Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 William H. Bell Center 1 S Campus Drive San Antonio, TX 78212 Trinity Tigers website William H. Bell Center website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 1,800 Trinity Tigers – William H. Bell Center Trinity University was originally founded in 1869 as a private liberal arts school, ultimately merging with the University of San Antonio in the 1940s. The beautiful 125-acre campus was designated a National Historic District, and is one of the crown jewels of the Alamo City. In 1916 the school began its athletics programs, including their basketball team – the Trinity Tigers  men’s hoops team would experience frequent periods of success on the hard court, primarily under legendary Head Coach Bob Polk. Since 1992, the Tigers have called William H. Bell Center their home; the massive facility is home to the university’s athletics department and numerous sports programs. Having been renovated several times over the years, Bell Center has proven to be a perfect home for Trinity.   Food & Beverage   3 Like many facilities at the lower levels of college athletics, William H. Bell Center boasts limited food and drink offerings for fans. The gym currently has one concession stand, located on the mezzanine level of the facility. The “Tiger Bites” stand offers up pretty much everything you’d expect to find at a game, including hot dogs (with or without chili and cheese), nachos, Frito pie, soft pretzels, candy, bottled soda, water, and sports drinks. There is no alcohol for sale at Tiger basketball games. As I have said in many similar reviews in the past, this is all fine – your socks will not metaphorically be blown off, but you won’t go hungry and more than likely will be satisfied, especially with not one concession item here having a price over $6.   Atmosphere   3 The atmosphere at Trinity is greatly improved by the history of success of its programs; the halls of Bell Center are lined with the numerous championship trophies of Tiger teams of the past. Every team, from basketball (men’s and women’s) to golf to bowling to football, has at least one championship, and Bell Center has the trophy to prove it. As you walk past the Tiger statue guarding the front steps to the facility, you then walk through the doors and are greeted by display cases filled with sports memorabilia of past great Tigers. One hallway has trophy after trophy after trophy; another is home to the school’s athletics Hall of Fame. In addition, inside the arena itself the rafters are lined with championship banners from basketball and volleyball teams in past seasons. As far as the in-game experience, the gym has a nice mix of bleacher seating and seatback chairs; there isn’t a bad sightline to be found, and the way it is laid out acoustically, games sound much louder in the stands than you would expect from a crowd of a few hundred. This greatly helps the energy and atmosphere. One pet peeve I have and want to point out again is the lack of any type of merchandise table or stand – I think small schools are missing out by not offering at least a rudimentary sampling of merch for game attendees to purchase.   Neighborhood   5 Trinity University is situated in the historic Monte Vista District  of San Antonio, which is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Though the campus is located directly off US 87/281, it feels a world apart from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city. Situated right on the edges of Monte Vista, it feels almost like you’re driving the streets of a small college town. Regardless, the area is a short 5-10 minute drive from the Alamo City’s historic downtown , and an even shorter drive from the world-class San Antonio Zoo  and historic Brackenridge Park . Both are excellent options for spending time before or after Tigers games at Bell Center. In terms of dining, you’re just a short drive from the arena to the Historic Pearl , complete with some of the city’s best-rated restaurants, like Best Quality Daughter , Brasserie Mon Chou Chou , Cured , and La Gloria . While each of these is literally some of the best the Alamo city has to offer, if you’re looking for something a little more Texan I highly recommend Augie’s Barbed Wire Smokehouse , which is right down the street from the Zoo; it is Texas barbecue at its finest. For dining, lodging is not plentiful near the Trinity campus, per se. However, just a short drive up Highway 37 toward downtown there is an abundance of options for every budget – these include the much-lauded Hotel Emma  and O’Casey’s Boutique Inn . Vacation rentals are an also option, and are plentiful in Monte Vista.   Fans   3 I wasn’t quite sure what to expect on my visit to catch my first Tigers basketball game at Trinity. In past visits for other sports, the crowds have been spotty at times; it’s also kind of hard to get a true visiting crowd into town for regular season games as well, due in part to the size of the competing schools. However, during my most recent visit the crowd was of a pretty good size, at least a couple of hundred – the student section was full and there were a lot of fans sporting the team’s signature maroon and white. As mentioned, the acoustics in Bell Center make even a crowd the size I experienced seem that much larger.   Access   4 As far as locations go, it’s hard to beat where Trinity University is situated. It is basically near the crossroads for four of San Antonio’s major highways, clearly visible from US 87/281 with exits that are clearly marked. The campus is around a 10-minute drive (on a good day) from San Antonio International Airport , which is a major plus. The one negative I will mention here is that the exit for Trinity off US 87 is near the intersection of both Interstates 10 and 35; this area tends to bottleneck with traffic. Once on campus there is abundant signage showing the way to the gymnasium, and there is also abundant free parking, also a major plus. If you choose not to drive the city’s mass transportation option, VIA Metropolitan Transit , has several routes that will drop you off at Trinity University.   Return on Investment   4 It’s hard to beat what Trinity has to offer for fans; as mentioned parking is free, as is admission to games at Bell Center. It’s really hard to beat free, especially when you pair it with a very affordable selection of items at the concession stand. The building itself is really a good venue, so the only thing keeping this score from reaching any higher is the opponents you’re going to see come through William H. Bell Center. You’re not going to see top-tier Division I or Division II teams on campus for a game, but you’re going to get Division III basketball, which is perfectly fine if you’re a hoops fan.   Extras   2 There is not much in the way of extras for games at Trinity. The Trinity Cheerleaders  can be found near the south side of the gym beyond the baseline, who root for the Tigers throughout the game. Also the Trinity dance team, the Prowlers , perform during halftime. That’s pretty much it. I know the school has a band and a costumed mascot, but they apparently do not come out for basketball games.   Final Thoughts I enjoyed myself during my first visit to Trinity University’s William H. Bell Center. The facilities are top notch, the atmosphere is good, and I hate to keep saying it, but you can’t beat free sports in my opinion. While I wouldn’t put this on anyone’s but a true die-hard hoops fan’s bucket list, I think anyone who is a fan of the game will enjoy themselves. Also, if nothing else this will give visitors a chance to see what makes Trinity University a special place in San Antonio. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 CSI Companies Court @ UNF Arena 11852 University of North Florida Drive Jacksonville, FL 32224 North Florida Ospreys website UNF Arena website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 5,800 Birds of Trey The University of North Florida is a relatively young school, being founded in Jacksonville, Florida in 1965.  Today it boasts over 16,000 students and athletic teams that compete at the Division I level of the NCAA.  The North Florida Ospreys have been competing in men’s basketball since 1992 when they began in NAIA.  They quickly moved up to Division II and in 2005 they moved to Division I.  The Ospreys have settled in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they have won the regular season title three times and the Atlantic Sun Tournament, granting their only berth in the NCAA Tournament, in 2015.  During their tenure, the Ospreys have leaned into their identity as a 3-point shooting team, dubbing themselves the Birds of Trey. Home for the Ospreys is UNF Arena.  Located on campus in Jacksonville, UNF Arena opened in 1993, just after the Ospreys began their first season, and has a capacity of 5,800.  Inside UNF Arena is CSI Companies Court, which is named after a local staffing and recruiting company. Food & Beverage 3 The concession stand is located in the main lobby.  It has a simple menu that provides the basics in arena fare.  Fans will find hot dogs, burgers, pizza, pretzels, nachos and popcorn.  Beverages include soda, water, coffee along with wine seltzer and beer.  The selection is basic and fans won’t go hungry, but there is also nothing that will peak the imagination. Atmosphere 3 UNF Arena is located on campus at University of North Florida and is a solid venue for mid-major college basketball.  The exterior consists of brown brick and concrete trim in a cube-like shape.  The main entry is from the west side where a large courtyard, perfect for pre-game gathering, is found.  The courtyard hosts a large osprey fountain.  Entering from the west, fans will pass under a large, corrugated concrete overhang.  After entering UNF Arena, fans will find themselves in a clean and bright lobby with plenty of Ospreys logos.  A plethora of display cases are found in the lobby and there is plenty to peak the attention of fans before heading in to find their seats.  One of the more unique cases finds itself under the landing of the staircase.  This large display case is mostly dedicated to the North Florida rivalry with crosstown Jacksonville University.  The Ospreys and Dolphins share the River City Rumble and play for the Old Wooden Barrel.  Although too new to hit the consciousness of the average college basketball fan, it is a great attempt by both schools to stoke interest in their teams.  A set of stairs takes fans up to the club section where the athletics Hall of Fame display can be found. Upon entering the main part of the arena, fans are met with CSI Companies Court, which is east-west oriented.  That perfect center court picture is going to come from the north side.  Again, there are plenty of North Florida Ospreys markings inside the arena, which is clean and attractive.  The east end is the student section and the west end is where the perch, or club seating, is found.  The north and south seating is divided into upper and lower levels, with the retractable lower levels featuring cushioned arena seats and the upper levels, contoured plastic bench seats.  The championship banners hang above the club section on the west end including the tournament berths, three Atlantic Sun regular season championships and 2015 Atlantic Sun Tournament Championship.  There is also a banner honoring Dallas Moore, who has the distinction of a career 2,437 points, most by any player at a Florida Division I school.  There are simple scoreclocks that hang at the east and west ends and videoboard above center court. However, they lack any statistics, including points by players. The gameday production is typical of a mid-major college basketball game.  The game that was reviewed was during the winter break and the UNF campus was very quiet.  This was definitely not the typical gameday environment.  The team is led on the court by flag bearers and the cheer team performs stunts during pregame and play stoppages.  The mascot, Ozzie the Osprey, and the UNF Pep Band are normally at Osprey games, however, they were not present at the game that was reviewed.  During a North Florida free-throw, the cheerleaders and fans raise their hands up and if the shot is good, everyone yells “Swoop!”  For those who are new, it is even indicated on the court. Of course, the 3-point baskets are tracked with an intern hanging a “3” on the railing that separates the upper and lower levels on the south side. Neighborhood 4 UNF Arena is located on the campus of the University of North Florida in the Sans Pareil neighborhood of Jacksonville.  There are a number of options for pre or post game food and drink that are not too far away.  They include RH Rooftop Restaurant, Ted’s Montana Grill, Prata Italia and Bazille.  There are a number of other sporting events in Jacksonville.  Of course, checking out the cross-town rival Jacksonville Dolphins  is a plan when in town.  Other options include the Jacksonville Jaguars , Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp , and Jacksonville Icemen .  Annually, Jacksonville hosts the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl  and the Florida-Georgia College Football game.  Other tourist options in the area include the Jacksonville Zoo, St. Augustine Alligator Farm, Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and of course, the beaches. For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Holiday Inn is very close to campus. Fans 3 The game that was reviewed was during winter break and campus was very quiet.  That being said, the North Florida Ospreys typically average over 1,600 fans per game.  This ranks them 7th in the Atlantic Sun Conference at the time of writing.  With a capacity of over 5,000 at UNF Arena, there is plenty of room to grow and more fans in the stands will help provide a better college basketball environment.  The fans that were in attendance were knowledgeable and supportive of the Ospreys.   Access 4 UNF Arena is located on the campus of the University of North Florida in the Sans Pareil neighborhood of Jacksonville.  Campus is located east of I-295, south of US-90 and north of US-202.  Getting to campus and the arena is not too difficult.  There is plenty of parking on campus, and for the game that was reviewed the parking garage south of UNF Arena was free.  For fans wishing to take public transit to the game, there are buses that travel University of North Florida Drive.  Fans should consult the Jacksonville Transit Authority  website for fares, maps and schedules. Getting around the arena is not difficult at all and the washroom facilities are adequate for the facility.  Return on Investment 4 Taking in a North Florida Ospreys game provides a solid return on investment.  Tickets for the Ospreys start at $15 for the General Admission upper levels and $20 for the reserved lower levels.  Concession prices are good and parking was free for the event that was reviewed.  The product on the court is solid and UNF does a good job of presenting the game.  Fans will have a good experience at North Florida. Extras 2 An extra mark that North Florida has with Jacksonville.  The schools face off in the River City Rumble and play for the Old Wooden Barrel. An extra mark for North Florida leaning into their 3-point identity. Final Thoughts Taking in a North Florida Ospreys basketball game while in the Jacksonville area is a great way to get a sporting fix.  CSI Companies Court @ UNF Arena is a bright and clean facility that is a solid mid-major college basketball venue.  With any luck, the Ospreys will be hitting 3-pointers, proving to all those in attendance, that they truly are the Birds of Trey. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey State Farm Arena FANFARE Score: 3.86 State Farm Arena 1 State Farm Dr Atlanta, GA 30303 Atlanta Hawks website State Farm Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 16,888 True To Atlanta The latest hashtag campaign for the Atlanta Hawks of the NBA pushes fans to be #TrueToAtlanta.  The Hawks have been part of the Atlanta sports landscape since 1968 when they moved from St. Louis.  The Hawks were founded as the Buffalo Bisons in 1946 and moved to Moline, Illinois to be the Tri-Cities Blackhawks after just 38 days.  In 1951 the team moved to Milwaukee and dropped the Black to become just the Hawks and stayed until 1955 when they moved to St. Louis.  Their only appearance in the NBA Finals saw them victorious in 1958 behind the massive scoring of Bob Pettit.  Key to the Hawks development was the purchase of the team by Ted Turner in 1977.  The Hawks were Turner’s first venture into sports and he owned them until 2004 when they were sold to Time Warner.  The Hawks had some success in the eighties with Dominique Wilkins, their best player in franchise history, but unfortunately they could not get past Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls.  Currently the Hawks are mired in mediocrity under the ownership group led by Tony Ressler, who purchased the team in 2015. Home for the Hawks is State Farm Arena.  Built in 1999 as Philips Arena, it replaced the iconic Omni.  The arena is owned by the Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority and after a couple of renovations has a current capacity of 16,600.  State Farm purchased the naming rights to the arena in 2018.  Taking in a Hawks game is a great experience, despite the woes of the Hawks. Food & Beverage 5 State Farm Arena offers a major league concession selection.  Zac Brown’s Social Club, Hawk Walk Market, Smoothie King and Chick-Fil-A are just the tip of the iceberg that fans can find at State Farm Arena.  State Farm Arena also offers seating areas, similar to a food court.  Some items that have been added to the menus this season include Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, Lemon Pepper Loaded Footlong, Smashburger and ATL Hot Chicken Tenders.  Coca-Cola is, of course, the soft drink of choice at State Farm Arena and there are a number of different bars that offer a host of mixed drinks as well as a variety of beer. Atmosphere 4 State Farm Arena offers a very unique exterior.  Since the area is seemingly built on platforms that facilitate parking facilities and infrastructure for the arena and stadium, State Farm Arena has a bit of an understated look to it, feeling low profile from the main entry on the southwest side.  The arena is renowned for the canopy in the front held up by support beams spelling Atlanta. Fans will no doubt want to check out the bronze statue of Hawks legend Dominique Wilkins, which stands in front of the main entrance.  There is also a statue of Evander Holyfield that stands near the escalator from the MARTA. Inside State Farm Arena, the concourses are a bit of a maze which deftly drive traffic into key areas, such as the team store. There are a few large seating areas near concession stands that give the area a bit of a food court feel.  There are plenty of Atlanta and Hawks markings in the concourse and there are plenty of things to see for fans walking around. Inside the seating bowl, fans will find that the court is northwest to southeast oriented, and the best spot for the center court logo is from the southwest side.  Hanging in the rafters at the southeast is the 1958 NBA Championship banner as well as a banner signifying the twelve Division Titles (six from each of St. Louis and Atlanta).  On the northwest side are the banners for the retired numbers which include Bob Pettit, Lou Hudson, Pete Maravich, Dikembe Mutombo, Dominique Wilkins and owner Ted Turner.  Above center court is a huge, state-of-the-art, four sided videoboard.  Four other videoboards are found in the four corners of the arena and display ads and statistics throughout the game.  The lower bowl is a typical configuration with the Delta Sky 360 Club at floor level of the northwest end.  The upper and lower levels are split by luxury boxes.  The upper levels are also in four distinct areas, separated at the corners by videoboards.   The gameday production at a Hawks game is not dissimilar to that of other NBA teams.  There is near constant motion and stimulus, almost to the point of being overwhelming.  The mascot, Harry the Hawk, takes part in the pregame ceremonies and other promotions on the court.  The ATL Dancers perform in the pregame and during breaks in play.  An interesting aspect of the gameday production is a member of the ownership group, actress Jami Gertz, takes part in the Swag Surf where she dances and leads the crowd on the court with Harry the Hawk.  Neighborhood 5 State Farm Arena is located in Downtown Atlanta, an underrated tourist destination. Being Downtown in a major metropolitan city offers a number of options for pre or post-game food and drink. Some options close by include Max’s Coal Oven Pizza, The Food Shoppe, Sway, Polaris and Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint.  There are a bunch of other sporting options in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons  and Atlanta United FC  play right next door to State Farm Arena at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This is also the annual home of the Peach Bowl , now part of the College Football Playoff. The Atlanta Braves  play outside of the Atlanta city limits in Cumberland. Other options include the Atlanta Dream  and Georgia Swarm  and Gwinnet Stripers . College sports are also prevalent with Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football , basketball  and baseball  and Georgia State Panthers football , basketball  and baseball  among other sports. There are also a ton of other tourist options in Atlanta. Fans should consider checking out the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, Olympic Park and College Football Hall of Fame. There are plenty of hotel options that are close. The Omni is an iconic Atlanta staple. Other options close by include Holiday Inn, Hyatt and Marriott. Fans 3 For an NBA team, the Hawks have not blown the door off of the turnstiles.  It is not surprising due to decades of mediocrity at best.  At the time of writing, the Atlanta Hawks averaged over 16,200 fans per game.  The previous season, 2023-24, the Hawks averaged 16,900.  Although both of these figures are close to capacity, the eye test shows a big difference between these figures and the butts in seats.  The Hawks are close to the basement in the NBA for attendance and have a fairly passive fan base.    Access 4 State Farm Arena is located in Downtown Atlanta, north of Centennial Olympic Park Drive and west of Marietta Street SW.  It is west of Highway I-85 and north of I-20.  Getting to the arena is not too difficult if sufficient time is given, but Atlanta traffic can definitely be an issue.  There are a number of surface lots and parking garages downtown.  Pre-purchasing parking using an appropriate app is probably the best idea for new fans.  The parking deck just southwest of the main entry at Centennial Olympic Park Drive is a very convenient option.  For fans wishing to take public transit, the MARTA station is right there.  Fans should check the MARTA website for fares, schedules and maps. Inside State Farm Arena, the concourses are a bit maze-like and confusing to get around, however the concourses do offer plenty of space.  The washroom facilities are adequate for the facility. Stadium Journey recognizes that the security protocols for major sporting events are in constant flux.  Stadium Journey strongly recommends consulting the Atlanta Hawks  and State Farm Arena  websites for the most up to date security information including prohibited items and bag policy. Return on Investment 3 NBA experiences are expensive and the Atlanta Hawks are no different.  The 2023 Fan Cost Index for the Hawks was $232, which is below league average, but still a steep price. This puts them as the 24th most expensive experience.  Tickets for the Hawks generally start at $43 for the upper ends going to $82 for other spots in the upper bowl.  For the lower bowl, tickets range from $125 to over $425.  Parking in the surrounding area will probably cost around $30 and concession prices are expensive, what one would expect for a major league experience.  The return for the investment is good, but the cost is prohibitive for fans to consider multiple games per season.  Extras 3 An extra mark for the beams in front of the State Farm Center spelling Atlanta. An extra mark for the homage to the iconic Omni over the MARTA escalator. An extra mark for the view of the Atlanta skyline from the interior of State Farm Arena. Final Thoughts Fans will definitely have a good time when taking in an Atlanta Hawks game.  The State Farm Arena is a solid sports destination and great spot to take in a basketball game.  More success on the court for the Hawks would definitely improve the experience but either way, the Hawks remain True to Atlanta. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall 1001 E 17th St. Bloomington, IN 47408 Indiana Hoosiers website Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 17,222 Hoo-Hoo-Hoosiers! On October 14, 2016, the Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall hosted its first game after 18 months of extensive renovations to one of the college’s most iconic venues. The generous $40 million donation from Sydney Simon Skjodt improved the game experience for fans, students, and student-athletes but preserved the tradition of the arena. When fans entered the building, they noticed wider concourses and walkways, escalators providing access to the revamped concourses with more restrooms and concession stands, and tables to add mustard to your hot dog or pretzel. Seat backs and chairs were replaced and are now all red and white, and a new vibrant scoreboard hung from the center of the court. Assembly Hall has been the home to Indiana University basketball since 1971 and has hosted more than 12 million fans. Most of its 17,222 seats are on either side of the court, creating one of the greatest home-court advantages in college basketball. The seating was designed as two audiences facing one another and to accommodate non-basketball events at the arena, making it one of the instantly recognizable sporting venues in the country. The facility has a modern, aesthetically pleasing design from its exterior, one that promotes progress and blends in well with the IU campus scenery. The opening of the venue coincided with the debut of head coach Bobby Knight, who would lead the Hoosiers to three NCAA championships (1976, 1981, and 1987) during his 29-year seasons in Bloomington, perhaps forever linking the two iconic institutions. Food & Beverage 4 The concession area has improved greatly since the renovations, offering LED menu screens and very affordable prices. Beer sales debuted during the 2022-2023 season at all basketball games for both men and women—cashless payments for all concession purchases at Assembly Hall. The concession windows now have six stands instead of the previous four before renovations. Before heading to your seat, there is plenty of room to put down your food to add toppings to your dogs, nachos, wings, or fries. The items include nachos, French fries, Hoosier dog, pretzels, and 32-ounce Coca-Cola products. Papa John’s Pizza, Polish sausages, footlong hot dogs, and boneless chicken wings are also available. There also appear to be daily specials that feature a giant bucket of popcorn for just $5 during our visit to the arena. BuffaloLouie’s is a local institution known for its chicken wings.  