Aside from the $7 tri-tip, everything is available for under $5. Beverages peak at a $4 Jamba Juice and include coffee, cocoa, Monster energy drinks and a variety of sodas. Atmosphere 3 Nicknamed “The Asylum,” the arena really is a surprisingly raucous atmosphere. What Mott Athletic Center lacks in size, it compensates for with noise. The Mustang fans normally pack the house and get behind their team in green. The seats are packed around the court on all sides with an excellent acoustic setting to deliver maximum noise. The energy is really only limited by the size of the gym. Any small school debate on whether it’s better to have a massive half full stadium or a tiny gym bursting at the seams with fans is encapsulated in Mott Athletic Center. On one end of the court is a small bleacher section mostly packed with a very engaged pep band. Although not large, this group of energetic students play their instruments loud and do their best to impact the game. In front of the band section the cheerleaders also engage heavily with the small, but mighty arena. Overall, the energy in the building is palpable for a Mustangs game. There’s also plenty of activity during each time out with t-shirts flying and typical basketball promotions rolling. Take the butts out of the seats though, and this is just a really nice high school gym that happens to host a Division I college team. Seats are broken into four sections that require walking along the sidelines to go between. Practice hoops hang from the four corners of the court and it would appear all of the bleacher seating retracts into the wall. New video boards have been installed at either end of the court giving a modern feel to the arena and the green and white paint is crisp and looks new. One of the cooler features is a long hall behind the media booth side of the court that acts as the Cal Poly Hall of Fame. This hall consists of glass casing extending from one end of the building to the other. While most of the names here will likely be unrecognizable, you’ll definitely recognize the faces of Ozzie Smith, John Madden, and Chuck Liddell. Neighborhood 4 San Luis Obispo and the surrounding area is one of California’s hidden treasures. It’s likely not on your list of must see cities in the Golden State, but I guarantee the area won’t disappoint. Just up the road from some of the Central Coast’s most popular beaches and surrounded by wineries, rolling hills, breweries and excellent restaurants, the area promises relaxation and comfort. Closer to the arena in downtown San Luis Obispo, you’ll find a gem of a downtown chock full of wonderful pre-game options. If a drink or two before tipoff suits your fancy, there is a myriad of choices nearby. Central Coast Brewery, SLO Brewing Company, The Library, Black Sheep, and Mother’s Tavern are just a few of the choices waiting for you less than five minutes from campus. For food, High Street Market & Deli, Ciopinot, Novo, Big Sky Cafe and much, much more offer delicious options in the immediate area. I would strongly recommend parking downtown and just strolling the beautiful streets to step inside the most tempting locations. Fans 4 Maybe they get credit for the lower capacity of the Mott Athletic Center, but the fans pack the place. I appeared at a game once only to find that no tickets were available. For this reason I’d definitely recommend buying tickets in advance. Outside the arena, a tent is setup and passionate fans congregate in what appears to be a more formal than usual tailgate setting. And it’s not just numbers that make the fans formidable. Once inside the gym the Mustang faithful are passionate, knowledgeable, and loud. Perhaps the recent successful trip to the NCAA tournament in 2014 has boosted their following, but it’s hard not to question if the Mustang’s following has outgrown the venue. Access 3 On a wide scale, San Luis Obispo isn’t particularly close to anywhere. While that makes it a hidden gem of a small town in the central coast, it also means it’s not easy to get to. Driving from any direction will require winding roads up the coast or through the mountains. Beautiful drives for sure, but not an easy day trip from most locations. Once in the area however, it’s incredibly easy to get to the campus and gym. The university is located just off of US 1 and US 101. Parking is a straight shot into a large garage or a large lot if you’re willing to walk a bit further. The Mott is located a bit off the road on campus, so anything other than the garage will be a short walk along a sunken sidewalk. Once inside the gymnasium, it’s small enough that you can easily access any seating. Keep in mind, it will likely be crowded and the bleachers have some long sections where you may have to climb over other spectators to get to your seats. Because of the high school gym layout, you’ll have to pay attention to game action as you walk the sidelines. To cross the baselines in particular, make sure play is safely on the other end of the court. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices are very reasonable, in the $10-$20 range. Parking is $6 for bigger games, but apparently free for others. Food may not be spectacular, but it’s definitely cheap. Overall this is a relatively inexpensive outing for such a raucous atmosphere. Just be sure to buy your ticket in advance. Extras 2 There aren’t a ton of extras to speak of, but a couple of cool features come to mind. It doesn’t seem like an extra, but a packed gym at such a small size is unique for modern D-I basketball. So many teams nowadays are playing in cavernous arenas that aren’t even half full. In addition, the Hall of Fame is a very cool touch and adds a hint of history to a program and school you wouldn’t normally associate with tradition. Final Thoughts While not the biggest, baddest or most impressive of venues, Cal Poly basketball at the Mott Athletic Center brings with it an experience all its own. Add in the beauty of the surrounding area, and it’s more than worth a trip into town in your best green and gold attire to cheer on the Mustangs.

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

Photos by Stephen Schmidt, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Gary Hogan Field 2400 South Harrison St Little Rock, AR 72204 Little Rock Trojans website Gary Hogan Field website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 2,550 The House that Hogan Built Upon asking about the history of Gary Hogan Field, Hogan himself leads you to a large photo. It is a picture of the stadium that would become his namesake, taken on the July day in 1985 when he began his 11-season tenure as the head coach of the University of Arkansas-Little Rock baseball team. It rests on one of the walls of the venue’s Legends Room as a reminder of the team’s humble — and dusty — roots. Back then, the field had no infield grass and looked no better than a sandlot encased by rickety chain-link fencing. “I have that same picture, the original picture, in my office. When I have a bad day, I look at that picture and go – Nothing can ever be as bad that,” said Hogan, who currently serves as the school’s associate athletic director. He still attends a majority of the Trojans’ home games, helping out with various tasks in the press box. The exact date of the field’s construction is unknown, but the Trojans first started playing on it in 1978. Its infamous playing conditions forced the Trojans in the early ’80s to play some of their games at Ray Winder Field and Fort Roots Field in North Little Rock. Under Hogan’s guidance and fundraising ability, the park has steadily made an assortment of improvements — including most recently the addition of polyurethane turf in the infield in place of standard AstroTurf in the field in 2011 — to allow UALR to stay competitive in the Sun Belt Conference. In 2004, the school received an offer for its biggest donation to date for $1.6 million — provided that Curran Conway Field got a name change. “Does it feel strange to see my name out there?” Hogan said of looking out to see the scoreboard with his name on it. “Yes… Always strange.” Food & Beverage 3 There is only one concession stand that sells the standard fare. The most popular items are hot dogs for $2. Fans can also get a combo meal with chips and drink (Pepsi products) for $4 with a hamburger or $5 with a cheeseburger. Other items include nachos for $2 and an assortment of candy for $1.25. In addition, team wristbands are also available next to the candy for $3 each. Fans are allowed to bring in coolers, something that caters to the crowd taking advantage of the wide concourses by lining the top of the stands with collapsible chairs. Beer is permitted, too, as long as it’s in a cup. Atmosphere 3 The backdrop certainly puts the park in ballpark as the outfield wall butts up against a thick range of towering trees that create quite the scenic view, interspersed with rooftops from the surrounding Oak Forest neighborhood. The stadium is located inside Curran Conway Park and this is evident as soon as you drive into the parking lot that is almost entirely shaded due to the massive trees. The stadium’s overhang covers at least half of the venues seating area. There is only one gate to enter. Instead of a ticket booth, fans will find someone sitting at a table selling general admission tickets for $5 each that resemble those given out for a raffle at a church picnic. The grandstand features approximately 500 green chair back seats that are surrounded by rows of bleacher seats. Four large poles hold it up, but none are overly distracting. Still, it is best to avoid the perimeter of the chair backs if you want a clear view of the first and third base paths. Grandstand at Gary Hogan Field, Photo by Stephen Schmidt, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 1 Although the stadium and park have a certain rustic beauty about them, they are in a less-than-ideal locale. There are no surrounding bars, restaurants or places of interests, besides the UALR campus itself, within an easy walk or drive from the stadium. The area is highly residential — in an area that has a bad reputation for crime. There have been documented instances of cars getting broken into in the parking lot in the past. One off-duty police officer, who has patrolled a majority of the UALR games, said he only had one occurrence happen on his watch this season. There is not a nearby traditional UALR sports bar loaded with Trojan gear, but members of the college community love to flock to Senior Tequila at 2000 S. University Ave. for good fajitas and margaritas — and mariachi band music on Sunday night. For nightlife, most everyone in town heads to the River Market area in downtown Little Rock, which is a 10-minute drive away with no traffic. Fans 3 The fans are knowledgeable. In spite of their small numbers, they could certainly generate a lot of noise whenever the Trojans made a noteworthy play. Many used giveaway plastic rattlers to create noise at opportune times. It should be noted that the game I attended was taking place during the school’s finals, so it’s hard to fault a low student turnout. Access 2 There are plenty of places to park and it’s free. Curran Conway Park and the stadium are not very well marked, noted only by a couple of small brown signs. An out-of-towner might find it a little difficult to navigate there. There is only one set of restrooms. The men’s facilities are small (one toilet, two urinals) and could use a fresh coat of paint — among other enhancements. That being said, there is never a line to get inside. The stadium does have a wheelchair ramp to allow easy access to disabled visitors and plenty of space for them to perch at the top of the concourse and enjoy the game. Return on Investment 4 In spite of the surrounding neighborhood, a game at Gary Hogan Field remains a high value — especially for baseball purists who are mainly interested in watching Division I baseball for $5 a ticket to sit anywhere. It would be hard to imagine a more idyllic scene at other college baseball venues in Arkansas than watching the sun setting for an evening game amidst the lush trees. The fact that anyone can bring in coolers and outside food adds to the overall value. Extras 3 One point is awarded for the wooden deck in left field that offers great views on the third base side and great opportunity for fans to eat and drink next to a table surface. One point is given for the wide concourses that allow for good views all the way around. In addition the top of the grandstands feature fans to help cool down visitors when the weather heats up. One final point is awarded for the surrounding greenery in the outfield — especially if you saw how the backdrop looked in the early 80s before Hogan took over the ship.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Walter Brown Arena 285 Babcock St. Boston, MA 02215 Boston University Terriers women's hockey website Walter Brown Arena website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 3,806 A Home of Their Own The Walter A. Brown Arena Memorial Skating Pavilion is named for Walter Brown, the original owner of the Boston Celtics and former president of the Boston Bruins. The rink has served as the home to the Boston University men’s hockey team since 1971 and the women’s hockey team since 2005. With the men’s team move in 2005 to Agganis Arena, Walter Brown Arena became one of the few on-campus hockey venues in the country dedicated solely to women’s hockey. Walter Brown Arena is part of the Harold Case Physical Education Center, which also includes Case Gymnasium directly above the hockey rink. The arena stands on the site of Braves Field, which served as home field of the Boston Braves of Major League Baseball before they moved to Milwaukee in 1953. The Case Athletic Center stands approximately where the left field pavilion stands once stood. The Terriers have qualified for 6 NCAA Tournaments and have played in a pair of Frozen Fours (2011 & 2013). Food & Beverage 0 There are no concessions open during Terrier games. It’s a shame, as the concession stands underneath the seating area appear to be in operational shape. There are signs at the stands advertising hot dogs, beer, sandwiches, and that hockey staple, sushi. With the cold temperatures in Walter Brown Arena, some coffee or hot chocolate would sure come in handy. There are a pair of vending machines in the Walter Brown Arena that contain assorted snacks and drinks. They are a popular spot during intermissions, as lines of hungry Terrier fans form. Veteran visitors to Walter Brown Arena simply bring in their own snacks to enjoy while watching the game. Atmosphere 2 Generally, the atmosphere at a BU women’s hockey game is pretty much what you would expect when a crowd of 200-300 people take in a game in a venue that fits almost 4,000. However, if you happen to visit Walter Brown Arena on a day where Boston College is the opponent, the atmosphere here is kicked up a notch or two. A scaled-down version of the BU Pep Band shows up for the Terriers, and they do a great job filling the arena with noise throughout the game. While the student section doesn’t show up in the numbers that the men’s team sees, the women’s team does have their followers, who show up with signs, chants and energy. Many of your standard in-game hockey staples are present here for Terrier hockey fans. The team runs some promotions and giveaways, such as Score-O and an intermission game with a pair of pee-wee squads. If you like a low-key atmosphere with a lot of room to spread out, Walter Brown Arena may be the place for you. Neighborhood 5 Boston University is an urban campus, straddling Commonwealth Avenue for approximately a mile and a half on the Boston/Brookline border. While this area of Boston isn’t considered a popular tourist destination, there is still plenty of things to do in the vicinity. Fans coming to campus will find plenty of choices if eating before or after the game. Raising Cain is a popular fast food place near Case Gym, specializing in several varieties of chicken fingers. T’s Pub is a popular gathering spot about a block away from the Gym, as is Sunset Cantina, which features Mexican-style fare. There are several excellent Thai restaurants around, including the Brown Sugar Café. The Paradise Rock Club, known nationally for giving bands like U2 and