Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl 5500 Canyon Crest Dr San Diego, CA 92115 San Diego State Aztecs website Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 12,414 Madhouse on the Mesa Since the arrival of head coach Steve Fisher, the San Diego State Aztecs have been a force to be reckoned with in the Mountain West Conference. Off of a legendary run where Coach Fisher would gain fame as the architect of the iconic Fab Five of the nineties Michigan Wolverines, Fisher would be a casualty of the booster scandal that put Michigan basketball back decades. Fisher would go on to bring San Diego State to prominence after his arrival in 1999. San Diego State has recognized his contribution and subsequently named the basketball court after him. Aztec basketball history dates back to 1921, but clearly the best years for the Aztecs are the current run the team is on under Steve Fisher. Home for the Aztecs since 1997 has been Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl. Built on the former site of the football stadium, Viejas is a single bowl arena that seats over 12,000 fans. San Diego State signed a naming rights agreement with the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, also fulfilling their responsibility to the NCAA with regards to the use of Native American mascot names. Previously, the Aztecs played for thirty years, off campus at the San Diego Sports Arena. The student section at what is locally known as the Madhouse on the Mesa is legendary. They are creative and boisterous and have had much to cheer for over the last few years. The Aztecs success is undeniable. They hold charter membership in the Mountain West Conference, which coincided with Fisher’s arrival. Since leaving the WAC for the Mountain West, the Aztecs have won six Mountain West regular season titles, made eight NCAA tournament appearances, twice to the round of 32 and twice to the Sweet Sixteen, and brought home four Mountain West Tournament titles. College basketball fans should definitely consider a pilgrimage to the Madhouse on the Mesa. Food & Beverage 4 The concession options at Viejas Arena are pretty decent and offer a few surprises that will help your wallet. The main concession stands at Viejas are in the outdoor concourse. Hot dogs ($5), bratwurst, nachos, chilli, PB&J; sandwiches, fried chicken wraps, pretzels, peanuts, popcorn ($3), candy, chips, cookies and churros are all available. At the main concessions there are a few surprise items that will actually cost only $1 or $2. There are also a few unique stands that may peak the fan’s culinary interest. Cold Stone Creamery offers a variety of ice cream treats and pizza is provided by Fat Boyz Pizza. The stand that may be the most worth checking out is the popular Ranchwood BBQ. Offering brisket, pulled pork, tri tip, or smoked chicken platters as well as giant ½ lb. burger options, the Ranchwood is probably the most popular concession option at Viejas. Soft drink choices ($4/$6) are Pepsi products and can be found throughout the arena. Gatorade, bottled water, coffee and hot chocolate are also available. College basketball games are dry at Viejas and alcohol is only served for concerts. Atmosphere 4 Arrival at the Viejas Arena will immediately strike fans as not very intimidating. The basketball court is sunken at Viejas and therefore the arena itself is not a massive structure from the exterior. Large wrought iron fences are where fans will find security and entrance to the outdoor concourse. Large green open space complete with California palm trees give the arena a pleasant and calm look from the street and in no way warn fans of the mayhem that they will find inside. Signs above the fences will remind fans that this location was once the home of the Aztec Bowl, former football home for San Diego State, before their move off-campus to Qualcomm Stadium. The exterior of the arena itself is washed in light brown sandstone, indicative of San Diego. Upon leaving the outdoor concourse and entering the building, fans will immediately be struck with how close and cozy the interior of Viejas Arena is. With the majority of concessions and washroom facilities outside, the sunken court seems so close that fans could reach out and touch it from the inner concourse at the top of the seating area. The court is oriented in an east-west manner with a single bowl of plastic, red arena seats all around. The top six rows at Viejas are contoured plastic bleachers embedded into the concrete and should be avoided by fans. They are not comfortable and don’t offer much in the way of legroom. The perfect picture for the center court logo would be from the south side of the arena. High above the court is the video board, which is clean and clear and on par with what would be expected in an NCAA basketball facility. On the west side, above the court, fans will find 21 championship banners which vary from NCAA tournament appearances to the Aztecs’ Sweet Sixteen appearances in 2011 and 2014. The Aztecs also lay claim to six Mountain West Regular Season Championships as well as Mountain West Tournament Championships in 2002, 2006, 2010 and 2011. Championships from previous conferences are also present. San Diego State does honour some of its players who have made exceptional contributions to the program on the court. Around the upper concourse, pillars are decorated with murals for key Aztec Basketball Legends complete with QR codes that lead to info on those players. Legends include Michael Cage, Anthony Watson, Jamaal Franklin, Al Skalecky, Milton Phelps, Brandon Heath, Kawhi Leonard, and San Diego legend Tony Gwynn. A fun Aztec fact is that television personality Art Linkletter was also a former Aztec basketball player. San Diego State puts together a solid game day experience. The southeast corner is where you will find the SDSU band and they contribute greatly to the game day experience. The band is aided by the student section, known as The Show, and the complement of cheerleaders and dancers. The Show is highlighted as part of the video intro before the opening tip. The San Diego State mascot, Aztec Warrior, is a brave student who makes his way throughout the stands and on the court, wearing not too much. Neighborhood 4 Viejas Arena is located on the campus of San Diego State University, in the College West neighborhood of San Diego. There are a couple of spots that may interest fans for pre and post game fare, but for the most part, Viejas is surrounded by the university. Spots within walking distance would include The Habit Burger, Trujillo’s Taco Shop and Senor Pancho Fresh Mexican Grill. College and El Cajon are the streets that offer the most options, many of which are recognizable chains and fast food restaurants. The Rolando Village neighbourhood, just south of College West, has a few more spots including Woodstock’s Pizza and Effin’s Pub and Grill. San Diego is famous for its fantastic weather and wonderful beaches. It is definitely a tourist destination and there are tons of things to do in addition to an Aztecs basketball game. The San Diego Zoo is an absolute must-see experience and SeaWorld is also a San Diego staple. The San Diego Convention Center is world famous and the San Diego Comic Convention is probably the most famous annual event at the Center. Other sporting options in San Diego would include an Aztecs football game at SDCCU Stadium or a San Diego Padres game at Petco Park . San Diego University is nearby and the Toreros also play basketball at the Jenny Craig Pavilion among other sports. The American Hockey League has also recently planted a flag in San Diego with the San Diego Gulls, who play at Valley View Casino Center and are the minor league affiliate of the Anaheim Ducks. Fans who wish to stay in San Diego, near San Diego State should consider staying at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn & Suites or the Holiday Inn San Diego. Fans 5 San Diego State basketball fans are legendary. The east end of the arena is home to The Show, one of the loudest, most boisterous student sections in all of college basketball. It was The Show that pioneered the waving of giant heads during free-throws. When choosing a seat, fans definitely want to consider their proximity to the students. Sell-outs at the over 12,000 seat arena are commonplace and fans are loud and passionate for their Aztecs. Although The Show has a strong presence at Aztec games, the group has been in some hot water before. Inappropriate comments and taking things too far, especially against rivals like BYU has happened before, sullying a bit of their reputation. Access 4 Getting in and around Viejas has its ups and downs. San Diego State is located on the east side of the city of San Diego. It is very close to I-8, the Kumeyaay Highway and getting to the university should not be a problem. Parking can be a bit of a challenge around campus and a little research ahead of time can go a long way. Parking won’t blow your mind away, however $10-$20 is what you should expect to pay. The SDSU Transit Center is very close to Viejas and buses and light rail are available. Check out the San Diego MTS website for schedules, maps and fares. The ticketing and gate entry are very spacious as they are far from the building itself. Getting in and around the outdoor concourse is very spacious and pretty easy. Inside can be a different story. The upper concourse, inside the arena, is very crowded and getting around the building can be a chore. The washroom facilities are accessed from the outdoor concourse and are adequate for the size of arena. Return on Investment 5 There is great value in a San Diego State Aztecs game. Tickets for a conference opponent will run from $20 to $40 and non-conference opponents run $10 to $20. Parking will probably run $15 and concessions can be very reasonable. Combine that with an atmosphere that is fantastic for college basketball and a fan base that is as good as any in the country, and fans have a recipe for a fantastic day’s entertainment. Words of warning for fans who are on the more frugal side, spend the extra money and ensure that the bench seating is not chosen. Extras 3 An extra mark for building Viejas Arena right in the former Aztec Bowl. The north end of the arena gives a pretty good perspective on where the former football stadium stood with remnants of old seating risers. An extra mark for one of the pioneering forces of student sections across the country. The impact The Show has had on college basketball can’t be denied. An extra mark for the success of Steve Fisher at San Diego State and the school recognizing his contributions. Final Thoughts The Madhouse on the Mesa is a great spot to see some college basketball. During the winter months, San Diego State basketball is now the biggest game in town and the fans show up in droves. Do not discount the Aztecs since they are not in a Power 5 conference, there is plenty to cheer about and the Aztecs are a force in college basketball.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Jim Spooner Field 910 Campus Dr Pensacola, FL 32514 West Florida Argonauts website Jim Spooner Field website Year Opened: 1981 Capacity: 3,000 Cozy Baseball in the Wetlands Nestled amongst the Florida wetlands in Pensacola, FL sits the campus of University of West Florida. The medium-sized, public university of a little shy of 13,000 students is fairly new. Ground was broken in 1965 and in 1968, 58 students received degrees during the first commencement ceremony. Today the college has an enrollment of 12,800 students and is one of five four-year colleges in the panhandle area of Florida. The team’s nickname, the Argonauts, reflects Pensacola’s Naval history as the city is home to one of the largest naval bases in the country. UWF has competed at the D2 level in the Gulf South Conference since 1994. The school is most famous for having its football program make it to the D2 National Championship Game in just its second year of existence, and the baseball team has had similar success, as they won the 2011 D2 National Title and have had 18 players drafted into MLB during the program’s history. On the east side of campus sits Jim Spooner Field which has a seating capacity of 3,000 and opened in 1981. Named after longtime Argo skipper Jim Spooner, who coached the Argonauts from 1983 to 2005, the stadium underwent a $500,000 renovation in 2003 when the independent league Pensacola Pelicans relocated here from Pensacola State College just down the road. The Pelicans would call Jim Spooner Field home and would bring great success and packed houses for the next eight seasons. Because of the success and fortunes the Pelicans brought the city, it eventually led affiliated baseball to return in 2012. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions at Jim Spooner Field are plentiful and prices are reasonable. The expansive menu consists of the ballpark basics, with prices as follows: Hamburgers ($5), Chili Cheese dogs ($4.50), Hot Dogs ($3), Nachos ($3), Pretzels ($2.50), Popcorn ($2), Candy bars ($2), and Chips ($1.50). Coke is the soft drink provider, with bottled soft drinks and Powerade going for $3, bottled water for $2.50, and coffee for $2. Surprisingly, ice cream is also served here with giant cones and ice cream sandwiches sold for $3.50. Prices here will not break the bank but if you have the time to drive you can eat at one of Pensacola’s many restaurants downtown. Atmosphere 3 Once you walk through the main entrance there is a series of walkways that lead around the area. The restrooms, concessions, and UWF locker room are located in a series of four outhouse style buildings, typical to the ones you would find in a city or state park. When the stadium opened in 1981 it had just a basic grandstand, but the stadium was upgraded to suit pro baseball standards with the relocation of the Pelicans. The original grandstand is in the middle of two other grandstands, thus the stadium isn’t one cohesive ballpark, but a collection of three sets of bleacher-style seating that are connected by a walkway. There is also blue, foldable chair back seating on ground level behind home plate extending down the first and third baselines, but these seats are reserved for special ticket holders. As it was a rainy dreary afternoon on my most recent visit, many fans were sitting in the reserved seating section, as these are also the only covered seats in the stadium. Besides the seats, there are also several rather large picnic areas along both baselines, as well as another one out behind left field. The UWF baseball program is a pretty storied one, as they are constantly ranked in the D2 polls and even won a D2 National Championship in 2011. There is no shortage of banners on display showcasing these feats, with a huge National Title banner in left field as well as multiple Regional Appearances signs on the light poles. Neighborhood 2 UWF’s campus is located in kind of a secluded area in the northern part of the city – the campus was built on wetlands in former Indian territory, but is now part of a nature preserve and is located on a bluff above the Escambia River. Nature lovers will love the campus, as it has several nature trails and boardwalks where you can walk back into the woods through the swamps; if you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of an alligator. Nature lovers can also take a trip across the river over to the small town of Milton – this picturesque town lines the Blackwater River, where many people can be found kayaking and canoeing, and swimming along the sand bars during the summer. The area where Jim Spooner Field is located is part of a sports complex that includes the UWF softball and soccer fields, and to the north of the sports complex is a wildlife sanctuary that lines the Escambia River. As such there’s not much in the area in terms of things to do, but just south of campus is 9 Mile Road where there are a few restaurants, including Chick-fil-A, as well as a Target store. A couple of restaurants in the area worth checking out are Grover’s Chicken Fingers and Wings, a hole-in-the-wall type joint famous for its fried chicken, and Taqueria El Asador Mexican Restaurant, a stand set up on the side of a gas station on Davis Avenue, about three miles south of campus. This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it type of establishment has rave reviews, being voted one of the top 10 Mexican restaurants in the whole country, and Trip Advisor rates it as the number 1 restaurant (if you want to call it that) in Pensacola. Davis Highway has all the typical chain restaurants and strip malls, so you can find anything else you are looking for as well. About 15 miles south of UWF’s campus is Seville Quarter and downtown Pensacola, and you can find tons of bars and restaurants lined up and down Palafox Street. Downtown can be a decent drive from Jim Spooner Field depending on the time of day, so plan accordingly. For attractions I definitely recommend checking out the Naval Air Museum at Pensacola Naval Air Station – this state of the art museum, which is free by the way, has over 150 vintage aircraft on display including the first plane to cross the Atlantic Ocean, former President Bush’s private plane, and some from the Blue Angels. The museum is located on the naval base and is a bit of a detour, being in an out-of-the-way location, but I highly recommend it. The beaches of Pensacola and Gulf Shores are nearby as well, for those in town wanting to hit the beach. Fans 2 It’s hard to judge the fans on the particular afternoon I attended, as it was a cold and rainy day, so there were not a lot of fans in attendance. The Argos are averaging just a couple hundred fans per game this 2019 season, but on this particular Sunday afternoon the announced crowd was 118, though it seemed far fewer. The conditions were terrible, as there was a constant drizzle during the game, and the staff even eventually opened up the reserved seating section to all general admission fans, as the grandstands were completely empty and the few people there were all lined up behind home plate – it was a far cry from the Pelican days when this place would get packed out. Access 2 One drawback to getting to UWF’s campus is the location itself, as well as Pensacola’s horrendous traffic. The campus is located in the northern part of the city, far away from the beach and downtown, so if coming from the east and west I-10 will be your best bet – just take the Davis Highway exit and follow the signs until you reach the University Parkway split, and you can take that road right into campus. Or, if coming from the beach or downtown you can take I-110 to Davis Highway and follow that, or you can take beautiful Scenic Highway, a winding road that travels north and south and has spectacular views of Escambia Bay. All along this highway you can pull off into the different areas and lookouts over the water; this highway is noted for its lavish mansions as well. Part of the University Sportsplex, Jim Spooner Field itself is located on the southeast side of campus, and resembles being in a city park. The sportsplex includes the softball stadium, which is located next door to and is a mirror image of Jim Spooner Field, except with only one grandstand instead of three. Then, out past center field is a soccer field, a practice field used for baseball, and softball and batting cages. Return on Investment 3 For normal games UWF does charge $5 for all general admission and grandstand tickets, and $7 for the chair back seating behind home plate; students get in free with their student ID. For this level of baseball I thought these ticket prices were pretty high, but then again this is Florida and a tourist area so everything is expensive here. But on this particular afternoon, with the rain and cold weather in the forecast, the ticket office was closed so fans were free to come in and sit where they wanted. Extras 2 ‘The Spoon’ is a former minor league ballpark. In 2002 the Pensacola Pelicans were born when the upstart independent Southeastern Baseball League placed a team in the city. The team would play just south of here at tiny Pirate Field on the campus of Pensacola State College, and would be the city’s first professional baseball team since 1962, so needless to say Pensacolians were hungry for baseball again, and it showed during the one season the Pelicans played at Pirate Field . Fans packed the stadium and the team led the league in attendance, as well as won the league’s inaugural championship. Midway through the 2002 season the Pelicans were purchased by Quint Studer and his wife Rishy. Studer, who is originally from Illinois, is a health care consultant who relocated to the city in the 1990s to work with an area hospital. Studer’s many charitable efforts would prove to be influential for the city, and he would be the man responsible for bringing affiliated baseball back to Pensacola. After the 2002 season the Pelicans needed to find a bigger home ASAP, so they relocated to Jim Spooner Field. In order to accommodate professional baseball, however, The Spoon needed to be upgraded, so the two additional grandstands were added raising the capacity to 3,000. In addition, a party deck was established in left field, and box seats were installed behind home plate. The Pelicans would play eight years at The Spoon in three separate leagues – Southeastern League (2003), Central Baseball League (2004), and American Association of Independent Baseball (2005-2010). The team would prove to be highly successful for the community of Pensacola, and fans packed The Spoon on a nightly basis. Because of the success of the Pelicans, affiliated baseball would return to Pensacola in 2012, when Studer purchased the Carolina Mudcats and relocated them to Pensacola to become the Blue Wahoos . As part of this deal, however, Studer had to facilitate the Kinston Indians moving to Zebulon, NC to replace the Mudcats ; the Indians ended up taking over the Mudcats name. The Wahoos have won Minor League Baseball’s Organization of the Year award three times in their seven year existence, and in addition, Blue Wahoos Stadium , a three-time recipient of the Southern League’s Ballpark of the Year, has consistently been ranked as one of the premiere minor league ballparks in the country – and all of this because the Pensacola Pelicans laid the foundation for the team that would call the city home ten years later. Without the Pelicans success at The Spoon perhaps the Blue Wahoos wouldn’t even be in Pensacola today. Final Thoughts Jim Spooner Field is a decent place to catch a baseball game – the days of packed houses and professional baseball are long gone, but what’s left is a cozy little ballpark that suits the team quite well. For a D2 baseball facility Jim Spooner Field is a pretty decently-sized stadium, so if you are in the area and want to catch a game at a former minor league ballpark, then come on down to The Spoon.