Fans can enjoy other items, including chicken tenders, pork tenderloin, and Italian beef sandwiches. Atmosphere 5 Assembly Hall is quite an experience, highlighted by the recent renovations. The crown jewel is the south entrance, where visitors are greeted by bronze statues of former IU greats from Steve Alford, Bill Garrett, Isiah Thomas, Everett Dean, and members of the 1976 Undefeated NCAA championship team. Interactive screens allow fans to learn about players and teams from various decades, and displays hang that tell a story from the origin of the Hoosier's candy-striped pants to Martha the Mop Lady, who starts the night with her rendition of “Indiana, Our Indiana” that brings the fans and cheerleaders to their feet. There are more Kodak moments with the original scoreboard wedged into the wall up above the escalators and its original baskets. The biggest piece of art might be the Assembly Hall Floor, which was used from 1976 to 1995. It is now displayed as a giant piece of art in a gallery that is the centerpiece of the recent renovations. The seating area of the gym has been left unchanged in appearance, but there are noticeable additions such as a new scoreboard and seatbacks. The two rows of seats create a theater-like atmosphere that seems to rise to the tippy-top of the building. The five championship banners hang on one side of the court, while various Big Ten banners adorn the opposite side. Other traditions include “The Greatest Time Out in College Basketball,” which occurs during the under-eight timeout in the second half when the spirit squad races out of every corner, waving flags to the tune of the William Tell Overture. Neighborhood 4 Numerous choices for eating, drinking, and shopping nearby are within a couple of miles. Mother Bear’s is probably the number one place for pizza in town. The pies are baked in a deep dish, allowing the cheese to caramelize around the edges. The place always seems to be packed, and parking is limited to the restaurant. A few of my IU friends suggest BuffaLouie’s for its wings, amazing sauces, and vibe. Lennie’s is another fine choice, with a lot more parking, that features sandwiches, pizza, stromboli, and beer brewed by the Bloomington Brewing Company. The heart of Bloomington is Kirkwood Ave, featuring two local institutions – Nick’s and Kilroy’s. The square features various shops, bars, and restaurants and borders the entrance of many of the picturesque grounds of the Indiana campus. A little north of town is Oliver Winery; the beautiful gardens, water fountains, and picnic areas around the lake offer a romantic spot for couples or a great place to enjoy wine with friends. Another colorful and touristy area in Nashville, Indiana, located in nearby Brown County, offers some of the best biking/hiking trails in the country and an eclectic downtown jam-packed with shops, restaurants, and Quaff On! Brewing Company. Fans 5 Hoosier fans are loud, proud, and faithful and are everywhere across the state and beyond. They make it one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in college basketball. Just engage in a conversation on the team’s chances during the Big Ten tournament, and you will have many claiming that the team is on its way to winning a sixth national championship. The men’s basketball record at Assembly Hall is an incredible 558-115 (.829) home record as of this writing. The student section is the largest in the nation, providing seating for 7,080 people. Regardless of the opponent they are playing, the Hoosier supporters are 100% behind their team, making it a tough place for any opponent to enter throughout the season. Access 4 Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall is located in the sports complex with Memorial Stadium, Bart Kaufman Field, and Andy Mohr Field. The price for parking is $10 and is probably the best spot for the first-time visitor, but there are various smaller lots and other spots to park for free that require a short walk. The renovations have stripped the building of its early 1970s appearance of ramps and narrow concourses, and the main lobby ceilings have been raised and are more open to the public. Escalators now take fans to upper levels of seating and balcony sections. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket depends on the opponent and whether or not it is a conference foe. All tickets are sold through SeatGeek and tend to sell out close to the day of the game; however, other resale sites, such as TickPick , offer single-game tickets for as low as $11 for Penn State to as high as $100 against hated rival Purdue . When you tie in the price of concession items and parking, it is easily an affordable night watching elite Big Ten basketball. Extras 5 One point for the bronze statues, interactive video board, and center court wall frame that exists in the south lobby: the place has changed for the better but has not altered the tradition of the inside of the seating area. An extra point for the championship banners that hang at both ends of the court: the style of the arena creates an ideal space to don the banners instead of the usual hanging from the rafters that are common in most indoor facilities. A third point for the tradition of Indiana University basketball: it is rich and something to savor while you attend a game at Assembly Hall. A fourth point to the traditions that include Martha the Mop Lady, candy-striped pants, and “The Greatest Time-Out in College Basketball.” You can learn all about them in the south lobby. One final point for the fervor is shown by the largest student section in college basketball. They truly help to make this an elite experience and pizazz to the night’s player introductions. Final Thoughts One of the iconic college sports venues has only gotten better. It will continue to provide Hoosier basketball fans everything it has had in the past: a dominating place for opponents to play in, school traditions, the frenzied student section, and championship-caliber basketball. An instantly recognizable facility at any level of sporting competition in the world. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Canadian Tire Centre 1000 Paladium Drive Ottawa, ON K2V 1A4 Ottawa Black Bears website Canadian Tire Centre website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 6,995 (lower bowl) New Bear’s Den It was a somewhat surprising announcement that saw the rebirth of box lacrosse in Ottawa.  GF Sports, the New York-based owner of the New York Riptide ,  announced the relocation of the National Lacrosse League franchise to the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario.  The circumstances surrounding the move were a little bit hazy, however, it is believed that the Riptide were evicted from their home, the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island, due to low attendance.  The return of lacrosse to the Capital Region is a welcome one.  The NLL left Ottawa as the Ottawa Rebel struggled at the gate, playing from 2001 to 2003.  The Rebel would move to Edmonton and eventually become the current Saskatchewan Rush . Home for the Black Bears is the Canadian Tire Centre.  The much-maligned facility is the home of the Ottawa Senators.  The Canadian Tire Centre was originally named The Palladium and built in 1996 in the town of Kanata, west of Ottawa.  Kanata would become part of Ottawa after amalgamation in 2001.  Often critiqued for being too far from where all of the action is in Ottawa, the future of the Canadian Tire Centre is murky at best.  Recently, the Senators have purchased a section of land in the LeBreton Flats area of Ottawa, much closer to Parliament than Kanata, to develop it and build a new arena.  It will be interesting to see if the Ottawa Black Bears are part of the plan for that planned new arena.  Until that point, the Canadian Tire Centre remains the new den for the Black Bears. Food & Beverage 3 One of the advantages of NLL lacrosse at the Canadian Tire Centre is that fans have access to the 100-level concourse.  Most fans would not have this access for Senators games and would be limited to the concession options on the upper levels.  The Canadian Tire Centre is unique in that it features many bars and lounges on the 100 level.  There are plenty of spots where fans can sit and grab a drink and some food before the action starts on the floor.  Otherwise, the concession options are decent at the Canadian Tire Centre.  Gabriel Pizza is the local star and can be found at their dedicated concession or other stands.  Tim Hortons and Lone Star are also recognizable stands.  The typical arena fare is found at the Canadian Tire Centre, as well as a few other, more interesting options.  Canadian Cubanos and Oktoberfest Sausage should be considered for fans who wish to stray from the typical dogs and popcorn.  There are many bars and lounges where fans can choose a variety of beer or other alcoholic beverages. Atmosphere 3 The Canadian Tire Centre has a unique exterior.  A circular building on a ground level square features light siding stripes at the upper portion of the building to give it that unique look.  It is clear, even from the exterior, that the Canadian Tire Centre is the home of the Ottawa Senators.  There are plenty of markings around the building, including the illuminated “Sens” sign at the main entry on the east side.  The one marking for the Black Bears on the exterior is a series of banners, which are alternated with Senators banners.  A fire pit welcomes fans at the east plaza and reminds them just how cold a winter in Ottawa can be.  Upon entering the arena, fans must choose the lower 100 level or upper levels before having their ticket scanned.  The opportunity to check out the 100 level may be a possibility for many who would not normally see it during a Senators game due to the more expensive tickets.  The 100-level concourses are accented with red everywhere, and there are plenty of Senators markings and artifacts.  There isn’t much in the way of Black Bears anything in the concourses.  A few Black Bears items can be found in the team store, which is dominated with Senators paraphernalia.  Walking around the 100-level concourse, fans will be required to double back as a 360-degree path is not accessible due to the Bell Club at the southwest end. Inside the seating bowl, the Canadian Tire Centre features three tiers of seating with the 300 level closed for Black Bears games.  The floor is oriented from northeast to southwest, and the perfect spot for the centre logo is from the northwest side.  The 200-level fascia features a full 360-degree ribbon board, and the 300-level fascia has ribbon boards on the ends.  The four-sided video board hangs above the floor.  It may not be gargantuan like newer models, but it more than does the trick. The gameday production of a Black Bears game is not dissimilar to that of most NLL teams.  Music is played during the play, mainly classic rock.  The PA announcer speaks familiarly and has a “homer” slant, even audibly questioning referee calls on the floor.  The Black Bears are attempting to build in-game traditions by coaxing the fanbase to yell certain phrases at certain times during the game.  Fans are also encouraged to “get their claws out” upon Ottawa goals, standing and holding up their hands like bear claws.  The Black Bears drumline plays throughout the concourse, parade style, before the game begins, and the Ottawa Black Bears cheer team performs during a couple of pauses in the action.  The cheer team is more akin to a college cheer team, performing a few stunts, along with some dance routines.  The mascot, Cubby, traverses the crowd and interacts with fans, as well as being part of the pre-game production. Neighbourhood 4 The Canadian Tire Centre is located in the Kanata section of Ottawa, approximately 23 km from Parliament.  The location of the arena has been an issue for the Senators since its inception.  There are a few spots that are close to the arena for pre and post game food and drink.  Crazy Horse Stonegrill, Via Cibo, Jack’s, Fratelli Kanata and Tommy’s are all good options.  There are also a number of restaurants inside Canadian Tire Centre that are available.  There are plenty of other sporting options in Ottawa for fans to take in.  Canadian Tire Centre is also home to the Ottawa Senators .  Other sporting options include the Ottawa 67’s , Ottawa RedBlacks , Ottawa Blackjacks, Ottawa Charge and Ottawa Titans .  The University of Ottawa fields a number of Gee-Gee teams including basketball, hockey and football.  Carleton University also fields Ravens basketball , football  and hockey teams.  The annual Panda Game between Carleton and Ottawa is a local event worth checking out.  Ottawa also has a plethora of other tourist options including skating on the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, the Canadian war Museum and Museum of Nature to name a few.  The Canadian Cold War Museum is closer to Kanata.  For fans wishing to stay near the arena, the Glo by Best Western and Comfort Inn are good options. Fans 3 The 2024-2025 season is the inaugural season for the Ottawa Black Bears.  The fan support for the Black Bears has been initially good, but unspectacular.  The Black Bears have welcomed an average of 6,100 fans per game.  The game reviewed saw a crowd of over 5,200 fans.  At the time of writing the Black Bears were ranked 6th in the NLL in attendance.  There is plenty of room for improvement, but the Black Bears have enjoyed a decent beginning to their return to Ottawa.  Fans in attendance are generally quiet and laid back and are not terribly enthusiastic  towards the in game host’s prompts.   Access 4 The Canadian Tire Centre is located in Kanata, almost 25 km from Parliament Hill.  It is adjacent to Highway 417, on the north side of Palladium Drive.  Getting to the arena is not terribly difficult, and much quicker than getting there for a Senators game.  There are large parking lots surrounding the arena, which can cause some slowdowns getting in and out of the area.  For fans wishing to take public transit, there are a number of bus stops at Canadian Tire Centre.  Fans should consult the Ottawa Carleton Transpo for fares, maps and schedules.  Inside the Canadian Tire Centre the concourses are generally narrow, and it is not possible to walk a full 360 degrees around the 100 level due to the Bell Club.  Washroom facilities are adequate for the facility. Security protocols are in constant flux for major sporting events.  Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the Ottawa Black Bears  and Canadian Tire Centre  websites for the most up to date security protocols, including bag policies and prohibited items. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the Black Bears begin at $31 and go up to $48 for 100 level seats.  The opportunity to sit in prime seats for far less than a Senators game is a reality at a Black Bears game.  The Bell Club seats are $120 and include food and drink.  Parking for the Black Bears is not cheap and will run at least $21.  Concession prices are akin to most other major sports arenas.  The return for the investment at an Ottawa Black Bears game is solid and fans will definitely enjoy their trip. Extras 2 An extra mark for the return of NLL lacrosse to Ottawa. An extra mark for the bilingual announcements that happen at Black Bears games Final Thoughts Taking in an Ottawa Black Bears game is a great way to spend the sporting dollar.  Although Kanata is not considered a prime location, the facility is decent.  Hopefully, the second life for lacrosse in Ottawa will have a longer lifespan than the previous Ottawa Rebel, and they will be around long enough to join the Senators at the new LeBreton Flats arena. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

For writer Matt Caputo, hockey heaven isn't in Montreal, Edmonton or Boston. It's in Danbury, Connecticut, which is about ninety minutes north of NYC and an hour south of Hartford. Caputo, an adjunct professor at Western Connecticut, is the Damon Runyon of Danbury hockey. Most recently, for the New York Post , Caputo wrote about the first Hawaiian male to play professional hockey . "The Flyin' Hawaiian" plays for the Danbury Hat Tricks, Danbury's current minor league team. You might be familiar with Danbury from the very entertaining Netflix documentary, Crimes and Penalties. A cross between  Slap Shot and The Sopranos, the doc chronicles the trials and tribulations of the Danbury Trashers, the now defunct ultra-popular minor league team. Matt took a few moments to discuss his passion for Danbury hockey and a few other fun things. STADIUM JOURNEY: So, what made you go all in on Danbury hockey? Describe the magic. MATT CAPUTO: Before I get into that, I want to thank you for the invitation to chat with Stadium Journey. I’m in awe of everything the site does to support true sports fans. Being a frequent reader, this is so humbling. To answer your question, I was 25 years old and working at the New York Daily News and a former editor there, Bruce Diamond, tapped me on the shoulder - very much like a hockey coach might - and asked me if I’d be interested in trying out for a new Brooklyn-based pro hockey team playing at the Aviator Sports Center at Floyd Bennett Field. The thing was, I hadn’t played hockey in over a decade and even though I had absolutely no equipment, I told Bruce I’d go try out for the team that Sunday. The next day, a buddy drove me all over Brooklyn to find new equipment and my first pair of hockey skates in ages. I skated around a bit, tried some drills, but the whole thing was crazy. The league, the Northeast Professional Hockey League (NEPHL), was a mess from the start. The season started with three teams, and it was a disaster. Danbury wasn’t in the league, but during the tryout, I learned that the city had evolved into this low-level minor league hockey hot bed in the wake of the Trashers. After the Trashers, people kept trying to start low-level leagues with Danbury as the anchor location of the circuit. When the NEPHL folded, Brooklyn joined the newly forming Federal Hockey League where the Danbury Whalers would take the ice. I knew Danbury from having gone to college there for one year back in 2002-2003, and as I started driving up there to check out games, I realized the community had been deeply impacted by the independent pro hockey culture. Eventually, I convinced a great editor I worked with at Penthouse , John Bolster, to let me write a story that focused on the Danbury Whalers and the lives of the players, staff and fans. I spent a long weekend wandering around the city and hanging out in the rink. I found the people there to have been deeply impacted by the pro hockey tradition that started with the Trashers. I wanted to write about how something so far from the spectacle of big-league sports could fill hearts and win minds. Danbury hockey might not be the stuff of the New York Rangers, but there’s no convincing the local fans that the NHL is more important. So, Penthouse  was sold in a sealed plastic bag at newsstands and bookstores so that you couldn’t just look through the mag and check out the article. It was a shame because people knew about it but could not find it in most cases. The story never appeared online. Late last year, I worked with Dominick Alessandro – a graphic designer and artist who created the Trashers logo and has worked with corporate clients like Pepsi, Colgate and Goya – to re-release the article as a limited edition zine. The first 50 sold raised $1,000 for the Danbury Hat Tricks Booster Club. We brought the story out for its 10-year anniversary. It’s available on Etsy. In 2021, the Trashers documentary, Untold: Crimes and Penalties , came out on Netflix, and I wrote a story for Connecticut   Magazine that aimed at bringing people up to date with the story of Danbury hockey. It was like the Penthouse story but set in the 2021-2022 season. I have also written stories about or related to Danbury hockey for the New York Post and The Hockey News . Right then, I decided I was going to write a book about the Hat Tricks. I went on a few road trips at the end of that season, but ultimately set the book during the next season, wherein Danbury won it all. I pretended to be the equipment manager for the Hat Tricks and rode along for most of the road games the second half the year and mingled with the fans at home games all season. We’re looking for a publisher. STADIUM JOURNEY: Why should someone put the Danbury Ice Arena on their stadium bucket list? What's so special? MATT CAPUTO:  The first thing that comes to mind is the intimacy of the venue itself. There are a lot of great views of the ice. When the Federal League started, Danbury Arena was probably the biggest venue in the league and today it’s one of the smallest. Still, I think every team in the league would rather own a building with a capacity for 2,500 people than rent a much larger venue like other teams do. In Danbury, we’re right on top of the action. The fans sitting in Section 102 have full-on conversations and arguments with players from the other team. This season, an opposing coach threw a water bottle at those fans. During the championship season, I often sat in Section 200 – across from the bleachers – where we the fans are merciless in their pursuit of chirping the opposition. One night, Donnie Olivieri of the Binghamton Black Bears was waiting for the puck to drop. I decided that uttering the “You’re out of your element, Donnie” line from The Big Lebowski would be appropriate, but it backfired. Olivieri scored right off the faceoff and pointed right up at me, placing his index finger over his lips to symbolize that he’d silenced the crowd. STADIUM JOURNEY: What are some must-try spots to pre-game in Danbury? MATT CAPUTO:  If I’m looking for pizza, I go to Stanziato’s Wood Fired Pizza where they have a fantastic menu, super-friendly staff and a pizza named after me. The “Prof. Caputo” combines red, vodka and pesto sauces on one tasty pie. There’s TK’s American Café, which is one of Connecticut’s all-time great sports bars. There are like two dozen TVs, 76 flavors of chicken wings and sports stuff everywhere. Lastly, a lot of the diehards go to the Polish American Citizens Club on Ives Street, where, if you’re in the loop, you can enjoy cheap beers and eats in a really cool clubhouse setting. STADIUM JOURNEY: Where do you go if you want to hang with players after the game? And will the players give regular Joes the time of day? MATT CAPUTO:  Danbury Arena opened a great axe throwing lounge in a space that was once used for storage on the second floor of the arena. It’s called the Axe Tricks Lounge, and the fans who are truly invested in the team mingle there with the players after every game. The Hat Tricks do a great job visiting schools and connecting with kids after the game, but the players in Danbury have always been great about mingling with fans. There are some tight friendships between current and former players and fans of the team. STADIUM JOURNEY: As far as the morning after the game, is there a go-to spot to refuel? MATT CAPUTO:  Holiday Diner is one place you wouldn’t leave hungry; they have classic diner food and milkshakes the kids love. STADIUM JOURNEY: How similar is the Hat Tricks' Federal Prospects Hockey League to the one portrayed in Slap Shot ? MATT CAPUTO:  The Fed is an independent professional sports league. It governs itself. Just like in Slap Shot , we see player-coaches and all the crazy travel that goes into a league that now stretches from Michigan to Mississippi. That said, there’s freedom and creativity in the Fed, it’s not ruled by commercial and corporate interests like the big leagues are. That liberty translates into a lot of fun for fans. It might not be the highest level of player, but it helps players, coaches, broadcasters, sales people and others advance to better jobs. STADIUM JOURNEY: Connecticut has become a hub for elite college hockey. Quinnipiac, UConn and Sacred Heart look like sure things to make the NCAA tournament this year. Yale won the national title in 2013.  What's unique about each of these institution's hockey facilities? MATT CAPUTO:  I had the chance to write about the Quinnipiac, UCONN and Sacred Heart arenas for Connecticut Magazine a couple of years ago. They are all great places to see games, though I don’t get into college hockey as much. I think what makes them unique is that they are part of a new era of college sports. College hockey, and college soccer, to a degree, have always been a little under-utilized by the NCAA. There’s a lot more buzz around college hockey now that all those Connecticut schools have their own on-campus rinks. STADIUM JOURNEY: And your school, Western Connecticut AKA WestConn, is starting a hockey team this year. What can fans expect? MATT CAPUTO:  WestConn has a long tradition of doing college athletics the right way and I expect nothing less. I’m not aware of all the details yet, but I know they plan to play at Danbury Ice Arena. WestConn football and basketball have always enjoyed local support, and I feel strongly that people will support an NCAA DIII hockey team. I’m looking forward to checking it out. (Editor's Note: Western Connecticut will be joining the newly-formed Little East Hockey Conference for the 2025-2026 season along with several other D-III colleges from throughout New England, including UMass Dartmouth, where Stadium Journey President Paul Baker works as an announcer. Instant rivalry.) STADIUM JOURNEY: You're a Queens, New York native, and you've also written about Mets fandom. What do you most remember about Shea Stadium - good, bad, ugly? MATT CAPUTO:  The good has always been that I can get there quickly: Q47 bus right outside my front door went to the 7 Train and I could be at Shea inside a half hour. I always felt like the dimensions were bad; it had a deep outfield that seemed a little unorthodox, but it was a great place to watch a game, and the energy could reach a frenzy if the team was  winning. I remember once giving an usher $5 to let us sit in box seats right before a terrible downpour and rain delay. We were soaking wet just waiting for the Mets and Expos to start playing again. When they did, it felt like there were only 500 people there. The ugliest nights I can remember at Shea Stadium were on the Irish-themed nights when the legendary Irish rock band Black 47 played. Nico Wormworth was their manager; his father was the great jazz drummer Jimmy Wormworth, I remember grabbing his attention during Black 47’s set and chatting with him. The crowd there was crazy and relentless during the entire night, people were urinating everywhere instead of using the restrooms. STADIUM JOURNEY: You wrote a well-known piece for The New York Times on emergency goalies . Has an emergency goalie ever been upgraded to a team regular? What's the greatest emergency goalie success story? MATT CAPUTO:  Sure, in some cases, emergency goalies are often younger players or less experienced guys who are trying to get their chance. Obviously, that’s mostly in the minor leagues. In the NHL, I don’t think any emergency goalie has been invited to training camp or back to the show in any way. Dave Ayers, who drove the ice-resurface machine for the Maple Leafs, got into the game for the Carolina Hurricanes during the 2019-20 season and helped them defeat the team he worked for. Mostly, that story is about how people live their life and how they spend their time. It’s what I like to write about. STADIUM JOURNEY: Of course we had to ask. With hockey booming in Connecticut, is there any chance that the Whalers make a return to the nutmeg state? MATT CAPUTO:  There’s no doubt that people love hockey here, but there are a few things working against it. First: Hartford has a great new AA baseball stadium, a fantastic set-up for USL soccer and there’s still a fanbase for the Wolf Pack. Obviously, you’ve also got UCONN men’s and women’s basketball, as well as football playing in the city. There are some, but not a ton, of corporate interests who could support an NHL team. I think when the NHL looks at expansion, they’re looking at places where the population is growing. People forget that Phoenix was one of the fastest growing cities in Americaat one point. What Hartford does have working for it is that the love of hockey that is so strong in the area. If Springfield Mass and New Haven are counted in the metroplex, then you’ve got a region where there's a strong base of genuine hockey devotion. The Boston Bruins will probably never let it happen, but it never made sense to me that the New York City metropolitan area has three teams, and New England has but one. I’ve heard the Governor has had serious talks with the NHL about what it would take, but that’s the last I’ve heard of anything solid. Matt Caputo can be found on Instagram @MattCaputo Jon Hart is  @manversusball