REM their first area shows, is located a block away from Case Gym. It continues to host both local acts and up-and-coming national acts. Out of town visitors to Boston will be interested to know Kenmore Square and Fenway Park are just over a mile away. Not far beyond that are the tourist destinations of Copley Square, the Back Bay, the Boston Common and Chinatown. All are easily accessed by the Green Line, which has stops up and down Commonwealth Avenue. Fans 2 Boston University averages about 300 fans per game at Walter Brown Arena, which, although a small fraction of the building’s capacity, puts them right in the middle of all schools nationwide in terms of attendance. If you come to a game against big rival Boston College, expect to see a crowd approaching 1,000 people. Access 4 With the history and status in college hockey’s annals that a building like Walter Brown Arena has, you would expect to see a breathtaking exterior, or at least know you were at the home of one of the biggest programs in the nation. If so, you will be very disappointed as you approach Walter Brown Arena. Located at the end of a dead end street, the plain brick building is marked only by a small sign containing the Boston University logo along with the names of the schools in the Patriot League and Hockey East Conferences. Driving in Boston is a difficult proposition, as streets in the city, in use since colonial times, are laid out in a seemingly random fashion. Streets are narrow, parking is nearly impossible, traffic is seemingly always backed up, and there are construction projects everywhere to further gum up the works. Should you still wish to drive to a Boston University game, Walter Brown Arena is actually not very difficult to get to. The BU campus straddles Commonwealth Avenue, one of the major drags in the city. Walter Brown Arena is about a block from Commonwealth Ave. on Babcock Street. Parking is available in a covered lot located across Babcock St. underneath the New Balance Field. On street parking is also available in the vicinity of Case Athletic Center, but be aware of the times that meters are in operation. The best method for arriving at Walter Brown Arena, as well as most points in Boston, is to take public transportation, known as the MBTA, or “T”, for short. The Green Line’s B train has a stop on Babcock Street just steps from the front door of the arena. Walter Brown Arena is located on the ground floor of the Case Center, which houses both the hockey arena and Case Gymnasium. Fans will enter Walter Brown Arena from Babcock Street into the main lobby. The BU Athletic Hall of Fame is located here, as is the ticket booth. The hockey rink is located right off of the lobby. Fans will enter Walter Brown Arena onto a platform that offers standing room views of the action. The concourse wraps under the seating area, with the press box, rest rooms, and some additional standing room area located at the far end of the rink. The concourse and restrooms are cramped, and must have been really tough to get around in back when this arena was packed for Terriers men’s games back in the day. Seats closest to the ice are individual folding seats, with seats higher up bleacher seating with seat backs. At Walter Brown Arena, the seats a little further removed from the ice offer better views of the action. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Terriers women’s hockey games cost six dollars, with discounts for youths and seniors. Group tickets cost a mere three dollars. Parking in the lot right across the street from Walter Brown Arena costs ten dollars. There is on-street parking available, but be aware of the hours of operation of the meters. Many fans avoid the cost of parking and aggravation of Boston driving by taking the T to Boston University. A one-way fare costs $2.65 and allows access to much of the city. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded to the history on display throughout Walter Brown Arena. From the many trophies that fill the cases in the lobby to the names that adorn the wall of the BU Athletic Hall of fame located here, Walter Brown Arena’s legacy as one of the hubs of college hockey is front and center here. While BU women’s hockey doesn’t have the following of the men’s team, it is great to see them have their own dedicated home. It’s a luxury not too many women’s programs enjoy. Final Thoughts Walter Brown Arena has a long and storied place in college hockey’s annals, and is worth a visit by any dedicated hockey fan. While the men’s program may have outgrown this facility, it is in good shape, and ready for its new life as home of the women’s program. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photo Courtesy of St. Louis Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Billiken Sports Center 1 S Compton Ave St Louis, MO 63103 St. Louis Billikens website Billiken Sports Center website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 500 Billikens on the Basepaths St. Louis has long been regarded as one of the best baseball towns in America. Names such as Sportsman’s Park, Busch Stadium, Stan the Man, Jack Buck, KMOX, the St. Louis Browns and the St. Louis Cardinals all have a prominent place in the baseball history books. Yet there is another baseball team headquartered just a few miles down the street from Busch Stadium that is a little bit lesser known, the St. Louis University (SLU) Billikens. St. Louis University is a Jesuit university just west of downtown, with a student body of more than 13,000 students. Its history is closely tied to the city of St. Louis, as it was founded in 1818 as part of the Great Western Expansion, and was the first university west of the Mississippi River. More recently it has undergone a massive expansion, funding more than $850 million in campus improvements. The athletic teams of the university are known as the Billikens. What, you may ask, is a Billiken? It depends on who you ask. Some say he is a cartoon creation, others a mythical creature or a good luck charm. Physically, a Billiken resembles an alien creature from Area 51 with Smurf-type highlights. Whatever it is, it is unique in the mascot world. The baseball Billikens have had a very impressive record over the years. They have made seven NCAA Tournament appearances, won five Missouri Valley Conference Championships and three Atlantic 10 Conference Championships. They are the westernmost member of the Atlantic 10 Conference, which includes schools such as Davidson, Rhode Island, LaSalle, UMass, Virginia Commonwealth, George Washington and St. Joseph’s. Home field for the Billikens is the Billikens Sports Center. The stadium opened in 1990 and has a capacity of 500 permanent seats. The on campus field underwent massive renovations in 2011, taking up the artificial turf and replacing it with natural grass. Food & Beverage 2 The food and beverage offerings at Billikens games are minimal and are served from a portable tent set up behind the bleachers. Offerings include sodas for $3, water for $2, hot dogs for $2.25 and candy for $1.25. There are numerous fast food restaurants nearby and many fans bring their own food to the games. Atmosphere 2 For an on campus stadium, there is little to suggest that the stadium is a part of the university. The only reminders are the Billiken name on the scoreboard and the presence of the massive Chaifetz Arena which dominates the entire backdrop beyond the outfield walls.The remainder of the SLU campus has dozens of statues of everyday people placed all around campus, yet there is no signage denoting the sports complex or any statues of athletic figures. The field is in excellent condition, but is devoid of any ornamentation to fire up the fans. Neighborhood 4 SLU is definitely an urban campus, which has both good and bad aspects. Being situated downtown you are close to all the major attractions in St. Louis. The Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and Union Station can all be seen from the campus. The Metrolink light rail system is excellent (and cheap) and lodging and restaurants (Syberg’s on Market or Pappy’s Smokehouse) are located across the street from the campus. As far as entertainment and restaurants in the area, you have two great districts to choose from. The newest is Ballpark Village, which is located across the street from Busch Stadium. It has a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. Another area with a variety of options is LaClede’s Landing, located in an old warehouse district along the Mississippi Riverfront. While in town, two recommendations are to sample the many beers made here and to sample some of the German food, as St. Louis has a long German heritage. On the negative side, like any urban setting, there is a crime issue, so driving or taking public transportation after dark it is advised to be cautious. Fans 3 Being a baseball fan is in the genes of St. Louis residents, and the SLU fans are no different. The ballpark is just across the street from their dorms and it is a fun and convenient way for students to finish their day after classes end. SLU students are not rowdy at baseball games, but they are passionate about their team. Seating is in aluminum bleachers behind home plate and the fan mix is typically 70% parents and around 30% students. Access 4 Getting to SLU, a Cardinals game or any other downtown activity is very easy as St. Louis is located at the intersection of Interstates I-64, I-55 and I-44. Lambert Airport is located about 10 miles north of downtown and the Metrolink rapid rail system runs from the airport to many of the downtown areas of interest. The one thing you will notice is that downtown St Louis has many one way streets. If you think you can’t get here from there, simply go a block east or west to go the other way! Return on Investment 3 You realistically need to plan a long weekend when you visit St. Louis, as there is so much to see and do. The SLU games will not break your bank account, as baseball games are free, parking is $5 and refreshments are reasonably priced. Hotels in St. Louis can run from $300 to a more family friendly $130. Restaurants can also run a wide range, as there are fast food options in nearby Union Station to one of the pricier fine dining options near the convention hotels and the riverfront. If you want to save some money, the St. Louis rapid rail system, Metrolink, goes almost everywhere you want to go for $2.50 one way or $5 round trip and can eliminate the need for a rental car and hassles of finding parking. If you want to add a Cardinals game to your visit, figure tickets at a range of $35 – $80 and parking at $20. It is a good idea to buy tickets ahead of your visit, as even weekday games can be sellouts. Extras 4 Like most major American cities, St Louis has many extras worth considering during your visit. A Cardinals game at Busch Stadium is a bucket list item for any true baseball fan. Even if you are a teetotaler, a visit to the Budweiser Brewery is a must, as it is home to the famed Clydesdale horses seen in the commercials. The Missouri Botanical Gardens are absolutely beautiful in the spring. You can ride an elevator to the top of the Gateway Arch for a spectacular view of downtown St. Louis and the Mississippi River. Final Thoughts For the first time in my life I met a Billiken, now that I’ve been to SLU I doubt I’ll see one again! (old rhyme in the St. Louis area)

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.00 John W. Smithson Field N Latchs Ln Merion Station, PA 19066 St. Joseph’s Hawks website John W. Smithson Field website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 400 The Hawks’ Nest Since 1958, St. Joseph’s University has played their home baseball games off campus, even as far as the former Campbell’s Field in Camden, NJ. But with the 2008 addition of the Maguire Campus, St. Joseph has been able to add new athletic facilities, as well as academic buildings. John W. Smithson Field now serves as the home of the baseball program after opening in 2012. St. Joseph’s University is a Roman Catholic Jesuit university located at the crossroads of the Wynnefield neighborhood of Philadelphia and Lower Merion Township. The university straddles Route 1, with a pedestrian bridge connecting both parts of the campus. The baseball field is technically located in Merion Station, PA. The athletic programs of St. Joseph are part of the Atlantic 10 Conference. This conference, many in the northeast, is not considered a hotbed of baseball. but you may see some competitive teams in this league. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food options at Smithson Field. Bring your own food if you wish to enjoy anything. A single soft drink machine is located in the basement of the local athletic building. The only bathroom is located here, and a guard has to let you in for access. Atmosphere 2 The three sections of stands are very small, but sound tends to travel with the sheltered design. You can also view the game standing along the various fences surrounding the field. A personal favorite is the small abutment near the first base foul pole heading towards the elevated bullpens. Neighborhood 4 The university is located in a nice area of town. There are large gothic-style houses and buildings in the area. You can see some of these buildings from the field itself, and they offer a pleasant view. St. Joseph University is located on the Main Line in Philadelphia. This area has some of the wealthiest towns in the country, including Lower Merion, Radnor, and Gladwyne. There is nothing right near the baseball field besides these houses. If you walk back to the main part of campus, there are some nice shopping and restaurants nearby. Larry’s Steaks offers traditional Philly cheesesteaks across from the Hagan Arena. That is a good option for food, although a true Philadelphia native may prefer their own cheesesteak establishment instead. In the same block is a large parking structure that has the college bookstore in its ground floor. Next to this, and also in the ground floor of the garage, is Landmark Americana, which is a great option for post-game eating. This restaurant offers a nice choice of meals and has a large bar, as well. For Saturday games, look out for the $10 all-you-can-eat wings special. They also offer numerous drink specials at the bar. Wayne, PA is another popular area to explore before games. Pipeline Tacos and Teresa’s Next Door are good options for food and drink respectively. Of course, the city of Philadelphia is close by so many options exist in that large city. May I suggest Philip’s Steaks at 2234 West Passyunk Avenue if you want to try a cheesesteak away from Larry’s? Fans 2 I attended both a morning home game, as well as an afternoon game with two visiting teams as part of the Big 5 Baseball Bash. It was also spring break. Both games were well-attended but clearly with family members only. I would doubt this would be much different during regular semesters, as the field is a bit separated from other campus activities. Access 2 St, Joseph’s is not too difficult to get to, as it is located close to exit 339 off Interstate 76 and right off of US Route 1. But the baseball stadium is another matter. Public transportation is close by as you can take a SEPTA train from 30th Street Station in downtown Philadelphia to the area. Check the schedules for night and weekend games. If following directions via GPS, you will be routed directly outside of the field, but you will find there is no parking nearby. Your best bet is to park in the parking garage across from Hagan Arena and walk over. A shuttle to the game is supposedly available, but I never saw it. If you walk around the Maguire Campus long enough you will find the field tucked away in the far corner. Return on Investment 3 It is free to get into Smithson Field. The seats are close to the action and the view from the field is nice, so it is a fair cost, even if you do end up paying to park. Extras 1 The neighborhood surrounding the field has some pretty impressive houses. If you are into architecture or just enjoy the houses of the rich and famous, you will enjoy this. Final Thoughts This is a nice, simple ballpark offering good baseball with little frills. Don’t go out of your way to attend, but if in the direct area, it may be a good place to spend a nice afternoon.