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark 900 Holly Ln Elizabethton, TN 37643 Elizabethton River Riders website Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 1,650 Down the Lazy River in Elizabethton The Elizabethton River Riders of the Appalachian League debuted in 2021, replacing the Elizabethton Twins, who captured 12 league championships and 16 division titles since coming to town in 1974. The Riders were part of the new Appy League that would not be affiliated with a major league club but as a summer collegiate league. The home ballpark would also get a new name after signing a naming agreement and being rechristened as Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark. The new name of the 47-year ballpark did not change much of the appearance or atmosphere of the quirky ballpark. The city spent $12,000 on what was known as Riverside Park to renovate the playing field between 1973 and 1974, purchasing portable seats and lockers for the stadium. The E-Twins were the first professional club in town in 23 years. The last ballpark had its grandstand demolished during a storm on Independence Day in 1951. When the local rayon industry, which owned the ballpark, could not make available funds for a new grandstand, the team ceased operations. The E-Twins brought a level of excellence, not having a season below .500 from 1989-2019. Will the River Riders provide continued excellence on the riverside park? It is too soon to see, but based on merchandise sales, fans appeared to have adapted to the new colors of sky blue and yellow. It should be an interesting next few years in E-Town. Food & Beverage 4 There is ample variety of food at the main concession stand, but that is fine since it is served fast and hot to customers throughout the game. Several beer stands first made their appearance during the 2019 season, up until that point, liquor was not allowed at the stadium. Fans can choose from hot dogs, brats, footlongs, burgers, chicken tender baskets, bbq sandwiches, pizza slices, and bbq nachos. There are also sweet items of deep-fried Oreos and funnel cake fries for purchase. The beer choices are also plentiful, with varieties from maco to microbrews available on draft or in 12-ounce cans. Atmosphere 3 Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark is a hodgepodge of pieces to make a ballpark that in 1974 might have been fine but is obsolete. It is a curious formation of a long, steep grandstand down the third baseline that would be better for watching a football game, along with a collection of plastic theater-style seats behind home plate, and an aluminum set of bleachers seating down the third-base side. Fans enter the stadium through the right-field corner of the stadium and encounter a small kid zone play area, the main concession stand, and the official team shop. Club merchandise has been selling well this year, and fans can also scoop up old E-Twins caps and shirts for under $5. Rookie, a fuzzy green guy who has been at the ballpark for a few years, can be found giving out hugs and high-fives. Two wooden structures are hovering in between the home plate seats–one serves as a suite and the other as the press box. The area underneath the two structures is for handicapped seating but also creates ample room for some shade during hot summer games. The outfield wall includes a giant sign that houses all of the championships won by the E-Twins (they also could sneak in the five won by the Elizabethton Red Sox from 1937-1941 to increase it to 17 banners) and the current standings in the Appy League. Players also exit through a door in centerfield near the sign at the end of the game. The ballpark is laid-back Appy League style. The majority of fans take a seat in the third base seating structure that also features carpeted stairways–a unique feature for an outdoor stadium. This is where you will find the best views of the surrounding area of the stadium; you can also chat with the visitor’s dugout that is on field level. A young kid was given a cracked bat by one of the players from the Burlington Sock Puppets. Neighborhood 3 Elizabethton is about 15 minutes west of Johnson City and TVA Credit Union Ballpark, allowing for witnessing a game easily in one day if the schedule permits. The ballpark is surrounded by mountains beyond the right-field wall and the Watauga River is located behind home plate and the third baseline (hence the name River Riders). Locals and visitors enjoy kayaking or tubing down the river during the summer months. The town is home to 14,000 and is rather small, but also the natural wonders of Cherokee National Forest and Blue Hole Falls. There is a bit of history around the area that includes The Carter Mansion, Elizabethon Covered Bridge, and the Sycamore Shoals Historic Park. Restaurant options include The Southern Restaurant, Mayflower Seafood Restaurant, Big Dan’s BBQ, J’s Corner, and Nanny’s Country Cafe. Fans 3 A core group of fans stayed until the end of the game, cheering for the team to a come-from-behind victory in the 9th inning. However, many in the stands were quiet throughout most of the game. The die-hards are behind the backstop in the blue seats. Access 3 There is one entrance in the left-field corner, and most of the concessions, restrooms, and merchandise store is behind the third-base grandstand. The narrow concourse in front of the third-base grandstand allows access to the rest of the stadium. Return on Investment 3 A general admission ticket is $6, a daily reserve is $8, and a military/child is $5. The prices are the way they used to be, affordable, and probably the lowest in the league. There are no parking fees, concessions are in line with other clubs, and team merchandise ranges from shirts for $18 to game day caps for $30. . Extras 2 The ballpark earns a point for the large championship wall in the right-center field. The team store also offers multiple pieces of merchandise in various styles, plus deep discounts on E-Twins shirts and caps. Final Thoughts Many might not like Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark for its design and aesthetics. I would not argue with the fact that perhaps a renovation is in order in the future. It rates lower on the list of other ballparks in the Appy League, and with new energy throughout the league, could it be left behind? ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Cedar Rapids Ice Rink 1100 Rockford Rd SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 Cedar Rapids RoughRiders website Cedar Rapids Ice Rink website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 3,850 Welcome to Rider Town USA The Cedar Rapids RoughRiders are a tier 1 junior hockey team playing in the United States Hockey League. Their home ice is the Cedar Rapids Ice Rink which is affectionately known as The Stable. The arena has a capacity of 3,850 and shares the same property with the minor league baseball Veterans Memorial Stadium. The Riders arrived in town for the 1999/2000 season after playing its first sixteen seasons as the North Iowa Stars in Mason City, Iowa. The RoughRiders name was selected in a name-the-team contest won by a local teacher at Roosevelt Middle School in town as it was the school’s mascot. The excitement of the arena is propelled when both the Dubuque Fighting Saints and the Waterloo Blackhawks come into town. The two in-state rivals battle for the Dupaco Cowbell Cup which is awarded to the team with the best overall record between the three hockey clubs. When the arena is packed, the “clinging” and “clanging” of the cowbells by the fans brings the noise level to high decibels inside the low-ceiling arena. Earlier in 2018, the city approved an extension to keep the club in town for the next 24 years–with another 20-year extension automatically kicking in if the Rider ownership makes a minimum of $1 million in capital improvements to the building. Ownership would be responsible for areas that include a locker room, team offices, and audio/video components of the game day presentation. In return, the city will add a concession stand, party decks at each end of the rink, and the replacement of seating within the next four years. Video Courtesy of SAC Sports Adventures, YouTube Food & Beverage 3 The arena is heavily stocked with munchies ranging from value hot dogs for $2 to giant 32-ounce draft beers for $8.50. The highlight and the must-try, if you dare, is the Rider Dog–a double chili dog that will fill you up for $9.50. You can wash that down with PBR Tallboys or Busch Light cans for $4 each. Then again, the pork tenderloin sandwich ($7), foot-long hot dog ($8.50), and walking taco ($5.25) are also worth enjoying during the game. There is quite a bit of beer from local favorite Busch Light to local craft beers. The prices start at $5.75 for a domestic draft to $6 for craft cans. Big Grove Brewery and Breckenridge Vanilla Porter are for sale, along with wine for $7 and sodas for $4. The 32-ounce drafts are probably the best deal. The menu signs are big, bold, and loud–just the way it should be at a place like this. Atmosphere 3 Junior hockey is a curious little fix to the Rider Nation. They create a healthy dose of the atmosphere with cowbell in hand and plenty of revelries during the action on the ice. The low-ceiling home creates a noise level that can be quite menacing when in-state rivals from Dubuque and Waterloo come to town. The ambiance is appealing and the funky look of the colored walls, bold posters, and championship banners should put everyone with a ticket in the proper mood. The tickets are cheap, the food and beverage much cheaper, and the seats are close to players on the ice who are playing for attention to move on to a college scholarship or the next level of hockey. The ice rink is an ideal place to watch the kids play and one will be encouraged to cheer along with the crowd as they attempt to propel the Riders to victory. The large video board hangs above center ice and features customized-based videos that introduce players on the ice, produce stats, and engage fans during intermission or breaks in the action. The team’s official mascot is named Ricochet and he can be seen providing hugs, high-fives, and photo ops for fans of all ages. Neighborhood 3 The rink is located a few miles south of downtown Cedar Rapids and shares a parking lot with the home of the Cedar Rapids Kernels minor league baseball team Veterans Memorial Stadium. Conveniently located a few blocks from the rink is a small, simple looking Maid-Rite restaurant that serves an Iowa favorite loose meat sandwich. A loose meat sandwich is a sloppy joe without the sauce and if you have a few pieces of meat fall onto your wrapper, you scoop up the bits with a spoon. Downtown isn’t too far north by car and at times has the smell of freshly baked cookies from the nearby Quaker Oats mill . There are a few nice choices for food and drink including The Lost Cuban, Cobble Hill Restaurant, and Black Sheep Social Club. The Quarter Barrel Arcade & Brewery is an Industrial, brick-walled brewpub offering classic arcade games, craft beer & wood-fired pizzas. The Czech and Slovak Museum, Museum of Art, African-American Museum, and Brucemore are all worth a visit. Fans 4 On an average night, the arena attracts around 2,000 people per game and they make their presence felt throughout the game. The Riders faithful have a connection with their Hometown team and give their league a group of admiring fans cheering on their favorites on the ice. The crowd is known to cling and clang their cowbells to give the arena a local feel. The crowd is hyped and near capacity when Dubuque and Waterloo play at the ice rink. Access 3 The arena features a main concourse wrapped around the rink that makes it very easy to get around during the game. All of the concessions and bathrooms are easily accessible and there is plenty of parking outside in the main lot. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are broken up into six different zones and range in price from $12.75 to $25. The crowds are usually around the 2,000 mark and are much larger when in-state rival Waterloo comes into town on the weekend. The price of food is extremely inexpensive and the parking is free in the main lot outside of the rink. On a cold Iowa night, it makes for a nice way to warm up a bit. Extras 3 The rink gets a point for its loud, bold, and giant menu items that hang throughout the building and main concourse. They are attention-getters and their prices are very reasonable. The rink gets a second point for the color combination of seating cream, blue, and purple; these are not the team’s colors, but give it a sense of being full when the crowds are small. The rink gets a final point for its value meal, fans can purchase a hot dog for $2, a PBR tallboy or a Busch Light can for $4. In Iowa, they love Busch Light–sort of the way Minnesotans love the Michelob Golden Draft Light. Final Thoughts USHL hockey features copious small areas that are very similar in size and aesthetics, but it’s the fans that create an ambiance that is unique in each building. The hockey is exciting, the prices are a deal, and the promotional department of each team gives it a feel that is similar at the minor league level. If you are somewhere in Iowa and its vicinity, take in a game during the wintertime .

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 BNL Fieldhouse 595 Stars Blvd. Bedford, IN 47421 Bedford North Lawrence HS Stars BNL Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 5,640 Seeing Stars at BNL Fieldhouse A review of the BNL Fieldhouse cannot be complete without mentioning Damon Bailey who led the Bedford North Lawrence Stars to three state Final Fours and a come-from-behind win in the 1990 State Championship game in front of 41,000 plus at the RCA Dome. Bailey would score a state record 3,134 points in his four years before playing for Indiana University. Baily first gained recognition as a 14-year-old 8th grader who caught the attention of IU head coach Bobby Knight who watched him play two games. Knight quipped that Bailey “is better than any guard we have right now. I don’t mean potentially better, I mean better today.” The quote was featured in the best-selling book A Season on the Brink and Bailey’s legend soon took off resulting in sold-out crowds at home. The crowds were also at capacity whenever the Stars traveled on the road and it was a type of frenzied not seen in Indiana for some time and wouldn’t be duplicated until the Romeo Langford and New Albany began packing both home and away games from 2016-2019. BNL’s lone boy’s state championship is only eclipsed by the four state championships won by the ladies. Bedford North Lawrence High School was created for the 1974-1975 academic school year as part of a consolidation of seven area schools: Bedford, Tunnelton, Shawswick, Needmore, Fayetteville, Oolitic, and Heltonville. The school’s seven-point logo represents the former schools and stands out among the generic logos found at many other high schools. The fieldhouse held its first game in January 1975. Before the BNL Fieldhouse, the Bedford Stonecutters played at what locals called “The Quarry” a 4,200-seat gymnasium built in 1924. The team and gym were named after the multiple limestone quarries in the area and the school captured the regional championship during the final season in 1974 where the Cutters upset a Springs Valley squad featuring Larry Bird at The Hatchet House in Washington. It was the 21st regional championship in school history. Food & Beverage 3 A large concession window exists outside the seating bowl with a few more locations on the upper concourse. The usual items of hot dogs for $2, nachos for $2, candy bars, and popcorn for $1 each. Fans can top their tortilla chips with pickled jalapenos at a makeshift fixings table. However, the menu also offers coney dogs for $2.50, Star nachos (with chili) for $3, walking tacos for $3, and soft pretzels for $2.50. Coca-Cola products are offered for $2 a bottle and feature a little bit more variety including Mr. Pibb, Mello Yello, and red cream soda. The concession area also offers a few tables for fans to eat their food before making their way to the seating area of the gymnasium. There is also a set of stairs leading up to the second level of seating. Atmosphere 3 The Stars were playing an early afternoon game on a Saturday where the atmosphere was probably not mostly up to par. However, the crowd that gathered for both the JV and varsity games showed their support for the players on the court. The seating is featured on all three sides and for today’s game, only one bleacher was open. That was enough since the fieldhouse holds well over 5,000 fans. The design is similar to gyms in Seymour, Lafayette, and Jay County High Schools but a few touches make the BNL Fieldhouse stand apart from these other gyms. There are a few ads speckled on the wall in both the lower and upper section of the gym, a computation center is on the wall for teams in the conference, and the US flag and conference member banners hang from the rafters. An electronic scoreboard hovers over the center court. The exterior concourse features a large collection of memorabilia from BNL’s history of championships from large team photos, oversized player cut-outs, and numerous newspaper clippings. The court itself is named after Damon Bailey and the media area is named after Myron Rainey who has been calling games for local radio station WBIW since 1979. The Voice of the Stars has called all five state basketball championships at the school. Neighborhood 2 Bedford has a population of 13,400 plus and is located about 24 miles south of Bloomington, Indiana, on SR-37. The town offers an array of local establishments and national chains to grab a bite to eat before or after the game. Bedford features the Limestone Cafe, Smokin Jim’s BBQ and Steakhouse, El Compadre, Shorty’s Den, Mamas, and Papas, and Court Room Sports Grill. A selection of chain restaurants includes Steak n Shake, Golden Corral, Long John Silver’s, Captain D’s, and Hardee’s. A few places in town to visit are the Lawrence County Historical Museum and a short drive is Bluesprinhs Cavern where visitors can take an underground boat ride. About a 30-minute drive is Bloomington where the campus of IU welcomes all visitors. Fans 4 Although the crowd was small for the game the spirit of each fan was evident. There were many showing demises of each play gone wrong by the home team while a large collection of fans who made the more than an hour trip from Evansville showed their anger when a foul was called against the squad. Bedford is known for being a good basketball town and even when the crowd is light it is easy to see a few basketball-savvy fans. Access 3 The town of Bedford is somewhat off the beaten path but just a 20-minute drive off the I-69 exit on SR-37. Access to the gym is easy due to its large size and the number of people who take in a game. The facility offers an outer concourse and an upper concourse with staircases to allow for quick travel to and from your seats. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a ticket to a basketball game is $5 and is on par with other basketball gyms in the state. The price of concession items is also affordable and in line with other gyms. Extras 3 BNL Fieldhouse earns a point for the banners hanging from the rafters of the gym. The banners honor the championship teams of both the boys and girls basketball teams. The fieldhouse earns a second point for its large area outside the gym featuring large team photos of past championships, trophy cases, and various other items. The home of the Stars earns a final point for allowing fans to top their nachos with jalapenos from a make-shift fixings area. Final Thoughts The BNL Fieldhouse is another of the state's largest gyms and offers an experience very similar to gyms of its size and age. When it's packed, the fieldhouse is electric.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Martin “Pug” Marich Field 3101 N 15th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85015 Map It Phoenix College Bears Marich Field website Year Opened: unknown Capacity: 1,000 (a guess) Bear Ball Martin “Pug” Marich Field is on the Phoenix College campus in Midtown Phoenix.  Martin “Pug” Marich coached the Phoenix College Bears baseball team from 1961 to 1968.  He guided the Bears to two national championships.  In 1985, the school named the baseball field to honor his years of devotion and commitment to the sport and to the school. The Phoenix College Bears won the National Championship in 1960, 1962, and 1965.  Six former Bears players have made it to MLB.  Forty-one have been drafted by MLB. They are members of the ACCAC (Arizona Community College Athletic Conference) – NJCAA – Region 1 – Div 2.   They were back-to-back NJCAA Region 1 – Div 2 champions in 2022 and 2023, which allowed them entry to the NJCAA D2 championship series in Enid, OK.    Food & Beverage 1 Signs indicate a concession stand is in the area, but I did not find one during my visit.  I did see Coke and snack vending machines.   Fans can bring in their own food and beverages, and many do. Atmosphere 3 It’s an okay game day experience at Marich Field.  The best part is the announcer, who calls the starting lineup clearly and announces the player at bat.  He calls pitching changes for the Bears but not always for the visiting team.  I’m guessing he doesn’t always have a complete visitor roster.  Seats are twelve long rows of bleachers set behind home plate with no handrails at all.   A medium-thickness net protects the fans.  A canopy covers the seating area.  It can be cold or a relief, depending on your preference and the temperature at game time.  The side closest to third base gets the sun first for afternoon games. Both dugouts are painted dark blue and gold, the school’s colors.  And they are close to the seating area.  I never realized how much activity occurs in a dugout. The stadium has lights; the Bears can play night games here.  The scoreboard is a basic dot matrix board showing the line score. Martin "Pug" Marich Field Scoreboard, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey A whole variety of music is played before the game and between innings.  The music person plays walk-up songs for the home team.  The volume is not deafening; fans can converse with each other without having to yell.  The venue seems to draw a good amount of yellow jackets/bees.  For those allergic, remember to bring your EpiPen.  Neighborhood 3 Being in Central Phoenix, fans can find plenty of things to see and do within driving distance of Marich Field.     For food, I strongly recommend the Original Hamburger Works  known for their mesquite broiled hamburgers cooked over an open flame.  It has a full-service bar and a patio and is ½ mile from the ball field.  Across the street from the Original Hamburger Works is J P Mc Gurkee's Sandwich Shop .  This is an excellent place to pick up a sandwich to bring with you to the ball game. Encanto Park and Enchanted Island Amusement Park are less than a mile from Maric h Field.  They are public parks, with fishing, boating, golf, rides, picnic tables, swimming pools, and other outdoo r activities.  The Heard Museum (American Indian Art) is nearby and certainly worth a visit, even if you’re not into art.  Chase Field (Arizona Diamondbacks) and the Footprint Center ( Phoenix Suns , Phoenix Mercury ) are four miles from Marich Field.  American Family Fields of Phoenix (Milwaukee Brewers spring training) and Brazell Field (GCU Antelopes) are five to six miles from the campus.  For other nearby ACCAC baseball fields, Glendale CC , Scottsdale CC , and Mesa CC are between 15 and 20 miles awa y, and those games are free to attend. Hotels nearby include the Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Midtown , both over a mile from Marich Field.  Several other well-known hotel chains are within a mile or two. Fans 2 The fans are mostly family and friends of the ball players.  Depending on the opponent, some visiting fans will attend the games.  At the game of this review, attendance seemed sparse, although given the larger than normal seating capacity at this community college field, it would take quite a large crowd to make it seem packed.  All are there to support their sons/grandsons, cheering them on and slipping them snacks and treats in the dugout. Very few students attend mid-afternoon matches.  The biggest fans are the ones in the dugouts (the teammates). Access 3 Phoenix College and Marich Field are midway between I-17 and Central Ave and between Thomas Rd and Osborne Rd, just three miles north of Downtown Phoenix. Free parking is available , with the closest lot at N 11th Ave and W Campus Dr (lots of speed bumps are in the lot).   The Valley Metro Osborn/Central Ave light rail station is one mile from the ball field.  Bus route 15 has a stop at 15th Ave and Earll Dr just beyond left field.  Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is six and a half miles southeast of the college.  The bleachers have zero handrails, so those who can’t climb steps without support or are unsteady on their feet can only sit in the very first row.  The venue does not have any specific area for wheelchairs, but the walkway between the bleachers and the netting has room. The facility has restrooms in the building behind the first baseline.  Porta Potties a re also on site. While there are ample ways of getting to the field, not having handrails to get up the bleachers is a deterrent. Return on Investment 4 Of the eight ACCAC baseball fields I’ve visited, Marich Field is the first one that charged admission.  Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students.  Cash.  The school does not charge for parking.  The gameplay is not different than other ACCAC ball fields.  The stands hold more fans than the other fields, and it is covered for those hot afternoon games.  Still, I was taken aback that they charged a fee. . Extras 1 If you get a chance, enter the ‘Bear Den’ atrium (the Bear Den is the basketball gym just south of Marich Field) and peruse the championship trophies of all Phoenix College Bears athletic teams, including the 1965 NJCAA baseball trophy. Phoenix College Bears Trophies, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Martin “Pug” Marich Field , located in Midtown Phoenix, is a decent place to enjoy a Phoenix College Bears baseball game.