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Pechanga Arena 3500 Sports Arena Blvd San Diego, CA 92110 Map It San Diego Seals website Pechanga Arena website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 12,920 Seals Lax The San Diego Seals are members of the National Lacrosse League (NL L), beginning play in the 2018-2019 season.  They have been successful, enjoying winning seasons since their inception.  In their five years of play (the NLL was cancelled during the pandemic), they have made it to the playoffs four times and to the second round twice.  They have not yet made it to the finals. The Seals play their home games at Pechanga Arena in the Midway District of San Diego, CA.   Pechanga Arena also hosts the San Diego Gulls (AHL hockey).  It is also home to a variety of other entertainment such as concerts, Disney on Ice, Harlem Globetrotters, and more.  A busy and popular Kobey’s Swap Meet is held every weekend in the parking lot of the arena.    Built in 1966, the arena is set up to be functiona l,  no t like th e whiz-bang marvels built these days for sports facilities.  It serves the Seals well from a fan perspective. There’s been talk of building a new arena on the same site as the existing one.  The proposition also includes an entertainment district (shops, dining, urban parks, etc.) and affordable housing.  We’ll keep our eyes open for any progress on this proposal. Food & Beverage 3 The arena has a decent number of concessions; many serve only adult beverages. Some are closed as the lacrosse team does not draw as many fans as the hockey team or concerts.   Be sure to walk the entire concourse to find the open concession stands and carts th at match  your taste buds. Pizza Port slices (cheese, pepperoni, jalapeno pepperoni, BBQ chicken) run $9 - $9.75.  Arena Grill serves hot dogs, hamburgers, vegan sausages and burgers, chicken baskets, nachos, fries, etc.   Nicolosi’s (Italian) sells meatball mac and cheese, 6” meatball hero, vegan mac and cheese ($13 - $18), as well as traditional fare and beverages. Small kiosks include lemonade, mini donuts, hand-dipped corn dogs, caramel apples, yummy-looking frozen dipped bananas, and Dippin’ Dots. Bottled sodas (Coca-Cola brands), water, iced tea, Monster Energy, and Powerade cost $6 - $7. A Cutwater Cocktail Bar, Elysian Brewing Company, and Breitbard’s Tap Haus have vast selections of beers on tap and in cans (domestic and local craft).  Local craft includes brews from Eppig, Golden Road, Karl Strauss, Kona, Pizza Port, Stone, and Elysian, and cost $18.  Many stands have cocktails and wines ($16 - $18). Pechanga Arena Breitbard's Tap Haus, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The choices are suitable for a meal or a snack if you arrive hungry and thirsty. The Stella Artois Lounge is a premium entertainment area available for rent and/or membership and includes a posh bar and other VIP features. The arena is missing one thing - tables to eat any purchased food.  Instead, fans have to bring their refreshments to their seats.  Atmosphere 4 Although old, the arena serves the lacrosse team very well. Two levels of average-width cushioned sea ts (without cup holders) m ake up the seating.  Fans enter the middle of the seating area and walk up or down to their seats.  The second level is about 15 steps up.  No handrails are available for the top nine rows on either level.   Those uneasy with steps should get seats in row nine as that’s the top row when walking in. Handicapped and wheelchair seating is available along the inner walkway.   Staff curtains off the second level behind both goal nets.  Every seat has a decent view of the action on th e court. Though the arena does not have suites, it offers premium seating along certain areas of the inner concourse, and Rady Ch ildren’s Cove premium field level seating choice behind one of the goals with partitioned tables and its own beverage station.  Pechanga Arena Rady Children's Cove, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey It’s chilly inside.  Wear a long-sleeved shirt and bring a sweatshirt and/or jacket.  A suitably sized scoreboard hangs above center court.  It shows the game action video, the score, shots on goal, time remaining, and quarter.  Closed captioning is not available.  At the game of this review, I noticed many delayed media timeouts, which annoyingly halted the flow of the game.  The Seals have an impressive pyrotechnic opening and introduction.  As with all box lacrosse contests, to pump the crowd, music plays constantly.  When an opposing player goes to the penalty box (the sin bin), the announcer cleverly calls “[player’s name] makes the walk of shame…shame…shame…”  The crowd is also entertained by a dance team (the Sirens) and a mascot dressed as a seal (Salty).  Other in-game entertainment includes fan participative contests like a milk chug challenge, selfies, t-shirt tosses, a military hero of the game, and a junior lacrosse scrimmage during halftime.  It is all ve ry well executed and not over the top. Neighborhood 4 The area directly surrounding the rink is bustling with shopping centers, and within just one to three miles, plenty of choices for eating, drinking, and merriment are available.  Ocean Beach Pier is just three miles from the venue and is where visitors can watch the surfers (or surf themselves), walk along the beach, swim, or sunbathe in the warmer months.  Or stroll the neighborhood shops, restaurants, and brewpubs.   It’s a great place to visit.  Sea World San Diego is a little over two miles. Historic Old Town is just a mile away; both are worth visiting.  A plethora of places to eat and drink are within a few miles.  We recommend the Long Story Irish Pub (though finding parking may be difficult), Phil’s BBQ , and Cocino de Barrio (Mexican).  Within walking distance of the arena are staples like Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Chili’s, Broken Yolk, and Buffalo Wild Wings (though we do not recommend this Broken Yolk and BWW). For the hop head, the go-to brewery for Seals fans is Bay City Brewing , right across the parking lot.  Plenty of other breweries are close by:  Deft Brewing (European style brews), Stone Brewing (in Liberty Station – serves food), and if visiting Ocean Beach, check out Ocean Beach Brewery (serves food), Kilowatt Brewing, or Pizza Port (Brewpub).  Many, many more are within five miles of the arena. A Wyndham Garden Inn is across the street from Pechanga Arena, and a Ramada Inn is a block and a half away.  Many other hotels with varied prices are within just a mile or two of Pechanga Arena, so pick your preference.  Sports fans can attend other games in the area during lacrosse season, including the AHL Gulls.  The University of San Diego is two to three miles from the arena.  You may be able to catch a Toreros baseball, basketball, football, or other athletic games. San Diego is a fantastic city to tour, so make a day or weekend of it when attending a Seals game! Fans 3 There’s an energy in the crowd, and you just can’t help getting excited when the Seals score a goal.  Lots of families, kids, and school lacrosse teams are in attendance.  Visitors see plenty of purple, yellow, and black (the Seals’ colors) in the crowd.  The fans certainly don’t follo w lacrosse eti quette as they leave and enter during play action.  At the game of this review, the lower level was about 65% full.  The average attendance is between 5,000 and 6,000 fans per game.  This puts the team in the mid to bottom half of the NLL attendance ranking. Access 4 Getting to the arena is easy.  It is right off the I-8 and I-5 Interstates in the Midway District of San Diego, a tad over a mile from Old Town San Diego and a little over three miles from the San Diego Airport.   Plenty of parking is available in lots surrounding the venue for $15.  The box office is on the north side of the building (Kurtz Street side).  Public transportation is available and takes 30 – 45 minutes with multiple changes if coming from the airport.  Check the San Diego MTS trip planner to see if this is an option from where you are.  If not, Uber and Lyft drop-off and pickup are on the south side of the venue near the gas station and Chick-fil-A.  It is easy and painless to get through security and scanning of the ticket.  Clear 12” x 6” x 12” stadium sports bags are allowed.  Fans can walk the entire concourse.   Unfortunately, tickets are only available through AXS – an online ticket provider.  Fans purchasing tickets at the box office must download the AXS app to their phone to get their tickets.  The Seals do not offer hardcopy tickets.  ADA seating is provided on the inner concourse surrounding the court.  The arena has sufficient restrooms for a lacrosse game, but they are tight, with minimal room to maneuver (at least in the ladies).  Return on Investment 3 Seals box lacrosse games are fun and worth your sports dollar investment.  We recommend eating or drinking before heading to the game, as concession prices are the expected high stadium prices. Tickets run $21 - $80.  A three-game ticket package offers a discount and is a good deal if planning on seeing more than one match a season.  Groups of 10+ get a reduced rate, so corral your friends, work buddies, or social group members and come and enjoy an exciting evening out! Parking is $15.  If time and your location permit, consider using public transportation.  The stadium only accepts purchases via credit card, including parking. Every game has a special event, such as Heritage nights, Stick Up for a Cure night, Margaritaville nights, etc., and may include tailgating parties or giveaways. Extras 4 Photos on the concourse walls portray famous events and entertainers who performed at Pechanga Arena over the years.  It is worth the effort to stroll the concourse perusing the historic concerts performed here. The team broadcasts a motivating video that energizes the crowd and gears them into a lacrosse frame of mind before the players take the court.  When the announcer introduces the players, spectacular shooting flames, smoke, and hoopla abound. One retired jersey number hangs from the rafters , #17 Bro die Merrill. Pechanga Arena Bro die Merrill Retired Jersey, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Finally, praise to the crew who successfull y transform  the arena from a hockey rink to a lacrosse court in under 24 hours. Final Thoughts The venue has a lot of history on display and is a throwback to an earlier time when arenas were designed to be functional fan facilities.  Box lacrosse is a fun, lively game to watch, and a San Diego Seals gam e delivers that sports enjoyment pleasure.  Check out In Lacrosse We Trust for all lacrosse coverage.

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: 550 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. Most of their teams are Division III and are members of the Centennial Conference, while lacrosse is Division I and plays in the Big Ten. Fencing competes in the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Fencing Association and the Eastern Women’s Fencing 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 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. It is a bit hard to keep up with the action as so much is happening at the same time. The gym is very small, smaller than many high school gyms. Only half of the seating is used for fencing and may even be only half pushed out even then. You may have to stand to watch the action. Fencing will also likely use the auxiliary gym next door as well as the main Goldfarb Gym. The auxiliary gym has no fixed seating. Because of its small size, both gyms can get very loud. 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. Parking may be free on weekends but that varies depending on other events happening on 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 watching a cool sport such as fencing, as well as the low cost, you might want to stop in while in the Baltimore area.

File Photo Schenectady Stadium was somewhat ahead of its time when it opened in 1946; the modern structure had many innovations, from its field lights to its very own restaurant. However, only eleven years later, the stadium hosted its last baseball game. Owners Pete and Jim McNearney built their steel and concrete structure from their own pockets to attract an existing ball club during the Golden Age of baseball after World War II. The brothers had the foresight to understand that it might be more than just baseball that attracted fans through the gates. The home of the Schenectady Blue Jays of the later Eastern League offered the first panoramic stadium restaurant in the country. The restaurant was open every day except Mondays, from 5 PM to 1 AM, regardless of a baseball game. Patrons had the opportunity to enjoy dinner while watching the game from the clean and modern eatery. Tables were pressed against the large windows overlooking the diamond, and a few lounge chairs provided extra comfort for those wanting to enjoy the elusive after-dinner cigarette. The house special was the stadium club steak for $2. Today, you can find many restaurants located inside or adjacent to minor league ballparks. Frickers in Fifth Third Field in Toledo, Ohio,  offers eight rows of seating overlooking the ballpark in the right-field corner of the stadium for Mud Hens fans. Against the Grain sits inside Louisville Slugger Field , serves award-winning barbecue, and brews its beer to fans before and after Louisville Bats games. It’s normal to take such comforts for granted since the stadium restaurant in Schenectady–sans the cigarette smoke–describes most suite-level bars and restaurants that are the norm at all modern ballparks. However, this was not always the case more than 70 years ago when Schenectady Stadium opened for business. The ballpark featured a few more innovations, including the same GE floodlights that were used at Yankee Stadium, coined-operated turnstiles, and a modern electric scoreboard. The 278,000-watt system made the stadium the best-illuminated field in the league. There was also a screen around the stadium’s grandstand, but as ex-Blue Jay Wally Habel would later say, it wasn’t to protect the fans; it was to save on baseballs. Pete McNerney even set up a cop outside the parking lot to make sure any balls hit outside the venue were promptly returned from the various kids looking for the elusive baseball souvenir. The Jays incorporated special nights to attract large audiences to the gate, like Booster Night, which included fireworks, prizes, and appearances by local politicians. There was also the chance for a lucky fan to be awarded $25 for the first home run, $15 for the first triple, and $10 for the first single of the night. . Unfortunately, attendance would be a problem during the last half of the team’s existence. Ads in the local newspaper pleaded with its readers to “Keep Class A Baseball in Schenectady” by sending $4 to the stadium for four tickets that could be used at any game during the 1954 season. The Booster Club set an objective of selling 100,000 tickets and offering prizes for a new automobile, toaster, and portable radio. There were nights when the crowds were large and fireworks were set off, but the future looked dimmed by the club’s 12th season. The Blue Jays folded after the 1957 season when attendance dipped heavily from the year before. A campaign to sell 2,000 season tickets for $25 a pop fell short by 58%, and the team pulled the plug on operations, despite local interest in keeping the club in town. In the end, there were only 835 season tickets sold during the drive. The disdained McNearney handed over a letter of withdrawal to the league. To him, the times were changing, and it was a different era for minor-league baseball. “During the past three to four years, minor league baseball has been on the decline. The fact has been attributed to many causes, such as television, radio, and the like. To elaborate, at this point, would be needless.” Author and local baseball historian Frank Keetz wrote two books on the Blue Jays during its days in town; he expressed his opinion in an interview with the Schenectady Daily Gazette in 2012. “Eventually, things just fizzled out . Some people faithfully supported the team right to the end, but there weren’t enough of them. They were very popular for the first three or four years, and then attendance started to decline for several reasons, and the same thing was happening in Albany and other minor league towns around the country.” McNerney would convert the ballpark into Stadium Golf Club and turn it into a 9-hole golf course until selling it in 1965. It would later be turned into an 18-hole course. The grandstand would remain as part of the clubhouse and maintenance entrance until 2002, when it was finally knocked down, 45 years after it last hosted minor league baseball. Today, minor league baseball is played at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in nearby Troy, New York. The Tri-City Valleycats have been members of the New York-Penn League since 2002. Its name, Tri-City, incorporates the cities of Troy, Schenectady, and Albany. There is even a Mayor’s Race that features mascots represented by the likeness of each city’s three mayors at every game. The golf course is still in service today, and its logo crest features a blue jay in the middle with two golf clubs, a nice little nod to the city’s baseball minor league past, and a stadium that was somewhat ahead of its time but should not be forgotten. --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Leavey Center 500 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95053 Map It Santa Clara Broncos website Leavey Center website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 4,500 Bronco Basketball Standing a short walk east of the historic Santa Clara Mission is Santa Clara University’s Leavey Event Center. Surrounded by pillars and glass on the outside, it encompasses all that major college basketball stands for inside. Once you step inside, you are instantly met with the rich history of the school’s basketball program, with banners hanging high in the rafter depicting their few legendary players, none bigger than the immortal Steve Nash. The Santa Clara Broncos basketball team have been members of the West Coast Conference since 1952.  The team has appeared in 11 NCAA Tournaments and six National Invitational Tournaments.  The team has had a long, winding history in finding a permanent home. After beginning play at the local San Jose YMCA (on the Alameda), they spent time at San Francisco’s Kezar Pavilion and the San Jose Civic Auditorium before finally coming home to Santa Clara in the mid-1970’s. The Leavey Event Center first opened in 1975 as the Harold J. Toso Pavilion. Sporting the vinyl fabric roof that was all the rage back in the day, it resembled Detroit’s Pontiac Silverdome. While it isn’t well known, Santa Clara can develop some fairly high winds, with gusts reaching as high as 18 mph during the Fall, thus creating problems for the Toso Pavilion’s roof. After dealing with tears over the years, the school decided to deflate the roof and construct a new, more modern one in April 2000.  After a soft opening in December 2000, the revamped arena was officially opened in late 2001. It was named after 1922 alumnus and Farmers Insurance founder Thomas E. Leavey.  Food & Beverage 2 There are currently two concession stands at the Leavey Event Center, a large one just behind the upper deck bleachers facing the press box and a much smaller one right behind the band that just offers candy and bottled drinks. They have very few condiments. The food at the Leavey Event Center is as follows: hot dogs ($7.50), hot dog combos ($11.50), hot link ($8), churros, nachos, pretzels, candy, fountain drinks and bottled water. What it lacks in quantity it makes up for in scrumptiousness. The hot dogs are piping hot and their accompanying buns are perfectly toasted. It’s this writer’s personal opinion that Santa Clara’s Leavey Event Center serves the very best hot dog buns in all of Division I basketball. Atmosphere 3 When you first walk into the Leavey Center, a slew of unique sights greet you. There is a large window which has a nice view of the sunny California sky right behind one of the  baskets. While you are looking at that unique sight, music will be blaring, either from the small school band in the corner or the arena’s DJ. All around above you hang banners commemorating the school’s many legendary moments and players, including Steve Nash. With the ventilation and temperature just right, and a size-able yet small-for-Division I crowd gathers to watch a basketball game between two century-old rivals, the Leavey Event Center offers a perfect atmosphere for big time college basketball without all the pressure.  Retired Numbers at Leavey Event Center, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Although the University of the Pacific is a rival that dates over 100 years (they used to be neighbors), the crowd is minimal but electric. There is a small band in the corner that plays current tunes such as “Old Town Road” and “Swag Surfin'”. They even have a tiny merchandise stand that sells t-shirts and bags.  The seats surround the court, with a single section behind each basket and double decks on either side of the sidelines. Whether you are seated in a lower section with a seat back or a higher section with just a long bench, there are big signs at the foot of each seat reminding the audience to stomp loudly.  Neighborhood 5 Santa Clara University rests between two vastly different neighborhoods, neither of which has much crime. On one side is the busiest part of the city, the Alameda, a historic street that lies right next to the university that is often very busy at all hours of the day and stretches all the way to San Diego.  On the other side of campus is a safe place for a nice stroll before or after the game. Franklin Mall is right next to the university on Homestead Road and Monroe Street and offers a wide assortment of options before and after the game. Places such as Taplands , Jiaren Cafe: Coffee, Boba & Events , Thirsty’s , Rantei Japanese Cuisine  and Mio Vicino  are some of the neighborhood’s top choices that are mere feet from the university.   Just a mile south of the university as Lafayette turns into Washington Street and Washington Street turns into N Bascom Avenue is a slew of other restaurants to consider such as Deedee’s , Crepes Bistro , Normandy House   and Frost Cupcake Factory .     If you are in town for a visit, the Sonesta Simply Suites Silicon Valley  and Kasa University - Airport Santa Clara  are within walking distance to your left on the Alameda. If those hotels don’t suit you then the Sterling Inn   and Valley Inn  are to your right on the Alameda. Fans 2 Much like their food, what Santa Clara lacks in the number of fans makes up for in exuberance and enthusiasm. When you sit down and look at your feet, you will see a big sticker encouraging you to stomp your feet and make noise. It took a few minutes, but eventually a Pacific player went to the free throw line and sure enough, the bleachers started to rattle and the crowd came alive. The fans even loudly counted down the shot clock as the opponent raced to get up a shot. Stomp Your Feet, Photo by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Access 3 There is a parking lot at the foot of the arena that is very affordable, going for $4 for four hours and $6 for all day. The Alameda is loaded with bus stops and taking an Uber or Lyft shouldn’t be too much of a problem if the traffic is just right. If you are willing to walk a bit, the neighborhood abutting Washington Street is safe and the nearby Franklin Mall usually has a few spots open for free.  There is a small staircase as you enter into the arena with ramps to the side for the less-than-mobile. There is no bag check or security at the entrances and there is but a single security guard roaming the concourse.  Their bathrooms are small and cramped yet modern and clean. Still, not all of their faucets worked. Return on Investment 3 With this being a smaller Division I program, the tickets are cheaper than other establishments. That being said, the $20-$40 spent on tickets is well spent. The school takes a lot of pride in its basketball program and you can easily tell that they are always open to revamping the arena, whether it’s a new video board or a court that uniquely captures the school’s rich history. Extras 4 Arguably the neatest extra of the Leavey Event Center is the silhouette of the nearby Santa Clara Mission that covers the court. Their video board is state of the art and it often shows quick videos of straggling children way up in the upper deck as they skip and dance around from one section to the next, burning off the energy that is the staple of childhood. If you don’t like variety then their halftime show is outstanding. The Broncos have three separate dance teams, one from the university and two from youth groups. Each is excellent. Of course, the hallmark of the arena is the huge window at one end of the court that offers a nice view of the sky.  Final Thoughts Whether you're just visiting the area or are bored and looking for something to do, the Leavey Center offers a nice experience. Although it’s within the heart of a big city, it never has a big crowd, but the people who attend are often quite friendly. It doesn’t offer any of the hype of big time basketball such as Duke or Kentucky, but it has all of the drama of any relevant basketball program in America.