Photo Courtesy of St. Bonaventure Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Fred Handler Park at McGraw-Jennings Field 3261 W State St St Bonaventure, NY 14778 St. Bonaventure Bonnies website Fred Handler Park at McGraw-Jennings Field website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 500 Earth and Turf Fred Handler Park at McGraw-Jennings Field is home of the St. Bonaventure NCAA Division I baseball team. The original McGraw-Jennings Field dates back to October 1958, and is named after the first ever coaches at St. Bonaventure: John J. McGraw and Hugh Jennings. McGraw and Jennings were respected professional baseball players who are members of the Hall of Fame and they started the first baseball team in 1894. The team was known as the St. Bonaventure ‘Brown Indians’ until 1992 when they changed to the nickname ‘Bonnies.’ The Bonnies have played in the Atlantic 10 conference since 1984, and they won the conference Tournament back in 2004. The current Fred Handler Park is named for longtime Bonnies baseball coach, Fred Handler. The field was converted from natural grass to state-of-the art Sport Turf XP in 2006. This new green turf field is accentuated by views of the Enchanted Mountains in the background. The Buffalo News recognizes this stadium as one of the Top 10 most beautiful settings to watch a baseball game in the State of New York. Despite the beautiful setting, the remainder of the experience is average, due to the lack of amenities at the ballpark. Food & Beverage 0 No food or beverages are served at the stadium, however there are many restaurants and bars in the nearby towns of Allegheny and Olean. If you want something to snack on during the game, or something to drink, then bring your own. Atmosphere 4 St. Bonaventure fans are recognized as some of the best in the Atlantic 10 as hundreds of students, faculty and locals flock to the hillside seating, IF the weather is good. This is a big IF, because the spring in Western New York can be cold and wet. In 1979, only 12 of the 24 scheduled games were played due to a very rainy season. In 1972, the Allegheny River flooded the entire field and since then, the town has prohibited building any seating or structures on the site. There is no official capacity at Fred Handler Park because there are no seats. You would be wise to pack your own chair to bring with you to the ballpark. On a nice day, they draw about 500 fans who sit on the hill along the third baseline. The complex includes an elevated press box behind home plate, and a radio tent for broadcasting the games on local radio ESPN 1450. Dimensions are 330 feet down the left and right field lines, 367 foot power alleys, and 403 feet to center field. There is a small scoreboard in right field, and in left field banners are displayed for the 2004 Atlantic 10 Championship and NCAA Regional tournament appearance. The view from the spectators hill faces southwest into the setting sun, so make sure you bring your sunglasses and a hat with you. Neighborhood 4 St. Bonaventure is located in the town of Allegheny which has a few decent student bars and restaurants within walking distance of the campus. I would recommend Randy’s Up the River for wings and beer. You may also want to visit The Burton, which is more of a student bar. There is a Country Inn and Suites Hotel being constructed across the street from campus which should be open by 2016 baseball season. Another good option is the nearby Hampton Inn in Olean. The better restaurants and hotels are in the town of Olean about three miles east of campus. Restaurant recommendations include Beef’n’Barrel, and Tasta Pizza. Fans 4 On a nice day, the Bonnies draw about 500 fans who sit on the hill along the third baseline. Loud music is played between innings and the students dance along. The locals park their trucks facing the field and tailgate while they watch the game. People are told to park at their own risk as several foul balls narrowly missed these vehicles during my most recent visit. Access 4 The ballpark is very accessible to campus, and about three miles from the town of Olean. There is plenty of free parking, and since fans don’t pay admission to watch the games, there are no lines or gates. Just park and wander over to the hill to watch baseball. There are no restrooms at the ballpark, but you can walk to Reilly Center across the street to use the restrooms there. The Reilly Center is also where the baseball team locker rooms are located. Return on Investment 5 There is no fee for tickets or parking, and people generally bring their own food, so there is no real cost to seeing a Bonnies game other than the gas it takes you to get to the ball field. Extras 3 One extra point for the Atlantic 10 championship banner located in left field. Another extra point for the amazing view of the Enchanted Mountains. One final extra point for the nearby Tim Horton’s location – a great stop for a cup of coffee on cold day.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Malcolm U. Pitt Field Lakeview Ln Richmond, VA 23173 Richmond Spiders website Malcolm U. Pitt Field website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 600 The Spiders Web Located on the scenic University of Richmond campus on the edge of the city of Richmond, Malcolm U. Pitt Field is home to the Spiders’ baseball team. The stadium sits in between the Robins Center and Westhampton Lake and has seating for 600 fans. Pitt Field opened in 1975 and has undergone several renovations over the years. A new sound system and scoreboard were added in 2008 and artificial turf was added in 2015. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand at Pitt Field located at a window on the first base side of the press box. The only things you can really make a meal out of are nachos ($5) and hot dogs ($3) but there are plenty of snacks available including typical items like peanuts and caramel corn and more unusual items such as trail mix. Soda and bottled water are available as well, with nothing other than the nachos costing more than $4 and most items being $3 or less. Credit cards are accepted, as is cash. Atmosphere 2 Pitt Field has a rather basic layout of two sets of bleachers, one on each side of the press box/concession stand. You will access the bleachers from a stairway on the side furthest down the lines, while another stairwell on the other side will take you to an area where the press box and concession stand are. None of the bleachers have backs, but people in the top row can lean against the back fence. There is a scoreboard in the outfield which shows a linescore and other basic information. Most prominently, there is a giant Spider logo across the outfield. The experience at a Spiders game is rather basic – there is the usual music between innings and as baters walk up, and the sound system is decent enough, but beyond that there is not much going on other than the game itself. This can be fun for some fans, but those looking for a bit more excitement like you’d get at a minor league game will be disappointed. Neighborhood 3 Richmond’s campus is about 20-30 minutes from downtown Richmond, right on the edge of the city limits. In fact, as fans of rival school VCU will love to point out, only about half of the University of Richmond campus is actually in the City of Richmond. The other half is in neighboring Henrico County. If you head down Three Chopt Road, there are a few restaurants and other places available, but your best bet is to head about three miles east on Route 147 to the Carytown neighborhood which has far more options available. We recommend the Galaxy Diner and Carytown Burgers and Fries as your best bets. Fans 4 Although Pitt Field only seats about 600, the bleachers can get pretty full during the game, particularly the ones on the third base side behind the Spiders dugout. Fans range from those who have been following the Spiders for years to little kids clearly attending their first baseball game whose parents patiently explain the basic rules to them as they watch. Fans can get quite into it, especially after big hits and defensive plays by the Spiders, and most of them stay for the entire game even if it becomes a massive blowout as it did during Stadium Journey’s visit. Access 3 The Richmond campus is located a couple miles off I-64, the Downtown Expressway, or the Powhite Parkway, depending on where you are coming from. The first route is toll-free but the second two have small tolls. Once you arrive on campus, there is ample parking available in a large lot between the stadium and the Robins Center. Just keep in mind those spaces marked in yellow are within range of home run balls – park there at your own risk or park in the white spaces further away. Note that for early season games on the same day as a Spiders basketball game, the parking situation can be completely different so check the Richmond athletics website to confirm. Once you’ve parked, however, getting to and around the stadium can be surprisingly complicated. You will need to walk down a small staircase at the back of the lot, down a path, and then up another small incline and staircase to get to the bleachers. To access the concession stand, you will need to walk down yet another staircase at the other end of the bleachers. Restrooms are located in a trailer behind the ballpark. To get there, you will need to walk out of, around, and behind the bleachers to the bottom of the hill, where you will find the trailer in between the back of the press box and the lake. The restrooms are single-occupant so you may have to wait for the previous user, but they are real restrooms, not Port-a-Potties. There is men’s restroom, a women’s restroom, and a unisex one if needed or preferred. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Spiders baseball is free, parking is free, and concessions are affordable. Depending on where you are coming from, you may have to pay a small toll to get there, but this should not be more than a dollar or two. For a chance to see a live baseball game on a scenic campus with great fans, this is well worth it. Extras 2 There are free programs in a box to the right of the concession stand. A second and final star for the giant Spider logo in the outfield, one of the more unique nicknames in sports. Final Thoughts Although it only seats 600 fans, Pitt Field is just the right size for the crowd it draws. Although the experience the team puts forth is rather basic, that is made up for by the great fans who come to cheer on their beloved Spiders. From the youngest children to those who have been going to games here since the stadium was built almost 50 years ago, everyone can have a good time at Pitt Field.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Jim Houlihan Park 441 E. Fordham Rd. Bronx, NY 10458 Fordham Rams website Jim Houlihan Park website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 1,000 Fordham Rams Baseball at Houlihan Park Jack Coffey Field was renamed Houlihan Park in 2006 following an extensive $4.3 million renovation which included lights. The park was named after Jim Houlihan class of 74. He and his family pledged $1 million to the baseball program. In 2012, Houlihan Park got another new addition with a full-color video scoreboard, made by Daktronics. The new display has the ability to show video, in game statistics and more. In summer 2014, the surface of Houlihan Park (FieldTurf) was replaced, while a new outfield wall and batting cage area (behind right field) were installed. In addition, a Daktronics sound system was installed on top of the scoreboard. Houlihan Park hosted the Atlantic 10 championship in 2006, 2012, 2016, 2019 and will host again in May 2022. Fordham won the championship in 2019. The dimensions are 338 to left, 325 to right field and 400 to center. Food & Beverage 0 There is no concession stand at Houlihan Park. In the past there was a small table that sold soda and water, and it may be there for certain games. There is no alcohol allowed since Houlihan Park is on a college campus. Atmosphere 2 The atmosphere is mellow. Attendance is typically less than 100 with mostly friends and family of the players on hand. The players walk up to music and music is played in between innings. There are four sections of bleachers with backs behind home plate with 6 rows of seats behind protective netting. There are also the football bleachers in the outfield as Houlihan Park overlaps the football stadium. The scoreboard is nice, but a bit far from the seats for its size. Neighborhood 3 The 85-acre campus, while set in the Bronx, feels like a suburban setting with plenty of trees and greenery. Visitors often forget they are in the middle of a city until hearing an occasional horn or siren from outside the gate. The University also boasts an impressive church built in 1845. The campus borders the New York Botanical Garden, with the Bronx Zoo located just a few blocks from campus. Visitors to the area looking for places to eat during their trip to Fordham have a wide array of choices. Fans should head over to Arthur Avenue and surroundings where several fantastic Italian restaurants can be found in addition to some great bakeries. A few of my favorites restaurants include Roberto’s, Antonio’s and Tra Di Noi. If pizza is your preference try Pugsley’s on 191st Street. Fans 2 Attendance is typically around 100 with mostly students, family and friends of the players on hand. The fans were appreciative of the Rams as Fordham turned two double plays on this visit. Access 3 Fordham University is located right in the middle of the Bronx, only a few miles from Interstates 95 and 87, as well as the Bronx River Parkway. Public transportation is a good option to get to Fordham. The Metro North Railroad out of Grand Central Station or coming down from Westchester or Connecticut has a Fordham stop next to the campus. The D line of the NYC subway system is located about a 12-minute walk from campus. In addition, city buses stop regularly just outside the gate. If driving, there is a large parking garage ($20) on campus, located a short walk from Houlihan Park. Fans can get lucky and find a few free spots on Southern Boulevard and another spot to park for free on weekends is 191st Street and then enter through the Bathgate Avenue entrance. Return on Investment 3 There is no charge for admission so if you find free parking an afternoon of free entertainment makes for an enjoyable day. Extras 3 There is an impressive plaque as you enter the facility along the third base side which honors all of Fordham’s baseball family elected to the school’s Hall of Fame. There are also eight individual plagues of legendary Fordham alums including Vin Scully, Walter O’Malley and Frankie Frisch. Fordham Hall of Fame Plaques, Photo by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts There is plenty to do in the area before or after to add to the experience. The campus, with its Gothic architecture, ivy-covered buildings and expansive lawns, makes Rose Hill one of New York City’s most attractive college campuses.