Photos by John Severs, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 PK Park 2800 MLK Jr Blvd Eugene, OR 97401 Oregon Ducks website PK Park website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 4,000 Oregon Ducks Baseball The University of Oregon had a respectable baseball program for over 100 years, starting play in 1877, with several conference championships and an appearance in the College World Series in 1954. In 1984, the university made the decision to reduce the team to the club level, but Oregon is a state that is hungry for baseball. Despite not having a pro team, the state has always supported its minor and independent teams well. With Oregon’s biggest in state rivals, the Oregon State Beavers , winning national championships in 2006 and 2007, it was clear the Ducks needed to get back on the baseball field. The timing was auspicious, as the Class A Eugene Emeralds were in need of a new home after spending 40 years at Eugene’s Civic Stadium. PK Park, named after Oregon’s former Athletic Director Pat Kilkenny, opened in time for the Ducks to take on the reigning NCAA Champions, the Fresno State Bulldogs , in their first game at the new stadium in 2009. Food & Beverage 4 PK Park has all the standard ballpark options. Hot dogs, corn dogs, chili dogs, all manner of dogs are available. Nachos, popcorn, candy and ice cream are also available, and there is a separate tent from the main concessions station that offers pizza and one pound of chicken wings. Things are a little pricey ($4 – $8 range), but not out of line for stadium food. Buying a meal and drink will cost you around $12-$15 per person depending on your hunger level and personal food preferences. Atmosphere 4 The seating in PK Park is excellent, with great sight lines and seats very close to the field. There is no outfield seating, so you won’t be catching any home runs, and the box seating has some sight line issues, but that’s not going to bother most fans in attendance. The seating behind home plate and near the baselines is plastic individual seats, while once you get to the outfield it switches to aluminum benches. Because the Ducks share space with the Emeralds, the atmosphere at times trends more toward the professional rather than collegiate. There’s a raucousness and charm that college sports tends to bring out that PK Park lacks, but that’s more a difference of taste than of quality. Neighborhood 2 PK Park stands in the shadow of Autzen Stadium and is surrounded by parking lots. It’s not far from campus (about two miles from the heart of the campus), but it will be a bit of a walk. Other than that, there’s not much in the immediate vicinity. There are some good restaurants nearby if you’re willing to make the hike. The O Bar and Grill is a three minute drive away, or eight minute walk, and a great place for a beer or burger before/after a game. A sports bar called The Cooler is nearby that seems pretty good. It’s a big hangout for Ducks games. There’s also a McMenamin’s (an Oregon chain) not too far away. Those have great burgers and a good beer selection. If you’re coming in from out of town there’s a Hyatt and a La Quinta nearby for lodging. And while in town, you may be able to catch an Oregon Ducks basketball game at Matthew Knight Arena . Fans 5 The fan presence is great. The student section is always rocking, and the Ducks seem to draw a good crowd from the local community. Of special note, try to grab tickets to an Oregon State game if you’re planning a trip. Beaver fans will absolutely make the trip to Eugene, and it creates an incredible, raucous atmosphere. Access 5 PK Park is not too far from the interstate, right next to Autzen Stadium. There will be plenty of signs directing you to where you want to go. There’s plenty of parking available between PK Park and Autzen, and even if there’s an absolutely massive turnout at the game you should have no problems. Parking in all Autzen Stadium lots is free. Oregon has adopted the clear bag policy for entry to all its sports venues. Return on Investment 4 The return for your sports entertainment dollar is very good for a Ducks game at PK Park. Tickets range around $10 (some games have $3 general admission seats). The stadium itself is excellent and the Ducks put out a good product. The food is good, and just a tad pricey. If you’re looking for a place to bring the family, a friend or just check out a game by yourself, PK Park is a great place to see amazing baseball. Extras 2 With Oregon only recently returning to college baseball, there’s not much of a history to draw on yet, but the stadium does make sure to display the big names of Ducks’ baseball and the program’s achievements. Final Thoughts Oregon did a great job bringing their program back, and a great job building them a stadium. PK Park places the fan experience first and foremost, and is a great place to see a game.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Foley Gymnasium Fieldhouse Road Plymouth, MA 03245 Plymouth State Panthers men’s basketball website Foley Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1969 Capacity: 1.600 What the Heck, Why not Plymouth State? Plymouth State University, founded in 1871 as Plymouth Normal School, is part of the University System of New Hampshire. With an enrollment of under 4,500 students, the school is known for its education and business programs. Robert Frost once taught at Plymouth State. The John C. Foley Gymnasium serves as home to the school’s basketball and volleyball teams. It is named in honor of the longtime English professor, basketball and baseball coach, Athletic Department chair and Dean of the College. Mr. Foley worked at Plymouth State College (as it was then known) for thirty years. The Panthers compete in the Little East Conference alongside eight other teams throughout New England. Plymouth State has reached the finals of the Little East Conference Tournament seven times, losing all seven games. The Panthers have qualified for the NCAA tournament twice, most recently in 2004. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small snack table in the lobby at Foley Gymnasium. It offers only a basic menu, with hot dogs, popcorn and candy sold here. Bottles of Pepsi products are also available here. While the menu isn’t extensive, it certainly isn’t expensive, with no item priced at over three dollars. If you are looking to avoid the lines at the concession stand (there are rarely any lines here), or perhaps expand your selections, there are a pair of vending machines in the downstairs lobby that also offer cold drinks. Atmosphere 2 You’re likely to have a standard small-school experience at Plymouth State. This is not a bad thing by any stretch of the imagination. It’s just that at a small school in a small facility with a small crowd, there’s not going to be a ton of noise or extra activity going on here. It’s a bare-bones game day presentation where you can see some quality basketball played in an intimate setting. The building has a certain old-school New Hampshire vibe to it, with a wooden finish and an old, inadequate PA system adding to its charm. Banners honoring championship teams and players hang around the facility. Neighborhood 3 Plymouth State University dominates this small town of under 7,000 residents. Located near the summer attractions of Lake Winnipesaukee to the east and the winter attractions of the White Mountains to the north, there are plenty of touristy options for visiting fans. If you are in this area during basketball season, it’s likely you’re here to ski, not watch basketball. Still, the town of Plymouth has some attractions worth checking out. The Museum of the White Mountains is located nearby, and poetry fans may want to check out the Robert Frost statue on campus (he taught at Plymouth State). Tenney Mountain Resort is a short drive from PSU for those looking to ski or snowboard. As you might expect, there are some great craft breweries in the area. Check out The Last Chair for some quality beer, or simply take a walk down Route 25 next to campus to experience the best that small-town New Hampshire has to offer. There’s no shortage of shops or eateries along this old-timey road. Fans 2 The crowds at Plymouth State are typical of other small schools in this part of the country. In other words, they are “friends and family” crowds. What a Panther crowd may lack in size, it makes up for in enthusiasm. Many of the fans in the stands have a personal connection with the athletes on the court, and are very invested in the action. While there’s not a huge turnout by the student body, those students who do show up bring a ton of energy to the gym. Access 4 The small town of Plymouth, New Hampshire is located in the White Mountains at the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Baker rivers. With a population of under 7,000 residents, Plymouth is located right off Interstate 93 about an hour north of Manchester and a half hour north of Concord. Foley Gymnasium is located on the eastern side of the Human Performance Center building, which also contains a pool, weight rooms, and classrooms for those studying Health Science, Physiology, Physical Education and Public Health. It is located across the Pemigewasset River from the main campus adjacent to the school’s other athletic facilities. Fans arriving for a basketball game will park across the street from Foley Gymnasium at the parking lot for the Ice Arena. There is some additional parking in a garage underneath the ALLwell Field House. Most fans will enter the facility into a small lobby, which contains the PSU Hall of Fame and the concession stand. Restrooms are located downstairs in an alternate lobby, which also contains some Panthers memorabilia. The gymnasium will be on your right, with seating that consists entirely of wooden bleachers on either side of the gym. Be warned that finding Foley Gymnasium isn’t as easy as it should be. If you park at the ALLwell Field House, you’ll enter the building on the west side. From there, getting to the Foley Gymnasium is like that scene from Spinal Tap where the band couldn’t find their way from the dressing room to the stage. You will roam the building looking for the entrance, traversing classrooms, labs, stairwells and unmarked corridors until you are (hopefully) fortunate enough to enter the lobby at the far end of the building. If you decide to walk around the outside of the building, paved walkways do not completely circle the building, meaning you will have to walk through snow and/or mud to get back to your car. Return on Investment 5 Admission to a Panthers basketball game is very affordable, with tickets priced at only five dollars. Seniors are admitted for three dollars. Parking is free in the lots near Foley Gymnasium. If you partake from the concession stand, you won’t be spending much money, either, as all items are priced under three dollars. A visit to Plymouth State University for some hoops will certainly not break the bank. Extras 2 The Plymouth State Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the lobby just off the entrance to Foley Gymnasium. Unless you are a part of the Panther community, you probably won’t recognize the names honored here. However, readers of Sports Illustrated may remember the name Joe Dudek. SI featured Dudek on one of their covers as “the thinking fan’s choice for the Heisman Trophy” after he broke Walter Payton’s career touchdown record in 1985. Dudek finished that season’s Heisman balloting in 9th place, the highest finish ever for a non-Division One player. Banners hang throughout Foley Gymnasium honoring Panther championship teams and 1,000-point scorers. Final Thoughts If you’re heading to northern New Hampshire in the wintertime, it’s highly unlikely that you are there for basketball. However, if you’re looking for an affordable alternative to hitting the slopes, you can do much worse than a trip to picturesque Plymouth and a Panthers basketball game. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Chase Center 1 Warriors Way San Francisco, CA 94158 Golden State Warriors website Chase Center website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 18,062 Chasing Another Championship The Golden State Warriors have been one of the most dominant NBA teams over the last decade, as they have won six titles, including three in the last five seasons. They also hold the record for most regular season wins with 73. Coach Steve Kerr has an astounding winning percentage of .880 with the team. Despite free agency the team has managed to keep together its core players, including Stephen Curry, DeMarcus Cousins, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson. The 2019-2020 season has added yet another home court advantage for the team, as they moved into the Chase Center, their new home on the shores of San Francisco Bay. The 18,062-seat arena is the first 100% privately financed professional sports facility in generations. Chase Center is the Warriors fourth home in the Bay Area since relocating from Philadelphia in 1962. It replaces the Oracle Arena in Oakland, the team’s home since 1966. Food & Beverage 4 When you are in one of the top foodie towns in the country, if not the world… you share that with your guests. Chase Center does that by curating a “Bay Area Only” food and beverage program. The concession offerings are part of the Center’s commitment to sustainability by sourcing most of its food ingredients from farmers and vendors with 150 miles of the arena. Among the concession stands to choose from are Bakesale Betty (tenders/fries $14, fried chicken sandwich $13 and fried chicken salad $12), Sam’s Chowder House of Half Moon Bay (lobster roll $22,seafood chowder $9.50 and crab fries $20), City Bistro (chicken tenders $12.50, hot dogs $8.50, brats $11, corn dogs $8.50, nachos $9, and pretzels $6.50) and Nate’s BBQ, created by former Warrior and Hall of Fame member Nate Thurmond (pulled pork sandwich $15 and brisket sandwich $15). Dessert offerings include CC Made’s Artisanal Popcorn, Chef Boug Crab Cakes and Po’ Boys, Earl’s Peanut Brittle and Sugar and Spin Cotton Candy. On the beverage front, Chase Center offers Pepsi brand sodas for $6, bottled water for $6 and tea for $7. Beers range from $12 for a domestic beer to $15 for a craft beer. You are located very near Napa Valley, so there is a vast wine menu available at select stands. For wine, prices begin at $16 and go up. Other beverage providers with a presence at the Chase Center on a rotating basis include Sequoia Sake, Drakes Brewing, Faction Brewing, Harmonic Brewing, and Triple Voodoo Brewing. Atmosphere 5 The Oracle Arena was known for its “cozy” atmosphere with the closest seats in the NBA to the action. Chase Center continues that tradition. It has more seats in the lower level bowl than any arena in the NBA. In addition to its courtside seats, the seat options include 44 luxury suites, 32 courtside lounges and 60 theatre boxes. The Chase Center features the largest center-hung video board in the NBA… a monster that measures 82 feet 9 inches X 52 feet 8 inches. Neighborhood 4 The Chase Center is in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. This area was formerly an industrial area but is quickly gentrifying into a center for tech companies, educational facilities (UCSF’s Research Campus is nearby) and a growing residential population. Even though it is located along the shore of San Francisco Bay, it has not developed into the tourist mecca that the rest of San Francisco has been. Most of the restaurants, tourist sites and lodging accommodations are located north of the neighborhood. The San Francisco Giants Oracle Park is located a few blocks north of the Mission Bay District. One of the goals of the Chase Center is to be much more than just a sports arena. The area surrounding the facility is known as Thrive City, which includes 3.2 acres of plazas and green space. More than 20 restaurants and retail outlets have now opened in this area. In early 2020, a ferry dock will allow for direct access from the Oakland/Berkley areas to the Thrive City Complex. The top tourist areas of San Francisco… Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Ghirardelli Square and Chinatown… are just a short trolley ride or walk away from the Chase Center. You’ll have no problem finding things to do before or after the game. Fans 5 The Warriors fan base is known locally as the “Dub Nation.” They have been ranked as the second best fan base in the NBA by the Fansided website (the Boston Celtics are ranked #1). Thanks to the Dub Nation, the team has an average home attendance of 19,596 compared to the NBA average home attendance of 17,380. The Warriors have sold out more than 350 home games in a row as of the end of the 2019 NBA season. Members of the Dub Nation come to cheer first and socialize second. They are an intimidating factor during tight games, making it impossible for the opposition to communicate with each other and creating a huge distraction when the visitors are at the free throw line. One of the unique elements of the Golden State fan base is found in its diversity. San Francisco is a melting pot of cultures that seem to all come together when the Warriors are involved. In addition to the white and African American fans, there is a great amount of support within the Asian community for the team. Access 4 One of the key elements in the design of the Chase Center is accessibility. San Francisco, by nature, is not a car friendly city. It has narrow streets, steep hills and parking decks are very expensive to build due to the sharp differences in elevation. Add to that a large influx of tourists unfamiliar with the city and the famous trolley cars taking up space in the street. The accessibility plan took all these issues into account and has resulted in a very diversified set of options for fans to get to the Chase Center for Warriors games, concerts and other events. Chase Center has become its own transit hub, as it is serviced by both light rail and busses run by MUNI. The UCSF/Chase Center Station in turn, links to both the BART and CALTRAIN regional transportation stations located a few blocks away. Persons holding a ticket to a Chase Center event do not have to pay the fare for that day. Since the arena is located next to San Francisco Bay, it is relatively flat, which has allowed the construction of walking and biking paths that lead into the Mission Bay area from other parts of town. There are more than 300 bike valet spaces at Chase Center. In the very near future, fans from across the bay can avoid the traffic on the Bay bridges by arriving via ferry. The Chase Center has two main lobbies inside of the building which reduces the gridlock greatly. The concourses are extremely wide, and the flow of traffic works well throughout the game. Getting to the upper level of seats is a piece of cake, as there are 19 sets of elevators available to transport you. We did reduce the rating score by one point in this area, as the concourse is not open to a view of the court and there are few monitors on the concourse to keep updated on the game. Return on Investment 4 Success comes at a price, as the average price of a Golden State ticket is $80. The team has sold out more than 350 home games in a row and has more than 20 thousand people on its waiting list for season tickets. This means that the secondary market will always be offering tickets at a premium price if it all. The move to the new arena has only increased the interest in attending the Golden State games. San Francisco is also one of the more expensive towns in the NBA when you look at lodging cost. A night in a Bay area hotel runs from $200-$300 on average. Parking is at a premium as the 957 spaces underneath the Chase Center are reserved for season ticket holders, as are many of the surrounding parking decks. You can cut this expenditure dramatically by using MUNI busses or light rail to get to the games. Your game ticket makes you eligible for a free ride all day long on the day of the game, which is a great way to encourage use of public transportation in a very congested city. Extras 4 The Golden State name and Bay Bridge logo symbolizes the team’s shared homes of Oakland and San Francisco. There are 17 Warriors players and coaches in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. They include such players as Wilt Chamberlain, Rick Barry, Al Attles, Chris Mullin, Nate Thurmond, Mitch Richmond and Jerry Lucas. Chase Center has already achieved Gold LEED status for sustainability. This is due in part to its state-of-the-art construction techniques, the utilization of multiple environmentally friendly means of accessing the facility (mass transit, bike, ferry and pedestrian trails) and its sourcing of food from farms located within 150 miles of the arena. The facility is a virtual art gallery, as there are more than 80 commissioned pieces of art throughout the complex. There is a separate entity within the Thrive City complex that is open throughout the week, even if the team is on the road. It is a skilled based basketball mecca offering a wide variety of fun and interactive games featuring a Warrior theme. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information, go to www.thehooptopia.com . Final Thoughts One of the premiere franchises in the NBA now has a home to match up with its elite status. The Chase Center boasts of an unbeatable view of San Francisco Bay, cutting edge technology and a food and beverage menu featuring the best the City by the Bay has to offer. Chase Center is destined to be one of the top professional sports facilities in any league, much like its neighbor, the San Francisco Giants’ Oracle Park .