Angel Stadium, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey The Los Angeles Angels have announced that their lease at Angel Stadium in Anaheim will be extended through 2032 . The lease, originally set to expire in 2029, is the first of three options, with other options that can extend the lease to 2035 and 2038.  “We are excited to announce that we have extended our lease securing the Big A as the home of Angels Baseball into the next decade,” spokesperson Marie Garvey said in a statement. “As we prepare for our 60th season in Anaheim, we wanted our fans and community partners to know that Angels Baseball and its Foundation remain committed to being an active part of this city and region.” “This lease extension brings added certainty and ensures the strong tradition of baseball in Anaheim,” Mayor Ashleigh Aitken said in a statement. “As mayor, I look forward to working with the Angels on future community partnerships, and, as a fan, look forward to a great season ahead.” Opened in 1966, Angel Stadium  is the 4th oldest park in the majors behind Fenway Park , Wrigley Field  and Dodger Stadium .  With the potential to remain at Angel Stadium until 2038, one can only speculate whether or not the OC Vibe  project surrounding the nearby Honda Center , will expand into the parking lot of Angel Stadium as originally planned .  While Angel Stadium shows its age in many aspects throughout the yard and not as revered as much as its three predecessors, it’s still an adequate and serviceable stadium that scored a respectable 3.71 rating among Stadium Journey's 2024 MLB Ballpark Rankings . Though the Angels have not experienced post-season baseball since 2014, Angel Stadium throughout the years has had its share of glorious moments with nine AL Western Division titles and one Wild Card appearance that lead to their memorable 2002 World Series triumph over the San Francisco Giants.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Hynes Athletics Center 715 North Ave New Rochelle, NY 10801 Iona Gaels website Hynes Athletics Center website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 2,578 Iona on the Rebound in New Rochelle The Iona Gaels hope last year was an aberration as they did not win the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Tournament for only the second time in the previous seven years. The Gaels were trying to avoid a hit from the loss of legendary coach Rick Pitino who took his prowess to St. John’s University. Second-year coach Tobin Anderson is tasked with returning the Gaels to a familiar spot. Anderson is working with a new roster in these days of the transfer portal and after a slow start, the Gaels look to be a force down the stretch. Iona has won 7 of the last 11 tournament titles, but St. Peter’s grabbed the prize in 2024. The Gaels, an original league member, have won 14 MAAC championships since the league was founded in 1982. Siena and Manhattan are next with five. Iona, Manhattan, St. Peter’s, and Fairfield are the only original MAAC schools remaining in the now expanded 13-team conference as Sacred Heart and Merrimack joined the fold this year. For Iona, one disappointment has been the lack of buzz at Hynes Athletic Center since Pitino’s departure. Iona averaged 2,310 spectators in 2022-2023 and 1,784 last year. The number is 1,776 so far this season. Iona University’s nickname, the Gaels, comes from its roots. A Gael is anyone of Irish-Gaelic ancestry. The school was founded in 1940 by the Congregation of Christian Brothers, commonly known as the Irish Christian Brothers. Food & Beverage 3 The one drawback is fans have to go downstairs for the main concession stand and bathrooms. There are also two vending machines. Head down there early if you don’t want to miss any of the second half because the line is often quite long. Hot dogs are $3.50, chicken tenders and fries $8. Water ($2), 20 oz soda ($3), pretzels ($3.50), and snacks are also available. On the plus side, as fans enter, there is a small concession stand in the left corner with snacks and soft drinks including candy, popcorn, chips, water, and soda. Coca-Cola products are the beverage of choice. Alcohol is not available at Hynes. Atmosphere 3 The arena is a non-descript low-lying building from the outside. Once inside it looks like a typical mid-major facility. The gym is the home of Iona's volleyball and men's and women's basketball programs. The facility also houses a pool used by the men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams. The Hynes Center underwent major renovations during the summer of 2019 that provided significant improvements to a building that opened in 1974. The court was flipped and used to be a north-south configuration but now runs east-west. There were no seats behind the baskets in the original design. The well-lit arena features an intimate setting with nine rows on the side away from the teams and 12 rows on the other sideline. The chairback seats are only on the left side of the arena away from the team benches. Iona's current seating layout contains 225 chairbacks and 40 courtside seats. The proximity to the court allows fans to hear much of what is going on and there is not a bad view from any seat. The arena has four large LED boards in each corner of the arena that give real-time individual player and team statistics and provide highlights and replays. The sound system is solid and the PA announcements are clear. The PA Announcer provides enthusiastic announcements and often provides the score, how much time is remaining, and some description of Iona baskets. There is also an in-game MC who fires up the crowd with announcements and contests during timeouts. There are two dance teams. There is an Iona Dance Team and the Iona Black Student Union team founded in 2018. There are also cheerleaders and a band to add to the excitement. The Iona mascot (The Gael) was not in attendance on this visit. Neighborhood 3 The area is safe and offers several restaurants within walking distance and there are more options in the New Roc City Area. Just outside the entrance on North Avenue, sits the long-standing Beechmont Tavern (since 1928), Mister Taco, The Mirage Restaurant, AJ’s Burgers, Smokehouse Tailgate Grill, and of course Subway, Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Dunkin within walking distance. Fans 3 Fan support is decent but could be better. On this visit, student presence was lacking. There was a good amount of alumni and local fans including families. The school has an undergraduate enrollment of just over 3,300 so the university does need to promote the team to attract more local fans and sell season tickets. Access 4 The campus is easily accessible. It is on North Avenue which is close to I-95 and the Hutchinson River Parkway and traffic is usually minimal.  There is a Metro North and Amtrak stop at New Rochelle station which is just 1.2 miles from the gate.  The campus is small and it is less than a 5-minute walk from the entrance to Hynes Center. Return on Investment 5 All seats offer a great view of the action.   Students get free admission. Seats range from $41.25 for a chairback seat to $21.25 for reserved seats along the sidelines with no backs.  Seats behind the basket are general admission and sell for $16.25.  Seats are $11.25 for children 12 and under for either baseline or on the side.  The box office and arena open one hour before game time. There is a three-level parking garage with free parking and ample spaces. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the expenses of attending big-time sports in the New York metro area. Extras 3 The Gaels have an MC who pumps the crowd up before the game and during time-outs. The dance teams are well respected and appreciated by the loyal fans. There is also a small Arrigoni Hall of Fame (the redesign was made possible by a lead gift from Edward F. Arrigoni '56) along the wall just to the right of the main entrance and a trophy case before the stairs leading to the concessions and bathrooms. Richie Guerin, Iona’s all-time leading scorer, is the only retired number (14) hanging from the rafters. The guard played for Iona from 1951-54 and played in the NBA from 1956-1970 with the NY Knicks and the St. Louis/Atlanta Hawks. The late and legendary coach Jim Valvano is also honored with a banner. Valvano coached the Gaels for five seasons (1975-80). Final Thoughts The mantle has been passed and it is up to Anderson and his staff to keep Iona at the top of the conference.  Anderson is a fiery and likable coach who is often yelling encouragement and constantly teaching his players.  The Gaels should remain a power in the MAAC and hopefully #GaelNation will take notice and come to the cozy confines of Hynes to enjoy the excitement. Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and   Facebook

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Mayser Gymnasium 650 College Ave Lancaster, PA 17603 Franklin & Marshall Diplomats website Mayser Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 3,200 A Diplomatic Court Franklin & Marshall College (“F&M”) is a private college in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1787. The school was originally named for Benjamin Franklin, but in 1836 it was merged with a college named for the fourth Chief Justice of the United States John Marshall. Famous alumni include Roy Scheider, Treat Williams, and the late Commissioner of Baseball, Bowie Kuhn. The college’s sports teams are called the Diplomats and mainly compete in the Centennial Conference at the NCAA Division III level. The Mayser Gymnasium basketball court has been well regarded as one of the most "true" surfaces around. The NBA's Philadelphia 76ers trained on the court for over two decades. The men's and women's basketball teams practice and play on Glenn Robinson Court, named after former men's head coach Glenn Robinson, who has held the national record for the most wins of any coach in Division II or III basketball. Food & Beverage 1 There are no food offerings in the gym except for a couple of vending machines. Atmosphere 3 The arena is very nice, but it is a high school type of setup. As you enter the arena you will find bleacher-filled grandstands sitting along two sides of the court. Outside the gym is a Hall of Fame and trophy cases. Neighborhood 3 The college is located just north of downtown, right near Clipper Magazine Stadium. There are many shops and restaurants right near the stadium. The Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant and The Fridge are some great options within easy walking distance. Besides downtown, the main commercial areas of the Lancaster area are the outlet’s area east on Route 30 and surrounding the Park City Center Shopping Mall north of downtown. Fans 2 This is truly a friends and family-only type of sports venue. Access 4 Lancaster is an easy area to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are large roads that any tourist visiting the area will be more than familiar with. Even though the college is located in a busy town, you will seldom find traffic to be too bad. Lancaster is located about half an hour from the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. There are many parking spaces around the college. Return on Investment 5 There is no price to attend games at Franklin & Marshall. Extras 2 The trophy cases have some interesting sports history in them. Check out neighboring Clipper Magazine Stadium before or after the match to see a nice quality independent league baseball stadium. Final Thoughts Mayser Gymnasium is historic and offers a fun atmosphere for sporting events.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Shadek Stadium 423 W Liberty Street Lancaster, PA 17603 Franklin & Marshall Diplomats website Shadek Stadium website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 2,500 A Diplomatic Field Franklin & Marshall College (“F&M”) is a private college in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1787. The school was originally named for Benjamin Franklin, but in 1836 it was merged with a college named for the fourth Chief Justice of the United States John Marshall. Famous alumni include Roy Scheider, Treat Williams, and the late Commissioner of Baseball, Bowie Kuhn. The college’s sports teams are called the Diplomats and mainly compete in the Centennial Conference at the NCAA Division III level. This new stadium replaced 4,000 seat Sponaugle–Williamson Field in 2017. The former home was built in 1920 as Williamson Field, although the playing surface dates back to the 1890s. Sponaugle–Williamson Field was named after S. Woodrow Sponaugle, who coached football and basketball, in addition to being the athletic director at F&M for 15 years. He shares the stadium’s dedication with Henry S. Williamson, who was a trustee of the college from 1894 to 1917. Shadek Stadium is named for Larry Shadek, class of 1972. The stadium is located on Franklin & Marshall’s North Campus, formerly the site of Armstrong World Industries, just north of Clipper Magazine Stadium, home of the Lancaster Barnstormers of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Shadek seats about 2,500, about 1,500 fewer than the old field. Food & Beverage 2 There is a simple concession stand located in the middle of the main grandstand. The food offerings are slim, but if you need a hot dog and/or hot chocolate during the game this will do just fine. Otherwise, you may want to wait until after the game for more food options. The stand is large enough that the food offerings could be easily enhanced. Atmosphere 3 The new stadium doesn’t have the historical charm of the college’s old facility. But the setting is ideal and the design is very nice. There is a large stand on the home side of the field, with a smaller one on the opposing side. You can walk easily from one side to the other on the south side of the stadium. There is also a nice grass berm for additional seating along that walkway. The stadium also has lights, which allows night games, a feature not available at the old facility. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is located just north of downtown, right near Clipper Magazine Stadium. So make sure to walk around downtown before the game. There are many shops and restaurants right near the stadium. The Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, College Corner Cafe, and The Fridge are some great options within easy walking distance. Besides downtown, the main commercial areas of the Lancaster area are the outlet’s area east on Route 30 and surrounding the Park City Center Shopping Mall north of downtown. Fans 4 The stadium seemed very loud for its small size. I could not tell if the fans were just that loud, or if the design creates a louder environment. Either way, the stadium makes for a great atmosphere for fans. Access 4 Lancaster is an easy area to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are large roads that any tourist visit to the area will be more than familiar with. Even though the stadium is located in a busy town, you will seldom find traffic to be too bad. Lancaster is located about half an hour from the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. There are many parking spaces around the college. Return on Investment 4 There is no price to attend games at Franklin & Marshall. When it seems that even high schools games charge at least $5, the free admission seems like a steal. Coupled with the free parking and the low concession prices, it is such a steal. Extras 3 Everyone may not like artificial playing surfaces, but the two-tone color of the artificial turf is nicely designed. There are some nice athletic history items on display within the center entrance to the stadium. Check out neighboring Clipper Magazine Stadium before or after the game to see a nice quality independent league baseball stadium. Final Thoughts Shadek Stadium is a simple stadium, located within a pleasant area of Lancaster. The low cost of attendance, as well as the fairly high quality of Diplomats football, makes this stadium a must-visit.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Costello Athletic Center 175 Riverside St Lowell, MA 01854 UMass Lowell River Hawks website Costello Athletic Center website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 2,000 River Hawk Hoops The University of Massachusetts – Lowell got its start in the 1890s as two separate institutions, the Lowell Normal School (later renamed Lowell State College) and the Lowell Textile School (later renamed Lowell Textile Institute). These two schools merged in 1975 to become the University of Lowell. In 1991 it joined the University of Massachusetts system. Today UMass Lowell is the second largest campus in Massachusetts, with an enrollment of over 18,000 students in almost 200 Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral programs. Total enrollment has increased 50 percent since 2007. The Costello Athletic Center was built in 1964 to house several of the University of Lowell’s athletic programs. Today it serves as the home to UMass-Lowell’s men’s and women’s basketball programs. In 2020 the facility underwent a $3.05 million renovation to modernize the gym, create office space for the program and to add new fan amenities. UMass Lowell has been competing in the America East Conference since moving the program up to the Division One level in 2013. Long a Division Two powerhouse, the school competed in 10 D-2 Tournaments, winning a national title in 1988. The school has yet to qualify for the NCAA Tournament since moving up to Division One. While no River Hawk alumnus has played in the National Basketball Association, Stan Van Gundy, who coached the squad from 1988-1992, has coached several NBA teams. Food & Beverage 1 There is a small snack cart in the front hallway that serves up a few items for hungry River Hawk fans. Hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn and candy are available along with Pepsi products. While it’s not an extensive list, no item costs more than four dollars. Atmosphere 3 The America East Conference holds its postseason tournament at campus sites. One can only imagine the home-court advantage the tiny CAC would provide should the River Hawks ever host the game. Stadium Journey had the privilege of visiting during the program’s first ever sellout at the D-1 level. This occurred during the semester break without a great deal of representation from the student body. Even without the students, all the elements for a great time are in place. The pep band takes up residence on the near end balcony, playing during all stoppages. This is a great improvement over the usual piped-in music many arenas use. The student section (aka “The Nest”) is situated on the same balcony, freeing up the far side balcony for the rest of the fans. While many of the students had yet to return to campus, the “Flag Guy,” decked out in a UMass Lowell hockey jersey was there, standing at center court doing his thing in response to every River Hawk three pointer or big play. The cheerleading squad lines up along the baseline and performs throughout the game. The PA announcer leans into his work, filling this small gym with even more noise. There are contests (i.e. dizzy bat race, dress like a hawk) for the younger fans in attendance during every play stoppage. It makes for a family-friendly and entertaining time, even when the CAC is not packed to the rafters with fans. Neighborhood 3 The University of Massachusetts-Lowell is located in the north-central part of the city of Lowell, right near the city line of adjoining Dracut. The campus straddles the Merrimack River along the rapids that used to fuel the mills that made this area a magnet for industry back in the day. Lowell long had a poor reputation as a city with low employment, high poverty and crime rates which was best to avoid. Statistics show that Lowell is as safe or safer than other similarly-sized cities in the area, but the reputation continues. Lowell is a working-class city. There isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of the CAC to draw visiting fans, but visitors to the city may be interested in exploring the Lowell National Historic Park, which has preserved several old textile mills to tell the story of the industrial revolution. On the grounds of the park is a memorial to native son Jack Kerouac, who was one of the icons of the “Beat Generation.” Most out-of-towners will likely make their way to nearby Boston, 25 miles to the southeast, but for those looking to stay in town, most lodging options are located out by Interstate 495. There are many excellent smaller restaurants scattered throughout Lowell. Visitors may want to check out Good Thymes or Cobblestones. Fans 2 It can be a bit tough to accurately gauge attendance numbers at UMass Lowell. The CAC’s capacity is listed at 2,000, although the venue feels a lot smaller than that. Stadium Journey had the good fortune to be at the River Hawks’ first-ever sellout at the Division One level in January 2023. The box score lists that game’s attendance at 850. A look at attendance figures from past years lists average attendance generally in the neighborhood of 1,100 fans. So we’ll take these numbers at face value. Stadium Journey visited the CAC during the semester break, just before students had returned to class, so the student section (aka “The Nest”) was filled with other fans, mostly locals and families. Since the America East conference has a compact geographical footprint, it’s not unusual to see a good representation from visiting fans. The fans that packed the CAC were into the game, but not overly rowdy. It is a comfortable and affordable place to bring the family. Access 3 The Costello Athletic Center is located on the north bank of the Merrimack River along with several of the university’s other athletic facilities, including Cushing Field. The school’s more noteworthy sports facilities, Tsongas Center and LeLacheur Park , are located on the other side of the river. Interstate 495 travels to the south of Lowell, meaning that to reach the UMass-Lowell campus one has to drive through the city. There is ample free parking near the CAC in the North Garage and Riverside Lots. The CAC is a tiny building, with little wasted space. Fans will enter through the front door into a small lobby where they can purchase tickets and enter the building. All tickets are sold as general admission. Fans wishing to sit in the four rows of floor-level seating will proceed directly ahead, those wishing to sit on the balcony will proceed to the stairs located at either end of the hallway. All seats are molded plastic bleachers with excellent views of the action. Rest rooms are clean and large enough for the typical River Hawk crowd. Just time your trips to the snack cart and rest rooms appropriately. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to River Hawks games are sold as general admission for just ten dollars. Seniors and members of the military can purchase tickets for eight dollars, with youth tickets discounted to five dollars. Parking is free in the Riverside lot near the Costello Athletic Center. Snacks are inexpensive, making a trip to a River Hawk basketball game a most affordable entertainment option for local sports fans. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded for the displays visiting fans will encounter in the front hallway at Costello Athletic Center. The UMass Lowell Athletic Hall of Fame is located here. Fans may recognize the names of many NHL players among the honorees, as well as MLB Gold Glove catcher Mike LaValliere. Other displays honor championship teams, award winners and All-Americans. There’s even an interesting display on the school’s history to be found. A second extra point is awarded for the renovations that took place at the CAC in 2020. What was formerly dead space behind one end of the court has been transformed into bright, new office space and a lounge area. The closing off of this open end has created a cozy, intimate gym for the River Hawks. Final Thoughts It’s easy to get overshadowed in the crowded sports scene in greater Boston. It’s even easier to be overlooked when you play basketball at a hockey school in the area. Still, the UMass Lowell River Hawks have managed to create a fun and affordable game experience within the cozy confines of the Costello Athletic Center. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre 61 Maria St Penetanguishene, ON L9M 2G2 Penetang Kings website Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre website Year Opened: 1954 Capacity: 700 Kings of the Bay Tucked into a southeast inlet on Georgian Bay sits the town of Penetanguishene, Ontario.  A small town of under 9,000, Penetang, as it is commonly referred, is generally known as a summertime destination with the marinas and beaches, while winters can be quite harsh with the effects of Lake Huron playing havoc with residents.  However, the hockey tradition in Penetang is strong.  The Junior C level Penetang Kings have been on the ice since 1977 and have enjoyed tremendous success.  Before the Kings, the Penetang Hurons played for two seasons before folding in 1975.  The Kings were a powerhouse in the 1980s and were led by future NHL player Brian McReynolds, who might just be Penetang’s most favoured hockey son.  The Kings have won nine league titles and finished with three Schmalz Cup Championships as the top Junior C team in Ontario.  The Kings currently play in the Carruthers Division of the PJHL. Home for the Penetang Kings is the Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre.  Built in 1954 as the Penetanguishene Arena, the town-owned Community Centre enjoyed a large renovation which added other amenities as well as a lobby and the Penetanguishene Sports Hall of Fame.  The town of Penetanguishene is in the process of approving a replacement facility.  Currently earmarked for a 2033 opening, there is still time to check out this classic hockey barn. Food & Beverage 3 The lobby of the Community Centre houses the main concession stand.  The menu includes the typical arena fare including hot dogs, onion rings, chicken fingers, fries, and burgers.  Some more unique items include peameal bacon sandwiches, grilled cheese, fried egg sandwiches and soup.  Soda, Powerade, slushies, coffee, tea and hot chocolate are the beverage options.  The Community Centre did not appear to have alcohol sales or a typical Blueline Club, which is common at this level of hockey. Atmosphere 3 The Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre is clearly an old hockey barn that has been given an addition to modernize it.   The main entry for the Community Centre is at the southwest corner near Maria Street.  The exterior is attractive enough with light brick with blue siding above.  The rest of the building has the expected barn-like look to it with even more blue siding.  Inside the Community Centre fans immediately stumble upon one of the highlights of the facility, the Penetanguishene Sports Hall of Fame.  Part museum and part Hall of Fame, there are plenty of artifacts to go along with the entries for the enshrined members.  Fans will find such local products as Brian McReynolds, Kris Kontos and Andre Benoit.  Canadian Olympic Silver Medalist Figure Skater Brian Orser is also an enshrined member, remembered for the “Battle of the Brians” at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary.  Fans can also purchase histories of the Penetang Kings in the Hall of Fame.  The lobby for the arena is where the concession stand is found and has some windows looking on to the ice.  Inside the arena, fans are immediately struck with that “Old-School Hockey Barn” vibe.  The ice is east-west oriented.  The roof is supported by huge, wooden support beams that meet at a high, sharp, point.  The lobby is at the west end and there is an upper level.  This seemed to be used for operations and not a Blueline Club as with many other arenas at this level.  The scoreclock is found at the east end and there are plenty of minor hockey banners hanging around the arena.  The speakers hang above centre ice, where a scoreboard would normally be.  The west side of the speakers is where the three Schmalz Cup championship banners from 1984, 2006 and 2007 hang.  Beside those banners is a single banner listing the championships from the former league the Kings played in, the Georgian Bay Mid-Ontario Junior C Hockey League.  The arena is also very cold.  There are gas heaters above some of the seating, but for the game reviewed, the heaters were not on.  The seating consists of four rows of aluminum benches with backrests. The benches are on aluminum platforms, similar to seating that would be found at a small football stadium.  Unfortunately, this is not the best selection for building materials in an arena.  The coldness is magnified as not only do the benches make the fan cold, but the aluminum flooring also does the same thing.  A blanket is not just a good idea in this arena, it is a necessity! The gameday production at a Kings game is not unlike most other Junior C experiences.  The game starts off with minor hockey kids skating on the ice with flags.  Promotions include a 50/50 raffle.  A printed program is also free for fans.  The PA system is decent and the announcer does a good job. Neighbourhood 3 Penetanguishene is a small town of the South Basin of Georgian Bay.  There are a few options for pre or post game food and drink.  Some options include World Famous Dock Lunch, Phil’s Family Restaurant, Captain Ken’s and Northern Caribbean.  The Kings are really the only sporting option in Penetang, but they have a pretty solid rivalry with the Midland Flyers, which is just 5 km from arena to arena.  Some other tourist options in the area include the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum, Carl Beck House and King’s Wharf Theatre.  Penetang also offers plenty of outdoor options, which would be better enjoyed at the very beginning of the season rather than in the dead of winter.   For fans who wish to stay in the area, the Hampton Inn Midland is an option or checking out some B&B options may work also. Fans 4 Assessing fans in the PJHL can be difficult.  Many teams do not report attendance figures and the league does not publish compiled statistics.  That being said, the Penetang Kings appear to enjoy decent support for Junior C hockey.  At the time of writing, the Kings averaged 243 fans per game.  The previous season, 2023-24, the Kings averaged over 280 fans.  The fans in attendance for the game reviewed were not terribly loud and typical of Ontario fans.   Access 4 Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre is located in Penetang, on the South Basin of Georgian Bay.  It is located at Maria Street and Thompsons Road, a block east of Main, the main road from Midland, 7 km from Highway 12.  Getting to the arena is not difficult, however, fans are encouraged to check the weather before heading out as winter driving near the lake can be treacherous at times.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  There is limited transit in Penetanguishene with a stop on Thompsons Road.  However, the schedule may not coincide with Kings games.  Fans should consult the LINX Transit  website for fares, schedules and maps. Getting around the arena is not too difficult and washroom facilities are adequate for the arena. Return on Investment 5 Penetang Kings hockey, like most other PJHL experiences, offers tremendous value for a small investment.  Adult tickets for the Kings are $10 with discounts for students, seniors and children.  Parking is free and concession prices are decent.  The product on the ice is good and the opportunity for fans to see a game in an old-school hockey barn, even if it is a cold one, is a welcome opportunity.  Extras 2 An extra mark for the excellent Penetanguishene Sports Hall of Fame. An extra mark for the Kings’ rivalry with the Midland Flyers. Final Thoughts Penetanguishene may be a summer town, but checking out the Penetang Kings in the winter is a good experience.  Fans should consider checking out the Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre while they still can.  Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

The Frozen Four is upon us once again. The culmination of another college hockey season means it's time for Stadium Journey to do what we do best, rank things. We endeavor to visit every college hockey rink at least once every four years to keep our reviews current for those who love to travel the country visiting hockey barns old and new. To coincide with the Frozen Four, we are presenting our ranking of the top 25 Division One hockey rinks in the nation. We currently have reviews of 54 of the 62 Division One rinks on our newly-redesigned website. We're working hard to get to those final eight missing rinks. At Stadium Journey we evaluate a facility's game day experience according to our patented FANFARE rating scale. This scale takes into consideration a facility's concessions, game day atmosphere, neighborhood, fan support, access, value, and more. It's a bit of a different way to evaluate a facility, and historically our rankings have created much debate. That's OK, we can take it. Plus, isn't healthy debate the reason why we make lists like this? You'll notice that there have been some changes in our rankings as we move to our newly-redesigned site. There is no longer a place for readers to contribute their scores. After much consideration, the decision was made to discontinue crowd reviews, as the vast majority of them came from previous Stadium Journey reviews and simply were not being utilized as designed. Our rankings are now based solely on the reviewer's FANFARE score. Where two or more venues are tied, a counsel of Stadium Journey elders is consulted to break any ties. We encourage our readers to share your input on our social media channels. Stadium Journey can be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. To see the full review of each rink, just click the link underneath the photo. We hope you are enjoying our new site. Without further ado, we present our top 25 college hockey rinks of the 2022-23 season. 1. Yost Ice Arena - Michigan Wolverines 4.57 Steve Ohnsmann - Surprisingly, the Yost Ice Arena was known as the Yost Field House and was first used as a basketball arena for both the men’s and women’s programs before the Crisler Center was built in 1967. In 1973, the building was converted into an ice arena and the Wolverines hockey team has been there ever since. This is the definitive “old school” hockey arena and should be on the bucket list for all hockey fans. 2. Ralph Englestad Arena - North Dakota Fighting Hawks 4.43 Daryn Skjefte - The Ralph Engelstad Arena is unlike anything else in college hockey. The extreme detail that goes into every aspect is vibrant and outstanding. The excitement can quite literally be felt from a mile away, and regardless of the turn-out of the game, you will have a good time. The arena is truly the best in college hockey for several reasons. This should be a spot to see on everyone’s bucket list. 3. 3M Arena at Mariucci - Minnesota Golden Gophers 4.43 Dennis Morrell - Get here to see a game, you will be talking about for weeks and months after your visit. Witnessing a game here is very special. While the fans make up a huge part of the experience make no mistake, the venue and the university add a great deal to creating a magnificent live hockey experience. 4. AMSOIL Arena - Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs 4.43 Jared Townsend - AMSOIL is certainly one of the best college hockey game day experiences you’ll find in the state, if not the entire U.S. Midwest. It’s more than just getting your money’s worth, it’s an experience that’ll make you want to recommend attending a game here to others, even if they’re not UMD Bulldog fans. 5. Compton Family Ice Arena - Notre Dame Fighting Irish 4.43 Marc Viquez - The arena itself is a true spectacle because it looks like an older facility on the outside, but once you’re inside you see it is truly a modern and state-of-the-art venue that offers everything a fan needs in terms of food, comfort, and entertainment. 6. Kohl Center - Wisconsin Badgers 4.43 Paul Swaney - Time a visit in November and you may be able to see two games on your trip to Madison depending on the basketball and football schedules. College hockey fans should come to a Wisconsin game- it’s one of the finest venues in college hockey. 7. Baxter Arena - Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks 4.29 Nolan Searl - A fan favorite, and unique UNO tradition, happens after the first Maverick goal of every game as a fish gets thrown onto the ice. What started as a rogue operation was eventually embraced by the university and the fans. Once the fish is on the ice, a guy driving a mini-Zamboni with a wheelie bar comes out and scoops it up in a net. It’s pretty hilarious. 8. Magness Arena - Denver Pioneers 4.14 Matt Finnegan - A game at Magness Arena allows fans to enjoy some of the nation’s top college hockey at a reasonable price. From families with children to rabid hockey fans, a Pioneer home game provides a great, overall experience for everyone. 9. Goggin Ice Center - Miami (OH) RedHawks 4.14 Marc Viquez - The Goggin Ice Center is the perfect venue for the Redhawks hockey team and provides an ideal canvas for its fans, students, and alumni to cheer on the club during the season. The program can hold its own against the best of them in the college hockey world and the Hawks fans won’t let you forget that when in attendance. 10. John J. MacInnes Student Ice Arena - Michigan Tech Huskies 4.14 Paul Swaney - A journey (and it is a journey) to Houghton, Michigan to see the Michigan Tech Huskies is well worth the trip. Whether you live in the area, are a major hockey fan, or you are just following your team on the road, you will enjoy what you find at MacInnes Arena. 11. Centene Community Ice Center - Lindenwood Lions 4.14 Lloyd Brown - The Lindenwood University men’s hockey program has finally made the leap into NCAA Division I competition. Their home ice at the Centene Community Ice Center will immediately become one the top collegiate hockey venues in the Midwest. 12. Tsongas Center - UMass Lowell River Hawks 4.00 Paul Baker - It’s easy to be overshadowed in the crowded Boston hockey scene, but the Tsongas Center remains as one of the better hockey rinks in the area, even after a quarter century of use. While professional hockey is no longer in the cards for this cozy mid-sized arena, The UMass Lowell River Hawks have a home that measures up to any college arena in the country. 13. Agganis Arena - Boston University Terriers 4.00 Paul Baker - Boston has no shortage of choices for the college hockey fan, with eleven Division One clubs located within an hour of the city. Even with all these choices, Agganis Arena and Boston University stand head and shoulders above them all. In a city that bleeds Bruins’ black and gold, there is a corner of the city along Commonwealth Avenue that proudly sports red and white. 14. Mullett Arena - Arizona State Sun Devils 4.00 Lloyd Brown - While Mullett Arena has been panned as an NHL venue due to its small capacity and lack of NHL-level amenities, it shines as the college-level home of the Sun Devils. It offers a great gameday experience for both players and fans. The Inferno student section adds to the college vibe in the on-campus arena. I guess you could say I’m the (Sun) Devil’s advocate for this new venue! 15. Matthews Arena - Northeastern Huskies 4.00 Paul Baker - Many buildings use the term “historic” as a synonym for “old”. Matthews Arena truly presents as the former, even as it continues to function as the oldest indoor rink still being used in the world. Renovations have kept the facility up-to-date without sacrificing the historic features of the rink. Matthews Arena is a must-see for any hockey historian. 16. Gene Polisseni Center - RIT Tigers 4.00 Dave Cottenie - A trip to Henrietta to see the RIT Tigers is an excellent experience that college hockey fans should consider undertaking. Although probably not considered a bucket list venue, even among college hockey die-hards, the Gene Polisseni Center more than meets the expectations of the hockey fan and is easily competitive with other college hockey venues. 17. Martire Family Arena - Sacred Heart Pioneers 4.00 Greg Venuto - Martire Arena is a great venue to take in a hockey game. Both families and local hockey fans should not pass up the chance to check out the impressive new facility and watch Sacred Heart as the program attempts to make its mark on New England hockey. 18. Mullins Center - UMass Minutemen 4.00 Paul Baker - The Mullins Center is an attractive on-campus facility that serves as a home for the UMass Minutemen basketball and hockey teams. Still going strong in its 30th season, the arena provides western Massachusetts hockey fans with a comfortable place to watch a recent national championship team do their thing. 19. Berry Events Center - Northern Michigan Wildcats 4.00 Paul Swaney - There is no doubt that college hockey fans should include a trip to Northern Michigan University as a spot to see great hockey. Whether you are following your team on the road or just looking for a new venue, you won’t be disappointed by what you find at the Berry Events Center. 20. Pegula Ice Arena - Penn State Nittany Lions 3.86 Paul Baker - The Pegula Ice Arena is already mentioned as one of the marquee collegiate hockey venues in the nation. Penn State hockey has likewise enjoyed a meteoric rise to be considered one of the premier programs in the nation. When you step into Pegula Ice Arena for a Nittany Lion game, be ready for one of the best game day experiences in the nation. 21. Silvio O. Conte Forum - Boston College Eagles 3.86 Paul Baker - If you were to Google “what an arena looked like in the 1980s,” there’s a good chance Conte Forum would top the search results. With Boston College's history oozing from every corner of the facility, Conte Forum has a cozy, intimate feel to it. With the Eagles, a fixture at the top of the national rankings year in and year out, a trip to Chestnut Hill is a must for any hockey fan visiting Boston. 22. People's United Center - Quinnipiac Bobcats 3.86 Paul Baker - One of the best sports stories of the last decade was the ascension of tiny Quinnipiac University to the top of the college hockey world. After a couple of down years, the Bobcats are back at the top of the polls and People’s United Center is filled with rabid Connecticut hockey fans. This hidden gem of an arena is a must-see for anyone who enjoys college pucks. 23. Cadet Ice Arena - Air Force Falcons 3.86 Matt Finnegan - The Air Force Academy is worth a visit for its beauty and tradition alone. A game at Cadet Ice Arena is a different and fun way to experience the school. The program is consistently competitive and, especially against Army or local rivals Colorado College and the University of Denver, things can get loud in Cadet Ice Arena. 24. Bentley Arena - Bentley Falcons 3.86 Paul Baker - The trend of Atlantic Conference teams moving away from local community rinks and into cozy on-campus arenas is a welcome one. Bentley Arena, with its intimate, eco-friendly design, is a great place to catch a game and a hidden gem in the crowded Boston hockey scene. 25. Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center - Minnesota State Mavericks 3.86 Jared Townsend - Verizon Wireless Center isn’t as flashy as more modern hockey arenas, but the point is, it gets the job done. Whether it’s the game ticket ($16) or the concessions (all very affordable), you can have an enjoyable experience among the great fans at this arena without having to worry about spending too much.