Photos by Brian Wilmer, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Wilson Field 202 Martin Court Dr Davidson, NC 28036 Davidson Wildcats website Wilson Field website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 700 Wilson’s Wildcats Most people who are familiar with Davidson College know them for their success on the hardwood. Davidson basketball has made a name for itself on the national stage over the last few years, led mainly by Stephen Curry’s magical run a few years ago. The Wildcats have maintained that momentum, making themselves perennial NCAA Tournament participants. Davidson baseball has not experienced the same success as their hoops brethren, but they still put a competitive product on the field each season. The Wildcats call Wilson Field their home, and this on-campus facility recently celebrated 45 years of service. The ballpark, named for Davidson graduate and multi-sport star T. Henry Wilson, Jr., got its start in March 1967, though under a different name (Wildcat Park). Though Wilson Field’s age is certainly evident if you look hard enough, it provides a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere in which to take in a game. Food & Beverage 4 It is not likely that the Food Network will ever visit a Davidson game to partake in their unique delicacies, but you certainly won’t go hungry at Wilson Field. There are several hot options from which to choose, including hamburgers and cheeseburgers ($4 for a single, $6 for a double), hot dogs ($2) and chicken sandwiches ($4). One item of note is that there is a grill just outside the concession stand, on which the burgers and dogs are cooked. It is highly unusual to see a grill at this level of baseball, so that is a nice touch. Additional snack options include candy ($1), popcorn ($1), Blow Pops ($.25), gum ($.05) and sunflower seeds ($1). Sunflower seeds and baseball seem to go hand-in-hand, so this is a good item to add to the menu. Coca-Cola products are available at the lone stand behind the third base dugout, with Coke, Diet Coke and Sprite for $1 each. If you prefer drinks of the non-carbonated variety, Gatorade is $2, with water available for $1. Coffee and hot chocolate are also $1 each. These were both popular selections on the rather cool day I visited Wilson Field, and they will help keep you warm early in the season. There is also one special note about Wilson Field’s concessions. All of the proceeds go to the Davidson volleyball team, and team members staff the stands. It is great to see teams supporting each other at the college level, particularly in sports where money is at a premium. Atmosphere 3 The real draw to Wilson Field is what you see on the outside of the park. The park is directly in the center of campus, surrounded by residences on one side and athletic facilities on another. As you approach the park, there is a staircase up to the park, with an arched entryway. The campus is beautiful, and the exterior of Wilson Field is an appropriate fit. The fixed seating in the park is all bleachers, and as is usually the case with bleachers, gets a bit uncomfortable after a while. If you take a cushion along, though, the seats are decently roomy — as bleachers go, anyway. The fixed seats behind the plate start to feel a bit like watching baseball in a cage after a while, though, as the backstop is topped by an excessively high net. If a less obscured view is what you desire, bring a lawn chair and head down the third base line. There is a wooded walkway where a number of fans tend to stand or sit and watch the game. The bonus of this area is that it is shaded, which is nice once it starts getting warm in North Carolina. There is not much inside the park to distract you from the experience of just watching baseball. A standard musical soundtrack plays between innings, and there are no cartoonish sound effects or overdone radio voices to be heard. The scoreboard is even quite utilitarian, offering just a basic “Guests” and “Home” linescore listing (a “Wildcats” tag may be good here), along with the number of the current batter, ball/strike/out counts and a hit or error indicator. The scoreboard can be a bit difficult to see during afternoon games, as the sun shines directly on the board. Neighborhood 4 Davidson is a small northern suburb of Charlotte, and there is a certain small-town feel throughout the area. There are a number of parks and walking areas within a short distance of the campus — assuming, of course, that you want to walk somewhere other than the scenic campus. There are also a number of dining options nearby, a lot of which are chronicled in our review of Richardson Stadium , Davidson’s football facility. North Carolina micro-chain Char Grill is between the campus and North Carolina Interstate 77, offering char-grilled burgers, fries, milkshakes and a number of additional post-game choices. Lake Norman is minutes from the campus, and in most cases, if you are attending a Davidson game, it is warm enough to go boating or get on your jet ski after the final pitch. If you would prefer to stay on the shore, there are fine restaurants near the lake for your evening meal. The communities of Huntersville and Mooresville are also within minutes, and center-city Charlotte or the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord are only 20 minutes away. Fans 2 A decent amount of fans attend Davidson games, and a lot of them come out wearing their Wildcat gear. The only issue with the fans is that there is not a lot of noise going on during the course of the game. At times, the stands were eerily quiet on the day I visited in early 2013. Wilson Field only seats 700 fans, so one should never expect ear-splitting sound, but the feeling much of the time is as though someone pressed the mute button on the crowd. There is a group of students that sits on the hill behind the right field fence, and they are somewhat rowdy. There is also a sign in front of their seating area that says “Welcome to Right Field,” along with another that sports a bullseye. Unfortunately, if you want to hear these fans, you will most likely need to venture out near where they are seated. They are in safe heckling distance of the right fielder, but are not easily heard elsewhere. Access 3 There is good and bad to the parking situation at Wilson Field. The good is that parking is free, which is always a nice touch. The bad is that there is very little parking nearby, leading to a potentially confusing situation. There is one very small lot in front of the stadium, and it is both usually full and highly susceptible to foul balls. Several cars were plunked with foul balls on the day I visited, much to the delight of the kids in the stands. The better suggestion is to park along the road near the campus golf center. This will result in a considerably longer walk, but will save you both the aggravation of looking for a parking place and the dollars on your comprehensive insurance deductible. If the golf center is not in use after the game, you can walk across the course to return to your car. Keep in mind, however, that the parking is in the grass, so this may be a problem if it starts raining. Davidson is served by Charlotte International Airport (CLT), which is approximately 25 miles southwest of the campus. Interstate 77 is less than 10 minutes away from the campus, serving cities to the north and south of Davidson. US Highway 21 and North Carolina Highways 73, 115 and 150 are also located within minutes. The bathrooms inside the park are reasonably small, but they are adequate to serve the crowds that usually attend Davidson games. The facilities are reasonably clean and appropriately maintained. Return on Investment 5 Davidson offers one of the best perks possible: free admission. No ticket is required. All you need to do is walk through the gate and pick a seat. This alone is enough to provide a tremendous return on investment. Because of the free admission and parking, you can get into the game, get a hot dog and soda and park your car for $3. It seems virtually impossible to see a Division I baseball game, eat and park for $3. You can, however, accomplish all of this in a day at Davidson. Extras 3 Free stat sheets are available in a bin along the front row of the bleachers at Wildcat games. This is not a program, per se, but it does provide you with the statistics of the home and visiting players. This, in conjunction with your smartphone (wi-fi is intermittently available) should give you all the information you require. The walk from your car will likely lead you by the Davidson indoor practice facility. The facility, located down the first base line, features a number of indoor batting cages, and provides plenty of room for Davidson’s players to take some swings between innings or anytime the weather outside prevents them from hitting on the field. The facility is extremely attractive for a school Davidson’s size, and if you can take a glance inside, it is recommended to do so. A dedication plaque rests at the entrance to Wilson Field. This plaque honors T. Henry Wilson, Jr., for whom the field is named. The plaque is mounted atop a brick column, and lists the date of dedication (March 19, 2005). Final Thoughts There are not many of the trappings of some of the so-called “cathedrals” at Wilson Field. The baseball experience is very straightforward, and is almost akin to a throwback when baseball was just baseball, and not dizzy bat races, kiss cams and wacky mascots. For those who like baseball — just baseball — and the warm North Carolina sunshine, Wilson Field is certainly worth a visit.

Photos by Steven Burke, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Rocky and Berenice Miller Park 2750 Ashland Ave Evanston, IL 60208 Northwestern Wildcats website Rocky and Berenice Miller Park website Year Opened: 1943 Capacity: 600 Renovated Rocky and Berenice Miller Park Northwestern University unveiled a renovated Rocky Miller Park for the 2016 season and the newly renovated and newly rechristened Rocky and Berenice Miller Park in surely one of the top ballparks in the Big Ten. Rocky Miller Park has been the baseball home of Northwestern University since 1943 and the newest renovations will ensure it remains the home of Wildcats baseball for years to come. The renovations began in 2015 with new field turf, a new backstop, and new dugouts. Renovations unveiled in 2016 include team clubhouses at the ballpark (instead of in a nearby athletic building), with the addition of Hayden Clubhouse which also features a player's lounge. Perhaps the most visible addition is the brand new press box which features designated space for different forms of media replacing the former wooden folding tables located out in the open on the concourse where home and away radio was forced to broadcast from. The ballpark also features all new folding seat back chairs, new concession stands, and a new scoreboard. Food & Beverage 3 The brand new concession stand at Rocky Miller Park shows a dedicated building for concessions and restroom facilities. The concession selections are average and the usual suspects of options are present. Prices are reasonable with Polish sausage ($4.50), hot dogs ($3.50), brats ($5), hamburgers or cheeseburgers ($5.50), popcorn, pretzel, or nachos ($4.50) all available. Additional snacks like Cracker Jack or peanuts ($4), assorted candy ($3.50), and chips ($2) round out the menu. Coca-Cola soft drinks and Dasani water are available for $4, and hot chocolate is $3. Atmosphere 3 The renovated ballpark still has a small capacity but it finally looks like a big conference facility. The seats are large and comfortable and the crowds are full and into the game. A large group of fans for the visiting team seems to be par for the course at Northwestern athletic events. This is a result of favorable ticket prices and the fact that Chicago is a desirable destination with plenty of alumni from around the Big Ten living in or near the Windy City. A few between innings promotions are done to keep the crowd excited and involved, but they do not go overboard. An additional positive attribute to the atmosphere is the fact that the majority of the Northwestern athletic facilities are in the same location. From the seats at Rocky Miller Park you can see the softball field beyond the outfield wall in center field, and Welsh-Ryan Arena beyond the right field fence. This really reiterates the fact that you are at a college game on a college campus. Neighborhood 3 Within walking distance of Rocky Miller Park is Mustard's Last Stand, a typical Chicago Vienna Beef stand serving up hot dogs and hamburgers, and is a favorite of many fans. There isn't much else in the immediate vicinity of the ballpark. In downtown Evanston there are plenty of places to park and enjoy an ever-changing array of restaurants. Smylie Brothers Brewing Company offers a great BBQ-inspired menu to go with their in-house brews. Temperance Beer Company is another local brewery with a taproom to try all of their unique brews. Downtown Evanston is most easily accessible by the CTA Purple Line via the Davis stop while Rocky Miller Park is a quick walk from the Central Purple Line stop. If you are staying in Evanston you have several choices including the Hilton Garden Inn, which is just across from the large movie theatre on Maple Avenue. Hilton Orrington, which is close to a majority of the restaurants and campus, and the Best Western University Plaza which is located on Sherman Avenue a few blocks from the middle of downtown Evanston are other options. Fans 3 There is a good mix of fans in attendance at Rocky Miller Park with students, parents, community residents, high school baseball teams, and as usual with Northwestern athletics, a large group of visiting fans. All fans are very interested in the game on the field. Most conversations in the stands occurring during play are regarding what is happening on the field. Access 4 Public transportation provides easy access to Rocky Miller Park via the Purple Line Central stop. Exiting the L stop, walk west and you will soon reach the Northwestern athletics facilities. Once you see Ryan Field you have arrived in the correct area. Walk past Ryan Field and Welsh-Ryan Arena and you will find Rocky Miller Park. Free parking is also available in the lot across the street. There are ample spaces in this lot even if large crowds are on hand for a baseball game. Return on Investment 3 All tickets are general admission and are $7 for adults and $4 for senior 65 & older, faculty/staff, children 17 and under, or students from other universities with a valid student ID. Students of Northwestern are admitted free with a valid WILDCARD ID. Extras 2 One extra point for the feel of campus ballpark. Seeing aspects of campus adds to the environment of the college game. Seeing other athletic facilities beyond the outfield wall gives a good campus setting to a game. One extra point for the investment made by Northwestern in maintaining this Big Ten facility.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.86 Bainton Field 25 Hospital Rd Piscataway, NJ 08854 Rutgers Scarlet Knights website Bainton Field website Year Opened: 1980s Capacity: 1,500 Afternoon Baseball in Jersey Rutgers installed a new FieldTurf baseball surface in 2007, thanks to a generous donation from Ron and Pat Bainton. The venue, formerly known as the Frederick E. Gruninger Class of 1953 Baseball Complex, was renamed in the Bainton’s honor after the upgrade, and the Scarlet Knights’ baseball team has enjoyed a 60%+ win rate since that time. The all-weather FieldTurf is used at professional and college football, baseball, and soccer stadiums all over the country, and allows fields to be usable (and makes them much safer) even in the worst of weather conditions. Note that only the playing surface itself is new – the rest of the complex was built much longer ago, back in the mid-eighties, and you can tell this from the heavy wear on the sign out front. I wish I could be more precise as to the timing, but the vaunted Internet failed me for the first time ever while I was writing this review – after over an hour of searching I was unable to pinpoint the exact year. I do know it was built around the time that Fred Hill starting coaching baseball at Rutgers, and I also know that Fred Gruninger served as athletics director at Rutgers for 25 years (1973-1998), was inducted into the NACDA Hall of Fame in 2006, currently lives in North Carolina, and has a sweet pension (over six figures). Food & Beverage 1 With a stated capacity for baseball of 1500, the food & beverage options are very disappointing, especially when you consider that the snack cart is shared by both the baseball and softball facilities. Only 8 options are offered – hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, candy, and chips, plus soda, bottled water, and Gatorade. Everything is $3 except for chips and water, which are $2. Thankfully admission is free, however, and there are other restaurants nearby, so you can walk over and get back in without any problem (see the Neighborhood section for more details). Atmosphere 1 Some have compared Bainton to a high school venue, due to the quasi-temporary banks of metal bleachers dotted around the field, although most of them do have chair back rails, which is a plus. There are 5 sets, including one behind the outfield, 3 between the dugouts, and another near 3rd base, which is painted a different color than the others so was probably added later. The bleachers are raised, but you can walk right up to the infield fence if you want to get closer to the action. Bainton Field does have a couple of unique features, although none of them are good – first off, they don’t have any lights, so they can’t play night games here (hence the title of this review). In fact, a game was called recently due to darkness, and thus ended in a tie, which is very unsatisfying (personally I don’t think ties should be allowed in any sport, especially in the NFL where a tie can sometimes let a team squeak into the playoffs against a more deserving team). Another unique negative at Bainton is that the press box is open-air, and at field-level, which doesn’t allow very good views of the action, and is probably annoying for the announcers because fans are walking around right behind them to get to and from the seats – this is the only stadium I have seen where the fans actually sit higher than the announcers. Lastly, the bathrooms and snack cart are not technically part of the complex – it isn’t like they are that far away from the stands, but you do have to go for a short walk to get to them. Check out the video to see these unique features for yourself: Neighborhood 3 The main campus for Rutgers University is located in New Brunswick, NJ, and is actually divided into 5 sections. Bainton Field is part of what they call the Livingston Campus, which is located across the river from New Brunswick in Piscataway Township (which is a lot of fun to say). If you are looking to stay the weekend, there is not a ton to do in Piscataway, although New York and Baltimore are only an hour or two away depending on traffic, so there is that. As I mentioned earlier there are a few restaurants near the field – on the other side of Hospital Road, behind the parking lot, there are some apartment building style dorms with a retail plaza on the ground level, which includes a movie theater, a Starbucks, a Qdoba, an asian restaurant, a frozen yogurt place, a convenience store, and a retro-style diner named Henry’s that offers a slew of fun milkshake flavors. Henry’s has a great atmosphere and offers both breakfast and lunch/dinner options all day long – I recommend the Eggs Benedict but not the Monte Cristo because it doesn’t come with jam, which quite frankly ruins the experience. All of these restaurants are on campus so they don’t serve alcohol, nor do they have TVs. That said, if you are looking for a cool hangout that offers both, there are a couple of good options about 3 miles from the field – Brick House Tavern+Tap is on the same side of the river in South Plainfield, while Olde Queens Tavern and Tumulty’s (pub) are over in New Brunswick. Brick House and Tumulty’s are both a little on the pricey side; Brick House offers mainly pizza, burgers, and meatballs, while Tumulty’s has a much fuller menu including sandwiches, seafood, and beef/chicken entrees – both have a wide selection of drinks. Olde Queens is a little odd in that their food offerings consist mostly of sliders provided by a food truck that is popular locally, but they do have nightly drink specials. Fans 2 Probably in part because they can’t play night games, attendance at Bainton is pretty sparse – they might only get 100 fans (or less) at a typical game, so the stands look pretty empty. However, those who are there seem pretty knowledgeable and are very intent on the game; in fact, some will even make a fuss if you block their view of a pitch! About half of those in attendance wear Rutgers gear, while many of the others (but not all) are dressed in the visitors’ colors. Access 3 Piscataway is easy to get to since it is right off the freeway; the baseball field on the other hand is a little tricky to find since it doesn’t have a real address, so your GPS can only get you very close. Parking is free and easy to find, if a bit haphazard; some fans just park on the grass right next to the bleachers behind the outfield, and there is a small parking area (I wouldn’t call it a “lot”) next to the field which can accommodate most of the tiny crowd. There is also a large lot just across the street which offers covered parking, which is a better idea in warmer weather. The bathrooms are very tiny; there are only 2 urinals and one stall in the men’s bathroom, which is more than adequate for the typical crowd, but could be problematic for bigger games. Also, as I mentioned earlier the bathrooms are not part of the stadium per se, so you do have to walk a little to get to them. Return on Investment 2 They don’t even bother to sell tickets, so admission is free, as is parking. Concession prices are also low, but the few options offered are not very interesting, so that isn’t much of a plus. Attending a game here is probably worth it if you are just looking for an activity to do with your kids or something, or if your team is playing here, but not much fun otherwise. Extras 1 One point for Piscataway – hands down the most fun city name in the US. Except for maybe Joe, Montana (which is a real place, by the way). Final Thoughts They have a new field, and lots of money coming in for other improvements such as the Fred Hill Baseball & Softball training complex, so there are good things coming for Rutgers baseball. The venue may be worth another look in a couple years.