Photos by Jon Hart, Stadium Journey Walsh Gymnasium FANFARE Score: 4.29 Walsh Gymnasium 400 S Orange Ave South Orange, NJ 07079 Seton Hall Pirates website Walsh Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1939 Capacity: 1,655 Seton Hall’s Walsh Gymnasium Note: Seton Hall plays the majority of their games at the Prudential Center. To see Stadium Journey's review of that venue, click here . There’s a palpable buzz around the Seton Hall men’s basketball team. With the return of their star Myles Powell, Pirate fans are shooting for a deep March-April run. The Hall plays the vast majority of its games at the Prudential Center in nearby Newark. Every season though, The Hall plays a select few games at its on-campus facility, the historic Walsh Gymnasium, which opened in 1941. Walsh is very small, extremely loud and just a magnificent place to watch a college basketball game. It’s big time basketball in a very small place, a wonderful combination. Think Cameron Indoor or Allen Fieldhouse, except much smaller. Food & Beverage 3 Walsh has a small, quaint concessions stand, which offers the standards: hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels and candy. No item costs more than $3. Atmosphere 5 You’re on top of the court, as close as Spike Lee got to Reggie Miller. Seton Hall has a great dance team, cheerleading squad and band. If you’re looking for a quiet night, this isn’t the spot. Neighborhood 4 Walsh is about a mile away from South Orange’s main drag and train station. South Orange is a 40-minute train ride from New York’s Penn Station. South Orange has no shortage of dining options. Jackie & Son, is a hip lunch/brunch spot with plenty of healthy choices. Toro Loco, does fine Mexican. Right next door, The Fox & Falcon is an attractive, upscale option. For something quick and sweet, there’s a Carvel. Fans 5 Pirate fans will sell out Walsh, which is not difficult. When the Pirates are rolling, they’ll sell out the Prudential, which is very difficult. The Hall has a loyal fan base of students, alums and basketball aficionados. They’ll vociferously cheer on their team but don’t count on them singing along to “Sweet Caroline.” Perhaps The Hall’s band might get a better response from “Born To Run.” Access 4 Props to Seton Hall for making this small venue work. Remarkably, congestion is scarce. Seton Hall's campus and Walsh are easily accessible by car and parking is free. South Orange’s train station is just a 20-minute walk away. Return on Investment 5 It’s a trifecta: Cheap concessions, free parking and reasonably priced tickets. Most importantly, the venue is absolutely amazing. You’re practically in the game. Extras 4 Restrooms are modern and well kept. Ushers and security people are friendly and professional. Seton Hall’s coach Kevin Willard is a sight. Even when he appears to be still, he’s in constant motion, either chewing or swigging water. Lastly, The Hall’s women’s team plays its home games at Walsh. Walsh was built in 1941 but has a modern feel thanks to great upkeep. Final Thoughts Walsh Gym is a welcome, Hoosiers-style throwback. In the age of humongous, often half-empty arenas, it’s refreshing to catch big-time college game at this small, beautiful gem. Jon Hart is @ManVersusBall .

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Yuengling Center 4202 E Fowler Ave Tampa, FL 33620 USF Bulls website Yuengling Center website Year Opened: 1980 Capacity: 10,411 Tampa Basketball Fever Tampa is a college town – it may not look like it on the outside, but there are deep ties to collegiate athletics in this city. USF is a big part of that in recent years, thanks to bouts of success across various sports, and because of this the local fan base has steadily grown to one that is quietly one of the best in the state of Florida. The school’s basketball team is part of this culture. Often overlooked by their bigger neighbors in the state, USF’s fans are just as loyal and proud as the rest of them. Playing in an arena that, when packed, provides a loud home court advantage, the Bulls have given reason for their fans to cheer in the past, and the excitement on the court is what keeps fans coming back game after game. Food & Beverage 3 Multiple concessions stands dot the arena’s main concourse. From burgers to pretzels, fans can pick up snacks or a main meal at the arena. All items are under $10, which automatically puts USF basketball at the low end of concessions prices. Beer and sodas are also available at all stands, with large fountain drinks running only $7. The only downside here is the lack of variety. Atmosphere 3 Once inside Yuengling Center you are immediately reminded of some of the great college basketball arenas. Its towering ceiling and bowl seating harkens to those halcyon days of the past where college basketball was played in the 80s. Thankfully, the seating is a bit better than those days as well. While the color palate inside and out is beige and green, it still fits with the feeling of USF. The area’s construction also echoes sound well, meaning even a meager crowd can sound like a packed house to the visiting team. Inside the arena, a large team store greets fans, offering hats, shirts, and all manner of USF items for sale. This is an often-missed aspect of an arena in smaller college markets. Once the game starts, the standard fare greets fans; from the college band in the end zone to the hype video player introductions, the whole event feels like a standard college basketball game. Yuengling Center Team Store, Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 To get to USF, a trip north on I-75 will take you near the arena. Located adjacent to Busch Gardens Tampa, the USF campus is easy to find even when exiting the highway, thanks to plentiful signage. The campus itself has multiple hotels and restaurants nearby, thanks in part to its theme park neighbor. However, Tampa itself has become a hotbed of foodie culture lately, meaning finding food in the area during your visit shouldn’t be difficult. Local options like Taco Dirty and Fresh Kitchen offer fans a variety of food options. While hotels are located nearby, fans can also opt for something near the downtown area as well, located just 15 minutes from campus. Fans 4 The fans at USF are loud and proud. While it may not always be a sell-out crowd, the games at Yuengling Center always feel busy thanks to the amplification of the crowd noise from the arena’s acoustics. That isn’t to say the fans aren’t loud themselves – on the contrary, USF fans feel like they have something to prove, and therefore bring their all when it comes to cheering for their Bulls. The biggest example of this is every time UCF visits for the War on I-4 matchup; the Bulls faithful make sure their neighbors to the east know that Tampa is USF territory. Perhaps the best thing about the fans at USF games are the families. Young fans are a big part of the fanbase in Tampa, which only helps grow the team. Regardless of the record on the court, the youngest fans of USF are there to cheer on their favorite players, all the way from freshman year to their senior night games. Access 4 To park at Yuengling Center fans have multiple options. There is close, paid, easy-access parking available outside the door to the arena, while for big games, overflow lots surround the facility, meaning you will have plenty of places to park. In addition, the arena is also easy to navigate, as directional signage is plentiful throughout. Finding the arena is also not difficult as it is located just inside the south entrance to campus. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to USF games are inexpensive, especially when compared to the city’s pro sports options. For the same price as parking at a Buccaneers game, a family of four can have lower bowl seating at USF basketball. Also, given that Tampa Bay has no NBA franchise, USF represents the pinnacle of basketball in the greater Tampa Bay area. In addition, mid-major college basketball is some of the best in the country, so having the opportunity to watch some while staying in a warm, tropical paradise is well worth the visit in itself. Extras 3 The team has a giveaways table at the entrance of all games, which always draws fans as they arrive on game day. You can also find the history of USF throughout the concourse inside the arena – on each wall is an infographic showing the school’s beginnings and highlights, both academic and athletic. Finally, the team’s mascot roams throughout the arena on game days, interacting with fans and posing for photos. Yuengling Center Giveaway Table, Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Though overlooked, USF is a proud college with many athletic achievements. USF basketball continues this proud tradition, offering fans the chance to watch some top-level college hoops for an affordable price. While not always packed full of fans, Yuengling Center no doubt deserves a visit whenever in the area.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Stade Canac 100 Cardinal Maurice-Roy Street Quebec, QC G1K 8Z1 Quebec les Capitales website Stade Canac website Year Opened: 1938 Capacity: 4,300 La Maison des Capitales Stade Canac, located in Quebec’s Parc Victoria, was built in 1939 as a public project meant to create jobs and municipal facilities during an economic downturn in the province. Over the years, several professional teams have called the stadium home, including teams affiliated with the Dodgers, Cubs, Braves, and Expos. Notable players to play at Stade Canac include Warren Spahn, Hank Aaron, Gary Carter, and Andre Dawson. Since 1999 les Capitales de Quebec have called Stade Canac home, first as members of the Northern League, then the Northeast League and Can-Am League. Since 2020 les Capitales have been members of the Frontier League. The team has been very successful, winning 8 league championships over its history, including the 2022 Frontier League title. Food & Beverage 4 Concessions at Stade Canac are surprisingly strong for a ballpark of this size. The main concession stand in the lobby serves up standard ballpark fare (well, standard Quebec ballpark fare). In addition to burgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers, and french fries, fans can select poutine and smoked meat. The poutine appears to be the most popular menu item here and is not a scaled-down version of the Canadian standard. You can order your poutine topped with popcorn chicken or sliced hot dogs. A good variety of snack food is available, including corn dogs, popcorn, nachos, peanuts, and chips. Pepsi products are featured at Stade Canac. If you are looking for something a bit colder on a hot summer night, slush puppies are also sold in a variety of colors (flavors?). Sleeman beers are featured at Stade Canac, both at the main stand and in the Sleeman Lounge underneath the third base stands. Fans looking to avoid the lines of the main stand can visit the self-serve station or the bar located in the lobby. Outside the entrance of the ballpark is a food truck offering steak and cheese subs and grilled hot dogs along with a variety of beverages. Ice cream and other snacks are sold at the Zone Famille, located in the first base party zone. Atmosphere 3 The game day atmosphere here in Quebec is fairly typical of other minor league ballparks across the continent. The fun begins before the game, as music is played in the right field party zone. Stadium Journey attended a pair of weekend games, so this may not be an every game occurrence, but the party zone was certainly the place to be before the first pitch. The fans in attendance, especially the younger ones, have learned that the old metal seats in Stade Canac make a lot of noise and create a solid home-field advantage. The team employs a mascot who spends his day roaming the ballpark interacting with fans and participating in between-inning shenanigans. An on-field emcee makes sure the promotions keep moving and the crowd stays hyped. Members of the promotions team dance on top of the dugout when not coordinating on-field contests, joined in by the majority of the crowd. There is a video board in right field in addition to a manually operated scoreboard. The public address announcer and on-field emcee do their thing in French, but visitors need not worry about not being understood. In a city the size of Quebec, the majority of the population speaks both French and English. You should have no problem communicating, even with the fans around you. Neighborhood 3 Stade Canac is located in Parc Victoria in the Saint-Roch neighborhood. Visiting fans will not find much in the way of eateries or lodging near the ballpark. However, there is a great deal to see and do here in the capital of the province. Old Quebec, the most popular tourist attraction in the city, is a short ten-minute drive away. If visiting from out of town be sure to wander the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec and Petit Champlain before heading to the ballpark. Montmorency Falls, Dufferin Terrace, and the Plains of Abraham are other popular destinations not far from Stade Canac. Fans 4 Quebec annually ranks among the leaders in the Frontier League attendance rankings. For the 2023 season, they are third in the circuit, drawing over 2,800 fans per game. Visitors would be well advised to check for ticket availability ahead of time, especially if you are planning to visit on a Saturday night. Quebec may be first and foremost a hockey town, but a city this size is sure to have its share of baseball fans. Of course, you’re going to find your share of younger fans mixed in with the die-hards since les Capitales are marketed as family-friendly entertainment. The fans here know their stuff and are into the game. It’s a fun atmosphere here at Stade Canac. Access 3 Stade Canac is located in Parc Victoria, a large municipal park on the shores of the Saint-Charles River. Also located on these grounds are facilities for soccer, volleyball, basketball, tennis, hockey, and skateboarding. The old Quebec Arena, home of the NHL’s Quebec Bulldogs, was located here until it burned down in 1942. If driving, Stade Canac is very easy to get to, as it is located just off Autoroute 973. The tourist destination of Old Quebec is located just three kilometers away, an easy 10-minute drive. Parking is available at no charge in the lot adjacent to the ballpark. Should this lot fill up, additional parking is available throughout Parc Victoria. Fans who have visited Stade Quillorama in Trois Rivieres will find the layout of Stade Canac familiar, which makes sense considering they were designed by the same person and built at the same time. Loge and mezzanine seats are folding metal chairs that are very noisy and not so comfortable. The general admission seats look a lot like church pews. Those look equally uncomfortable. Getting around Stade Canac can be difficult. It’s cramped and crowded. Steep ramps lead from the floor level to the seating bowl. Depending on where your seats are, you may need to navigate a maze of stairs and walkways to get to your seats. Some of the seats higher up in the seating bowl feature obstructed views and nets run the length of the bowl, obstructing all views. Party zones on either end of the grandstand provide some room to spread out and some relief from the cramped quarters throughout the ballpark. Restrooms are dated, but adequate for the crowd on hand. It would be nice if the doors to the restrooms were closed, though. As you may imagine, since the crowds are large and there is only one way in and out of the ballpark, leaving the ballpark and the parking lots can be slow. Be patient as you leave Stade Canac. Return on Investment 5 Tickets for Les Capitales games are separated into three tiers: Loge ($23), Mezzanine ($20), and General Admission ($12). Students and Seniors receive a one-dollar discount, while children under 12 receive a two-dollar discount. On Sundays, children are admitted for $5. Parking is free in the lot adjacent to the ballpark. Concessions are very affordable. Extras 4 Six retired numbers are displayed on the front of the press box. Among the honorees are Gary Carter, Jean-Phillipe Roy, Eddie Lantigua, and Jackie Robinson. On the outfield wall are championship banners honoring les Capitales’ eight titles. A pair of extra points are awarded for the historic displays located in the hallways underneath the grandstand. On the first base side is a display featuring Capitales history and on the third base side is a display featuring the teams that have called Stade Canac home throughout its history. There is incredible detail in both these displays and plenty for baseball fans to see. Warning – the displays are in French, but this shouldn’t make them any less enjoyable or informative. A final extra point is awarded for the manual scoreboard in the right field. The operator will place goose eggs in place of zeros for the visiting squad. One note to Capitales management – get this poor man a stool or a chair! He stands on the ledge of the scoreboard the entire game doing his job. He deserves a seat! Final Thoughts Quebec would never be considered a baseball city by most fans, but Les Capitales have been one of the more successful independent teams both on and off the field. A trip to historic Stade Canac is one worth taking for any ballpark chaser. Pair Stade Canac with a visit to its sister ballpark, Stade Quillorama in Trois Rivieres , and you have a terrific Stadium Journey. ----- Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium 300 Stadium Dr Hadley, MA 01003 UMass Minutemen website Warren P. McGuirk Alumni Stadium website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 17,000 Did It in a Minute, Man Football has been played at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst since 1879. In 1965 the school completed the construction of Alumni Stadium, which was renamed in 1984 to honor Warren P. McGuirk, who served as the school’s athletic director from 1948-1972. UMass has a long, successful history in Division 1-AA/FCS, winning 22 conference titles and a national championship in 1998. The Minutemen also appeared in the championship game on two other occasions (1978 and 2006). The Minutemen made the jump to FBS beginning with the 2012 season. At the time, their on-campus home did not meet the minimum standards set by the FBS. To remedy these shortcomings, the University embarked on a $20 million renovation project to bring McGuirk Stadium up to speed. The team played two seasons at Gillette Stadium , 95 miles from campus, while work progressed at McGuirk. Even though capacity was expanded to 17,000, McGuirk Stadium remains the third smallest venue in FBS. The team, which now competes as an independent, has struggled since joining college football’s top division, compiling a dismal 19-81 record in FBS going into the 2021 season. Food & Beverage 3 There are four main concession stands tucked underneath the grandstands at McGuirk Stadium, two on either side of the field. The menus at these stands do not stray far from stadium basics, with hot dogs, burgers, sausages, and chicken tenders comprising the entire menu. Coca-Cola products are featured at McGuirk Stadium. Local favorite Batch Ice Cream operates a couple of stands at McGuirk Stadium, serving up varieties of their homemade ice cream flavors. Other snacks include pretzels, fresh fruit, and chips. The craft beer game is strong at a UMass game. Local brews from Amherst Brewing, New City Brewery, Loophole Brewing, Wormhole Brewery, and City Roots are sold alongside Bud Light, UFO, and Corona. If wine is more to your taste, you can find that at the concession stands as well. Atmosphere 3 There’s nothing particularly unique about the atmosphere or game day presentation at a UMass football game, and the smallish crowds tend to hold down the overall noise and excitement levels, but there’s nothing particularly wrong with the atmosphere at McGuirk Stadium, either. If you prefer your football viewing experience a bit more laid back than at the big schools, a UMass game is most enjoyable. When you have a football stadium in a rural location surrounded by parking lots, that’s a recipe for a fun tailgating scene, and that’s certainly the case here in Amherst. The school made some waves when they canceled the organized student activities for the first game of the 2021 season after some breakthrough COVID cases were documented, but the students were back in full force for home game number two. Before the 2019 season, McGuirk Stadium underwent several improvements designed to improve the fan experience, including a new high-definition scoreboard in the south end zone, a new auxiliary scoreboard in the north end zone, a new hospitality plaza in the south end zone, new restrooms and several ADA improvements. Neighborhood 4 There’s not a whole lot near McGuirk Stadium if you are a visiting fan looking for food, beverage, or lodging before or after a Minutemen game. However, Amherst is a mainstay at the top of many “best college towns in the nation” lists, so you aren’t too far from a whole bunch of great options while at UMass. Just a mile away from the UMass campus is North Pleasant Street, where a seemingly endless variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs can be found. To fit in with the locals, take a trip to the Hangar Pub and Grill for a craft beer or to Antonio’s Pizza for a slice or two. Despite the presence of five colleges in and around Amherst, there’s not a ton of lodging options in the area. Most of the places you will find are located in Hadley a few miles from the UMass campus. Lodging doesn’t get any more convenient than the UMass Hotel, located right on campus and run by students in the hospitality program. As any self-respecting college town should, Amherst has its share of museums, including ones dedicated to authors Emily Dickinson and Eric Carle. Fans 2 Since their elevation to FBS in 2012, UMass has struggled to fill McGuirk Stadium for football games. Even with local power Boston College in town for the opening home game of 2021, there were only 12,000 fans on hand. 2021’s second game against Eastern Michigan drew only 7,000. Looking back at the 2019 season, UMass finished next to last in the country in terms of attendance, averaging just over 10,000 per game. The fans who do show up at McGuirk Stadium are enthusiastic and supportive, even if they aren’t the rowdiest fans you’ll see during your travels across the country. You can expect a big turnout by the student body, even if most of them do leave at halftime. Access 3 The flagship school of the UMass system is located in rural Amherst in western Massachusetts, about halfway between Boston and Albany. Springfield is located about a half-hour to the south. Most fans will take the Mass Pike (I-90) to Interstate 91 and then travel some local roads to arrive in Amherst. The scenery in the area during leaf season is amazing. McGuirk Stadium is located on the southwest edge of the UMass-Amherst campus, just across the town line in neighboring Hadley. There is ample parking in the lots a short walk from the stadium. Remember to purchase your parking early to save money! McGuirk Stadium has a basic setup, with one grandstand on either side of the field. All seats are aluminum bleachers without backs. The eastern side of the field is in the sun, and the western side is in the shade due to the presence of the press box on top of the grandstand. It’s humorous how most fans sit on one side during the warm early-season games and on the other during cold late-season games. McGuirk is unique in that the first row of seats is located 12 feet above the ground. Concession stands and merchandise stands are tucked underneath the stands, and a walkway circles the gridiron at field level, pushing the seats further from the field. New restrooms have been built on either side of the facility and have alleviated wait times greatly. There is plenty of room to roam at McGuirk, as entrance gates are located a bit of a walk from the seating area. The area between the gates and seats is not paved, so tread carefully. Return on Investment 4 UMass splits its games into two tiers. Tickets for Tier One games are priced at $23 and $30, while Tier Two games are priced at $18 and $25. Parking is also variably priced and will cost you either $30 or $40 if purchased on game day. Stadium Journey can’t stress strongly enough the benefit of purchasing parking in advance. By buying ahead of time, parking will only cost you $10. Concession prices are comparable to other venues in the area. Extras 2 The UMass Marching Band, the largest marching band in all of New England, earns an extra point. They perform pregame, at halftime, and postgame, as well as adding plenty to the atmosphere during the game. The UMass Militia earns an extra point. They may be smaller and less well-known than their counterparts in Foxboro, but they add an appropriate touch of Minutemen spirit to the festivities. Final Thoughts The UMass football team has experienced more than its share of troubles since the program was elevated to FBS in 2012. As a result, the game day experience suffers at tiny McGuirk Stadium. However, all is not lost in Amherst. During a crisp fall day with the leaves turning all sorts of colors, not many stadiums can match the scenery of western Massachusetts. McGuirk may be a simple facility, but it’s a worthy Stadium Journey.