The Stanley Cup playoffs are underway, so we at Stadium Journey felt it was time to do what we do best - rank some arenas. While the winner of the Cup will be determined on the ice, there's no one way to rank the rinks that these teams play in. Here's our try at it. The results can be as unpredictable as the action on the ice. To determine our rankings, Stadium Journey utilizes our patented FANFARE rating scale, which takes into account a venue's Food, Atmosphere, Neighborhood, Fan support, Access, Return on investment, and a final Extras category. When two or more venues are tied, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is consulted to break the tie. We hope that this list produces some good-natured debate. After all, isn't that why we do these things? Feel free to share your opinions on Stadium Journey's social media pages. Without further ado, we are proud to present Stadium Journey's rankings of all 32 National Hockey League arenas for the 2022-23 season. 1. Bridgestone Arena - Nashville Predators 4.86 David Welch - When Nashville was first awarded an NHL franchise in 1997, many did not think hockey in the state, better known for its allegiance to the University of Tennessee and ‘Rocky Top’ would work. Nothing could be further from the truth; not only has hockey worked in Nashville, but it has also thrived. 2. Amalie Arena - Tampa Bay Lightning 4.57 Chris Green - The Tampa Bay Lightning have broken all expectations for a Florida hockey franchise, and their game-day experience has become one of the best in the league. From the spotless interior of the venue to the bounty of food options, there is plenty to love at Amalie Arena. Your dollar goes far thanks to the excitement on the ice, and there are no bad seats in the house. 3. Capital One Arena - Washington Capitals 4.57 Richard Smith - The pre-game video show is quite impressive. For 2023 the show begins with mascot "Slapshot' stealing the Declaration of Independence from the National Archives in a nod to the movie National Treasure. The show concludes that he brings it back to the arena and letters from the document become re-arranged to display "Let's Go Caps!" 4. Climate Pledge Arena - Seattle Kraken 4.43 Lloyd Brown - The Climate Pledge Arena is much more than just the newest rink in the NHL. It is an experiment in using the most current “smart” technologies to minimize (hopefully to zero) the carbon footprint the facility leaves after each event it hosts. Hopefully, Climate Pledge Arena will usher in a new generation of sports facilities built not just to create a wow factor, but also one where the environment receives major consideration. 5. Rogers Place - Edmonton Oilers 4.43 Jim Flannery - Rogers Place is a worthwhile place to visit even if you’re not there for a hockey game. There is so much to see and do in and around the building without ever walking through the gates that you could spend a couple of hours just checking the place out. This is continuing to get better as more features get added. Once you’re through the gates, this is a beautiful building with truly state-of-the-art features that should impress almost everyone. 6. United Center - Chicago Black Hawks 4.29 Lloyd Brown - A visit to the Windy City and a Chicago Blackhawk game will provide you with a very enjoyable sports adventure. Seeing an Original Six team play is always on an NHL bucket list and the United Center is a very impressive place to take in a game. Afterward, you’ve got an enormous number of fine restaurants to choose from and Chicago offers numerous attractions to visit over a long sports weekend. 7. Bell Centre - Montreal Canadiens 4.29 Dave Cottenie - Without a doubt, a trip to Centre Bell to see the Montréal Canadiens needs to be near the top of any hockey bucket list. Although the arena itself is not earth-shattering, the Canadiens put on a terrific product, even when the team is down. The fans add to the dynamic more than any other fanbase in the NHL. Finally, a trip to see the Habs is as much a trip through hockey history as any experience there is. 8. PPG Paints Arena - Pittsburgh Penguins 4.29 Patricia Beninato - There seems to be an article in Pittsburgh media every week about plans to develop the area around PPG to entice people to hang around. Still, government vs. development is a long-time battle that doesn’t look to be won by anyone any time soon. Because Pittsburgh’s downtown is so compact, though, it’s an easy walk to the Strip District a few blocks away, where there’s something for every taste. 9. Madison Square Garden - New York Rangers 4.14 Greg Venuto - Madison Square Garden is special, from the lobby at Chase Square to the exhibits which commemorate special events. The inside features the iconic ceiling with a cable-supported roof. The 28’ x 57’ scoreboard (which displays the names and numbers of all skaters on the ice throughout the game) over center ice is riveting and then your eyes are drawn to the Chase Bridges which cross the ice at the top of both sides of the upper bowl. 10. Nationwide Arena - Columbus Blue Jackets 4.14 Greg Venuto - Nationwide Arena is a beautiful and fan-friendly arena to watch an NHL game. Despite being over 20 years old, it seems new and up-to-date. It is worth a visit if in town and the benefits are reasonable prices and plenty to do just outside its doors. 11. UBS Arena - New York Islanders 4.14 Ken Thorp - The UBS is a decent venue. They have enough bells and whistles to provide an adequate game day experience. They have a ridiculous amount of food choices as well as concession stands. They work extremely hard to keep the fans engaged in the game. 12. Scotiabank Arena - Toronto Maple Leafs 4.14 Dave Cottenie - There is no doubt that a trip to see the Toronto Maple Leafs should be on every hockey fan’s bucket list. Couple that with the opportunity to take in the Hockey Hall of Fame and all of the other things that Toronto has to offer and the Leafs can be the center of an excellent getaway. Time will tell to see if the Leafs can move through the playoffs further than previous years and grab that elusive 12th Stanley Cup banner. 13. Enterprise Center - St. Louis Blues 4.14 Lloyd Brown - St. Louis has always been a great sports town, with good teams and classy fans. The renovations at the Enterprise Center have brought the fan experience to new heights, with the Stanley Cup Championship win of 2019 being the cherry on top. If you enjoy good food, great beer, and terrific hockey, head on out to the Gateway City. You won’t be disappointed! 14. Xcel Energy Center - Minnesota Wild 4.14 Lloyd Brown - Overall, the Xcel Energy Center may be aging a bit, but it’s still one of the best places you can go to see a professional hockey game, let alone a sporting event. Friendly fans, good food, and very easy access make this arena second to none. 15. TD Garden - Boston Bruins 4.00 Paul Baker - The 2022-2023 season has been an incredible ride for the Boston Bruins and their fans. The team has set NHL records for victories and points in a season. As the playoffs approach, New England sets its collective sights on the ultimate prize in hockey – The Stanley Cup. The entire region is hoping for another long playoff run in one of the more underrated venues in the league, the TD Garden. 16. Ball Arena - Colorado Avalanche 4.00 Lloyd Brown - The Pepsi Center continues to be the premiere venue in the Rocky Mountain region for indoor professional sports. It provides more than 200 nights of sports competitions and concerts per year for the residents of the Mile High City. 17. Cryto.com Arena - Los Angeles Kings 4.00 Paul Baker - As the Kings look to rebuild after a solid decade near the top of the National Hockey League, some of the enthusiasm that was present at the Staples Center has disappeared. While southern California’s sunny skies and warm winter temperatures may not scream hockey to a northerner, the Staples Center remains a great venue for professional hockey. 18. Prudential Center - New Jersey Devils 4.00 Steven Kee - The Prudential Center is a stunning facility, offering almost everything the hockey fan could ask for in the 21st century. The arena is accessible via mass transit, close to great restaurants, and provides a variety of services and features throughout the game. With the Devils playing winning hockey, the experience will only improve at “The Rock.” 19. FLA Live Arena - Florida Panthers 4.00 Chris Green - All-in-all, FLA Live Arena is family-friendly and provides a quaint atmosphere. The last few seasons are proving that this quaint atmosphere can also swell into a roaring crowd, thanks to successful records. In addition, a better game day experience has led to a more welcoming environment. The Panthers are definitely on the upswing, and a visit to FLA Live Arena will certainly reflect that trend. 20. T-Mobile Arena - Vegas Golden Knights 3.86 Lloyd Brown - The Vegas Golden Knights have “broken the ice” as the first professional sports team to set up shop in Las Vegas. Early indications are that the team will prove the criticism that Vegas is not a “hockey town” wrong. The city has sold out several games in its inaugural season, and the team’s performance on the ice is far above what is expected of an expansion team. 21. KeyBank Center - Buffalo Sabres 3.86 Robbie Raskin - KeyBank Center is a solid place to catch a hockey game in one of the best American hockey markets. Sabres fans are welcoming and friendly, the arena is comfortable and has been updated pretty well over the years. Unfortunately, the attendance has followed the Sabres’ on-ice performance after being pummelled by border closures. The experience at KeyBank Center will surely rise a couple of notches when the fans come back to a winning team. 22. Rogers Arena - Vancouver Canucks 3.71 Lloyd Brown - In Canada, ice hockey reigns supreme, and Vancouver was the first Canadian city on the West Coast to receive an NHL franchise. This has led to a long history of sellouts throughout the club’s 50-year existence. Packed stands lead to a great environment in the seating bowl. The seating areas fill early as the crowds do not want to miss even the warmups. 23. Honda Center - Anaheim Ducks 3.71 Paul Baker - While hockey may not be the first thing on your mind as you wander around southern California during a warm winter day, a trip to the Honda Center provides a mighty good experience for any fan, whether you are coming from the frigid north or not. 24. PNC Arena - Carolina Hurricanes 3.71 Will Halpern - The Hurricanes are back to relevancy in NC and the NHL and there is a renewed energy around the franchise, which is evident at PNC Arena during games. Now the team has a chance to host their first outdoor game next season as part of The Stadium Series, and the Hurricanes and their fans show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. 25. Wells Fargo Center - Philadelphia Flyers 3.71 Steven Kee - The Wells Fargo Arena was state-of-the-art and similar to other designs that opened up during the early to mid-1990s. The parent company of the Flyers, Comcast Spectacor, completed close to $265 million in renovations to update and enhance the game day experience at the venue. The renovations resulted in the world’s first Kinetic 4K center-hung scoreboard; it also features two independent crown trusses that move vertically and are equipped with pyrotechnic capabilities. 26. Scotiabank Saddledome - Calgary Flames 3.71 Jim Flannery - Action at the Saddledome has created some fantastic memories over the years. Whether it was seeing the Flames pull off the dramatic overtime win against the Vancouver Canucks in Game Seven of the first round of the 1989 playoffs or the run to the Stanley Cup finals in 2004, tens of thousands of fans have had amazing experiences in this location. 27. Canada Life Centre - Winnipeg Jets 3.57 Lloyd Brown - Winnipeg has been given a second chance with an NHL franchise and there is no chance of the fans allowing the team to move elsewhere again. They fill the Canada Life Centre for every game, cheering loudly for the local boys while organizing chants to disrupt the visiting team’s concentration. The whole town turns out in its blue-best when the Jets are in town. Winnipeg is one of the more isolated of the NHL outposts, but it is well worth a visit as you check the rinks and arenas in the central portion of Canada. 28. American Airlines Center - Dallas Stars 3.57 Michael Davis - American Airlines Center is one of the finest sports venues in America, located in a great city and home to a hockey organization that seems committed to being in Dallas for a long time. The only thing American Airlines Center needs to be rated in the upper tier of NHL venues is for the Stars to become more competitive regularly. However, a visit to American Airlines Center to watch the Stars play is a wonderful way to spend an evening in Dallas. 29. SAP Center - San Jose Sharks 3.57 Dave Cottenie - The San Jose Sharks are a great experience for all NHL fans. Their influence throughout the 90s is undeniable and they have had great influence in opening up the southern belt to NHL hockey. A trip to the Shark Tank will be a memorable one for hockey fans everywhere. 30. Little Caesars Arena - Detroit Red Wings 3.29 Meg Minard - Affectionately known as Hockeytown, Detroit is a unique market in the United States where a pretty substantial argument can be made that it is a hockey-first market. While Little Caesars Arena is a great improvement over the old Joe Louis Arena, it is too dark, too steep, too loud, and way too expensive for the average ‘Joe.’ 31. Canadian Tire Center - Ottawa Senators - 3.29 Dave Cottenie - It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the Ottawa Senators and their much-maligned building in Kanata. It must be said, however, that regardless of the situation with the Canadian Tire Centre, the Ottawa Senators are still an NHL experience and fans will still have a great time during the game. Proper research and preparation can overcome some of the Capital City issues, but reinvigorating the fanbase with a new, exciting, better-located venue can’t be a bad thing. 32. Mullett Arena - Phoenix Coyotes 3.00 Sean MacDonald - Overall, Mullett Arena provides a unique Big 4 experience that should attract fans who want something out of the ordinary. Yes, it is expensive, much like an exclusive club, but with only 123 regular season games played over the three seasons, attendance will be limited to 565,800 fans. If you want to be one of them, now is the time to travel to Tempe and visit the Mullett.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Bill Gies Recreation Centre 1401 Queens Bush Rd Wellesley, ON N0B 2T0 Wellesley Applejacks website Bill Gies Recreation Centre website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 500 A is for Apple … J is for Jacks For people of a certain vintage, the lyric “A is for Apple … J is for Jacks” produces an earworm of a jingle advertising sugary breakfast cereal, Apple Jacks.  In Wellesley, Ontario, Applejacks has a bit of a different connotation.  The Wellesley Applejacks were established in 1987 and began play at the Junior D level.  Their name is derived from the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival which attracts thousands to the area each fall.  The Applejacks moved up to the Junior C level when Junior D was dissolved.  The Jacks currently play in the Provincial Junior Hockey League in the Doherty Division.  In their short time in Junior C, the Applejacks have already earned a Schmalz Cup in 2023 as the champions of Junior C hockey in Ontario. The Applejacks moved to a brand new home in 2023.  The Bill Gies Recreation Centre was built as a replacement for the outdated Wellesley Arena.  The Rec Centre was named after donor Bill Gies who was a home builder in the area.  Construction delays and funding issues forced the Applejacks to begin the 2023 season at the St. Clements Arena.  Wellesley is a township that includes the town proper and surrounding agricultural areas and small communities, with a township population of over 11,000. Food & Beverage 2 There is a very small snack bar on a temporary table in the upper level of the Bill Gies Recreation Centre that doubles as the Blueline Club.  Chips, candy and popcorn are available.  Pepsi products and coffee are the main soft drinks available, however if fans wish to try something truly local, then the hot apple cider will be the drink of choice.  A kiosk in the same area sells beer and other alcoholic beverages. Atmosphere 3 Bill Gies Recreation Centre is one of the newest facilities in the PJHL.  The exterior is fairly simple with light siding above tinted glass and dark brick.  The main entry to the centre is on the east side.  It opens to a lobby with temporary tables selling tickets and 50/50 tickets.  Since the building is new, there is not much in the way of history or other interesting items about the community for fans to look at.  The lobby is at ice level and has windows allowing fans to see the game.  Fans will need to head up the stairs to access the Blueline Club and the seating area.  The Blueline Club is above the lobby at the east side and also has temporary merchandise tables. Inside the arena, entry is from the east side and the ice is oriented from west to east.  The spot to get that perfect centre ice logo picture is from the south.  All of the seating in the arena is on the south side, which includes five rows of plastic seats.  The sections closest to the ends offer wooden benches.  The seating area is elevated above the ice surface providing better sightlines.  The bottom row of seating is at about the same height as the top of the glass.  A bit of a unique aspect of this arena is the track that encircles the ice surface at the upper level.  On the west end and north side it offers the perfect view for fans who like to stand during the game, but for whom ice level is not choice.  The northwest corner offers a mini-stick arena which can keep the youngsters occupied as well as keep those pesky mini stick games contained.  A simple scoreclock hangs above centre ice and to the west are the Wellesley Applejacks championship banners, featuring the 2023 Schmalz Cup.  The Applejacks embrace their history also keeping banners for their Junior D titles. The gameday production at an Applejacks game is fairly simple.  The PA system is good and the announcer does a good job with announcements and promotions, not getting overly excitable and more difficult to understand.  His reference to the arena as the Wellesley Orchard is an original aspect of the team. Neighbourhood 2 Wellesley is a small community at the west end of Waterloo Region.  It is the epitome of a small town.  There are a couple of spots for pre or post game food or drink, however, fans may want to consider doing their research for gameday as Wellesley is very quiet at night.  Schmidtsville Restaurant and Olympic Pizza are the options in town.  Fans will have to head to Waterloo if they are looking for something else.  The Applejacks are definitely the only game in town, but Wellesley is close to New Hamburg, Tavistock and Woodstock so away games are not a challenge at all.  The area is known for the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, there are some B&B possibilities.  Heading to Shakespeare or Waterloo will be where fans need to go for a more traditional hotel. Fans 3 Assessing fans in the PJHL is difficult as some teams do not publish attendance figures and the league does not compile and publish attendance statistics.  At the time of writing, for the 2023-24 season, the Wellesley Applejacks attracted around 230 fans per game.  The game being reviewed saw a good crowd of over 360 fans.  The previous season, the Applejacks attracted nearly 190 fans per game, however the Bill Gies Recreation Centre was just opened and the first 9 games of the season were held in St. Clements.  There is constant motion at an Applejacks game with kids running all over, one of the detriments of having a track around the rink.  The fans in attendance are knowledgeable and supportive and due to the competitive nature of the division, there are always plenty of fans of the visiting team as well.   Access 4 Getting to the Bill Gies Recreation Centre is not difficult.  It is located west of the traditional town of Wellesley at the west side of Waterloo Region.  It is at the end of Queens Bush Road at Hutchison Road.  It is 12 km from Highway 7-8 and there is plenty of rural driving to get to Wellesley so proper planning during the winter months is important as snow can be a real issue.  There is plenty of parking on site.  At the time of writing, there were no public transit options to get to Wellesley or the Rec Centre.  Getting around the arena is not a problem at all and the washroom facilities are adequate for the size of the facility. Return on Investment 4 PJHL hockey offers some of the best returns on investment possible.  Tickets for the Applejacks are $12 with discounts for students, seniors and children.  Tickets must be purchased at the door and cash or debit are accepted.  Children 5 and under are free.  Parking is free and the concession prices are good.  The quality of hockey is good and fans will have the opportunity to watch the action from an arena that is modern, clean, bright and comfortable.  Extras 3 An extra mark for the unique name and identity of the Applejacks that closely relates to the community. An extra mark for the Bill Gies Recreation Centre as a community hub. An extra mark for the Bill Gies Recreation Centre as a new, bright and modern facility. Final Thoughts The Bill Gies Recreation Centre is a new, modern, clean facility which is home to a Junior C hockey team that has the support of the community.  The Wellesley Applejacks offer a fun experience for fans and at the end, the “A is for Apple … J is for Jacks” jingle might just be stuck in their heads! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Ramsey Center 92 Catamount Road Cullowhee, NC 28723 Western Carolina Catamounts website Ramsey Center website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 7,826 Catamount Country Basketball has been played at Western Carolina University since 1928 when it was a junior college. Just a year later, the school would be chartered as a four-year teacher’s college named Western Carolina Teacher’s College. Originally playing as members of what is now the Conference Carolinas starting in 1930, Western Carolina would continue this partnership until 1969 when they left the NAIA ranks to join NCAA’s Division I. After starting their transition as an independent program for the 1969-70 season, the Catamounts have played as members of the Southern Conference since 1977. The highlight of Western Carolina basketball likely came in 1963 when the Catamounts advanced to the NAIA national championship game before losing to Texas Pan-American. 1996 would see another major high-water mark in Catamount basketball history, as the team won the Southern Conference tournament and advanced to their only NCAA Tournament appearance in school history. The 16 seeded Catamounts would give the number 1 seeded Purdue Boilermakers all they could handle, before falling in the final minutes by a score of 73-71. Western Carolina basketball has had three on-campus homes, first playing at Breese Gym which was a product of the Works Progress Act of the New Deal in 1939, until that venue was replaced by Reid Gym in 1956. Reid Gym would be home to Western Carolina basketball for 30 years until it was replaced with today’s home, Liston B. Ramsey Regional Activity Center. All three of these facilities are still in use on campus.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions are available both on the concourse and on the court level. Options are a bit on the limited side, but the staples are taken care of – hot dogs, personal sized pizzas, jumbo pretzels, and nachos with cheese sauce are available, along with the familiar candy, popcorn, and chips. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are offered. Soft drinks are from the Pepsi family, as is bottled water and Gatorade. A handful of hard seltzers and teas, as well as wine, are also available. Typical nationally recognized beers are offered, as are Sierra Nevada's’ Hazy Little Thing and the Western Carolina Catamount-branded Paws Pilsner.   Atmosphere   3 Ramsey Center is a multi-use facility that hosts concerts, graduations, and other large events, so it is considerably larger than the typical crowd basketball might draw. The upper levels of seating are tarped off, which helps to concentrate more fans around the court itself, while student seating runs the entirety of the seating bowl behind the team benches; both of these go a long way in creating as much of a home court advantage as possible. The seats here are colored with a gradient pattern that emulates the setting mountain sun, which does a good job bringing the personality of the western Carolina mountains into the Ramsey Center. In a bit of subtlety, the interior lighting also creates a purple hue as the backdrop for the arena. A four-sided overhead scoreboard shows a video feed of the game; despite the screens being a bit on the smaller size, they fit the size of the Ramsey Center perfectly. A secondary screen at one end of the court provides individual player statistics, but it uses a screencast computer display which can be a bit busy to sort through. Alternatively, the opposite walls of the seating area have more traditional, time-score-foul scoreboards. In a bit of a throwback to a past era of college basketball, the Cathouse pep band is a featured part of breaks in the action at Ramsey Center, and while popular music still has its place as part of the game experience, the Cathouse band really dominates the time during stoppages in play. Many breaks in the action are filled with on-court games involving both students and members of the general fan base. Though some of the games are what might be found at many other sporting events, a handful are unique twists on old favorites. In all, the game is a fun experience that just seems to be missing the air of excitement that consistency in the win column would bring. Over the past two decades, the Catamounts have struggled to string together consecutive winning seasons, with just two during that period – the atmosphere is right for a truly electric experience that comes with consistent winning. With four coaches since 2017, though, being able to build a stable program appears to have been a challenge; such is life for small school programs, whose coaches who are often poached by schools in larger conferences following a successful run.   Neighborhood   3 On campus, Ramsey Center is in the Western Carolina University concentration of athletic facilities. The eastern concourse of the arena overlooks the adjacent Bob Waters Field at E.J. Whitmore Stadium , home of Catamounts’ football. The town of Cullowhee is nearly exclusively made up of Western Carolina University, so there are a limited number of places to grab a bite to eat near campus. One stop might be Rogers Bros., whose menu is typical pub grub, while Nobel Residence Hall on Centennial Drive houses a selection of options, such as Chili’s and Subway, along with a taproom for local Innovation Brewing. The neighboring town of Sylva has a larger selection of restaurants, both chain and locally owned, as well as the main brewing operations for Innovation Brewing. Throughout the winter months, the Tuckaseegee River is a popular spot for fly fishing. The area is also known for its numerous waterfalls through nearby Cashiers, Franklin, and Highlands. In addition, the Blue Ridge Parkway that runs just west of Cullowhee is known for its picturesque drives. Though Cullowhee itself might not have an abundance of stops to fill the time before or after a game, the area has plenty of options to make a full day of a trip to Catamounts basketball.   Fans   3 Crowds at Ramsey Center do tend to be a bit on the smaller size, averaging roughly 1,800 fans per game; this puts the Catamounts in the lower half of the Southern Conference in terms of attendance overall. Students do their part showing up to support Catamounts basketball – a line for students starts forming more than an hour before the doors open. While students fill much of the seating behind the benches, however, they tend to be a bit more reserved in their enthusiasm, other than a cluster of them at center court. Credit should be given, though, to the Catamounts pep band and their efforts to create a home court atmosphere. Support for the basketball program seems to be split evenly between students and alumni/community members.   Access   3 With no direct interstate access in the immediate vicinity, Cullowhee, North Carolina is not a town that one would just happen upon while passing through the area. The town is most readily accessible from the south via US Highway 23, or from northern points by way of US-74. The mountainous nature of its surroundings also limits the number of roads leading to Cullowhee. Parking is available in close proximity to Ramsey Center, with surface lots concentrated on the west and northwestern sides of the arena – both of these lots are just a short walk across the street. A large parking garage is also found to the south. Inside the facility, an exterior concourse runs around the entirety of the arena and is wide enough to make navigation pretty easy. The top of the seating area is also wide enough to allow fans to move to almost any other part of the arena without losing their view of the court – this set up is a small, but nice feature that helps simplify getting around the arena.   Return on Investment   4 Online tickets for Catamounts basketball games start at $11 for adults and $6 for children. A $3 fee is added to online ticket purchases, so you should factor in roughly $15 per ticket when you attend. Concessions prices at Ramsey Center are as forgiving as you will probably find at any other college basketball arena; given these low costs, the primary factor in terms of return on investment may simply be the time associated with traveling to Cullowhee.   Extras   4 Catamount mascot Paws is an active part of the game experience – the purple accented mountainous feline makes its way around the stands, helping lead the rounds of the Western Carolina fight song, stopping for photos, and assisting with on-court contests. The wall of the southwest entry point displays the story of Henry Logan, who became the first Black intercollegiate athlete in the state of North Carolina in 1968. Logan was a four-time NAIA All-American and still holds the school record for points in a game (60), points in a season (1,049), and career scoring average (30.7). Logan also led the nation in scoring as a senior, averaging 36.2 ppg. The rafters of Ramsey Center recognize the retired numbers of Catamount legends, as well as the accomplishments of the teams that call the venue home, namely men’s and women’s basketball, and volleyball. One banner of note that hangs amongst the Catamounts retired numbers is one recognizing Ronnie Carr, who made the first three-point basket in college basketball history. Western Carolina also might display the largest American flag in all of college basketball during the singing of the National Anthem ; just prior to the start of the song, a massive flag unfurls at the visiting end of the floor, an impressive display of patriotism.   Final Thoughts Western Carolina does a good job at taking what could easily feel like a dated facility and bringing a modern feel to it, helping to create a comfortable college basketball atmosphere that nicely complements the game on the court. But the experience goes beyond just the comfort of the arena – there also seems to be a special connection between the athletic program here and the surrounding community. Unlike larger schools with massive followings, Western Carolina appears to have a deep emotional bond with its students, alumni, and community members; this close-knit relationship helps makes the game experience truly special, going beyond just the action on the court.