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey It might not look like any other kind of basketball gym, even during its time as a high school basketball gymnasium. The off-beaten dome-shaped brown roof, white painted exterior, and compact size are lovely examples of small-town gyms of another era. Sadly, the Pine Village Gym this spring will be razed. In a few short weeks, the 83-year-old gymnasium will come down to make room for parking for a new $20 million elementary school that will open this fall. The new school will have a modern gymnasium for its physical education classes, making the Pine Village Gym obsolete. The school has doubled in size, and the upkeep of maintaining the 80-year gymnasium has become cost-prohibitive, only to increase in the following years. Many are saddened by the news, but there are many others who see it as a sign of progress in the town of around 200 people. The building was part of the Works Progress Administration and featured a distinct look on its interior and exterior. Louis L. Johnson from nearby Attica was the architect of the gym. The work began in June of 1940 and cost $35,000, for which the Works Project Administration paid $29,000. The roof features diamond-shaped wood trusses created by hand and without the aid of power tools. The pattern feels like an igloo due to its white color and domed-shaped ceiling. It is an understatement to say they don't make them like this anymore. The seating bowl consists of three sides of wooden bleachers, a stage at the north end and two center-court lines, and the Pine Village logo. The court is below regulation lines. The first basketball game at the gym was December 6, 1940, with a 38-27 win against Montmorenci; the last varsity game took place on February 17, 1973, marking the end of the era for the high school that would consolidate with Seeger the following academic year. A standing-room-only crowd was on hand for the final tipoff that saw the Knots defeat Wheeler High School 90-66. An attendance figure of around 1,000 fans filled the seats. The village consisted of close to 600 residents at the time. Regardless of record, the town always supported the team very well. “Like any small community, we had a lot of spirit, loyalty, and pride,” said alumni James Forster in 1973. He was on the 1934 Sectional championship team, “We had our share of rabid fans.” The last hurrah for the Pine Knots was in 1972 when they captured its fifth sectional championship. The tiny school became the 'people’s choice' to capture the state title, the smallest school competing in the tourney. Pine Village had only 149 students when it faced off against the Benton Central Bisons, whose student body was 1,110, in the regional championship. They lost a heartbreaker to the Bisons 71-69. Before the building was scheduled for demolition, a few people stopped by, filling up the parking lot for hours, to say goodbye. Many were alumni and a few players at the gym when it was the high school home for Pine Knots High School. After consolidation in 1973, the gym became home to elementary physical education classes and community events and games. “This place was packed every Friday or Saturday night no matter the record,” said Jeff Jones, who took me on the tour of the places a few years back when news first broke on the gym’s pending future. Marv Blessing was one of the visitors, a 1964 graduate; he showed up one last time donning his old varsity jacket. He reminisced about his playing days at the old gym and wondered why the building had to come down to the Indianapolis Star. “They say it’s going to cost $2 million to keep it up. My question is, ‘How much is it going to cost to tear it down?’ It’s sad. It would have been nice to keep it as a community building, but I think the ones making the decisions probably didn’t go to school here.” ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Goldfarb Gymnasium University Parkway Baltimore MD 21218 Johns Hopkins Blue Jays website Goldfarb Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 1,100 Gold for the Blue Jays Johns Hopkins University is often known for its successful lacrosse programs but it has many sports teams that are very successful. The university was named after its first benefactor, the American entrepreneur, abolitionist, and philanthropist Johns Hopkins. And yes, his name was “Johns”, not “John.” Don’t look like an outsider by pronouncing it wrong. The university is one of the most recognized colleges in America. Thirty-six Nobel Laureates have been affiliated with Johns Hopkins over the years. Famous departments in the university include the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, the Whiting School of Engineering, the Peabody Institute, the Applied Physics Laboratory, and the Bloomberg School of Public Health. There are also, of course, world-famous affiliated medical hospital campuses as well. The Johns Hopkins University’s sports teams are called the Blue Jays. Except for lacrosse, their teams are Division III and are members of the Centennial Conference. Goldfarb Gymnasium opened in 1965 and is home to the Blue Jay men's and women's basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and men's and women's fencing teams. Food & Beverage 1 There are no permanent food stands inside of Goldfarb Gymnasium. You should be able to find a vending machine for a quick drink or snack, but you should plan ahead for anything more. Atmosphere 4 Goldfarb Gymnasium is part of the Newton H. White building. There is a nice videoboard, as well as a couple of other scoreboards. The gym is very small, smaller than many high school gyms. You will walk into the venue between the student seating sections. Because of its small size, the gym can get very loud. The student section is loud and boisterous. Neighborhood 4 The University is located in the Charles Village and Homewood neighborhoods of Baltimore. There are numerous bars and restaurants in the Charles Village area where Hopkins is located, such as THB Bagels, Gertrude’s at the BMA, and One World Café. The Baltimore Museum of Art, or BMA, is located right next door to campus. Try and stop by and see some of the great masters of the art. It is a real treasure of a museum. And it makes quite a unique pre-game ritual. Baltimore is a great metropolitan city, with many fun and exciting places to spend time both before and after a game. Relatively close to the university is the Mt. Washington neighborhood that straddles I-83 South (known as the Jones Falls Expressway, or the JFX, by locals). The Mt. Washington Tavern is an excellent restaurant with both a fine food and bar food type of menu. The place is large, and there always seems to be room for more. Parking is the biggest problem here, so it would be worth paying the nominal valet charges. There is a Doubletree Hotel located across the street from the university. Right down the street is Miss Shirley’s Café on West Cold Spring Lane. Their fried green tomatoes are quite tasty. They are also quite well known for their breakfast offerings. Also close to Johns Hopkins is the Hampden neighborhood, with its variety of quirky shops and restaurants. Fans 4 The venue is small but you cannot underestimate the fans and the atmosphere they bring to the game. Access 3 The university is not far from the Jones Falls Expressway (I-83). Take the Coldspring Lane exit east and go south on Roland Avenue and it is a short drive to the university. There is paid parking around the campus. Return on Investment 4 There is no charge to attend regular-season games at Goldfarb Gymnasium. The biggest cost of attendance will be parking, which will vary greatly depending on the day or time. Extras 3 The JHU Hall of Fame in the lobby will show the storied history of the lacrosse program, as well as other teams on campus. The Baltimore Museum of Art is a great place. The highlight of the museum is the Cone Collection. That collection includes works by artists including Matisse, Picasso, Cézanne, Manet, Degas, Gauguin, Van Gogh, and Renoir. Check out the hallway behind the gym and you will see even more history and successes of past Blue Jay teams, not just the ones in the Hall of Fame section. Final Thoughts Goldfarb Gymnasium is a small venue, but with the recent success of the basketball teams, as well as the low cost, you might want to stop in while in the Baltimore area.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Ball Arena 1000 Chopper Circle Denver, CO 80204 Denver Nuggets website Ball Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 19,250 The NBA at a Mile High The NBA’s Denver Nuggets have had just one home in their 21st Century existence: downtown Denver’s Ball Arena. Since this Millennium started, the Nuggets struggled to find a mix of players to elevate them to one of the Association’s top teams. Who can forget high first-round draft selections like 2002’s Nikoloz Tskitishvili (5th overall) or 2015’s Emmanuel Mudiay (7th overall)? All sarcasm and nostalgia aside, the Nuggets history at Ball Arena has not been a disaster. Far from it. The team enjoyed successful runs after drafting Carmelo Anthony third overall in 2003 and trading for Allen Iverson at the start of the 2006-2007 season. Lately, the Nuggets have emerged as one of the NBA’s top teams. They drafted a little-known Serbian center, Nikola Jokic, in the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft (41st overall). “The Joker” became one of the great steals in draft history. He won NBA Most Valuable Player honors in 2021 and 2022, seemingly recording triple-doubles on a nightly basis and passing like a point guard. Jamal Murray, the Nuggets’ seventh pick in the 2016 NBA Draft out of the University of Kentucky , has given the Nuggets a second superstar. Jokic and Murray now have a solid supporting cast that includes Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter, Jr., and Bones Hyland. This has the Nuggets positioned for deep postseason runs. Ball Arena befits the quality of play that Head Coach Michael Malone’s Nuggets display on a regular basis. Food & Beverage 4 Ball Arena’s concession stands have just about all of the food groups on the major-level sports venue nutritional pyramid: hot dogs, corn dogs, burgers, pretzels, and nachos can be found throughout the arena. The Wyncoop, a poultry-based pun of a local place-name, has a delicious fried chicken sandwich ($15, with fries) on the lower concourse, just outside the entrance to section 146. The taco stand just outside section 102 slings four different kinds of tacos, including a vegetarian option, for $14. The food’s quality is good. Given that a beverage container company owns the arena’s naming rights, it should come as no surprise that thirsty fans will find a wide selection of beer and cocktails. There are several locations where fans can buy “tall boy” cans of beer that include InBev/Anheuser-Busch and Miller Coors products, along with Cutwater Canned Cocktails and White Claw hard seltzer. Ball Arena has a full bar on the lower concourse where mixed drinks are available ($13.50 for a single, $19.50 for a double). Given that Pepsi previously owned the arena’s naming rights and remains a sponsor of the building’s tenants, it similarly should come as no surprise that thirsty fans will find Pepsi products sold at Ball Arena. Atmosphere 4 NBA games are high-energy and Nuggets home games are no different. The team’s recent success has brought larger and louder crowds. The Skyline Drumline plays outside, greeting fans as they arrive. Ball Arena has two main entrances: one on the building’s southeast side and one on the building’s southwest side. Most fans will then take escalators to their seats on the 100, 200, or 300 levels; those sitting in the 100 level can also access their seats via ground-floor entries. The entrance on the southwest side leads into Ball Arena’s grand atrium. The Altitude Athletics team shop sits just beyond where tickets are checked. Be sure not to miss the 20,000-pound sculpture of athletes playing their sports that hangs from the grand atrium’s ceiling. Ball Arena’s center scoreboard is the gold standard for NBA venues. Installed before the 2013-2014 season, the scoreboard remains one of the best in league arenas. It spans between the tops of the three-point circles at each end, providing highlights, promotions, and live action at 1080p high definition. Despite its size and the fact that it probably sits as a sports dream for many fans who see it, Ball Arena’s scoreboard complements – and does not overwhelm – the live action on the floor below. The in-house audio system is crisp, as are the beats from the team’s DJ. That said, the music can be loud for some people’s tastes. Ball Arena has a place for those wanting a break from the sensory overload that can come from a live NBA game. Ball Arena Scoreboard, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 5 Ball Arena has as many restaurants, bars, and hotels within walking distance as any NBA arena. Denver’s Lower Downtown, or “LoDo,” is the Mile High City’s oldest neighborhood. It has more than 100 restaurants, clubs, and shops, along with Coors Field , the National Ballpark Museum , and the recently renovated Union Station. Just across Speer Boulevard from Ball Arena is Coohills, one of Denver’s best restaurants (1400 Wewatta Street, Denver, CO, 80202; (303) 623-5700). For something more casual, try the Hopdoddy Burger Bar at Union Station (1747 Wynkoop Street, Denver, CO, 80202; (303) 446-2337). If you’re willing to walk a bit farther, walk west on Speer Boulevard across Interstate 25 to the Highlands neighborhood. Linger (2030 West 30th Avenue, Denver, CO, 80211; (303) 993-3120) offers fine dining in a former mortuary that has one of Denver’s best rooftop patios. Afterwards, you can’t miss Sweet Cow Ice Cream next door (2620 16th Street, Denver, CO, 80211; (303) 455-3811) because it resides in a 28 foot-tall milk can. The closest hotel is Springhill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown , .2 mile walking distance. Fans 4 Denver has always been a great NFL city, with a rabid fan base following the Broncos . People along the Front Range have begun to pay attention to the Nuggets. In the 2022-2023 season, the team has ranked among the NBA’s top 10 franchises in terms of attendance, averaging more than 19,000 fans per home game and filling an average of 97.6 percent of Ball Arena’s capacity. The fans who come are loud and attentive. As Jokic and Murray have matured into NBA stars, the Nuggets’ fans have grown. Unfortunately, a contract dispute between the team-owned regional sports network that carries the Nuggets, Altitude Sports & Entertainment, has been engaged in a contract dispute with Xfinity since August 2019. This has left a significant portion of the fan base unable to watch the Nuggets legally on a regular basis for both of Jokic’s MVP seasons and for the team’s ascent to the top of the NBA’s Western Conference. Access 4 There are more ways to get to Ball Arena than you can shake a miner’s shovel at. Many downtown hotels are within walking distance of Ball Arena. The Rapid Transportation District’s (the “RTD’s”) C, D, E, and F light rail lines all stop at Ball Arena. There’s also an RTD bus stop at Ball Arena, located at the intersection of 9th Street and Auraria Parkway; several bus lines stop there. Denver participates in the ubiquitous scooter and bike share programs, so those are options. With the nearby Platte River and Cherry Creek trails bordering Ball Arena’s property, walking or bicycling to the game is a cost-efficient way to get to Ball Arena, too. There are three sets of bike racks around the arena. If driving, Ball Arena has 10 different parking lots. There are a number of parking lots within walking distance, as well. With a big crowd, Ball Arena’s common areas can get crowded. Long lines for food and drink tend to form, as do lines to enter seating areas. With most of the seats accessible only after taking an escalator or stairs up, large crowds form at the end of games as large numbers of fans funnel into the escalators to return to ground level. A better option is to use the stairs, accessible through doors along the upper and main concourses. The stairs lead to ground level and do not provide the claustrophobia - or agoraphobia-inducing congestion that can occur while moving toward the tops of Ball Arena’s elevators. Return on Investment 4 Even with recent success and the NBA’s best player, a Nuggets game remains a decent bargain. A single-game ticket to a Nuggets game at Ball Arena is, in the words of Seinfeld’s George Costanza, “right in the meaty part of the curve” with respect to average NBA ticket prices. Face value of single-game tickets for a February 2023 home game against the defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors ranged from $59 for the arena’s last seat to $599 for a seat behind the Warriors’ bench. A number of promotions provide lower-priced tickets, as well. Participants in the “Buzzer Beater” program receive text messages the night before each home game, with a limited number of tickets available at lower costs. And every Saturday and Sunday are "Family Nights," with tickets loaded with concession value. Food and drink prices align with other Denver sports venues. Prices seem generally tethered to reality: hot dogs ($7), chicken tenders with fries ($15), large pretzels ($7.50), fountain soda ($6.50 for collectible aluminum cup), bottled water ($5.50) and candy ($5) compare favorably with prices at Coors Field and Empower Field at Mile High. Parking in Ball Arena’s lots will cost either $25 or $30, depending on location. Cheaper parking is available within walking distance. There are numerous parking lots where $10 or $15 parking is the norm. A little willingness to walk can save a few bucks. Extras 5 The newly expanded and renovated Altitude Athletics team shop merits a point. Kroenke Sports Enterprises, which owns the Nuggets and Ball Arena’s other two tenants, the National Hockey League’s Colorado Avalanche and the National Lacrosse League’s Colorado Mammoth, removed the arena’s ticket office before the Nuggets’ 2022-2023 season. In its place, the team store expanded. This yielded more room for merchandise, better flow for foot traffic, and added point-of-sale locations. Many NBA teams have in-game DJs. The Nuggets are no exception. Theirs is Austin “Paws” Pawleka. He must rank among the league’s best. Paws knows basketball and he also knows how to provide a multi-genre soundtrack for the team he grew up loving. Props to Ball Arena for having two nursing pods: one on the lower concourse, just across from the entrance to section 130, and the other on the upper concourse, just across from the entrance to section 345. Another point to Ball Arena for recognizing that its teams have fans with varying sensory processing needs. To that end, Ball Arena has designated its elevator lobbies outside sections 120, 228, and 340 as “quiet areas.” Additionally, Ball Arena’s guest relations kiosks provide sensory bags at no cost. These bags contain a special badge for guest recognition, noise-canceling headphones, and fidget tools. Finally, a point for Ball Arena’s new concession stand, The CANteen. It’s a grab-and-go vendor that only sells beverages in aluminum containers. It’s part of Ball Arena’s “Play Clean” program to encourage fans to recycle packaging after events. Final Thoughts Jokic alone is worth the cost of a ticket. He fills a box score like Oscar Robertson and passes like Jason Kidd. He and Murray front a team that should contend for an NBA title. Yet the costs of watching the Nuggets at Ball Arena do not require a complex financial transaction. It’s a decent bargain for an exceptional experience.