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

Photos courtesy of Wikipedia Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Foxboro Stadium Route One Foxboro, MA 20235 New England Patriots website Capacity: 60,292 Year Opened: 1971 Schaefer-Sullivan-Foxboro Stadium Fans who have only been watching the National Football League during the 21st century may be surprised to learn that the New England Patriots were not always the dominant team that they’ve been during the Brady/Belichick era. In fact, for most of their existence, the opposite was true. They were often considered to be the laughingstock of the league, more likely to compete for the top overall pick than for the Super Bowl. The team seemed to make headlines more often for dubious reasons than for anything they accomplished on the field. They were often derisively referred to as “The Patsies.” The Patriots were nomadic over the early years of their existence. During the first ten years the team played in the American Football League, they called Nickerson Field (1960-62), Fenway Park (1963-68), Alumni Stadium (1969) and Harvard Stadium (1970) home. After the AFL-NFL merger, the NFL pushed the Patriots to find a permanent stadium as none of their previous homes met minimum league standards for capacity or facilities. In September of 1970 ground was broken on the site of the Bay State Raceway in the small town of Foxborough, MA, located about halfway between Boston and Providence, RI. The entire stadium was constructed at a total cost of only $7.1 million, all of which came from private entities. No public monies were involved in the project. Schaefer Brewery purchased the naming rights in an early example of corporate sponsorship. When this deal expired in 1982, Anheuser-Busch took over naming rights, but rather than put one of their brands on the facility, they agreed to name the stadium after the Sullivan family, who were then the majority owners of the Patriots. When local businessman Robert Kraft purchased the stadium out of bankruptcy from the Sullivans, he stripped their name and rechristened it Foxboro Stadium. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions were served out of two stands on either side of the stadium, as well as portable carts located throughout the facility. The food consisted of standard stadium fare (hot dogs, burgers, pizza), average in both quality and price. Long lines were the norm at these stands, especially at halftime. With Foxboro Stadium’s location in the suburbs surrounded by parking lots, most fans preferred to tailgate rather than eat during the game. Foxboro Stadium was legendary for the excess of alcohol consumed by many Patriots fans, both before the game in the tailgating lots and during the game at the concession stands. Tales of drunken fans who had been overserved could be told by anyone who had ever been to a Patriots game at Foxboro Stadium. In fact, the Foxboro selectmen banned night games at the stadium starting in 1981 due to excessive alcohol consumption and rowdyism by the fans. The ban lasted until 1995. Atmosphere 2 Back in the days of Foxboro Stadium the Patriots were undoubtedly the fourth team on the Boston sports food chain. As a result of the team’s constant losing, tickets were often easy to come by. The bare-bones nature of Foxboro Stadium reflected in the game day atmosphere as well. There was a single video board at the south end zone and the open design of the stadium meant that any noise generated was easily dissipated. The Patriots never seemed to enjoy much of a home-field advantage here. The highlight of the Foxboro Stadium experience was undoubtedly the tailgating before and after games. The stadium was surrounded by acres of unpaved parking lots, giving fans much room to set up elaborate parties. With a relaxed attitude towards these parties, it was not unusual for fans to arrive at kickoff with a good head start towards tomorrow’s hangover. Longtime Patriots fans can tell tales of the amount of fighting that went on here, or the rowdy behavior throughout games. One legendary tale (perhaps an urban legend) speaks of a fan bringing a hibachi grill into the end zone seats, which promptly ended up getting thrown at another fan. Foxboro Stadium was not the place to bring the family. Neighborhood 1 Foxboro Stadium’s location far from the urban centers of Boston and Providence meant that there was lots of room around the facility for, well, parking lots. There wasn’t much else nearby. There was a trailer park next door to the stadium, which got overrun by fans walking from the tailgates to the stadium (the team paid to move the whole trailer park out of the way further down Route 1 when the Krafts bought the Patriots). In addition, there were a couple of seedy bars and hotels nearby, but really nothing else within walking distance of the stadium. Back then Route One did not look like the developed business area it is today. Fans 3 The Patriots were the fourth team in a four-team town for much of their early existence. The fact that winning seasons were few and far between during this era didn’t help. Still, the team had its share of die-hard fans who certainly made going to a game in Foxboro interesting. Since the Patriots only arrived on the Boston sports scene in 1960, it wasn’t unusual to find a significant portion of the crowd in Foxboro that rooted for the Giants, who were the closest team for many years. If you were coming to a game against the Giants, Patriots fans could expect to be outnumbered, even into the 90s. Patriot fans were more known for their rowdy behavior than for their numbers. Foxboro was not a place to bring the family, and it was rare to see many women at a Patriots game back in the day. Access 2 Foxboro Stadium was built on the cheap and in a hurry in 1970. As a result, the facility had its share of issues, most notably with traffic and plumbing. During the first game at the new stadium, several sinks and toilets backed up because they couldn’t handle the volume of flushes throughout the game. Fixes were made to keep the stadium open, which were tested during the infamous “Super Flush,” where dozens of volunteers were enlisted to flush every toilet in the stadium simultaneously. The stadium passed and football was able to continue. The bathrooms were never the cleanest place to be, though. Also legendary for all the wrong reasons was the traffic to and from Patriot games. Located near the intersection of Interstates 95 and 495, one would think that Foxboro Stadium had a good location going for it. Unfortunately, access to the stadium from the interstates was only possible by traveling a few miles on Route One, a four-lane business route that backed up for miles on game day. It would routinely take hours for the parking lots to clear after Patriots games. Foxboro Stadium hardly looked like a professional venue, even by 1970s standards. Designed and constructed simply, the facility featured a single-tier grandstand on either side of the field, with limited seating in either end zone. The majority of seats consisted of metal bleachers without backs. There were a few sections at midfield which featured individual seats. One positive to Foxboro Stadium was that all seats were angled towards the 50-yard line, providing excellent views from anywhere in the stadium. A single, narrow concourse ran underneath the seating sections on either side of the field. The concession stands and bathrooms were located here. Long lines were the norm, both to the stands and the bathrooms throughout the game. The majority of the parking lots were unpaved and the stadium was completely open to the elements. Foxboro Stadium was incredibly hot during the early months of the season and absolutely frigid during the end of the season. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Patriots games were pretty affordable to the point where, as high school students in the 80s, we were able to drive up to Foxboro on a Sunday morning and have no problem getting and affording tickets. As is the case today, parking at Foxboro Stadium was expensive. Concession prices were comparable to other venues in the area. Going to a Patriots game wasn’t cheap, but overall, it was affordable. Extras 1 There wasn’t much at Foxboro that could be considered extra, but the story of how Robert Kraft was able to prevent the team from moving on several occasions deserves a mention. Originally a season ticket holder, the paper magnate purchased several of the parking lots and other parcels of land surrounding the stadium, including the adjacent race track, over the years. When the Sullivan family went into bankruptcy after sponsoring the Jackson’s “Victory” Tour, Kraft bought the stadium. He enforced the ironclad lease the Patriots had on two occasions, preventing a move to Jacksonville and then to St. Louis. He used the leverage he had through the lease to eventually purchase the team. Under his ownership the Patriots have gone from laughingstock to dynasty, winning six Super Bowls and appearing in ten under his watch. The building of Gillette Stadium and the adjacent Patriot Place has become a model for all subsequent stadium designs. Final Thoughts By the late 90s Foxboro Stadium had become outdated and needed replacing. The Patriots went on a well-documented search to build a new stadium in the area, looking at sites in Boston, Providence and Hartford, among others. The Patriots ended up building Foxboro Stadium’s replacement, Gillette Stadium, right next door. The facility’s shopping and entertainment center, Patriot Place, stands where Foxboro Stadium was located. Foxboro Stadium was never more than a serviceable place for the Patriots to call home. Beset from the beginning with traffic and plumbing issues, it was one of the least desirable places to play in the NFL. Many Patriot alumni recall thinking that Foxboro Stadium compared unfavorably to even their college practice facilities. At least Foxboro Stadium was able to go out with a bang, as the last game played there on January 19, 2002 was the “Tuck Rule” game. That playoff game was played in a blizzard against the Oakland Raiders and featured an unforgettable, controversial ending as the Patriots moved on to their first Super Bowl championship. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Paoli High School Gymnasium 501 Elm St Paoli, IN 47454 Paoli High School Rams website The Paoli Gym website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 4,200 The Purple Pride of Paoli The Paoli Community High School Gymnasium looks much newer than its actual age. The facility was built in 1967 and appears to be in pretty good shape from an aesthetic standpoint. The bright colors of purple and gold stand out against the white ceiling and wood bleachers. The lighting is bright among the 72 units that hover above the court and giant letters spelling out PAOLI RAMS add a definite boldness to its character. The seating capacity is 4,200 and ranks 48th among the state of Indiana high school gyms. It is big enough to host sectional and regional games that bring near-capacity crowds annually and resides in an area of southern Indiana that is in the center of various tourist destinations. The basketball program has captured 7 regional and 23 sectional championships, plus three straight trips to the Final Four from 1998 to 2000, losing the Class AA championship game in 1999. Its size was determined as a direct result of its rivalry with Bedford High School. At the time Bedford had the biggest gym in the area and hosted highly lucrative sectional and regional games every February and March. The Paoli school board grasping an opportunity to bring a little status to its facility placed all of its building funds into the construction of a gym that seated 400 more spectators than Bedford’s. The payoff worked out well, the next school year Paoli became host to a sectional round of its own. Food & Beverage 3 The gym offers a unique design that provides a massive area for its concession stand behind a collapsible wall at one end of the court. The lines do get long for heavily attended contests, but there is enough room to make sure everyone goes through the lines quickly and efficiently. The products served are the usual hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, pretzels, and candy – the basic food groups of Indiana high school gyms and fieldhouses. Pickles and sloppy joe sandwiches are offered as well and you can get that sauce topped on both hot dogs and nachos for an additional fee. Coca-Cola products are served by the bottle for $2. After the game, free small bags of popcorn are put out for the taking by anyone still lingering around the gym. Atmosphere 4 The gymnasium features pull-out wooden bleachers on the floor at opposite ends with permanent bleachers on the upper level of the gym. There is also a small section of bleachers above the court at one end of the floor. The vibrant school colors of purple and gold are nicely decorated throughout the building from its walls, floors, and ceilings. A primary example is the roof is painted white and features purple painted piping that meets at a point in the center of its roof. Before the color change, the roof was a gunpowder gray, adding little life to the gymnasium. The colors of purple and gold stand out at many points in the gym: seating, championship banners, center court logo, walls, and the collapsible wall that is striped with the school’s colors. The court is named after a long-time PCHS principal James Babcock in 2018. A great way to honor a man who served the school for 23 years. Neighborhood 4 Paoli is a small town that offers quite a bit to do within 10 miles of the high school. The town is two hours south of Indianapolis and one hour south of Bloomington on US-37. It is an hour northwest of Louisville on US-150, both routes are not interstates, but parts of the roads are two lanes for most of the trip. During the winter check out Paoli Peaks, The snow-making system allows the resort to make 12 inches of snow in one night over the entire 65 skiable acres. French Lick Springs Hotel was built in 1845 and offers family-friendly activities and facilities for an ideal weekend destination. The dome-shaped hotel has something everyone can enjoy; whether it’s golf, spa, hiking, gambling, biking, swimming, or shopping. Other activities in French Link-West Baden include mini-golf, a brewery and winery, scenic railway, trolley rides, indoor karts, and a selection of restaurants including Ohana Hawaiian Grill & Bar, just off the Brick Pizza, and Crazy Horse Ranch. Porky’s BBQ in Paoli is a nice spot that serves pulled pork, brisket, and rib platters along with fried jalapeno appetizers. Fans 4 When regionals and sectional games are played, the fan atmosphere is amazing with each layup, bucket, and three-pointer cheered with emotional passion and boisterous cheer from the fans in the audience. The student sections themselves make their presence felt with a strong sense of unison, organized cheers, and chants. Access 3 The gym is easy to get around with two levels of seating, an open area to the concessions and bathrooms, and ample parking lots that surround the entire building. Unfortunately, when leaving after a heavily packed game, cars move at a snail’s pace from the school to the main street. However, there are some side streets to help you get out a bit quicker. Return on Investment 4 The PCHS Gym provides a lot of bang for its buck with low-cost concession stand prices, plenty of room in the stands and parking, and a well-kept facility. If you are in town for the weekend and want to take in some gambling, golfing, and skiing, you are only a short 10-15 minute drive from the high school. Extras 3 One point for the well-kept gymnasium; the colors of purple and gold pop throughout the facility and it looks much newer than its actual age. The original court is due for replacement after the current season and that should blend nicely with its surroundings. An additional point for the giant concession area that opens up behind the west side of the court. It also provides more room to watch the game for spectators almost directly behind the basket. It’s also a great place for the little ones to run around for a bit to release some energy. A third point for the ram's head hangs up high over the court between the school’s numerous banners. Final Thoughts There are many great gymnasiums in southern Indiana and Paoli has one heck of a gym to watch basketball. Sectional and regional games pack large crowds and it’s one of the cleanest, most modern, and freshest venues in the state. When you add the local entertainment in nearby French Lick and West Baden resorts, it makes for an ideal time for families and romantic getaways. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium 605 S College Ave Newark, DE 19716 Delaware Blue Hens website Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 1,400 Blue Hen Pride The University of Delaware (UD) is the largest in Delaware. It has 18,500 undergraduate students and has public funding, although it is not wholly a state-run institution. It was created as a Presbyterian free school back in 1743. U.S. News & World Report ranked UD’s undergraduate program 75th among “national universities” and tied for 29th among public universities in its 2016 rankings. The College of Engineering is highly ranked nationally, as is the College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment and Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics. The Fightin’ Blue Hens play in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). It won its first conference soccer championship in 2011 and played in the NCAA tournament for the first time in many years. Previously they had played in the 1968 and 1970 editions of the tournament. Before a recent remodel and re-dedication the stadium was known as the Delaware Mini-Stadium, likely because of its next-door neighbor, Delaware Stadium. At the University of Delaware Stadium, all of the main athletic facilities for the university are located in one central area on the south part of the Newark campus. Food & Beverage 1 There is no food or beverage for sale at Grant Stadium. In the past, concession stands selling a basic menu have been open in a shared space between Grant Stadium and Delaware Stadium, and it may be open for some games. If the concession stand is open, the menu is pretty simple but offers good quality. Burgers are $3.75 ($.50 extra for cheese), hot dogs are a value at $2.75, with pizza for $3 a seemingly fair value. Drinks are slightly pricey at $4.25, but make sure to add a bag of Utz chips for a dollar. You are free to bring outside food into the stadium, so that gives fans an additional option. Consider bringing your drink to save some money, and then grab a hot dog, and sit back and watch Blue Hens soccer. Atmosphere 3 The Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium is a pretty basic setup with a simple grandstand running down one side of the field. There is no seating elsewhere, although there are some spots for standing and watching the action. The grandstand has a simple press box at the top part of the seating. The press box does impede the view of the scoreboard if sitting on the south part of the seating area. There really should be an additional scoreboard at the south end of the field. The stadium is also used as a track and field stadium so the seating area is not as close to the pitch as you may see at other soccer fields. Neighborhood 3 Newark (pronounced here as New-Ark) is a great college town. Numerous food options on East Main Street will fill you up before or after a game. Popular options are Finn McCool’s Irish Pub and Grotto Pizza. Parking on East Main Street is always a bit of a problem. There are many public lots, but note that they may be behind buildings and hard to find. Many restaurants offer validation for the public lots. If you do not want to fight for parking, head the opposite way from downtown Newark and towards the gigantic Christiana Mall area. Right before getting there is Border Cafe, designated only with a large “EAT” sign. Their large and varied menu offers great Tex-Mex & Cajun options at a pretty cheap price. Try the catfish fajitas with a side of jambalaya. Numerous dining and lodging options are prevalent around the Christiana Mall area, although if in search of lodging, one should look at the Embassy Suites located across from the baseball stadium. Around the corner from the stadium, behind Rust Arena , is the campus-run UDairy Creamery. Stopping for a pre or post-game ice cream cone is a must. Fans 4 As with most college soccer stadiums in this part of the country, 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. The fans are very knowledgeable and can be quite loud. Student attendance at games will always be an issue as the stadium is located far from the student housing options on campus. Access 5 Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium is easy to reach and is only a couple miles off of Interstate 95. You may have to pay some tolls, although locals will know how to avoid them as much as possible. Parking is conveniently available in a lot right next to the stadium, off Sincock Lane. If that fills up, fans can park on the street along Sincock or in lots on the other side of the Bob Carpenter Center. Return on Investment 5 The games are free to attend, and parking is free. The seats are close to the action, and the view of the field is nice, so a fan is well-rewarded for attending a game here. Extras 2 Although physical programs are temporarily unavailable to minimize touch surfaces during the COVID-19 pandemic, fans can access them on their smartphones by scanning a QR code at the entrance. The switch to virtual programs has been seen across college sports, and one wonders if it will become a permanent change to save on costs. The UDairy Creamery, located within walking distance of the athletic facilities, always deserves an extra mention. This student-focused operation is part of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and offers great, fresh ice cream choices. Final Thoughts Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium is a simple soccer stadium that offers a good level of soccer games at no cost. If you enjoy soccer, attending a match here is a no-brainer.