If you enjoyed ESPN's recent doc, The New York Sack Exchange , which focuses on the ups and downs of the Jets' fierce defensive line in the '80s, you must read Greg Prato's book, Sack Exchange , which is a 400-plus page oral history of the '80s Jets. In addition to the Sack Exchangers, Greg interviews their teammates, the coaches, their opponents, and one hilarious, Jets fanatic. It's compelling, especially for Jets fans.  The book is available here . You can find Greg on Twitter @GregPratoWriter. STADIUM JOURNEY: We must ask. The Jets just hired a new coach, Aaron Glenn. Thoughts? Will the playoff drought continue? GREG PRATO:   I would have preferred a head coach with not only prior head coach experience, but also success in the postseason and at least 1 Super Bowl appearance. Hopefully, Mr. Glenn works out, but judging from the Jets' awful track record regarding head coach hiring post-Rex Ryan, I'm not going to get my hopes up too high. I hope I'm wrong though. STADIUM JOURNEY:  You were primarily a music writer and then you tackled the '80s Jets. What inspired you to take this massive project on? GREG PRATO:   The early '80s was when I first started following sports, and since I've lived on Long Island my whole life, the Jets, Islanders, and Mets were all either amid success - Islanders and Jets - or at least taking steps towards it - Mets. But unlike the Isles and Mets, the Jets didn't go the distance in the '80s. But that said, I had fond memories of those teams and never saw a book solely about that era, so, why not do a book? STADIUM JOURNEY: Sack Exchange is a 400-plus page behemoth. How long did it take you to get this thing done? GREG PRATO:   To be honest it's been quite some time since it came out  - heck, Rex Ryan was still their head coach at the time - and I've put out so many other books that I can't recall exactly. But if I had to guess I'd say about a year to do the interviews, assemble it, then a year for ECW Press to design it and put it out. STADIUM JOURNEY: Who was your toughest interview to nail down? GREG PRATO:   None were difficult to nail down from what I remember. I just wish I was able to interview Freeman McNeil, but my efforts proved unsuccessful. Someone else I tried to get an interview for the book was Sam J. Jones, who played Flash Gordon in the 1980 film and whose character was also the QB for the Jets. A few good questions would have been good to include in the book such as: "If you weren't busy saving the universe, could you have guided the Jets to victory in the 1982-83 AFC Championship Game?" Unfortunately, my efforts wound up being intercepted by AJ Duhe.  STADIUM JOURNEY: You interview one Jets superfan for the book. Johnny "Bubba" Caruso is quite the character, to put it mildly. How'd you find Bubba? GREG PRATO:   Johnny "Bubba" Caruso is a relative of my wife. He is probably the biggest Jets fan I've ever met and is an unforgettable personality. I just knew I had to include him in the book. Luckily, he accepted and his quotes, and memories remain among my favorite of the entire book, as he attended many Jets games at old Shea back in the day.  STADIUM JOURNEY: Are your memories of Shea Stadium good ones? Or did you think the Jets needed to escape to Jersey? GREG PRATO:   I unfortunately never saw a Jets game at Shea, although I did see many Mets games there. I did not like - and still don't like - that the Jets play in Jersey. What will it take for the team to come back to Queens? Maybe a move back to Queens would get rid of the awful stench of the Jets' history ever since they fled for Jersey in '84.  STADIUM JOURNEY: Since you're a music guy, did you see any concerts at Shea?  GREG PRATO:   I did not, although I've seen tons of concerts at nearby Nassau Coliseum back in the day. STADIUM JOURNEY:  It would've been fitting if you were in ESPN's documentary. Did they interview you? GREG PRATO:   They did not. For some reason, Greg Prato turns into a ghost-like character when it comes to being interviewed for documentaries, as evidenced by docs such as the ESPN Sack Exchange one and a recent yacht rock doc, even though I penned a popular book entitled The Yacht Rock Book a few years back. I plead with future documentary-makers: Greg Prato is not a ghost. Greg Prato is a real man. And Greg Prato has feelings, just like everyone else. STADIUM JOURNEY: If you were to write a book on the '90s Jets, what's the title? And by the way, are you considering doing that? GREG PRATO:   I am not considering it, but it's not a bad idea.  A title? How about A Tale of Tuna, Testaverde, and a Torn Tendon ? Also, I must admit that in addition to penning the Sack Exchange book, I also issued another book a few years back that deals with the '90s and all eras of the Jets, entitled Butt Fumbles, Fake Spikes, Mud Bowls & Heidi Games: The Top 100 Debacles of the New York Jets , which is also available via Amazon. STADIUM JOURNEY: Should the Jets return to Queens? Do you think there's a chance that it could happen? GREG PRATO:   They should move back to Queens. But Woody Johnson is not a good owner and is obviously content making big bucks whether the Jets win or lose, so why put in any extra effort?  Jon Hart is  @manversusball

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Ocean Bank Convocation Center 11200 Southwest 8th Street Miami, FL 33199 Florida International Golden Panthers website Ocean Bank Convocation Center website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 5,000 College Basketball in Miami’s ‘Burbs FIU basketball isn’t exactly steeped in historic excellence – known more for their hiring and firing of Isiah Thomas as their head coach a decade ago than for consistent winning, the FIU program has had a rough go of it the last few years. Ironically, the team’s facility seems to show the same dreary emotion; in an arena that looks state-of-the-art from the outside and in the lobby, the reality of what awaits inside is rather disappointing. The exterior and lobby are a result of a facelift that makes the venue initially welcoming, akin to that of the Tampa Bay Rays. While the program is doing the best with what they have, however, it clearly shows its age and deficiencies.   Food & Beverage   3 There isn’t anything spectacular about the Ocean Bank Convocation Center concession stands, nor is there anything inherently bad. Food is not very expensive either; cheeseburgers cost $9, hot dogs are $8, and salted pretzels are $7, while treats like candy ($3), and chips ($3), cotton candy ($6), and ice cream ($8) are also available. Drinks are $4 for water, soda, or Gatorade, but you can also find lemonade ($3) and Celsius ($8). Beer ranges from $8 to $9.   Atmosphere   2 The best thing here is the unique floor design that FIU’s court features – with waves crashing onto a beach on one side and tropical palm trees on the other, the floor definitely stands out. That, however, is where the uniqueness ends. The arena echoes a lot with poor acoustics, so the little noise that is made by the few fans in attendance is amplified, oddly making it seem even more empty. Also, the extremely old lighting in the rafters hums loudly whenever it is turned on, making the arena feel every bit of its nearly 40 years of age. The upper stands were rarely ever opened all the way for fans, and in recent years have been completely folded back into themselves, creating seating only in the bottom-most sections. The blue folding seats have seen an upgrade in recent years, but still remind you more of old high school gymnasium seating than Conference USA college basketball, and the entire inside of the arena seems old, stuck in the midst of the 1980s. In fact, it’s hard to tell any difference between now and when the arena was used for the filming of an episode of Miami Vice, thanks to the wood paneling used for the end zone and upper-level seating sections. The upper concourse is no longer open to the public due to the small size of the crowds, so fans enter at the ground floor and continue into the arena through the ground floor instead of walking up to their seats. The nicest part of the arena is the exterior of the main entrance, which is complete with new entry doors, ticket booths, landscaping, and a statue of a Florida Panther, while the second floor features suites that are available but rarely used.   Neighborhood   3 FIU’s arena is located on campus, which makes it convenient to attend for students. Unlike stadiums in the middle of a city, though, there is a sense of security on campus, as you are seemingly separated from the rest of the neighborhood around it. However, there still remains the issue of how that surrounding neighborhood looks, and it isn’t exactly the best in Miami. However, upgrades have come to the Sweetwater area in recent years, thankfully, making it better. While Sweetwater is a town known locally for its political corruption and severe street flooding during hurricanes, a recent increase in restaurants and high-rise apartments across from campus has meant that the immediate area looks better than before. Put a college campus in the middle of it, and you have FIU. The campus itself is growing by the day, with new construction all over the place and new buildings popping up. Ocean Bank Convocation Center is on the far west end of campus, situated in a corner near FIU’s tennis courts and a parking garage. Very few hotels are nearby, making the idea of an overnight trip hard if you want to stay close to the action.   Fans   2 It is hard to get really excited about college basketball when few fans show up. Most students who do show up only stay for part of the game, often coming and going throughout the evening – few are actually passionate fans who follow the progress of the team on a game-by-game basis. Some student athletes do attend to support friends on the team, but that also is on an “as I was passing by” basis. One of the most disappointing things is the fact that the arena, as old as it is, looks even more so without fans, and the lack of excitement and electricity in the facility is hard to ignore during college basketball games.   Access   3 Getting to any stadium at FIU isn’t too hard, but traffic can sometimes be problematic. As is typical in Miami, traffic backs up right around the exits nearest FIU’s campus on a daily basis. If you find yourself hoping to get to a game and rush hour happens to have lasted a little longer that day, you may be in for a late arrival. That said, plan accordingly and give yourself more time than you think you’ll need – the campus is right off Florida’s Turnpike.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets for FIU basketball start at just $8 for general admission seating, and go up to $10 for assigned seats. Courtside seats are impressively priced at just $60, a steal for college basketball in a big market. Parking is plentiful nearby in school lots (Lot 10) and garages (Panther Garage 3), both of which offer parking which can be paid for using your phone. The investment in a ticket, travel, and concessions may be affordable in terms of what you get back, but there simply isn’t anything to get overly excited about here – for the same amount of money and investment of time and travel, one could travel to the eastern side of Miami for another NCAA basketball experience that far outperforms FIU in a better location, or you could go north to Boca Raton for an FAU basketball game .   Extras   3 There are often giveaways to students and fans at FIU basketball games, and that is never a bad thing.  FIU’s mascot Roary is also a frequent visitor to games, mingling with fans and trying to pump up the energy. Lastly, the FIU dance team, cheerleaders, and band are always on hand to liven up the experience, including the use of a spiral wheel and inflatable mascots to distract visiting free throw shooters.   Final Thoughts FIU basketball is doing the best they can with what they have been given. The face lift to the arena was much needed, and has improved the fan experience, but not by much. Unfortunately, a lack of success on the court, mixed with not having a rich history, means this program is often overlooked and skipped by fans in the over-saturated sports market that is Miami.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Multipurpose Activities Center 1 Campus Dr Mont Alto, PA 17237 Penn State-Mont Alto Nittany Lions website Multipurpose Activities Center (MAC) website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 1,500 Another Penn State Penn State-Mont Alto is a commonwealth campus of Pennsylvania State University located in Mont Alto, PA approximately 45 minutes south of Harrisburg, PA. There are a little less than 1000 full-time students who attend the university. The Pennsylvania State University is a geographically dispersed university with campuses located throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Most people only know of the flagship University Park campus. Penn State-Mont Alto teams participate as members of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA). The Nittany Lions are also a member of the Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC). All members of PSUAC are Penn State Commonwealth campus with team nicknames such as Lions, Roaring Lions, and Nittany Lions. Mont Alto's teams use the Nittany Lions name. It seems like it could get confusing at times. Penn State Mont Alto has nine four-year and seven two-year degree programs. The school began in 1903 as the Pennsylvania State Forest Academy and the forest technology is still well regarded to this date. In 1929 the Forest Academy merged with Pennsylvania State University, establishing Penn State Mont Alto. We attended the venue during a men's and women's doubleheader and the images are from the women's action. The experience should be the same no matter what game you attend. Food & Beverage 1 There is no permanent concession stand, although vending machines are available. Atmosphere 3 The arena is a gym that is similar to many high school gyms. Because of the size, it can get loud pretty quickly depending on the game's action. Neighborhood 3 Penn State Mont Alto has a small population of 1,580. There is not much to do around town as the university covers most of the small community. Frank's Taste of Italy is the only restaurant in town. You would need to go to Chambersburg, Gettysburg, or Emmitsburg across the line in Maryland for more options. Fans 3 There were a decent number of fans in attendance and they were quite enthusiastic.  You are also likely to find a good number of fans of the opposing teams as many of the opposing schools are located close by. Access 2 Penn State Mont Alto is located in a small town with only small roads leading to it. It is not difficult to find but it is in a very rural setting. Parking should be easy even during weeknight games. Return on Investment 4 There is no cost to attend a game at Penn State-York and the parking is free. . Extras 2 We liked the lion statue in the lobby. There is a nice display of Penn State-Mont Alto's athletic history in the building's lobby. Final Thoughts The simple gymnasium at Penn State-Mont Alto is a fun place to watch a game.

Photos by Richard Smith , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Nelson Gymnasium 1015 Philadelphia Ave Chambersburg, PA 17201 Wilson Phoenix website Nelson Gymnasium website Year Opened: unknown Capacity: 250 Phoenix Rising Wilson College is a private liberal arts college located in Chambersburg, PA. that almost closed in 1979 but ended up staying open. Until 2014, Wilson was an all-women’s college but became coed that year. The college is known for its Single Parent Scholars program, which allows single parents to bring their children to live with them on campus. A little over 1,000 total students attend Wilson. Their sports teams are the Phoenix and the basketball team plays at Nelson Gymnasium. They are a member of the United East Conference. Wilson has six women’s sports teams and five men’s sports teams. Food & Beverage 0 There is no permanent food stand open for basketball games. Atmosphere 3 Nelson Gymnasium is one of the smallest gyms we have seen for NCAA action. This does make it a pretty loud experience for even games with very few fans. There is a small set of bleachers, a simple set of scoreboards, and a simple PA system. It is a fun place to see a game but the atmosphere won't wow someone expecting more traditional NCAA action. Neighborhood 3 Chambersburg is a nice little town located just to the north of the Maryland and Pennsylvania border. There are a few food and drink options in the immediate vicinity. You can’t go wrong with Mario's Italian Restaurant or the Copper Kettle. There are other options as it is a fairly busy area with quite a variety of places to go. Nearby Shippensburg or Hagerstown in Maryland, also each have many options. Fans 3 As with most small college gyms, the bulk of the fans tend to be family or friends of both teams. There will be some local fans who just happen to stop by for the game as well. Access 4 Chambersburg is located right off Interstate 81, a major route from the south through to the northeast. Accessing the campus is easy as you get off that main road as it is marked well. The college is located about half an hour from the state capital Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. Parking is fairly plentiful near the gym and it is free. Return on Investment 5 Tickets and parking are free. Extras 1 The quaint gym is an extra on its own. Final Thoughts There is not too much to see at a Wilson basketball game, but the setting is still a pleasant place to see some intercollegiate action.

When the original professional Brockton Rox baseball franchise decided to demote itself from the independent Can-Am League to the Summer Collegiate Futures Collegiate League, they promised their fans the move was a temporary one, and they would move back to the professional circuit once they straightened out their finances. That was in 2012. Today, at a press conference held in the Brockton City Hall, the return of the Brockton Rox to professional baseball was finally announced. The new ownership group, consisting of members of the Frontier League’s New York Boulders' ownership group and Baseball Hall of Famer Jim Rice, proudly unveiled their new logo and mission, calling 2025 a “revival season” for baseball in Brockton. The original Rox franchise, which has played in the summer collegiate Futures League for 13 seasons, folded at the end of the 2024 season. The team’s owners decided to focus their finances and energies on the professional New England Knockouts. This new ownership group’s first act was to revive the city’s recognizable franchise name, the Rox, which is a derivative of the names of the nearby Red Sox and local boxing legend Rocky Marciano. The Rox ownership group poses at the press conference announcing the rebranding. Co-owners Bill and Rob Janetschek were part of the group that purchased the New York Boulders in 2020. The elder Janetschek and Rice were both part of the Fenway Sports Group at the minor league level. Joining forces in Massachusetts was a no-brainer for both of them. Said Janetschek, "The first person that came to mind, as far as trying to engage someone from the local community, was Jim. When I found out about this opportunity, I reached out and said, 'Would you like to be an owner of the team in Brockton?' It took him 30 seconds to say yes." Co-owner Shawn Reilly stated that ownership’s first mission will be to put a competitive team on the field for 2025. They will then focus on longer-term projects, such as hosting non-baseball events like concerts and holiday festivals at Campanelli Stadium. Reilly said the team will offer lower ticket prices and a series of promotional nights, such as Star Wars night. Re-engaging the community after years of lackluster attendance will be a priority. Reilly pointed to a sold-out game played by the Savannah Bananas in 2023 as proof that “if you give them a reason to come, people will come.” Rox co-owner Shawn Reilly addresses the crowd. “This is a great sports town. We know it’s here,” Reilly said. “We’re really excited to be here to bring professional baseball back. I can promise you our ownership group and front office will work hard every day to bring affordable family entertainment to the residents of the city.” The Rox open their Frontier League season on the road on Friday, May 9 at the Tri-City ValleyCats. Their home opener is scheduled for Friday, May 16 against the New York Boulders at Campanelli Stadium.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Fishers Event Center 11000 Stockdale St. Fishers, IN 46037 Indy Ignite website  Fishers Event Center website Year Opened:  2024 Capacity:  7,500 The Indy Ignite Ready to Ignite Indianapolis The Indy Ignite are members of the Pro Volleyball Federation and play at the Fishers Event Center. The club began play in 2024 and attracted a crowd of 6,089 for its inaugural game.  The 8-team league provides a livable wage to women volleyball players with salaries. The Indy Ignite name was announced a year before its first game and pays tribute to the burning passion of the volleyball community, the fierce deterioration of its athletes, and the league’s effort to spark a new interest in women’s pro sports. The golden torch logo is inspired by the state flag and the bronze statue of Victory atop the Soldiers & Sailors Monument in downtown Indianapolis. Food & Beverage 4 The Fishers Event Center offers multiple food and beverage spots on the first and second floors. The Fuel Zone locations offer fans grab-and-go options for food and beverages. Customers pick up their items and pay for them with their credit card. There are a few kiosks where cheesesteaks and supreme nachos are prepared to order. The arena’s food court is divided into two sections: District Eats for quick bites like freshly made burgers and pizza held individually under warmers, and District Drinks for refreshing beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.  Other items include giant-sized brats, barbecue pork sandwiches, ham and cheese kolaches, burgers, and hot dogs. Kickin’ Chicken prepares fried chicken sandwiches in front of customers for its sandwiches: regular, Buffalo, and Nashville hot. There is plenty to wash down all the food with Coke products, beer, wine, hard seltzers and ciders, and mixed cocktails. The city's historic railyard inspires the Railyard Pub. The elevated bar offers packaged beers and signature cocktails: Kentucky lemonade, margaritas, and Moscow mules. The local beers include Full Day Ray, Sun King, and King Jugg varieties, within 3 miles of the arena. King Jugg makes the official Black Dog Indy Fuel Ale. All of the beer comes by the can and is available in the grab-and-go from the refrigerators.  Atmosphere 3 Professional volleyball is new to the Indianapolis market, and fans have taken an interest in the Ignite. The first game attracted a sell-out crowd of 7,000 people, while the second game filled the arena to 75 percent capacity. Fans line up for merchandise and then after the game for post-game autographs. The court is set up in the middle of the floor with additional private seating on each side. One of these areas is filled with a group of supporters banging inflatable thundersticks and a mini-bar area for easy access for fans sitting courtside. The team’s mascot, Pepper, walks around this area for pictures. Fans are concentrated on the action on the court, which could be as short as 90 minutes to 2 and a half hours. There are plenty of “oohs” and “ahhs” during long sets where the players make acrobatic and diving moves to keep the ball alive. Music is played briefly after each scoring and during breaks between sets. There are moments of entertainment during breaks, including the Firestarter Dance Team, on-court gimmicks for kids, and a giant volleyball game with an inflatable ball in the stands.  Only clear bags are permitted. Non-clear bags must be smaller than 4.5” x 6.5”, and the arena is a cashless venue. All concessions and merchandise must be made through credit card, debit card, or mobile payment. There are no programs offered at the game. Neighborhood 4 The FEC is in Fishers, Indiana, off of I-69. The arena is within walking distance of   The Yard at Fishers District,   which features a variety of restaurants and bars. They include quick bites such as Shake Shack, Chicken Salad Chick, Torchy’s Tacos, and Bibibop Asian Grill.  The 1933 Lounge, The HC Tavern and Kitchen, and the Sangiovese Ristorante are fine choices. Sun King Brewery is located at The Yard and includes The Fishers Test Kitchen, local chef-inspired cuisine, and rotating test concepts. A few blocks across the interstate are a few more choices, including Full Day Ray Restaurant and Brewery, Parks Place Pub, and King Jugg Brewery. Indiana’s only IKEA and Top Golf locations are within eye-sight of the arena, along with Portillo’s, a spot for iconic Chicago food: Italian beef, Vienna beef hot dogs, sandwiches, and ribs. Fans 4 The fanbase for Ignite games is a mix of die-hard volleyball and casual fans.  They enjoy watching a professional volleyball match and cheer with attacks and kills on the court. When it is a match point, the crowd stands until the game is over. After the match, fans line up in the lower concourse to secure an autograph or photo with their favorite players. Access 5 Fans cannot walk around the upper concourse, as the premium club and suites take up the majority of the western portion of the building. Fans enter from the ground floor and access staircases to the upper concourse. There is enough room to walk around during volleyball games. A few standing-room-only spots towards the northern part of the concourse have slightly obstructed views. Return on Investment 3 There is a demand for Ignite tickets. The costs start at $30 (plus $12.50 fees) on the team’s site and Ticketmaster. Some secondary websites list tickets around the same place or slightly higher for home matches.  The average price for standard admission tickets is around $21.60 before fees. Parking is hassle-free, with 2,000 spaces around the FEC. Fans can pre-pay for the game or scan to pay upon arrival. The cost to park in the general admission lot is $10, while the VIP lot is $20. Menu prices include $6 for a hot dog to $13 for a chicken sandwich with a fry basket. Macro beers are $10, and microbrews are $13. The team shop offers plenty of options for the Ignite at-home games in the Fuel Shop. There is the Merch of the Night, an exclusive offer of 25% on select items each night. Extras 3 Players sign autographs after every game on the lower concourse; based on the number of fans waiting in line, there is a huge demand to meet the new stars of the city. The arena offers grab-and-go items from drinks to food for easy access to and from your seats. After every Ignite home victory, fans can grab a free appetizer with an entree item at the Parks Place Pub. Final Thoughts The Indy Ignite impacted the sports scene in town during its inaugural season. Management has done proper marketing and research, creating an interesting niche for fans in the area. It is an exciting time to be a fan of women's sports, and the PVF is among the many options to choose from here in the United States. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Westchester County Center 198 Central Avenue White Plains, NY 10606 Westchester Knicks website Westchester County Center website Year Opened: 1930 Capacity: 5,000 Westchester Knicks Have a Home in White Plains The Westchester Knicks of the NBA G League have made the Westchester County Center their home since 2014. It is a multi-purpose arena in downtown White Plains, New York approximately 33 miles from midtown Manhattan. The building is owned by the Department of Westchester County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Westchester, which plays in the Eastern Conference, is the affiliate of the NBA’s New York Knicks. The G League, the letter G originates from its sponsorship by Gatorade, was founded in 2001 as the National Basketball Development League (NBDL). Every NBA team has a G League entry and there is one additional entry. The Mexico City Capitanes made their G League debut in the 2021-22 season playing exclusively on the road. The season consists of at least 50 games. The 2024-25 NBA G League season structure included two parts. The first segment was the second time 16-game Tip-Off Tournament. All 31 teams competed in the Tip-Off Tournament which culminated at the G League Winter Showcase presented by The General Insurance with the Winter Showcase Championship Game. The Winter Showcase concluded on December 22 with the Westchester Knicks defeating the Sioux Falls Skyforce in the final. The Knicks have won both tournaments. Following the tournament, team records were reset before the 34-game regular season which began on December 27. After the regular season, the top six teams in each conference qualify for the G League Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, which concludes with the G League Finals presented by YouTube TV beginning April 1. Top players who were called up from the G League include Danny Green, Alex Caruso, Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, Duncan Robinson, Christian Wood, and Hassan Whiteside. On January 1, 2025, Tyler Kolek appeared in a rare double-header for the Knicks and the Westchester Knicks. Kolek, a second-round pick in 2024, scored 36 points and 11 assists for the Westchester Knicks and just hours later scored 2 points and 4 assists for the New York Knicks. The County Center is the perfect venue for a G League team. The venerable building, which opened in 1930, holds 5000 but the Knicks never come close to filling the building. The County Center does not host many other events. Dancing With the Stars, the Royal Hanneford Circus, Card Shows, and Trade Shows are some of the events that come to the County Center. The County Center also hosts the Section One high school basketball championships (consisting of Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, and Rockland Counties) the first week of March. Two semifinal games and a championship game are played in three Classes and the championship game is in Class D. Food & Beverage 3 The Westchester County Center concession stands are run by Nathan’s and offer standard food choices such as burgers, hot dogs, cheesesteaks, chicken fingers, salads, French fries, popcorn, pretzels, soft drinks, and beer. Pepsi products are the beverage of choice. Mixed drinks, white claw, and high noon are also available downstairs at a small bar. Atmosphere 3 The County Center, renovated in 1988, has seating behind the South basket but has a Stage on the North Side called the Founders Club. The club is the Westchester Knicks version of the Delta Club at Madison Square Garden. A VIP wristband allows fans access to unlimited premium food, soft drinks, and a postgame free throw and photo at center court. There is additional premium seating with 10 round courtside tables on the right side of the building with six seats at each. There are nine rows of seats just behind the basket on the lower level which cost $22.25 per ticket. On the left sideline, the front section has nine rows of seats, and another section with eight rows. There are two video boards in the corners at the North End and one board above the basket in the South End that shows the lineups on the floor and running statistics. There are side line scoreboards that flash team statistics including rebounds, shooting percentage, assists, turnovers and time outs remaining. The boards are updated in real-time and are quite informative. The Knicks roll out many contests during time-outs and between quarters to get the crowd into the action including the always popular T-Shirt toss. The staff and the mascot, named Hudson, enthusiastically attempt to fire up the crowd and wave “Let’s Go Knicks” signs. Hudson’s jersey number is 914, the area code for Westchester County. The recorded organ sounds reverberate throughout the arena to ignite the offense, while the sound system blares a drum to enlist the chant of “De-fense” from the crowd. Just like a typical NBA game, the sound system is rarely silent. The sounds and music are played at an acceptable decibel level. Neighborhood 3 The area, which is safe, is fairly limited for pre-game options, but at least there are a few restaurants within walking distance on Central Avenue (City Limits Diner is probably the best option) and Smashburger is .3 miles away on Tarrytown Road. There is also Buon Amici, a solid classic Italian sit-down restaurant. The good news is the building is right off the Bronx River Parkway and less than a 10-minute walk to Metro North’s White Plains train station. It is also served by the Westchester County Bee Line Bus System. Fans 3 The Knicks do not draw big crowds but are popular with families, kids, and groups (schools and local recreational teams). On a weeknight, sometimes only 500 or more are in attendance but the weekends can attract crowds close to 2000. The crowd is somewhat complacent and waits for a big play or to be prompted by the music or scoreboard. The County Center was used as an emergency healthcare facility during the pandemic for almost three years. The Knicks had to play two seasons at Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport Connecticut and only averaged 711 fans in 2022-2023 the second worst in the league. They returned to the County Center last season to the delight of the locals. The best places to follow the team are on social media including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Twitch TV, TikTok and the team website. Access 4 The good news is the County Center is easily accessible by car, bus, and a short walk from the downtown White Plains office and shopping district. There is also a Bee Line Bus Terminal and a Greyhound bus station next to the Metro North Station. The lobby/box office is small and can get crowded as game time approaches. The line to get in can back up as tip-off approaches. The seats are wide and offer excellent legroom since it is an older building. The only issue is the extremely small steps and no railings in the aisles which can be problematic. The design of the building is a benefit since there are no luxury suites and the upper level is situated directly above the lower which allows fans to be close to the court. The bathrooms are large and clean. Return on Investment 4 The return on investment is affirmative except for the first row in the lower level which are called celebrity seats and run $149. Lower level tickets are $49 but seats in the corner are only $16.85. Upper level is $28.60 at midcourt, $22.25 behind the basket. Section 60 right and 60 left upstairs offer a solid vantage point for $22.25. The upper level offers an excellent view but the sideline closest to the seats is not visible unless you are seated in the first two rows. The view directly behind the basket is somewhat obstructed. But if seated just to the right or left of the basket the view is stellar. Parking is $15 and there are two lots directly outside the building. There is free street parking if you are willing to drive around and hunt. The best bet for saving money is to sign up for texts and get 10% off merch plus information about ticket deals and giveaways. Extras 2 Points are awarded for the excellent views of the court from the balcony and also for the two Westchester Knicks School Day games which begin at 11:00 AM. Final Thoughts The Westchester County Center is worthy of a Stadium Journey. The Knicks provide fan-friendly entertainment and a chance to see talented players up close and at an affordable price. It is a worthy outing for families and fans of all ages. Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Facebook.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Gaughan Group Stadium Brisbane Rd. London E510 5NF Leyton Orient FC website Gaughan Group Stadium website Year Opened: 1937 Capacity: 9,271 Leyton Orient: Passion, Unity & Determination Leyton Orient FC is London’s second oldest football club, established in 1881 and competing in various leagues. They wear red, which symbolizes the passion, unity, and determination. The same can be said for their home, officially known as the Gaughan Group Stadium for sponsorship reasons. The O’s, as they are affectionately known, began play as Orient FC and was founded by members of the Homerton Theological College who had earlier formed a cricket club. During the winter months, they switched to football and, by 1898, adopted the name Orient since many members were involved in the Orient shipping line.  The club played at various stadiums before settling in at Brisbane Road in 1937. They have remained at the stadium since, but all four stands have been renovated since moving the old Mitcham Greyhound Stadium stand in 1955. It is now known as the Old Main East Stand, features the team name on its gable, and is used by home and away supporters. The Tommy Johnston Stand (South) Stand opened in 1999 and was named after the club’s all-time leading scorer. It has seats for 1,336 spectators and is a few feet above the pitch. The Justin Edinburgh (West) Stand opened in 2005 and seats 2,872 people. It is a tall and vertical structure and houses the team offices. The North End Stand was completed in 2007 and seats 1,351 people. Food & Beverage 4 On the day of our visit, the two concession stands at the corner of the West Stand were operating. The small area has quite a selection of items, from nachos, hot dogs, pies, ciders, and lagers. The options are few, but they are served hot and made with natural ingredients. An assortment of pies includes steak and kidney, chicken bāltī , chicken and mushroom, Tuscan bean, cheese, onion and potato, and pork sausage rolls. They are all homemade and minced meat pies served with double mash and covered with parsley sauce.  A pie and double mash costs £6.25 Nachos and hot dogs are served plain or with beef chili, nacho cheese, or both. All hot dogs are 100 percent beef and larger than ones at ballparks in the United States.  Snacks such as chocolate bars (Kit Kat, Snickers, and Twix), Pringles, sweet popcorn, and candy floss are available.` The Stadium Journey recommendation is the pie and double mash. It is priced at £6.25 ($8.15 US/$11.24 CAN). It is London comfort food and perfect for the cold fall days of the English Football League. Top it off with a dab of malt vinegar, or trade in the minced meat pie for one of the other varieties. Atmosphere 3 The game that we attended was a midweek Bristol Street Motors Trophy match. A midweek knockout cup competition in which EFL League One and League Two, plus an additional 16 invited sides from Premier League and EFL Championship clubs with Category One Academies. Only the west stand was open for fans, while the east stand was designated for the away team supporters. This was not the ordinary match for The O’s, but one underneath the floodlights. Fans for the game entered through either Gate 7 or 8 and made their way to their seats under the protective roof. Many grabbed a pre-game bite or drink in the two concession areas at the stand before heading to the seating before kickoff.   The club has two mascots, Theo and Cleo, who entertain fans, young and old, before the game and celebrate goals with them if applicable. Inspired by the club’s crest, the two wyverns first appeared during the 2000-2001 season.  Despite one stand being opening, while the east side stand was strictly for away fans, there was energy in the building. The supporters constantly encouraged the players every chance they had to score. When one goal finally got through, several fans rushed near the end line to hug and celebrate with one of the mascots.  Neighborhood 4 The Leyton neighborhood is in South London and is going through gentrification, with young professionals moving into the area. According to the Leyton Area Guide, “With the lively cafes on Francis Road, the bustling High Road, the family-friendly footie action and easy access to the Olympic Park, Leyton can often feel like a city within a city.” Francis Road is hopping with cafes, delis, shops, restaurants, and other curiosities that should entertain onlookers and guests before and after a match. Burnt is a smokehouse specializing in ribs and brisket. Bamboo Matt offers a South American twist on Japanese classics. Yardarm is a deli on one side and a wine bar on the other. Bread & Oregano offers traditional Greek street food. There are a few pubs to visit, including the Gravity Well Taproom, offering signature craft beer, vegan cuisine, and occasional kitchen residencies. William the Fourth Houses offers sports screens, a beer garden, and kitchen residences. Finally, The Leyton Star provides a chilled atmosphere for a pint and includes burgers and a game room. There are pubs for pre-game beer, including the Coach and Horses and Lion and Key. Fans 3 The O’s averaged 8,116 people last season in League One, the club's highest in 30 years. The support is solid at around 5,000 this century, with most based in east London. The Leyton Orient Supporters Club and the Leyton Orient Fans Trust are the two supporters groups at matches. The team has a rich history and a passionate fan base for London’s second-oldest club.  Fans provide constant encouragement to the players on the pitch. The O’s had a chance to score a goal. There were more “ohs” than “O’s” during the match, but it erupted when a goal was made. The same could be said for penalties and free kicks that the supporters felt didn’t go their way. Matches against its rivals, West Ham United, might bring out more revelry. Access 3 There is no public parking at the stadium, and permit parking is available on the residential streets. It is advisable to take public transportation; thankfully, there are plenty of options to Brisbane Road. The London Underground is a 10-minute walk along the Central Line. The London Overground is a 15-minute walk from the stadium. Bus 58, 69, 97, and 158 run near the stadium.  The stadium is separated into four different stands designated on your ticket stub. You must enter the proper section for admittance. There are nine entrances, including two exits (way outs) for away fans in the East Stand. Return on Investment 4 The cost of a ticket depends on the stand you are sitting in for the game. The cheapest adult ticket is £27-£33 for the North Stand, but the prices go up from £30-£37 for the West Stand. The prices are lower for seniors (concessions) and kids under 18, who gain admission for as low as £11 in the East or North Stands. Food prices are extremely reasonable. A pie and two mash costs £6.20, a pie by itself is £4.50, and a pint of beer is £5.80. Nachos and hot dogs start at £3.80 and £5.20 each. The team shop is open only before or after the match, with kits selling for £52.99 and team caps at £12.99. Extras 4 Leyton Orient scores additional points, which includes serving an array of  English football staples of pies, mash, and sausage rolls. The two mascots bring a nice touch to the match. They celebrate with fans in the stands. The stadium itself is a classic English football ground with tons of history. Lastly, the supporters' group was welcoming after the game in their club area. Final Thoughts There have been many changes with Orient since the new ownership arrived in 2017. The club had just been relegated to the Northern League, ending a 112-year stay in the EFL. Since then, the club won the Northern League title in 2019 and then the League Two title in 2024. The plan is to move higher, and it should be a fun ride to watch as the team continues its march. ------ Follow Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Facing a $24 million budget deficit for the upcoming fiscal year, Sonoma State University, a public university that is part of the California State University System, announced a slew of budget cuts last week, including the cessation of all eleven of its sports programs at the end of the 2024-25 academic year. The cuts were announced via email by University administrators with virtually no notice to the student body or staff. In the email, administrators stated the cuts were being made to “best serve its current and future students and adapt to a changing higher education landscape.” In addition to the entire athletic department, more than 60 other employees will be losing their jobs. The art history, dance, earth and environmental sciences, economics, French, gender studies, philosophy, theater and women’s studies programs are all being eliminated. Administration pointed to a decade-long decline in enrollment and a resulting loss of tuition, scholarships and grants as a main reason for the budget deficit and need for cuts. The school’s current enrollment stands at under 8,000 students, including both undergraduate and graduate students. Sonoma State athletics has enjoyed some success over the years, winning national titles in women’s soccer in 1990, men’s soccer in 2002 and men’s golf in 2009. Five Sonoma State alumni have reached Major League Baseball (Marshall Brant, Daniel Barone, Tommy Everidge, O’Koyea Dickson and Scott Alexander). Pro Football Hall of Famer Larry Allen attended Sonoma State. Seawolves teams have competed in 105 NCAA Division II Tournaments across 13 sports in their history. In the week since the announcement, there have been actions taken by people trying to save jobs and programs at the school. A complaint has been filed with the Office of Civil Rights, claiming that the school’s decision targets minority students unfairly. The Athletic Department at Sonoma State is more diverse than the student body at large. Meanwhile, affected students try to figure out what happens next, while trying to hold on to what they’ve built at Sonoma State. "On one hand, we're trying to get them somewhere else, but on the other hand we're asking them to fight and that's a lot to put on them," said assistant soccer coach Benjamin Ziemer. "It takes commitment from our family and our friends to get us the opportunity to go to college, and to have that take from athletes and non-athletes alike, it just breaks my heart because I know probably a good amount of those students are not going to be able to go to college again somewhere else," said Joseph Sotelo, a golfer and third-year student.

Photos by Paul Baker Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Whittemore Center 128 Main St. Durham, NH 03824 New Hampshire Wildcats men's hockey website Whittemore Center website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 7,500 100 Years of Wildcat Hockey   The first hockey team at the University of New Hampshire took the ice in 1925. For many years, the team played on an outdoor rink that was dependent on the elements for use. That all changed in 1965 with the construction of Snively Arena. Named for former coach A. Barr “Whoop” Snively, the classic barrel-shaped barn served as home to the Wildcats for 30 years. Snively Arena still stands today, used as a recreation center located adjacent to its successor, the Whittemore Center.   In 1995 the Whittemore Center was built next door to its predecessor for $30 million. Frederick B. Whittemore was a noted philanthropist and founding director of the UNH Foundation. The facility was dedicated to Frederick and the Whittemore family. Originally built with an Olympic-sized (200 feet by 100 feet) ice surface, the Whittemore Center ice surface was reduced slightly to “NHL size” (200’ by 90’) in a 2022 renovation. The venue hosted the Women’s Frozen Four in 2002, 2005, 2016 and 2024.   The Wildcats have qualified for the NCAA tournament 22 times, most recently in 2013. UNH has reached the Frozen Four seven times, finishing as national runners-up in 1999 and 2003. UNH counts among its alumni 25 First-Team All-Americans. 47 former Wildcats have played in the National Hockey League, most notably Hockey Hall of Famer Rod Langway.   The UNH women’s hockey team also calls the Whittemore Center home. They have qualified for five NCAA tournaments, most recently in 2010. They reached the Frozen Four once, in 2006, and won a national championship in 1998, before the NCAA sponsored the annual national championship tournament.   Food & Beverage 3   There are small concession stands located on each side of the rectangular-shaped concourse. Each stand features one pillar of the arena menu standards (hot dogs, burgers, pizza, chicken tenders) A variety of snacks can be found at each of these stands. Again, the basics (popcorn, pretzels, candy, nachos) are well represented. Fans looking for unique items can search for chili and cornbread, meatball subs, or baked goods served up at one of the portable stands. A stand serving up Dippin’ Dots is popular with the younger fans in attendance.   Coca-Cola products are featured at the Whittemore Center. Fans looking for an adult beverage can choose from several national brands of beer and wine. If craft beers are more your style, brews from several local breweries are featured, highlighted by the Go Cats IPA from Deciduous Brewing.   Atmosphere 5   At any college game, the game day atmosphere is driven primarily by the pep band and student section. At the Whittemore Center, the students don’t disappoint. While this student section may not be as loud and salty as others in New England, they make their presence known with a repertoire of chants and songs. The band plays through most play stoppages, creating a lively atmosphere.   Even though the Whittemore Center is a gray, concrete building, UNH has made great efforts to soften what could be a drab and cold facility. Photos fill the walls all over the Whittemore Center of current and former UNH teams, alumni who played in the NHL, displays of New Hampshire hockey history, and more. Banners honoring championship and tournament teams hang over the ice. There’s a lot to check out at Whittemore Center.   There are 50/50 raffles and in-game contests to keep casual fans interested. A large video board hangs at center ice and is put to good use with replays, hype videos, fan cams, and graphics.   A highlight of every Wildcat game is the tossing of the fish onto the ice surface. After New Hampshire scores their first goal, a student tosses a fish from the crowd onto the ice. The tradition is said to have begun in the late 70s to mock the opponents having to “fish” the puck out of their net.   Neighborhood 3   The University of New Hampshire dominates the small town of Durham. The Whittemore Center is located about a mile west of downtown on Main Street. Durham has a nice, traditional small-town college feel to it, and there are a few places worth checking out for a bite to eat if you are visiting here from out of town. Clarks American Bistro and the Hop and Grill highlight several options located in the downtown area.   Fans visiting UNH from out of town will often head east to Portsmouth, located just 11 miles from Whittemore Center. Portsmouth features a picturesque, walkable downtown with numerous quaint shops and excellent restaurants.   Since there are not many lodging options in Durham, head to Portsmouth for more choices. Boston, Massachusetts is about an hour’s drive south on I-95. The White Mountains are located just a ninety-minute drive north of Durham and feature spectacular foliage in the fall and many outstanding ski resorts in the winter.   Fans 5   New Hampshire averages around 5,000 fans per game annually, which places them in the top 15 of all Division One teams nationwide. New Hampshire is a hockey-crazed state and UNH has a legion of dedicated, knowledgeable fans. With the Wildcats’ membership in the Hockey East Conference, the home schedule is guaranteed to feature several top-ranked and local teams. It’s not unusual to see visiting fans in solid numbers at Whittemore Center. When traditional rival Maine is in town, expect the intensity to ratchet up a notch or two.   The student section is located behind the goal on the east end of the arena. Often packed to the brim, the students fill Whittemore Center with noise throughout the night. Access 3   Durham is a small town with a population of 15,000 located fifteen minutes west of Portsmouth and an hour north of Boston. The town is easy to reach from Interstate 95 and New Hampshire Route 4. The University of New Hampshire dominates Durham, with the campus straddling Main Street.   The Whittemore Center is located on the western edge of campus alongside UNH’s other athletic facilities, including Wildcat Stadium and Lundholm Gymnasium . There are several parking lots surrounding the athletic facilities, but most fans will park in Lot A across the train tracks from the arena.   Whittemore Center features a large lobby located between Hamel Recreation Center (the old Snively Arena) and the Whittemore Center Arena. After the long walk from your car on a cold New Hampshire winter night, this indoor lobby is most appreciated. A 360-degree concourse circles the rink atop the seating bowl. The rink is visible from most spots on the concourse.   Fans will walk down to their seats, which consist mostly of blue folding stadium seats, with molded bleachers on either end. Views from all seats are excellent. Although there are several concession stands and three sets of restrooms around the arena, lines do form during intermission. Time your trips wisely.   Return on Investment 3   Tickets to Wildcat hockey games cost $32 for sideline seats and $24 for end zone seats. Discounts are available for seniors, youth and members of the military. Parking in the many lots surrounding Whittemore Center is free. Concession prices feel a little bit on the high side but are comparable to other venues in the area. Overall, a night at a Wildcat hockey game is an affordable entertainment option for southern New Hampshire sports fans. Extras 5   The Wildcat statue that guards the entrance to the Whittemore Center on Main Street provides an excellent gathering spot and opportunity for a group photo before you head inside.   Extra points are awarded for the displays of New Hampshire hockey history all around the Whittemore Center. From the moment you enter the lobby of the Whittemore Center, you are presented with the best UNH has to offer.   Oversized photos of UNH All-Americans line the lobby walls along with the Hobey Baker Award won by Jason Krog and the Patty Kazmeier Award won by Brandy Fisher. Banners hang from the rafters honoring Wildcat tournament and championship teams, including the National Championship Women’s team in 1998.   The Charles Holt Gallery displays photos of every men's hockey team to represent the school and the Russ McCourty Gallery shows photos of every women’s hockey team. Look closely at the photos of the women’s teams from 1977-1991. You may notice that in every team photo, coach McCurty is holding his pet cat.   A final extra point is awarded for the tradition of throwing a fish on the ice after the Wildcat's first goal.   Final Thoughts   This mid-sized rink in a tiny town with an oversized ice surface is loaded with displays of New Hampshire hockey history and enthusiastic fans. Despite the small-town feel here in Durham, Boston is just over an hour away. The University of New Hampshire is well-situated for their second century of Wildcat hockey.   Just be careful, the fish toss doesn’t always go as planned…     Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.