It is almost the end of the calendar year, and the past two months have seen a wealth of new logos from various baseball leagues throughout the country. There have been quite of changes from expansion clubs, rebrands, and from new leagues popping up all over the country. Here is a look at 13 clubs across numerous baseball loops that have introduced new looks for the 2023 season. Fans of the Boonville Baseball Club will now be able to cheer for them as the Lumberjacks this year. The Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League club’s new colors are hunter green, Kelly green, and orange. An earlier logo had the lumberjack holding a giant stick, but that has been replaced with a chainsaw. The Casper Spuds is not a new logo but an alternative. The team relocated from Caldwell, Idaho when they were known as the Canyon County Spuds. The move to Casper resulted in their logo donning a cowboy hat, and Wyoming spelled out in the script. Of all of the new looks this season, this one is perhaps the more creative one, plus the cowboy hat looks better than the former baseball cap from last season. The DuBois County Bombers play out of League Park, where “A League of Their Own” was filmed over 30 summers ago in Southern Indiana. This year, the team gets a makeover with a baseball bat repositioned as a jet fighter. It is a pleasing look for the club in the summer collegiate Ohio Valley League. It could be one of my favorites this year from around the leagues. The Hamilton Cardinals of the amateur Intercounty Baseball League in Ontario, Canada, have revamped their image that felt more like a St. Louis Cardinals affiliate. New ownership contacted Matt Doyle of Matt Doyle Designs in Burlington, Ontario, to create new branding for the ball club. The new image is a major improvement and should stand out among the fan base in Hamilton and the surrounding cities and towns of the Golden Horseshoe. Matt and Cards managing partner Eric Spearin talked about the new identity on a recent podcast of mine. The Valley Blue Sox of the New England Collegiate Baseball League revamped its identity based on new ownership. The club’s branding will now feature a sox logo and the new colors of blue, light blue, and red. The old logo featured a dog and a roundel logo. I enjoy Sox-related baseball logos, but something feels different about this one. Could it use a touch-up like Sonic the Hedgehog for his first movie from a few years ago? The Pecos League once again does a beautiful job with a new logo. The Marysville Drakes employ the colors yellow, green, and red for seldom-used combinations to create an eye-popping design. The duck logo is a perfect mix between cartoon-friendly and perhaps a cousin of Marvel's Howard the Duck. The Pecos League's other new team is the Blackwell Flycatchers, based out of Oklahoma. The logo goes in the opposite direction from a cartoon bird to one that resembles the actual bird. The colors of sand, burnt orange, light brown, and black are another interesting combination not found with another branding. Two teams, two birds, a much different approach, but both were well done. The Minot Hot Tots made a splash with their logo for the upcoming Northwoods League. The team name was inspired by a local delicacy, the hot dish that contains potato tots and other ingredients. The Tots logo uses fierce-looking potatoes holding a spoon dripping with cheese while flames stem from his back. The colors blue, red, and yellow create an impressive new look. Check out my interview with GM Monica Blake via the Ballpark Hunter Podcast. The Horseheads Hitmen of the New York Collegiate Summer League is a perfectly fine logo, but one that could be a mouthful to say. The former Mansfield Destroyers rebranded to feature a horse head wearing a derby cap with two interlocking baseball bats. The colors of blue, solver, and shades of brown are a nice color combination, and it's very clean and subtle. The Horseheads Hitmen of the New York Collegiate Summer League is a suitable logo, but one that could be a mouthful to pronounce. The former Mansfield Destroyers rebranded to feature a horse head wearing a derby cap with two interlocking baseball bats. The colors of blue and silver, with shades of brown, are a clever combination, along with its relatively clean design. The Charlotte Knights updated their brand with a new wordmark, a knight helmet, and a splash of Carolina blue. The modern approach to the ball club was from David C. Ruckman Creative. He stated in a recent podcast of mine that the blue ties in with other sports teams in town and that jerseys were inspired by the San Diego Padres. Gold is now related as a secondary color on the home and away jerseys. It is a pleasurable remodel of a classic look in Triple-A baseball. The Grand Junction Rockies made significant improvements this offseason ditching the Rocking branding that looked more like the Pizza Hut logo to one that should be a hit with fans all over the country. The Jackalopes name uses the colors of black, purple, brown, and a tuck of blue to create an inspiring identity for the Pioneer League club. It's sharp and will do well with the local populace; it is 100 percent minor-league fun. The Malone Border Hounds of the Empire State League is another new entry for the 2023 baseball season. Nestled in Upstate New York, the Hounds employ the pleasing color combination of yellow, light blue, and dark blue, plus a wordmark that should look on home and away uniforms. However, the hound looks a bit too muscular for his good. I would like to see a larger image of the 'M' that appears on the logos mark. I want to thank Jason Moragas for collecting all of the new logos and rebrandings from every baseball league in the world. This list would not have been possible without his hard work and dedication. Check out That Baseball Map for his full list of baseball clubs. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

McCoy Stadium Sunset. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. The news that so many baseball fans dreaded, but still expected to hear was announced yesterday. There will be no minor league baseball in 2020. Obviously, this will have a great effect on those who play, work at and love going to their local ballparks. This is a story about one of these people. With no games being played in 2020, this longtime Rhode Island resident, Pawtucket Red Sox fan and former Pawsox employee will not get a chance to bid McCoy Stadium a proper farewell. After 50 seasons at McCoy Stadium, the Pawtucket Red Sox have played their final game at the old ballpark. The team, wooed by a sweetheart stadium deal, will be moving 45 minutes north to Worcester, Massachusetts, and their new home, Polar Park, for the 2021 season. Since the day it was announced that the Pawsox would be leaving Rhode Island, I’ve been thinking about the massive hole that this team will leave in the fabric of the community. While Rhode Island has lost teams before (the Providence Reds called the Ocean State home for 52 seasons before moving to Binghamton, New York in 1977), this time it feels different. Looking at it from a purely personal perspective, it’s amazing how much of my life has revolved around McCoy Stadium. After Throwing Out the First Pitch at McCoy Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. As a sports-crazed boy living in a home with parents who did not share my passion, my exposure to sports was largely limited to watching games on television. Luckily for me, I had an uncle who was also a big sports fan. My Uncle Sid would take me to McCoy for a game a few times each summer. In those days the Pawsox really struggled to attract fans, so they gave away tickets by the thousands to get people to come to the ballpark. Local schools would receive passes that were good for a selected series of games. Since my uncle was a teacher in a neighboring town, he was able to grab some passes and use them with me. In a Pawtucket tradition that has endured through the years, I would fish for autographs at the games. I can’t remember who my first autograph was, but I can remember my own kids pulling up hundreds of autographs during their time at McCoy. In the early 80s, the Rhode Island Interscholastic League decided to ditch their traditional divisional setup that matched teams of similar size, and have all the schools compete for a single state title. In 1982 tiny Tiverton High School ended up winning the whole thing. The championship game was played at, of course, McCoy Stadium. I can remember the student body piling in busses and trekking on up to Pawtucket to witness our friends and classmates play in the championship game, with Hall and Oates’ “H2O” and The J. Geils Band’s “Freeze Frame” blaring over someone’s boom box in the back of the bus. Paws and Sox. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Years later, when I had a family of my own, it was a given that my kids would be forced to tag along to McCoy with me. The fact that neither of them loved baseball the way I did wasn’t an issue, they seemed to at least enjoy going to the ballpark almost as much as I did. There were rumors in the late 90s that the Pawsox might move (to Worcester, of all places). The International League had mandated certain amenities and minimum capacity for all their ballparks and McCoy didn’t come close to measuring up. The resulting renovations to the ballpark made it the jewel of the minor leagues, for a little while. My friend Ben and I went to the first game of the “new” McCoy Stadium in 1999, arriving early and picking out a prime spot on the new party deck right by the left field foul pole. The spot must have been a good one because we were interviewed by several local news outfits. In hindsight, I wish we hadn’t been enjoying so many adult beverages that night. Posing with World Series Trophies. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. When I later went through a divorce and was struggling with the expense of child support, a friend who was a bartender at McCoy suggested I get a part-time job at the ballpark. I remember my interview with Jim Hogan, who was the Director of Concessions at the time. It consisted of one statement: “Dave tells me you’ll do anything.” I replied in the positive and was immediately hired, beginning my career in baseball. Running a grill wasn’t what I had expected to be doing, but I had no complaints. Our crew always managed to have a good time. A few months later, my children came to live with me full-time. I was worried that I’d no longer be able to handle two jobs with two kids at home. When I talked to Mr. Hogan, his response was “you work at a ballpark-bring them along.” Can you imagine any other place allowing an employee to bring their kids to work? I’ll forever be grateful to the Pawsox for this. My children now had an entire ballpark at their disposal. No other kids could ever collect more batting practice balls and autographs. Name a famous Red Sox player who passed through McCoy, and my kids met them. McCoy Stadium Circa 1999. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Despite the star power of players like Nomar Garciaparra, Manny Ramirez, and Jason Varitek, players like Alejandro Machado, Don Wengert, and Freddy Sanchez are as prominent in their memories as any Red Sox Hall of Famer. The kids got every giveaway McCoy could hand out, had access to most of the ballpark, and hung out with players’ families during the games. They feasted on ballpark food. I blame McCoy Stadium for the fact that their entire diets to this day consist of hot dogs, burgers, chicken fingers, and pizza. They were undoubtedly the envy of all their friends. Eventually, the kids grew up, coming to the ballpark with dad every night was no longer cool and the time commitment of a second job became too much, so I “retired” from the Pawsox. For a long time, it was strange to return to the place, but it was great to be able to actually sit in the stands once again and enjoy a game with my wife and friends. McCoy Stadium remained a fixture in our summer routine. Pam and Paul at McCoy. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. I was fortunate to find a kindred sports fan when I met my wife, Pam. When it became time to discuss wedding plans, it was a given that we would have the ceremony at a ballpark. Now, Pam had spent many nights at McCoy while I was working in the concession stands, and had developed her own opinions on the old place. I just couldn’t convince Pam that getting married under a giant tent at McCoy was the thing to do. We ended up having our wedding at Campanelli Stadium in nearby Brockton, MA, home to the independent Brockton Rox. Campanelli had a wonderful event center attached to the ballpark. We got married before a Rox game and threw out first pitches in our wedding attire. Former Pawsox manager Ed Nottle and the team mascot crashed the reception. Despite my bias towards McCoy, she was right, As usual. Pam was gracious enough to agree to schedule the wedding when the Pawsox were on the road and `we did stop at McCoy on our way back from our honeymoon. I’ve been able to fulfill so many items on my baseball bucket list thanks to the Pawsox and McCoy Stadium. I’ve played football and softball on the field, thrown out first pitches, laid on the soft outfield grass drinking beer and watching movies on the video board, flipped burgers on ESPN (watch the footage of the 2004 International League All-Star Game), dressed as a mascot, hung out with future major leaguers and Hall of Famers (and Donny Osmond), lifted championship trophies and so much more. Kissing the Governor’s Cup. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. While I was never able to parlay my part-time gig with the club into full-time employment, I have nothing but respect and admiration for those who ran the Pawsox all these years. The Pawsox staff truly treated me like family. I was invited to special events and when money was tight, they were always there to give me extra hours. I’ve never had another employer who treated me as well as did the Pawsox. Whenever Pawsox President Mike Tamburro would see me around the stadium, he would joke “when are you coming back?” My response was typically “you couldn’t afford me now.” That was never really true, I would have come back in a heartbeat. Although I won’t get the chance to hang out at Ben Mondor’s place one last time, the memories will never fade. More than just the games on the field, it’s been the people that filled McCoy that have made it so special. So many of the fans I used to serve and bump into around the ballpark have become dear friends. The teenagers with whom I worked during my time at McCoy are now in their thirties and forties. I would bump into them from time to time with their own families, and of course, we would reminisce about the “good old days,” when McCoy would host crowds of over 7,000 every night. Walking off at the Final Pawsox Game. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. I had been hoping to share my final Pawsox game with those closest to me. That I won’t get this chance is without a doubt my biggest disappointment with the cancellation of the season. My children, who had been coming to McCoy since they were in diapers, would have been with me. I wonder if this day would have been as difficult for them as it would have been for me. Among the throng of Bakers who would have descended on the ballpark on Labor Day would have been my granddaughter, who would have been eight months old and going to her first baseball game. She would have been the fifth generation of the family I dragged to “The Bucket.” I was six years old when my family moved to Rhode Island, and McCoy Stadium has been a part of my life for close to five decades. While Pawsox fans have taken their anger out on the team over the past two-plus years by staying away from McCoy, I don’t expect that that would be the case at the Pawsox’ last game. We all would have come to say our final farewells. It would have been nice to see the place filled to the brim with Pawsox fans one last time. Saying goodbye would have been really hard. Not being able to say goodbye is even harder. Ben Mondor Statue in the Snow. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. _________ Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photo by Steve Kee Stadium Journey The Arena Football League is back and will resume play in 2024. The league will continue operations after a five-year hiatus under the stewardship of investment group F1 Sports & Entertainment. The league plans for a 10-game schedule one week after the NFL Draft next year. Former names of AFL clubs are designed with an emphasis on streaming, betting, technology, and virtual reality. There appears to be a focus on a return to ironman football, a hallmark of the league in its early years. Lee A. Hutton III will serve as the league commissioner. In 2019 the league consisted of 6 franchises and later ceased operations. The commissioner at the time wanted to re-evaluate its business model and worked to respond to a lawsuit against the league by its former worker’s compensation insurance provider. It was contemplated that the AFL could return with a touring model similar to the Premier Lacrosse League and basketball’s BIG3. However, that never happened, and they silently shut down operations. The press release announced 16 teams but no cities. It is assumed major markets and arenas of over 10,000 will house franchises, along with a few possible classic names like the San Jose Sabercats, Tampa Bay Storm, Detroit Drive, Philadelphia Soul, and the Denver Dynamite. The announcement feels good for the original indoor football league that began in 1987 and completed 33 seasons. It would later inspire an alphabet of several competing leagues. These leagues include the Indoor Football League, National Arena League, and the Champions Indoor Football League, but there was a sense of loss without the original Arena League. There appears to be a niche market for this code of football, especially in former AFL markets. There is also skepticism that a new formation could be nothing more than talk. In the past few years the Alliance of American Football and, just this week, the Professional Box Lacrosse League folded before completing a full season. Will the new AFL have a TV deal, enough capital to operate, and properly marketed franchises in major arenas? This reporter is excited, and I am sure there are a few others like me that also have doubt, but in a land full of indoor football leagues, it's promising that the O.G. of the sport will be back in major markets in little over one year from now. How I have missed the rebound nets. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Eck Stadium 4101 E 21st St N Wichita, KS 67208 Wichita State Shockers website Eck Stadium website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 7,851 The Eck Eck Stadium is home to the Wichita State Shockers of the American Athletic Conference. The stadium is named after Rusty Eck, a local car dealer and early supporter of the baseball program. A ballpark was built on this site in 1978 and provided a whopping 322 seats. That ballpark is in no way representative of what the ballpark has become. The current ballpark opened in 1985 and has undergone numerous renovations since then. Prior to the 2020 season, state of the art artificial turf was installed, which is a big help in the early parts of the season when snow is more prevalent. Previous to that, sky boxes, a press box, and Coleman Hill (a berm-like area beyond the outfield wall) were added, which gave both media and fans alike, the ability to watch the game in a more comfortable atmosphere. “The Eck” has hosted numerous NCAA Midwest Regional tournaments over the years as well as 26 Missouri Valley tournaments, with its biggest attendance coming on June 9, 2007 when 8.153 fans turned out for a Shockers game against UC Irvine. Food & Beverage 4 Eck offers a little more than your typical college baseball park. A pulled pork sandwich ($7.50) or Memphis nachos (BBQ nachos $10) lead off your options. You can buy a slice of pizza ($4.50) or the whole pie ($22.50). All the typical fare such as hot dogs, brats, chicken strips, cheeseburgers, etc range from $4.50 to $8. Additionally, nachos, popcorn, fries, pretzels, candy, and chips will run $3-$6. Coke is the soda choice ($4-$5.50) with water, tea, coffee, and hot chocolate also available. As an added bonus on those particularly cold days, you can add Bailey’s or Butterscotch schnapps to your hot chocolate. Beer and wine ($8-$9.50) is also an option. Atmosphere 5 This is where Eck shines. Upon arrival, it is apparent that this isn’t your typical college baseball stadium. From the outside, the grandstands look enormous. On the outside of the stadium behind home plate is Bledsoe Plaza. Be sure and take a look around even if you choose to go in through a different entrance. The plaza includes numerous statues and plaques and provides a great opportunity for fans to learn about Shocker baseball history and some of the players who played here. Inside the stadium, seating runs down both lines, with the majority of seating running from the third base dugout over to the right field line. Most of the seats are chairbacks although there are some bleachers on the first base side above the concourse. The field itself is aesthetically pleasing with the synthetic turf always looking in very good condition. The large video board sits beyond the left field wall and its size makes it easy for anyone in the ballpark to see, regardless of where you are sitting. Coleman Hill sits beyond the right field wall. This is a tremendous location to watch a game. An added bonus out here, you can bring in your own food and drinks, and even a grill if you feel the urge (provided it isn’t a particularly windy day). Alcohol is not permitted from the outside, however, and must be purchased inside the ballpark. Neighborhood 3 The surrounding area is largely college campus and residential areas. As such, there is very little within walking distance with regard to food and drinks. If you are a fan of Mexican food, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop is just East of the ballpark about ¼ of a mile. Fuzzy’s serves up decent tacos and burritos along with beer and other drinks. Next to Fuzzy’s is the Social Tap Drinkery. At the Social Tap, you can choose from 52 different tap beers along with all your typical bar fare, including numerous types of pizza and burgers. If you are staying in the area, Hyatt Place Wichita is within walking distance. There are also numerous other lodging options back near the freeways in and out of Wichita. For other entertainment in town, Wichita has a rich history in air flight. As such, a trip to the Kansas Aviation Museum is highly recommended. Another good option for sports fans is a trip to see the Wichita Wind Surge play at Riverfront Stadium. Opened in 2021, Riverfront is a great place to watch a ballgame. Fans 4 Wichita State has a rich baseball tradition and this isn’t lost on the fans. In 2019, Eck Stadium was voted amongst the top 16 college ballparks in America by fan vote according to the NCAA. Barring poor weather, fan turnout is generally very good, with a high percentage of fans decked out in their Shocker gear. They are also very much into the games and cheer loudly when their team makes a great play or scores a run. Access 4 Eck Stadium is located on E 21st St, East of I-135 and on the Wichita State campus near the other school sporting venues, including Charles Koch Arena. There are four entrances available at various locations around the park. Once inside, the concourses are wide and the restrooms are generally sufficient for the crowd size. Return on Investment 4 Parking at “The Eck” is free. Most tickets range from $8-$12 with the grandstand $8, upper box $10, and field box $12. There are no bad seats, although on particularly hot and sunny days, it would be best to avoid the bleachers. With food and drink prices being the norm for college sports anywhere, it’s hard to argue that you get a really good bang for your buck when attending a game here. Extras 4 Bledsoe Plaza is a really nice touch and does a great job of celebrating the history of the team. Under the press box and around the skyboxes, you can see the success of the team with regard to postseason appearances, conference titles, etc. Although I didn’t watch the game from Coleman Hill, it seems like a fun spot to gather with friends to take in the game and is a nice touch. Directly across the street from the right field corner is the original Pizza Hut. The restaurant is still open on occasion and has also been turned into a museum. Final Thoughts Wichita State has a rich baseball history. Eck Stadium not only does a great job of celebrating that history but is also a great and comfortable ballpark for fans to watch a baseball game. This is clearly one of the better ballparks in this region of the country. Don’t miss out if you find yourself in the area. Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram: @stadiumjwriter

Photo courtesy of USF Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 USF Baseball Stadium 4202 E Fowler Ave Tampa, FL 33620 South Florida Bulls website USF Baseball Stadium website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 3,211 Stunning Views in Tampa USF baseball may not be as popular as the baseball programs at some of the other major schools in Florida (such as Florida State, the University of Florida, or UCF), but USF Baseball Stadium is easily one of the most visually stunning and impressive college baseball venues in the state. Sporting a unique twin-stadium setup with USF’s softball field, this facility offers the best in comfort, viewing angle, and overall experience for both hardcore and visiting fans alike. Food & Beverage 3 The food options at USF Baseball Stadium are what one would expect from a college sporting event, and the concessions stands look top-quality. Featuring multiple stations and lines to help keep congestion down, getting a snack is smooth and painless. In addition, you are likely to find a great deal depending on what day you visit. At Tuesday home games, for example, fans can get $2 hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, or small sodas, while all Wednesday games feature $2 hot dogs. Atmosphere 5 USF Baseball Stadium is stunning. With two patios behind first and third base, plenty of seating to pick from, and viewing berms that extend along both foul lines, you have no shortage of places to sit and watch the game. The seats themselves are contoured, meaning you fit into the seat rather than just sit on it. There is covered patio on the upper deck along the first base line, called the Donaldson Patio, which gives you an elevated view of the action. The best part of this section is that it also offers views of the USF Softball Stadium on the other railing, as both venues are connected. USF Baseball Stadium’s entrance area features ticket offices for future games, schedules for both USF softball and baseball teams, and a team store for fans to get the latest gear. Neighborhood 4 USF is located just north of downtown Tampa. The Tampa Bay area as a whole has experienced a revitalization recently, with both Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the various other suburbs getting an influx of new restaurants, shopping areas, and more. The campus is also close to major highways, making exploring the greater bay area rather easy for visiting fans. Hotels line the roadways outside of campus, as do restaurants and stores. And being located along the west coast of Florida not far from the water, you are sure to feel a cool breeze off the Gulf, to help with the warmth of Florida’s sun. Fans 3 The fans at USF Baseball Stadium are varied, from students to older fans who love the game of baseball. On nights that feature big games and rivalry matchups, the stands are full. However, lower division opponents draw more modest crowds that aren’t as diehard as some fans are. While they are no less passionate, and cheer for their hometown Bulls with every big swing of the bat, fans on these nights can seem a bit disinterested at times. Access 4 USF’s campus is located within easy driving distance of I-75 and I-275, and the campus is pretty easy to navigate as well. Signage lets you know where the various sports stadiums are, and once you get to USF Baseball Stadium, parking options are plentiful across the street at the Sun Dome, home of USF basketball. Once inside USF Baseball Stadium, it is pretty easy to get around from one side of the field to the other. Return on Investment 5 Tickets at USF Baseball Stadium run starting as low as $5 for general admission, which is any seat not at field level behind home plate (those seats can be more expensive, and include padded seats). With concessions reasonably priced and parking free, you end up with a pretty affordable game at a top-quality D-1 college baseball venue. Extras 5 The stadium’s proximity to USF’s other athletic fields, not just USF Softball Stadium, makes it a great place for fans to be able to jump from game to game whenever they want to catch more than one sport in a day’s visit. USF Baseball Stadium also posts the schedules of both softball and baseball outside by the main entrance, as well as the starting lineups for both teams before the first pitch. Fans also have the ability to purchase USF items from the team store, which is located next to the concessions stand on the lower level. Also, as stated before the Donaldson Patio is arguably the best place to catch a game at USF Baseball Stadium, with an upper level view of the field as well as comfortable tables to sit at. In addition, team offers free giveaways at every game, from posters of the teams to t-shirts and other memorabilia. Final Thoughts USF Baseball Stadium is one of the most stunning in Florida, let alone Tampa. Great for families and diehard fans alike, the home of the South Florida Bulls is a must-visit for any sports fan passing through the area. Not to be outdone by its competitors, USF Baseball Stadium deserves billing as one of the most comfortable and well designed in college baseball.