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Simmons Field 616 Heindel Ave Celina, OH 45822 Lima Locos website Simmons Field website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 500 Going Loco for Baseball in Lima Click here for Simmons Field , home of the Kenosha Kingfish The Lima Locos are charter members of the Great Lakes League, beginning as the Blues before adopting its current name in 1988. Since that time, the ball club has captured 5 championship titles and appeared in 6 championship series. The club has cemented itself among the best in the league and offers a rich tradition of history. The Locos began to play at Simmons Field in 2008, a 500-seat venue located south of the Ottawa River and offering a small grandstand, concession stand, and a party suite down the third base foul line. There is even a train car that resides in the stadium for tours. It was renovated for the arrival of the club, including a new infield grass and dirt, fences moved back, blacktop put down behind the bleachers, crushed stone added to the warning track and new lights. The ballpark was built in 1960 and is named after Al Simmons, a longtime American Legion coach who helped raise $15,000 to buy and install lights. The field fell into disrepair with dandelions littered across the infield, tall outfield grass, and old tires and other assorted junk behind the backstop. That is what the field looked like before the construction of the grandstands. Food & Beverage 3 A giant grill sits next to the concession window and features locally-made grilled brats, hot dogs, and burgers. Fans order them at the window and are given a bun, which they take to the grilling area for their desired meat selection. A new twist on food service at the ball game. Other items on the menu include pizza slices, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, and candy. Pepsi and Budweiser products are available, and this might be the first ballpark where soda and beer are of equal value at $3. Atmosphere 3 Simmons Field has the appearance and characteristics of a local Little League complex. It is small and displays a bit cranky, but full of baseball-loving people. The main entrance is a small shed painted orange with a garage door that opens up to the ticket booth and merchandise table. In one corner are a collection of championship photos, memorabilia of past teams, and a rusted street sign of the former ballpark Industry Park. There are eight rows of seats in the grandstands, which are constructed from cement blocks and metal. There are three of them that wrap around the backstop fencing. A wooden leaderboard displays the league standings and multi-colored flags displaying the Lima Locos name. They are bleachers that have some wear and tear on them and could use wrapping to cover up the open space–one that can feature photos and the history of the Locos club. Down the left field line is a train cart on display, and added in 2021 along with a party suite area that provides additional seating for the game. The train is usually open for a look inside but was closed during our visit to the game. The press box sits atop the concession stand and features a slim window looking onto the natural grass field. The attention is mainly on the game on hand, with fans wearing the colors blue and orange. There are not a lot of promotions, loud announcements, or typical minor-league antics at the game. A small, comfortable baseball atmosphere that seems about right here in Lima. Neighborhood 2 Lima, Ohio, has a population of 35,000 plus residents and is located off I-75–about an equal distance between Toledo and Dayton (75 miles each). There are several local restaurants to visit in town, including Kewpee Hamburger which has been in existence since 1928, and one newer, Happy Daz Burger. They are cheap eats and ideal with the kids. A few more places to dine include Beer Barrel Pizza and Grill (home to its style of pizza), Milano Cafe (Italian cuisine), Old City Prime (steaks, seafood, and chops), and Outskirts Brew Co. and Dive (microbrewery). Fans 4 Lima draws well and will even travel to see their Locos on the road for championship games. The stands are full of fans young, who wear team jerseys, t-shirts, and caps. The grandstand and additional tables and seating are full at the first pitch, and much of the attention is on the field. This baseball-savvy audience has been used to quality baseball for some time. Access 3 There is parking in a lot and on the street. The stadium is located in a mixed residential and business area a few miles from the interstate exit. The parking lot is ample, but oversized crowds might force people to park elsewhere. The main entrance near the concession stand is busiest during games. Return on Investment 3 The price of an adult ticket is $5, while children and seniors pay $3. The parking is free, and burgers, hot dogs, brats, beers, and soda are all $3. The price of soda might be the only expensive item at the concession stand, while a can of Bud or Bud Light is inexpensive at $3. Merchandise was limited and almost out of stock due to the time of year. Extras 3 The ballpark collects a few additional points for locally made hot dogs, brats, and burgers. They earn another point for the wooden standing board and collection of team photos and memorabilia. A third point is for the single train that stands on a set of railroad tracks on the 3rd base side of the ballpark Final Thoughts Simmons Field is not a perfect ballpark and could use a few more touches to enhance its image. However, it’s ideal for the Great Lakes League, which utilizes stadiums around 500-600 in size to provide an atmosphere that should be most welcoming to many who are fans of the game. Fan support, affordable tickets, and friendly staff are all major points. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Schottland Tennis Center Athey Park 108 Gibson Ave. Chestertown, MD 21620 Washington College Shoremen and Shorewomen website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 250 Tennis On The Shore Washington College is a college in Chestertown, Maryland which was granted its charter in 1782. It is the 10th oldest college in the United States and one of the few to have received support from George Washington to honor him. The original desire was to have this college as the Eastern Shore Campus of a public “University of Maryland” with Annapolis’ St. John’s College the Western Shore counterpart. That obviously did not happen. Each year, Washington College awards the nation’s largest undergraduate literary prize. Since 1968, the Sophie Kerr Prize has been presented to one graduating senior who demonstrates the greatest literary promise. Washington has had sports since the 1800s, with the baseball team dating back to the 1870s, likely the oldest team on campus. Men’s teams are known as the Shoremen; women’s teams are known as the Shorewomen. The Schottland Tennis Center is a nice, but fairly simple facility. Eight courts surround the center’s building. The building has locker rooms, offices, and meeting spaces. Washington College has two national tennis championships to their credit. Food & Beverage 0 There is not a permanent food stand or any other options for sale at the tennis center. Atmosphere 2 This is a very good tennis facility, but like many tennis venues it has a simple, quiet atmosphere. Neighborhood 4 Chestertown is a town and county seat of around 5,000 in Kent County, Maryland, and is located on what is known as Maryland’s Eastern Shore. It is 1.5 hours from Baltimore and Philadelphia. The nearby downtown district of Chestertown is full of history and sites for visitors, along with some nice shopping and dining. BAD Alfred’s Distilling, the Evergrain Bread Company, and Play It Again Sam are good spots for dining. Check out the High Street Town Dock and see if there are any charter boat trips through companies such as the Chester River Packet Company. Wilmer Park and the nearby area around the Hodson Boathouse at Washington College makes for some nice waterside walking on a nice day. Fans 3 There is a pretty good group of fans who attend tennis matches here at Schottland. I would imagine most of the crowd is family and friends of the players. Access 3 The actual town of Chestertown is not an issue getting around and accessing, but the problem is how isolated from major urban areas the town and college is. You will have to go way out of your way to visit Washington College. There may also not be much parking on campus as it is a historic campus and if there are many events going on, the available spots could be hard to find. Leave yourself plenty of time to find a good spot. The North Commons area may be a good place to start, but make sure to follow parking guidelines, especially for weekday events during regular school semesters. Return on Investment 5 Matches are free, so the value is very good. Extras 1 Not many extras, but the list of championships and past players is a nice thing to see. Final Thoughts This is a simple facility, but if you want to see some good tennis action, the Schottland Tennis Center is a good stop for any sports fan.

Photo Courtesy of Staten Island FerryHawks Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.43 Staten Island University Hospital Community Park 75 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, NY 10301 Wagner Seahawks website Staten Island University Hospital Community Park website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 7,171 Wait Til Summer It is impossible to oversell the view of the Manhattan skyline from Richmond County Bank Ballpark, home of the Staten Island Yankees and Wagner College Seahawks. Located on New York Harbor at the mouth of the Hudson River, the stadium’s waterfront location makes the stadium an idyllic location to catch a ballgame on a warm summer night. The Staten Island Ferry terminal is adjacent to the ballpark, and fans can enjoy an unforgettable 25-minute boat ride, passing the Statue of Liberty with a full view of the Freedom Tower and the rest of lower Manhattan. Wagner College sits three miles from the park, boasting its own stunning view from its hilltop campus. The school’s baseball team plays its home games at RCB Ballpark. Though the baseball program is hardly a powerhouse, it boasts one notable Major League alum in the form of 2009 AL Rookie of the Year and two-time All Star Andrew Bailey. No review of the Wagner College baseball experience at RCB Ballpark would be complete without the disclaimer that this stadium’s primary tenant is the Staten Island Yankees, a short-season Single A affiliate of its namesake franchise whose schedule does not overlap with that of the Wagner squad. The majority of the stadium’s amenities, and even basic functions, were not in use on the day of this visit, a doubleheader comprising Wagner’s second and third home games of the 2015 schedule (originally scheduled as its sixth and seventh home games, as the first four contests were snowed out). Furthermore, it appeared no maintenance other than possibly playing surface upkeep had occurred since the past season. Note: In 2022, the stadium's name changed from Richmond County Bank Ballpark to Staten Island University Hospital Community Park. Food & Beverage 0 The stadium’s water had not yet been turned on for the season during our March visit and none of the stadium’s several concession stands were open. This was a strictly Bring Your Own Everything experience. Atmosphere 2 The beauty of the view from this ballpark cannot be overstated. It is an absolutely remarkable backdrop for any game. The view alone makes this an essential ballpark for any baseball or photography enthusiast, but it is the only thing that gives Wagner baseball an atmosphere. There is some history to the park, as photographs of New York Yankee players, most notably Robinson Cano and Brett Gardner, who both came through the Staten Island team, adorn the concourses. A Baseball Scouts “Wall of Fame” appears on the third base concourse, though it has not been updated since 2006. Just for good measure, photos of Babe Ruth (never part of the Yankee farm system) and other Yankee greats are also displayed on the concourse. None of these, however, pertain to Wagner. Aside from the players on the field, only a miniature video panel on the right field wall (showing a photo of the batter, along with his number and position) lets you know what team you are watching. The main video board was never turned on during my most recent visit, and the scoreboard displayed only the essential information, not even showing the names of either team. The PA announcer and walk-up music are played at too loud a volume for the small amount of people at the game. The stadium has three staircases to the upstairs suite level, two of which had locked gates at the top. The middle staircase was open, presumably to allow the PA announcer and any other necessary personnel into the press box. Though the lights were off on the upper concourse and each suite was empty, they were all unlocked and anyone could hang out in them and enjoy the view from a higher elevation if they were so inclined, but nobody did. Random baseballs and other objects could be found by strolling through the stands, and it was clear that the park had not been used much, if at all, since the previous season. Neighborhood 3 This neighborhood was not built for entertainment. Across the street from the ballpark stands a police station and a court house. There is a single deli nearby, but other than that, the best food and beverage options are a five minute walk away inside the Staten Island Ferry terminal, which contains a large sports bar, a Subway restaurant and a few other small snack shops. All this said, the Staten Island Ferry gives you a free 25-minute ride to Manhattan, where three subway lines run right by the Manhattan end of the ferry. If you made it to RCB Ballpark, you can find entertainment after the game. Beyond the left field foul pole is a small playground, and a walking path runs between the stadium and the waterfront. Staten Island’s September 11th Memorial, honoring the island’s residents lost that day, is just beyond left field. Fans 1 This is pretty clearly a crowd of friends and family, but not very many of either. The stands are almost completely empty and hardly anyone is paying attention to the game aside from the players themselves, who outnumber the spectators. A few people strolled in and out of the stadium, likely curious tourists who wandered over from the Ferry terminal (the Staten Island Ferry is a mandatory experience for tourists and can have up to a 30-minute turnaround time on weekends). Aside from two individuals at the gate handing out “tickets” (really just ticket-shaped pieces of paper with the Yankees logo and nothing else on them), there was no security for the game and spectators were spotted smoking cigars, drinking 24-ounce beers, and spitting tobacco onto the stadium’s cement floor. Nobody even bothered to track down foul balls in the stands, likely because nobody appeared to be younger than college age. Even then, few attendees appeared to be Wagner students. Access 2 The Staten Island Ferry delivers passengers from Manhattan almost directly to the ballpark, and Staten Island’s one subway line also ends at the ferry station. Inside the ferry terminal, there are signs directing visitors to the park and the walk from the ferry terminal to the park takes just over five minutes. There is no parking to speak of (the gate attendant said he did not know if there was a parking lot), and the lot just past the left field line was full of large pieces of metal machinery, leaving no empty spots. The stadium is wheelchair accessible via ramps outside, and the majority of the concourse (save for part of the first base line) is in direct view of the field. The elevators were out of service, as were the bathrooms (again, no running water). If anyone had to use the bathroom, they would have likely had to try the police station or use the facilities in the ferry terminal. One men’s room was left open, though it appeared as if nobody had been inside since the previous season and there were leaves all over the floor. Return on Investment 1 You simply do not see a view like this every day, and the game was free to attend, but the Wagner baseball experience is pretty bare bones. There is a baseball game, a bunch of seating, and that’s about it. Strangely, paying to go to RCB Ballpark would have been preferable, as attending a Staten Island Yankees game with the stadium fully-functional would have been a much more fulfilling experience. Extras 1 Again, the view is absolutely stunning. Other than that, however, the experience feels like going to a beach house in the winter. All the ingredients of a fun experience exist, it’s just not the right time of year and it feels like you might be trespassing. Due to the location and backdrop, this is a must-do park for baseball fans and stadium chasers, but if you are not related to a Wagner player or opponent, there is no reason not to wait a few months and go to a Staten Island Yankees game in warmer weather. You truly get what you pay for at RCB Ballpark.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 State Farm Arena 100 Techwood Dr. NW Atlanta, GA 30303 Atlanta Dream website State Farm Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 18,118 Atlanta Returns to its Dream Home Editors Note: In 2021, the Atlanta Dream moved into the brand-new Gateway Center Atlanta Arena in College Park, GA. --- Atlanta is a city built on dreaming big. This has resulted in its winning the bid for the 1996 Olympic Games and the construction of two new stadiums, SunTrust Park and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, in the last three years. More importantly, it is the hometown of Martin Luther King, Jr., a civil rights icon most famous for his “I Have a Dream” speech. The WNBA franchise Atlanta Dream also fits this category, as it is the only WNBA team, owned, managed and coached by women. The Dream have been very successful since their inception in 2008, as they have participated in the playoffs seven times. They have also appeared in the WNBA Finals three times. The 2019 season marks return of the Atlanta Dream to its home court after a two-year absence. The team played the 2017 and 2018 seasons at Georgia Tech’s McCamish Pavilion while Philips Arena underwent a $200 million renovation. The clearest evidence of that renovation is the team’s home court in the newly renamed State Farm Arena. The only elements retained from its former existence as Philips Arena are external… the iconic steel support beams spelling out “ATLANTA.” Food & Beverage 3 The concessions area has been totally overhauled during the renovation, not only in a physical sense, but also in its approach to serving the fans. The arena has adopted the very popular Fans First concessions policy pioneered by its next-door neighbor, Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Prices for the most popular fan favorite food items have been reduced dramatically. Samples of the prices include $1 chips; $2 candy, pretzels and bottled water: $3 hot dogs, nachos and fries: $4 pizzas, popcorn and sodas and $5 domestic beers. The arena has also adopted the efficiencies used at Mercedes-Benz to keep the lines moving. These include a 71% increase in points of sale over Philips Arena, 40% more beer taps, and items are sold in even dollar amounts to reduce time required to make change. Drinks are provided at self-service stations away from the counters, to reduce lines. All concession stations also look out over the seating bowl via the open concept concourse. There are several new food vendors from Atlanta’s most popular restaurants scattered throughout the arena. Unfortunately, only the basic generic concession stands are available at the Dream games. Atmosphere 3 Anyone walking into State Farm Arena expecting to see the same place they saw two years ago is in for a big shock. The arena is very much the home of the Hawks and the Dream, but it has taken on a whole new attitude and atmosphere. Gone are the wall of suites that once consumed half of the seating of the arena. Taking its place are additional seating for the everyday fan, along with some new game day experiences. The demolition of the wall of suites allows the concourse to run 360 degrees around the seating bowl for the first time since the building opened in 1999. The concourse also has been opened up to allow the fans to see the action from the moment they step into the building. The basketball capacity of the arena has been reduced with the extra space being set aside to provide more amenities and a better fan experience. The concourse is now laid out in several distinct “neighborhoods.” They include the Front Porch, which provides a panoramic view of the arena and new video board. The next two neighborhoods are all about the food. The Market provides a food hall filled with a variety of food vendors from Atlanta’s best restaurants on the concourse level. Two additional neighborhoods of interest are the Players Club, a private club located just behind the players bench. It is built underneath the seating bowl and provides club members with views into the players entry tunnel and the post game interview area. The technological improvements in the arena are stunning. Replacing the old scoreboard is the first continuous 360-degree video board in the WNBA. In addition, video boards have been added in each of the four corners of the facility, assuring every fan a clear view of replays and other important information about the team and upcoming events. As Atlanta’s primary indoor concert venue, the sound system is crystal clear and state of the art. The Dream’s goal is to make State Farm Arena a more open and friendlier environment for its fans. It also offers a more intimate setting for games, as the team utilizes only the lower level of the arena, so that no seats are further from the court than the concourse level. While these are all major improvements in the fan experience, there is little or no branding for the Dream, except for the playing floor, the electronic signage and the video board over the court. There are two temporary team gear booths along the concourse. The Atlanta Hawks branding is quite apparent during their co-tenants’ games, which does bring the experience score down a point. Neighborhood 4 Just as the “neighborhood” inside the arena has changed greatly, so has the neighborhood outside the area. The Georgia Dome was imploded and replaced by a park/greenspace area known as the Home Depot Backyard, which serves as tailgate central for the Atlanta Falcons as well as community events. The Mercedes-Benz Stadium is now in its third year of wowing fans with its futuristic design and technology. Big changes are also planned for the area immediately in front of the State Farm Arena. A live/work/play development is in the planning stages and would fill the space that formerly housed an industrial area. Not everything in the neighborhood has changed. The arena still has a gate that provides direct entry into the CNN Center, with its very popular studio tours and restaurant complex. Just another block over is Centennial Olympic Park, home to several of Atlanta’s top attractions, including the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, the Center for Human and Civil Rights and the College Football Hall of Fame. Two restaurants to check out within walking distance of State Farm Arena are STATS and Taco Mac. There are a wide variety of hotels to choose from, as the Atlanta’s convention center is located next door to the arena. Like the ads say…”like a good neighbor, State Farm Arena is there.” Fans 3 The Dream are the first to admit that the team is currently in a rebuilding mode. This has been tough on the fans who are used to seeing the team go deep into the playoffs on a frequent basis. Attendance has been down for the last few seasons, but the renovation of the arena has brought new interest and energy to the franchise. The mix of some well-known veterans with some young players with great potential has fans coming back to check the team out. Despite Atlanta’s reputation as a “bad sports town,” the locals have proven very loyal in their support of the local professional teams through thick and thin. They have seen the Falcons and the Braves rebuild and return to the playoffs and look forward to the same thing happening with the Dream. The new amenities at State Farm Arena have created a buzz in the local sports community similar to the openings of SunTrust Park and Mercedes-Benz Stadium . Access 4 Getting to State Farm Arena can be a headache due to Atlanta’s well-known traffic issues. The WAZE app is an excellent way to determine what route will work the best from your location and help you avoid any construction areas or accidents. There is plenty of parking near the arena, but your easiest and most cost-efficient way of getting to the game is by riding the MARTA light rail system. The MARTA rail system has a station (GWCC / State Farm Arena / CNN ) on its east/west line that will deliver you within feet of the arena. MARTA charges a flat fee, no matter how far you travel on the system and is a great bargain, as you avoid parking charges and traffic hassles. Once inside the arena, you will find a totally open concourse looking out over the seating bowl and the basketball court. For the first time ever, the concourse goes 360 degrees around the arena, as the wall of suites/private access area no longer exists. The seating bowl also provides much broader aisles than in its previous incarnation. The concession stands and other amenities are more accessible throughout the facility. Return on Investment 4 The Fan Friendly concessions program featured by State Farm Arena is definitely a trend setter in the sports venue community. Ticket prices are $60 on the sides of the court and $35 for seats in the end zones, and the seating configuration is a great improvement over Philips Arena. The availability of public transportation just feet from the arena entrance brings transportation costs down to $5 a person/round trip, saving you time and money getting to the game. Extras 3 The arena name change is a result of the expiration of a title sponsor agreement with Philips Electronics. Philips is no longer involved in the direct consumer sales market and decided not to renew for this reason. State Farm has an extremely large presence in Atlanta with more than 6,000 employees in the area. The various “neighborhoods” within State Farm Arena have food court-type seating areas adjacent to the food vendors sites. These open seating areas have an open view of the court below and allows you to enjoy your food without having to balance it in your lap. The $200 million price tag on the arena renovation is the second most expensive in NBA history. The most expensive renovation was Madison Square Garden, home of the New York Knicks. That renovation cost $1 billion and took three years to complete. Final Thoughts The Atlanta Dream and State Farm Arena are the latest venue to join in Atlanta’s flurry of new stadium/arena construction. While the exterior of the original structure still stands, the interior has been gutted and rebuilt into a state-of-the-art sports facility for the 21st century. Visitors to the former Philips Arena will be amazed and thrilled by the transformation.

Photos by Dennis Morrell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Cable Dahmer Arena 19100 E Valley View Pkwy Independence, MO 64055 Kansas City Mavericks website Cable Dahmer Arena website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 5,800 Pro Hockey in Western Missouri Cable Dahmer Arena is the current home of the KC Mavericks, the premier ECHL team in Kansas City. It was built in 2009 in Independence, Mo to serve as the home and front office of the Mavericks as well as the KC Comets of the Major Arena Soccer League. It hosts more than just sporting events, as concerts, festivals, and trade shows are held here as well. The Mavericks organization was founded in 2009 as the Missouri Mavericks of the CHL. They got off to a strong start in the league, qualifying for the playoffs and making it past the first round for their first 5 years. In 2014, the team transitioned to the ECHL, where they made the postseason in the 2015-16 and 2018-19 seasons. The city of Independence has a few notable historical distinctions. It was known as the “Queen City of the Trails” since it was the start of the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails. Independence was also the hometown of US President Harry S. Truman, and the Truman Presidential Library and Museum is in the city. Food & Beverage 4 Cable Dahmer Arena offers a nice selection of concession options with a few unique items worth trying. The typical cheeseburgers ($13), hot dogs ($5), and nachos ($6) are all available along with Bavarian Pretzels ($7) and grilled chicken ($13) at the main concession stands. Pie Five Pizza Company has two locations in the arena that serve up fresh pizza ($7 per slice), souvenir sodas ($8) and hot cocoa ($4). Scattered around the outer concourse, you’ll find several Dippin’ Dots and Bavarian Pretzel stands. The most unique offerings come from The Chocolate Fountain, where you could get chocolate coated cheesecake ($7), bananas ($6), marshmallows ($3), pretzels ($3) and Rice Krispies ($3). Alcohol is available at Biergarten, Jack Daniels and the main concessions. Pepsi and Coke Products are available inside the arena. Prices are a bit higher than other sporting events, but The Chocolate Fountain is a nice touch, and you should be able to find something to eat if you get hungry during the game. Atmosphere 4 The arena is built like most hockey stadiums, with 20 minor seating bowls surrounding the edge of the rink. VIP and box seating is located above the general admission area on the second floor. Concessions are dotted around the fringe of the arena with some vendors selling soda and cotton candy among the bleachers. The interior features of the arena feel more modern than other minor league rinks with a sleeker look that resembles newer NHL arenas. You can see all the action on the ice from any point, so you won’t need to fret over seating locations. The score is displayed on jumbotrons above each goal. The screens also show replays, player closeups and promotions. They are a nice touch over a traditional scoreboard and add to the overall experience. Music is played in between the action but is cut out once play begins. The mascot, Mac, is usually in the stands engaging with fans or making noise with his drum. When the Mavericks score a goal, all the lights are turned off and loud train whistles are played, along with strobe lights. All the extra effects are a nice touch that make the game more exciting without getting in the way of the action. A Mavericks game feels like a smaller version of what you would find in the NHL and a step above most minor league venues. If you’re looking for a professional hockey experience, Cable Dahmer Arena has you covered. Neighborhood 4 The arena is in Independence, Mo and is situated near Independence Commons, a shopping center that has an AMC theater and some major retailers. The Kansas City Symphony at Union Station in only a few miles away and features world class performances. It is 15 minutes away from Arrowhead Stadium and less than 10 from Coco Waterpark and Cool Crest Family Fun Center if you want more to do on your visit. There are several chain restaurants nearby along with some local eateries like Salvatore’s and V’s Italiano Restaurante. Independence is mostly known as the home of the United States 33rd President, Harry Truman. There are several museums and sites honoring this President in the city that are very worthwhile checking out when in town. If time permits, do visit the Harry Truman Library & Museum. There is a #33 Truman banner hanging from the rafters at the arena – nicely done in honor of this US President. Independence has plenty of things to do outside of the KC Mavericks and if you’re still looking for more, you can always take a short drive to Kansas City. Fans 3 Attendance has been significantly lower this year due to the pandemic, but the fans present were still loud and energetic. Most sport a jersey along with team gear and many stayed till the final seconds. There may not be a lot of fans, but the ones that do show up care about the team and are engaged with what is happening on the ice. Access 4 The rink is less than one mile from the nearest I-70 exit and a 45-minute drive from KCI airport and public transport is available. Parking is free and the lots directly surround the building. Four restrooms are on the first floor, located at each corner of the arena. There is handicapped access to restrooms and exclusive seating area. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices for the lower seating area range from $12-$65 depending on the section. Premium access cost varies depending on the event, but usually ranges around $150-$350 for suites. Parking is free but concession costs are a bit high. This is about average for the ECHL. Extras 3 There are nightly promotions and there is usually something for the kids, like Chuck-a -Puck or small contests during intermission periods. There is a raffle where you can win signed jerseys and other player gear. There are a few nice extras, but they aren’t going to bring you to the game. Final Thoughts Cable Dahmer offers an above average experience for the ECHL. The arena feels sleek and new and has nice selections available at the concessions. Independence also has plenty to do after the game and is close to Kansas City if it’s not enough. If you’re looking for an NHL experience on a budget, a Mavericks game is well worth it.

Photos by Connor Comeau, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Stewart Stadium 3870 Stadium Way Ogden, UT 84403 Weber State Wildcats website Stewart Stadium website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 17,500 Wildcats of the Wasatch When you think of College Football in Utah, it’s very normal to think of the big FBS Schools first, such as BYU , Utah and Utah State . But nestled against the Wasatch Mountains between Salt Lake and Logan lies an FCS school that has enjoyed unparalleled success in recent years – the Weber State Wildcats. Being a member of the Big Sky Conference since 1963, the Wildcats have been to the FCS Playoffs five times since 2016, with a semifinals appearance in 2019. That success has been a boon for Weber State, and it’s lead to an increase in attendance at its home field, Stewart Stadium. Food & Beverage 4 One of the things Weber State does well is having local food trucks on hand at both ends of the stadium. Food choices range from Hot Dogs, Burgers, and Pizza to desserts like Churros and Snow Cones (depending on the time of year). This gives the feel of a normal college town and it’s great to see schools like Weber State help support local businesses, as they can be essential to college towns as a whole. The prices for these concessions aren’t all that different from what you would pay at a professional sporting event, and there are combos available as well that can help save money, such as Hot Dog Combos ($8) and Popcorn Combos ($7) to name a few. And all the food is cooked on-site, meaning the quality is very high and you get it fresh. Atmosphere 4 When it comes to the atmosphere at the game, it does have a family-friendly feel, which is normal for a lot of college towns. But here, it feels a lot more intimate due to the way Weber State is situated in the college football landscape. Location-wise, Stewart Stadium is nestled right against the Wasatch Mountains of northern Utah, which is a great backdrop during late summer and early fall, but even more so during the winter months with a fresh coating of snow. The stadium has recently undergone renovations, including the addition of a brand new entrance and ticket will call on the north end of the stadium, along with a new Strength and Conditioning Complex and plaza for guests. Stewart Stadium Conditioning Center & Ticket Will Call, Photo by Connor Comeau, Stadium Journey The West end of the stadium features the Sky Suites and Press Box section. Completed in 2001, this building houses 26 Suites featuring club seating and is only used by season ticket holders. The main seats in the stadium are bleacher seats, so be sure to bring something comfortable to sit on, especially during the winter months. Neighborhood 5 The stadium itself has many redeeming qualities, but one of its biggest is its location and views. The stadium is located on the eastern end of the campus, which overlooks both the campus and the city of Ogden and the surrounding valley. Getting around campus is easy, as there are many walking paths and tons of signage to help point you in the right direction. Not to mention that the stadium is located along the Wasatch Mountains, meaning it’s a haven for any outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also not far from many well-known places in Ogden, including Historic 25th Street , home to numerous shops and restaurants. Two recommended places to eat are Slackwater Pizzeria and Roosters Brewing, both of which have high reviews from locals. The football stadium is also close to Lindquist Field , home of the Ogden Raptors Baseball team. You’re close to outdoor areas where you can bike and hike during the summer, and ski and snowboard during the winter. Stewart Stadium Wasatch Mountains, Photo by Connor Comeau, Stadium Journey Fans 4 With Weber State being in the FCS, it doesn’t get as much attention as it should. But that doesn’t stop the fans and alumni from coming out, either rain, snow, or sunshine. Weber State has some of the most passionate fans in the FCS and they travel well, even when the Wildcats are out of state. When you’re there, it’s hard to miss the sea of purple and black that fills the stadium. And don’t let the small size of the stadium fool you. When it’s clutch time, the stadium gets loud. Very loud. Weber State may not have the stature of a big-name school, but don’t let the fans and alumni say that. Access 4 The city of Ogden is located directly off of I-15, meaning the city itself is fairly easy to get to. You will have to traverse some residential areas to get to the campus itself, but it’s not that difficult to find. You can get to the campus either by Interstate 15 or U.S. Highway 89, which cuts through the heart of the city. For parking, there are numerous areas to park in and around the stadium and campus, and parking areas are clearly marked on game day. If you’re taking public transit, there are four bus routes the Utah Transit Authority operates between Salt Lake City and Ogden. UTA also operates the FrontRunner commuter train, which runs between Ogden and Provo, and runs every 30 minutes. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are very cheap for Weber State Football, and there is no bad seat in the stadium. Most ticket prices fall between $10 and $20, making it very affordable if you want to take your family to a game. Concession prices are also within the normal range, so it won’t feel like you are spending too much at a game. Extras 2 One point here for the Wildcats mascot, Waldo the Wildcat. He is definitely one of the more energetic college mascots I’ve seen and does a good job keeping the crowd in the game. He seems very approachable and family-friendly as well. Another point for the location. With the stadium so close to outdoor recreation areas, it is a good school for anyone looking to take part in outdoor activities either while visiting or not in class. Final Thoughts Although not a big FBS school, visiting a Weber State football game and the town of Ogden in the fall and winter is an affordable family-friendly experience. Enjoy the spectacular view of the Wasatch Mountains and all the outdoor activities it provides when in town.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Meares Stadium 220 Cascade St Mars Hill, NC 28754 Mars Hill Lions website Meares Stadium website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 5,000 D2’s Mars Hill Lions Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ammons Family Athletic Center & Meares Stadium was constructed in 1965 and most recently upgraded in 2020, when new turf and new lights were installed. Prior to that in 2007, a new press box, permanent visitors stands, and updated main stands were introduced. Meares Stadium is named after Carl Whittier Meares, an alumnus, trustee, and benefactor at Mars Hill, as well as a legislator and businessperson in the local community. The stadium currently seats 5,000 and the Mars Hill Lions currently compete in the South Atlantic Conference of the NCAA’s Division II football program. Food & Beverage 4 Meares Stadium has a fixed concessions stand behind the southwest end zone (near the main entrance) which features Bojangles chicken sandwiches, nachos, pizza, and popcorn/chips/candy for $2 to $5, plus drinks for $3 (bottled soda or water plus hot cocoa/cappuccino). But a much wider selection can be found at the Southern Cross food truck behind the northeast end zone, including soup and cornbread, burgers, hot dogs, fried bologna sandwiches, fried potatoes, fried pickles, French fries, and even banana pudding – the prices at Southern Cross are higher than at the main stand, but the portion sizes are much bigger as well – I recommend Southern Cross over the main stand, as the Bojangles chicken sandwiches tend to be a little dry after being stored in a hotbox for a couple hours. Meares Stadium Concessions, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 3 Meares Stadium has a solid atmosphere – though not a big facility it does have a modern press box and relatively new grandstands, and you are free to sit wherever you want, and can walk all the way around the facility if you want, to see the action up close as the game progresses. In fact, you can stand just a few feet away from the players as the team enters and exits the field. Mars Hill also has a mascot who walks around during the game (although oddly he seems to depart at the end of the third quarter), and a cheer squad complete with flags that they run across the field after scores, but no marching band. Also the scoreboard is not a videoboard, so you are not able to watch replays. On the plus side the PA announcer plays great music throughout the game, including dance songs and hits from my second-favorite band Bowling for Soup, which I haven’t ever heard played at other stadiums. Neighborhood 4 Mars Hill is a small town, but not far from I-26 so there are plenty of restaurants, hotels, etc. in the area, and it isn’t hard to go up the freeway an exit or two to find more if you need something specific. A few local favorites in the restaurant category include Wagon Wheel, Stackhouse, and Original Papa Nick’s Take Out, while not far from campus is a Comfort Inn if you plan to stay the night. The obvious tourist attraction around here is of course the Blue Ridge Mountains, with plenty of hiking and driving trails, including a few nice waterfalls, and of course if you want to drive 20 miles south into Asheville you can visit Biltmore. Fans 3 Meares Stadium has a solid fanbase, and you can see plenty of blue being worn at the venue – gear is sold from a stand behind the southwest end zone if you need to pick up something. The visitor stands are a little less populated, but that is probably because the seats on the main side are a bit nicer, and the tickets don’t have any specific section assigned so you can sit wherever you want – in fact plenty of fans just stand behind the southwest end zone and watch from there. While the stands are by no means full, the crowd is polite and respectful, and there is a good amount of crowd noise during big plays. Access 4 It would be hard to find a venue which is easier to get in and out of than Meares Stadium – the only potential drawback is you might have to walk down a small hill to get to the stadium, as a lot of the free parking sits above the stadium (or you can walk along the road, but down the hill is the direct route). A lot of fans just park along a winding road south of the stadium, but since you can park there for free it is hard to complain. Also there is very little traffic in the area, which is another plus. Once you get into the stadium itself there is plenty of room to move around and very short lines at the concessions, especially if you walk across to Southern Cross, which has no line at times. The only bathrooms are near the main gate, however, so be aware of that. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Mars Hill football are $15 – they only accept cash at the door, but you can buy online by purchasing in advance or by using your phone to scan a QR code, which is posted on a sign as you walk up to the main gate. A visit here is definitely well worth the price given the beautiful setting, ease of access, free parking, and low-cost concessions options. Extras 3 One cool tradition at Mars Hill football is the small mountain lion statue behind the southwest end zone, which the players touch for luck as they go onto the field – you are welcome to touch it yourself or take a selfie with it, something you can’t do at larger stadiums. Touching the Lion, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey

Photos by Harrison Huntley, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Brooks Field Riegel Rd Wilmington, NC 28403 UNC Wilmington Seahawks website Brooks Field website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 3,000 UNCW's Diamond Hawks Brooks Field brings along an interesting story. Home to the UNCW Seahawks since its opening in 1957, it has also hosted two separate minor-league baseball teams. Two teams tried their hand at placing a team in North Carolina's port city, yet both were forced to fold shortly after their arrival due to the lack of a stadium. The Seahawks are the constant in all of this and they continue working on their goal to reach Omaha. While their stadium is fine for the previous standards, but to reach the level of a consistent contender, the overall stadium experience falls just a bit short. Food & Beverage 3 The park's concession stand is located behind the first base bleachers. The spread is pretty standard: pizza, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and other snacks. Coca-Cola sponsors the Seahawks and beverages can be purchased in 20 ounce cups. Most notably, there are three combo options that can really save you money. Be sure to take advantage of those if you buy concessions at the park. Atmosphere 3 UNCW games are a no-frills baseball experience with an absence of on-field activities and contests. The seats are either plastic seats or metal benches. The PA system has an echo on either side which gets a little troubling, but it's not too bad. Overall, there is nothing that really stands out from the experience. Neighborhood 4 While the campus may not be in downtown Wilmington, businesses, hotels, and restaurants have flocked to the area and created a college town neighborhood. One of my personal favorites is Two Guys Grille. Two Guys is a beach themed restaurant featuring American cuisine. Famous for their Philly Cheesesteaks, Two Guys offers salads, burgers, and other sandwiches. There are many more local and chain restaurants in the immediate neighborhood, and also in downtown Wilmington. The city is home to a lively downtown area with many shops and restaurants. Fans 3 Most of the fans are family and friends of the players and that is not at all a bad thing. It does, however, mean that they are much more controlled in their cheering. There are few traditions or chants to be heard. They know all the players by first name and are always supportive. Access 3 Finding the campus of UNCW couldn't be easier. Interstate 40 becomes College Road which runs right along campus. The problem is once you are on campus, you must navigate the maze of campus roads to find the stadium. Once at the stadium, there is ample parking along the intramural fields. Restrooms can be found below the press box behind home plate. They are a bit cramped, but accessible. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are $7 for reserved seating behind home plate and $5 for general admission elsewhere. If you must have a chair back, then opt for the $7 tickets. The general admission seats are metal benches and if that doesn't bother you, then you can save a couple of bucks. The food is reasonably priced (especially considering the combos) and parking is free, so no complaints there. Extras 2 The historical markers around the stadium present a nice nod to previous teams and the success they enjoyed. I give another point for the kindness of the staff. Everyone I talked with was very friendly and willing to help with anything I needed. Final Thoughts If you are simply a fan of the game and enjoy baseball without distractions, then this would be a good field to visit. The Seahawks continue to improve their on-field product and have begun to consistently reach the NCAA tournament. Hopefully in time, they will improve the fan experience. The current atmosphere is not a bad one by any means, but considering other programs in the state, it probably could be better.