Photos by Jimmy Knight, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 FedExPark 974 Getwell Rd Memphis, TN 38111 Memphis Tigers website FedExPark website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 2,000 Home of the Memphis Tigers Believe it or not, sometimes there are just too many options. As a society, by necessity, we are always looking for capsules that offer as many interesting facets as possible. If you are looking for something that sums up as much of Memphis, Tennessee as possible, look no further. FedExPark allows you to be outdoors, watch baseball, eat BBQ and root on the home town University of Memphis Tigers. FedExPark is the home venue for Tigers Baseball and was formerly named Nat Buring Stadium. The name change occurred with renovations in 2009 at a $3 million price tag. The stadium has a natural grass field, covered grandstands and is a piece of the South Campus which includes renovated football, softball, track & field and golf facilities. Food & Beverage 4 FedExPark has a very impressive concession stand and options to choose from. The all brick building that backs up to the grandstands is impressive in show, giving a big league ballpark feel to it. Sold in the concession stand are the typical yet tasty burgers, hot dogs, popcorn and soft drinks. But, what makes this stadium elite when it comes to food is the option to purchase the BBQ Nachos. It’s a delicious dish that was invented in Memphis, and has become a staple in BBQ joints all over the south. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at the ballpark can vary. The environment can easily be described as full of anticipation. Not just about the next pitch, but for the team as a whole. The Tigers baseball team fits the easy cliche of a ‘sleeping giant’ and everybody at the game portrays that constantly. The tension and pressure radiates throughout and adds to the drama. In the event of a rout by either team, the stands can feel a bit lonely, but close and contested games are the polar extreme. Players’ family and friends as well as die-hard fans are the basis for a raucous that gives them the proverbial home field advantage. Neighborhood 3 As an urban school, the surrounding area has the anticipated mixture of commercial and apartments surrounding the property on all sides. South Campus also has ongoing construction, a new driving range for the golf team, as well as a new football practice facility, softball field and track and field complex. There is plenty to see on the South Campus that is worth the drive around, especially if another sporting event is going on. Outside of that, there are minimal spots of interest for the game-goers within walking distance. A couple of miles drive will bring you plenty of local college bars that provide great food and excellent atmosphere. If you are in the area, just look for the ‘Highland Strip’ for most of these locations. Fans 4 Tiger High, as the University of Memphis is known in the area, has a loyal following that supports their teams. Obviously, the basketball team draws most of the coverage, but you will see many of the same faces from the basketball games at the football and baseball games. The passion exists on the surface and is easily aroused. Throughout the game the staff engages the fans with many different contests. This includes trivia, Let’s Make a Deal, and TV Show Theme Song contests that are interesting and hilarious. The home crowd is also courteous and gracious to the opposition. It is not uncommon to see fans with opposing colored shirts talking in the stands or joking and laughing by the concessions. Access 5 The only challenge is finding the entrance to the South Campus. Once in, everything is on the road that loops the property. Parking is ample and the walk is minimal to get in to the ballpark. The life-size decorative tiger and FedExPark sign banner the entrance and would bring pride to any Tiger fan. Return on Investment 3 The intensity of a conference game or playing a regionally ranked powerhouse can make for a great game and a fun time for the family. Any competition enthusiast would relish the event. For the everyday family or fan looking for an affordable and enjoyable time, this is absolutely the place for you. A combination of the food, site lines, contests and baseball make for a great time for all. It feels like big league competition with college hustle and atmosphere. Extras 3 FedExPark has a party deck in left field and right field that can be reserved. Youth groups, fan clubs and birthday parties are commonly found on these decks. Do not forget to take a picture next to the decorative Tiger. He is a hit with kids of all ages. As you stroll around, you might get lucky and be able to see where the football team practices indoors or a track event in the parallel lot. For the University of Memphis athletic department these are trophies on the path to a premier program.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Schroeder Park 3100 Cullen Blvd Houston, TX 77204 Houston Cougars website Schroeder Park website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 3,500 Welcome to the Cougars Den The University of Houston has fielded a college baseball program since 1947 – in the years since the Cougars first took the field, the squad has made the NCAA Tournament an astounding 16 times, has made the College World Series twice, and in 1967 were the runners up. They have sent dozens of players to the big leagues, with the most prominent arguably being former Cy Young Award winner Doug Drabek. The Houston Cougars baseball team first took the field at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, located on campus, in 1995. Originally called Cougar Field, the University implemented a multimillion dollar upgrade, which began in 2013 and culminated in the installation of a new field-turf surface, video board, and clubhouse. Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park was home to the 1999, 2000, and 2015 NCAA Regional, as well as the 2000 NCAA Super Regional. Over the years the stadium has earned a reputation for being a gem in the American Athletic Conference, and is considered one of the great baseball venues in Space City. Food & Beverage 3 When people attend a baseball game, there are certain expectations they have when it comes to the grub; this is ingrained in the cultural psyche – hot dogs, peanuts, Cracker Jack, etc. Games at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park cover those metaphorical bases and then take it up a notch – the stadium has two main concessions stands near located along the baselines. These stands offer your traditional game fare as well as cheeseburgers and potato wedges ($6), bottomless buckets of popcorn ($8), and nachos ($5.75). For most home games, a food truck can be found near the main entrance – this is a great bonus for fans looking to break away from the norm. In a similar vein, there is a Chick-fil-A stand on the grassy area outside the seating area along the first baseline – this stand offers a pared down menu from the chain, including their popular regular and spicy chicken sandwiches, waffle-cut chips, iced tea, and lemonade. Directly adjacent to the Chick-fil-A stand is one for Karbach Brewing Company – this local craft brewery is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the state’s best, and its stand sells drafts by the cup of some of its most popular selections. So while Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park doesn’t have everything under the sun in terms concession items, I think you’ll find enough to satisfy your appetite, and get the most out of your Cougars baseball experience. Atmosphere 3 Baseball is a game that is deeply tied to its past – the generational aspect of the game is part of its charm, as the experience is one that parents can pass on to their children. And from the moment you step through the gates at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, you understand you are entering a place where baseball matters. On the walls adorning the exterior of the field are the names and pictures of the all-time great Houston Cougars. Banners also adorn the outfield walls highlighting the accomplishments of the school over the years, and this history ties fans to the team – this connection is one that is immediately felt. Another great aspect of baseball is how it embraces individualism, and this quality is almost always displayed in the parks and fields the game calls home. Most facilities have some built-in features that promote this individualism, and at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, it is the hillside seating along the foul lines. These general admissions areas are great vantage points from which to catch the action, and possibly catch a coveted foul ball. Neighborhood 4 Being the fourth largest city in the United States means that Houston has a lot to offer its visitors. For first-time visitors, enjoying a visit to Houston and a Cougars baseball game will involve some planning, as there is a tremendous amount here to see and do. One recommendation is to visit the reason that Houston has earned the moniker of Space City. Just on the outskirts of town lies Space Center Houston, one of the main hubs for NASA – few places can match the history and sheer coolness factor of the place where the line “Houston, we have a problem” was born. Tours are outstanding, and there are tons of hands-on experiences for kids. If you are looking for something outside of the box to visit, head over to Lucky Land. This two-acre site highlights all the beauty and wonder of Asia by combining historical artifacts (like a replica of the famed terracotta warriors of China) with irreverent displays like the Panda Village and Happy Buddhas display. When it comes to food in Houston, there are figuratively countless options for you to choose from, and many are within shouting distance of Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park. A couple of great choices include Chief’s Cajun Snack Shack and Alfreda’s Soul Food Café – Chief’s is considered one of the best hamburger joints in the city, and Alfreda’s offers some classic Southern-style comfort food. You can’t go wrong with either. There are dozens of hotel options near the University of Houston. Options, as always with a big city like Houston, range from as high-end or low-end of a hotel as your budget allows. Some options near Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park include Club Quarters Hotel Houston and the Hilton University of Houston. Fans 3 Last season, the Houston Cougars set a new attendance record at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park, and have consistently been one of the best draws in the American Athletic Conference. In the (free) parking areas surrounding the field, you will see fans tailgating while decked out in their red and white gear. And if it is a big conference game, you can expect an even larger and even more raucous crowd. Regardless of the crowd size on the day you come, this is very good fan base that is passionate about their school and about their baseball team. The stadium has a great mix of students and alums, including many families – kids and baseball go hand-in-hand, and having the kids here greatly enhances the overall gameday experience. Access 2 The University of Houston and Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park is located in the city’s historic Third Ward, which is easily accessible by traveling on Interstate 45. Signs clearly show the way to the stadium, and there is ample free parking surrounding it. Houston is a major hub for airline travel, and both George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport are popular for travelers. You can get to the University of Houston campus from either of these airports in less than 30 minutes, with one significant caveat: as is the case with everything regarding the city of Houston, traffic needs to be factored in – the highways that loop the city tend to get congested, especially on the weekends when many Cougars baseball games take place. Return on Investment 2 Ticket prices for Cougars baseball games at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park are extremely reasonable – general admission seating can be had for as little as $3 for some games. This is an incredible bargain for a school and team that annually faces some of the best out of conference competition in the nation, and one that has some of the best on-the-field talent in the country. If you factor in the favorable concessions prices and the free parking, a person, group, or family can really get a bargain when they attend games at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park. Extras 1 While Cougars games take care of the regular accouterments of a traditional baseball game – the sights, smells, and sounds of the game are all there in spades – there is really very little in terms of “extras”. However, the experience still offers things like the always entertaining player walk-up songs, as well as the frequent contests in-between innings. While there is nothing flashy going on, games here do feature one of the great traditions of the game of baseball – fans are invited to get up and sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh-inning stretch. Final Thoughts If you’re a fan of baseball, I think it would be hard for you to find a venue that you didn’t enjoy. However, I think even the most casual of fans would be able to find and highly enjoy the charm of a game at Darryl and Lori Schroeder Park – it is an ideal venue for college baseball. If you’re in Houston during the season, make sure you stop by for a visit. Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477. Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com.

Photos by Harrison Huntley, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Clark-LeClair Stadium 4427 Charles Blvd Greenville, NC 27858 East Carolina Pirates website Clark-LeClair Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 5,000 The Jolly Roger Flag Over One of College Baseball’s Best Stadiums Clark-LeClair Stadium carries a reputation as one of the best in the nation and does not disappoint. Sparked by the team’s recent success, the school and donors have made much needed stadium updates, and it shows. The stadium has all the modern amenities and even rivals some minor league ballparks. Players and fans alike rave about their stadium and after you visit, I have no doubt you will too. Food & Beverage 4 Clark-LeClair features one of the most expansive concession stands in college baseball. Pizza, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers, and much more. To make it even better, nothing on the menu is more than $6. Four hot dogs and four drinks will only cost you $32. Drinks are by Coca-Cola and are $4 for a small and $5 for a large. In addition to the fountain drinks, you can purchase sweet tea for $3.50. Despite its popularity in the south, this is the first I’ve seen it at a ball game. Atmosphere 5 The exterior’s brick facade opens to a large concourse with a large concession stand along with a smaller merchandise stand. Tickets for some games are $6, while premium games are $10. The lower level seats and those directly in front of the press box and they are plastic stadium seats. Other second level seats are metal benches. Usually, the box office only sells the metal bleacher seats. The field itself was totally renovated in 2004, and a new video board along with new press boxes, dugouts, and many other aesthetic upgrades were added and make the stadium better than some minor league parks. Even with the netting that stretches around the stadium, fans can sit right on top of the action. There are lower level sections on either end that stretch out even further into the field to the point where you can even see into the dugout. Neighborhood 4 Greenville, North Carolina is the epitome of a college town. Everything around campus is tailored to the school. Greenville Blvd is home to just about any chain restaurant you could ask for, but you would be deprived if you go to a college town and not visit the local favorites. B’s Barbecue is about 10 minutes from campus and is worth the drive just to see this place operate. B’s has no telephone, no cash register, and no kitchen. They serve nothing but Eastern North Carolina, vinegar-based BBQ made outside in a smokehouse. It may not have all the modern amenities of other restaurants, but it makes up for it with good food and local fans. To make B’s even more unique, there is no official closing time. Make sure you come early because once they have sold all of the day’s food, they close. Another local favorite is Cubbie’s. This place is famous for its burgers and its shrimp. It is also a great place for a person on a budget. Plates are available with your choice of sandwich, side, and drink for $6.25 ($7.95 for shrimp). Fans 4 While they may not sell out every game, the fans that come make themselves known. All around the stadium, the fans of all ages have a reaction to every play. If there is a good play or a close call goes for the Pirates, the fans erupt in cheering and applause. If a close call goes against the Pirates however, the fans are very quick to voice their displeasure. Simply put, the fans are among college baseball’s best for their loyalty and volume. Access 4 US 264 was built with Greenville and ECU in mind. It runs from Raleigh and intersects with I-95 on its way into the town. Once you exit off of 264, it is only a short drive to Clark-LeClair and the athletic complex. Parking is free and easy as there are two lots across the street from the stadium. Return on Investment 5 Considering the quality of the stadium, fans, and overall game experience, $6-$10 admission is a steal. For that price, you can sit very close to the action and enjoy a nationally famous stadium for less than most minor league teams. Extras 4 Taco Bell sponsors a promotion where if a player hits their outfield sign, everyone in the park can get a free taco at the store. Along with this, the first three returned foul balls become coupons for free wings at Buffalo Wild Wings. Food related promotions are always popular among hungry college students. Williams Jungle is a fan section in left field that has evolved over the years. What started as fans just watching the game for free from the outfield has turned into a super fan section that loves to try and strike up conversation with the left fielder. College baseball is a sport that is too often devoid of mascots. Thankfully, ECU brings its Pee Dee Pirate out to all the games. Pee Dee is named for the river that runs through North Carolina and South Carolina. Finally, whoever runs the music at Clark-LeClair does a fantastic job. The playlist is a good mix of country, classic rock, and pop and there was never just dead air. Final Thoughts Since the completion of renovations, Clark-LeClair has been talked about in many circles as among the best in the country. Having visited now, I can see why. Everything from the ticket prices to the seating arrangement was built with the common fan in mind and because of that, the stadium provides a great stadium experience. Overall, this stadium is one that fans of college baseball must add to their bucket lists.