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Wilson Field 100 Stadium Spur Lexington, VA 24450 Washington & Lee Generals website Wilson Field website Year Opened: 1900 Capacity: 4,000 Generals in the House Wilson Field has been home to Washington & Lee athletics teams since it opened in 1900, but has been renovated multiple times since then, most recently in 2008. The stadium is named after William L. Wilson, the 10th president of the University, who passed away the same year the stadium opened. Parts of the stadium were funded by the Cadaver Society, a quasi-secret society on campus which is known for giving large amounts of money to the school, as well as using secret tunnels to travel from place to place around campus. Food & Beverage 2 Wilson Field has two concessions stands beneath the press box on the home side, but only one is open for most events. The menu is very limited, but the prices are low and they do offer free water, via plastic cups and a water dispenser next to the concessions window. The concessions menu includes hot dogs or pretzels for $5, chips, candy, or a cheese cup for $2, and drinks for $3 (Coke products, hot cocoa, and coffee). Atmosphere 2 Wilson Field has a track around the playing surface, with the press box and home stands on the west side, and a smaller set of stands on the east side for visitors – the total capacity is around 4,000. There is also a mostly static scoreboard (there is video in the center section which only displays team logos) behind the south end zone, and tailgating set up on the east side of the field instead of in the parking lots, so you can easily watch the game while you tailgate. Washington & Lee does have a cheerleading squad, but it was raining during my most recent visit, so the cheerleaders were not on the field due to safety concerns. Wilson Field Visitor Stands, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Because of the rain attendance was pretty sparse the last time I was there, but the Generals do get more of a crowd at Wilson Field for most games. Note that there are a few grey chairback seats in the top middle section of the home stands, and also on the visitors side, if you would rather sit in those than on the bleachers. Neighborhood 3 Lexington is a small, conservative college town in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, which Washington & Lee shares with the FCS’ Virginia Military Institute (the two schools abut each other, but depending on which way you drive in you may not even see the other schools’ buildings). The town only has a population of seven thousand, and is known by some as Lex Vegas. There are several restaurants near Washington & Lee’s campus – Bistro on Main is a great choice, with a menu that includes southern dishes such as gumbo or shrimp and grits, but also some farm-to-table type items. During the pandemic the restaurant limited its hours and still has not fully recovered in terms of capacity, so be sure to check its hours if you want to visit. Or if you happen to be a Star Trek fan (and who isn’t), check out Beameup BBQ & Café (the owner’s name is Scotty); this is a fantastic place to get a bite, but also has limited hours as they do a lot of catering – check their Facebook page to see what days they are open. Besides food, like much of the state Lexington is a hotbed for military history, and there are several attractions of this type in the area. First is the Stonewall Jackson House , where the famed Confederate general resided prior to the Civil War. You can also visit the gravesite of Robert E. Lee, inside University Chapel on Washington & Lee’s campus (Lee served as president of the school after the Civil War, after which time his name was added to Washington’s in the school’s name); the Virginia Museum of the Civil War is also nearby. Fans 2 As mentioned there were not very many fans in attendance on my most recent visit, due to the rain, but I was impressed by the number wearing Generals blue, and also by how many showed up at all in the cold, wet weather. Access 4 Wilson Field is easy to get to and easy to move around – not far from I-81 and I-64, you can park for free within a short walk of the stadium, either in a parking deck on the south side behind the tennis courts, or in surface lots to the northeast. There are plenty of bathrooms on the concourse, and even small tables with chairs which you can use to sit and eat while watching the game. Return on Investment 5 Attendance is free at Washington & Lee football games – tickets are not even sold. Adding in the free parking and low-cost concessions, this is as cheap a sporting event to take family or friends to as you will ever find. Extras 2 A plus for the military history in the area, and another plus for the beautiful scenery – the field is surrounded by lots of trees and plenty of greenery, so is a great place to get away from it all.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 V. Earl Dickinson Stadium Hanover Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Mary Washington Eagles website V. Earl Dickinson Stadium website Fly Like an Eagle Located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, the University of Mary Washington plays its baseball games at V. Earl Dickinson Stadium within the Battleground Athletic Complex. Located just off campus, the Battleground is home to several of the Eagles' athletic teams. In addition to baseball, there are facilities here for UMW's soccer , field hockey, lacrosse, track & field, and softball teams. Food & Beverage 0 According to the UMW website, there is a concession stand at V. Earl Dickinson Stadium, and there is a window behind home plate by the stairs to the seating area that could plausibly have one. However, the window was closed when Stadium Journey visited and it is unclear if it is ever open. Atmosphere 2 V. Earl Dickinson Stadium has several sections of bleacher seating, accessible via stairways and ramps through a brick exterior facade. All seats are behind netting but otherwise offer excellent views of the action. A scoreboard in the outfield shows a linescore and other basic information. A UMW baseball game is a pretty basic experience. Music is played during some breaks in the action, but is quiet and unintrusive. Most of the music is the standard ballpark background music, but the decision to play some pregame British sea chanteys over the PA system (on St. Patrick's Day, of all days) was certainly an interesting choice. Neighborhood 4 The Battleground Athletic Complex, of which V. Earl Dickinson Stadium is a part, is located just off I-95 in Fredericksburg. It is in a residential area near the UMW campus, but if you head back towards Route 3, you will find many options. The Metro Diner is a local favorite, and Cook Out serves up burgers and more at a great value. There are many other options up and down Route 3 from Mexican to Salvadoran to Thai to Mediterranean cuisine. However, you may have to drive a bit to get there. Fans 3 The University of Mary Washington draws a typical crowd for Division III baseball. Most of the fans are friends and family of the players, alumni, or others with some connection to the university. You will usually see a good number of visiting fans as well, who will probably fall into one of the aforementioned categories. The crowd here is pretty casual, cheering big plays but otherwise are not particularly involved. Access 4 V. Earl Dickinson Stadium is just off I-95 in Fredericksburg, so it is easy to get to. However, keep in mind the portion of I-95 between Washington and Fredericksburg is one of the most congested stretches of highway in the nation, so allot extra time. The extension of the Express Lanes to Fredericksburg will help alleviate traffic if they are running southbound at the time of your trip, but if you want to use them to speed by traffic, expect to pay a massive toll unless you have at least three people in your vehicle and the EZ-Pass Flex transponder set in the right mode. Once at the Battleground, free parking is available in a lot in the back of the complex or a smaller one by the entrance. The latter one will put you closer to the stadium but may fill up quickly with game personnel. You should have no problem parking in the back lot, as it never fills up, but you will have to walk a few minutes down a gravel hill to the stadium. Restrooms are located behind the grandstand. They are small, but as there are very few fans who show up, they are of a sufficient size. Keep in mind the players do not have their own restroom, so if you are using the men's room, you may encounter them in there and will want to yield to them so they can get back to the field quickly. Return on Investment 4 Admission to all UMW baseball games, with the possible exception of conference and NCAA tournament games, is free. Parking is also free, so you won't pay anything to attend. However, there isn't enough here to earn the top score. Extras 0 There are no real extras here. This is baseball at its most basic level. Final Thoughts V. Earl Dickinson Stadium is a modern ballpark and baseball fans in the Fredericksburg area or with some connection to the University of Mary Washington may want to check out a game here.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Centre Marcel Dionne 300 rue Cockburn Drummondville, QC J2C 4L6 Drummondville Voltigeurs website Centre Marcel Dionne website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 4,000 Allez Voltigeurs! On the south shore of Quebec, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, lies the city of Drummondville. With a modest population of 70,000, Drummondville captures the essence of Quebec hockey. The pride of Drummondville includes their junior hockey team, the Voltigueurs, and their favorite son, Marcel Dionne. Dionne was both infamous and the second most-famous Los Angeles King (behind only Wayne Gretzky), and arguably the player that gave the most to the franchise. As part of the Triple Crown Line, Dionne was a staple of the Kings, and regularly finds time to return to his hometown of Drummondville. The Voltigeurs are the second incarnation of major junior hockey in Drummondville. An expansion team in 1982, the Voltigeurs are named after a Quebec-based regiment that fought the Americans in the War of 1812. They followed the original QMJHL team, the Drummondville Rangers, which played from 1969 to 1974. Currently owned by Jean-Guy Rene, Roger Dubois, and Michel Parizeau, the Voltigeurs have enjoyed moderate success, making it to the Memorial Cup 3 times, and winning the President’s Trophy as the top team in the QMJHL in 2009. Their most famous alumni include NHL greats Steve Duschene and Daniel Briere. Food & Beverage 2 Concessions at the Centre Marcel Dionne are very ordinary. You are only going to find staple products that you would find in any arena, including hot dogs, popcorn, soda and nachos. There are only a couple of concession stands, and there are numerous vending machines to compliment those stands. The featured sodas are Pepsi products, and the beer available is Molson Export and Coors Light. Prices are decent, but a lack of variety is evident. Atmosphere 4 Centre Marcel Dionne is one of those arenas that sends you back in time. It has the feel of a community arena where your own kids would play house league hockey. The exterior is nothing spectacular, and could easily be driven right past without even noticing it. Once inside that community feel takes over. There is not much standing room where the ticket windows are. There is an opportunity to visit with the local early-birds or check out the various displays, including the large Marcel Dionne display. Once inside, the seating bowl looks like it is from another time. The seating bowl is small and steep, offering fantastic sightlines. The arena features wooden seats, which although are not the most comfortable, are terribly historic. The scoreboard is simple with a 4 sided projected video screen. Above the ice surface you will find the retired numbers of great Voltigeurs of the past including Steve Duschene, Ian Laperriere, Denis Gauthier, Steve Chartrand, Rene Corbet and Daniel Briere. At the far end of the arena you will find the modest banners from successful Voltigeur seasons, including the 2009 President’s Trophy banners. Throughout the arena there are various photos showcasing the hometown team. One of the more unique features of Centre Marcel Dionne is the giant Voltiguer banner which drops and shakes at key moments. Very simple, yet very unique. Neighborhood 2 The Centre Marcel Dionne is a community arena, located in a suburban area. There are not a ton of options in the immediate area for pre and post-game fare. Within a couple of minutes in the car you will find some recognizable chains, including Boston Pizza, East Side Marios and Quebec rotisserie chicken chain, St.Hubert. Fans 4 The Noise!! Drummondville fans are extremely loud! This is probably the only place that I have been that has not banned air horns. The air horn is a favourite of the Drummondville fan, and they use them liberally! The fans that we met were very friendly and accommodating. They were willing to talk about their beloved hometown team and the prospects that the Voltigeurs would have in the upcoming playoffs. The attendance at Voltigeur games is a bit of a disappointment, as they average just under 2,500 for the season, putting them in the bottom third of the league. Access 3 Getting to the arena is not too difficult as it is located just north of Boul St.Joseph, a couple of kilometres from the Trans Canada Highway. There is some parking on site that is free of charge if you are early enough. Once inside, however the concourses around the outside of the seating bowl do not encircle the arena, and are extremely narrow. Washroom facilities are also not the greatest. Return on Investment 5 It is ridiculous what a great deal a Voltigeurs game is. Top level junior hockey combined with free parking, good concession prices and unreal ticket prices equals great value. This is absolutely family entertainment. Voltigeur tickets go for $15 each, with seats for children going for a ridiculous $6. Unbelievable! Extras 2 An extra mark for the waving banner. Very unique! An extra mark for that hometown feel to a Voltigeurs game. Final Thoughts A trip through the QMJHL will find Drummondville as one of the solid francophone franchises. It’s worth the trip to see an arena that is from a different time, and a great group of fans who know how to be loud.

Photo courtesy of NCA&T Aggies Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 World War Memorial Stadium 510 Yanceyville St Greensboro, NC 27405 North Carolina A&T Aggies website World War Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1926 Capacity: 7,500 Faded Glory Baseball fans in North Carolina's Triad region have come to know and love NewBridge Bank Park, the home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers, the Florida Marlins' affiliate in the class-A South Atlantic League. The Grasshoppers are routinely at or near the top of the circuit in attendance, as the relatively-new downtown park continues to be a success. The true hub of baseball history in the Gate City, though, is just over a mile away, at the intersection of Lindsay and Yanceyville Streets. World War Memorial Stadium served as the host for Greensboro baseball for nearly 75 years, before the Bats relocated and became the Grasshoppers. Opened and dedicated in 1926, the ballpark serves to honor residents of Guilford County who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War I. Plaques with the names of those who fell are just outside the entrance to the stadium. Astute fans may also notice the stadium's star turn as the origin of a road trip in the movie Bull Durham. World War Memorial Stadium is the oldest athletic facility still in operation in the Tar Heel State, and it is, unfortunately, really showing its age. The park is owned by the city's sports commission and rented to North Carolina A&T and Greensboro College, and it has, of late, somewhat fallen into a state of disrepair. A section of seating on the third base side now sits behind a fence, rumored to soon be demolished. Many of the girders around the park now sport a primary hue of rust, with peeling paint and overgrowth of vegetation common sights in many areas. Despite the obvious signs of age and neglect, this stadium still tells the story of the last 80-plus years of baseball in Greensboro, for all who are willing to listen. Food & Beverage 3 There is a rather solid selection of foods at an Aggie baseball game. Hot dogs ($2), pizza ($3), nachos ($3.50) and cheeseburgers ($3.50) highlight the "entree" choices. Pork chops were also being sold on the day I attended, with a grill being manned in the breezeway between the entry gate and the concession stand. This gave the feeling of being at a cookout with friends or family. Snacks include cheese crackers ($.50), candy ($1.25), chips ($.75), peanuts ($3), pickles ($1), popcorn ($1.50), sunflower seeds ($1), gum ($.05) and ice cream ($1.50). Candy bars, Skittles (three different flavors) and Air Heads are among the candy choices. Drinks are Pepsi products, with bottled soda and Gatorade available for $2. Water, coffee and hot chocolate are $1 each. Atmosphere 3 Though signs of decay are evident in many parts of the stadium, the playing surface shows none of these problems. The field is beautifully maintained, with bright green grass. This is one of the clear highlights of the facility, along with the covered seating behind the plate. This is great for shielding out the North Carolina elements. World War Memorial Stadium presents a truly comfortable environment in which to watch a game, at the very least. There is no concern whatsoever with leg room in any part of the seating bowl, as there is almost enough room between your seat and the seat in front of you to insert another row of seats. This is a tremendous feature for tall spectators like myself, allowing the luxury to stretch out and enjoy a game. Many of the seats in the lower portion of the seating bowl are fold-out stadium seats, with backless bleacher seating toward the top of the bowl. There is not likely to be a situation in which you cannot get a fold-out seat, but be sure to bring a wet cloth or two to clean the traditional North Carolina spring pollen off your seat before you sit down. There are a number of speakers hanging from the top of the backstop, but they are not in use for North Carolina A&T games. Two portable speakers are mounted on stands outside the press box, and they can be loud enough to drown out conversation. The musical selection between innings is lively and diverse, though there are quite a few sound effects played between pitches, much like at Grasshoppers games. The lack of quiet does help offer a feeling that the game is moving along at a swift pace, though, which is nice. The scoreboard is located in right-center field, and offers very little in terms of visual interest. The scoreboard is a basic structure with red numbers on a black background, flanked by "GUEST" and "HOME" and the game's line score. The number of the player at bat, a ball/strike/out count and a hit or error indicator compose the top row of the board. The red lights of the board can be a bit tough to read for afternoon games, but the public address announcer does a great job of recapping each half-inning's activity and current game score. Neighborhood 1 North Carolina A&T's campus is a short distance away from the stadium, and this already-beautiful campus is looking to expand. Unfortunately, this is the only real area of note to hang out before or after a game. Planned ballpark districts were not really a "thing" in the mid-1920s, as one might imagine. The ballpark is part of the historic Aycock neighborhood, but is largely residential, save for a farmers market across the street. Interestingly enough, most of the dining and entertainment options are in the vicinity of the downtown ballpark that replaced World War Memorial Stadium. These choices will likely require a car, though, as walking to the downtown area is not all that feasible, due to both distance and the condition of some of the areas between the park and downtown. Triad favorite Natty Greene's is a choice of the locals, and for those who like local beers, this is a great place to give one a try. Undercurrent and Fincastle's are two other choices that seem to resonate with fans at Grasshoppers games, though even a few choices in the vicinity of an A&T game would be preferable. Fans 3 Your chances of encountering a sellout crowd at an Aggie game are virtually nonexistent, but this does not mean that you will encounter a sleepy group of fans. Though small in numbers, those in attendance certainly love their Aggies. The crowd certainly sounds larger than it is, and some heckling (playful in nature, not personal) does occasionally take place. Some hearty fans had even made the long trip from Tallahassee-based Florida A&M on the day I took in a game. If you go to a North Carolina A&T game, expect to see a lot of blue and gold, along with "The Lock" (the interlocking "AT" logo). There was a contest during the game I attended that awarded a prize to the first fan to bring an A&T logo item to the press box, and a number of fans ran toward the press box almost as soon as the announcement was complete. Access 4 The stadium is in a reasonably advantageous position for travelers in and around Greensboro. The park is within minutes of US HIghways 29, 70 and 220, along with Interstates 40 and 85. Two parking lots directly surround the stadium, with a small surface lot directly outside the entrance and a blacktop lot beyond the right field fence. The parking is completely free, and the walk from either lot is rather short. As with many ballparks from this era, the main concourse is under the seating bowl. This makes the concourse area somewhat narrow and dark. The city also keeps a group of replacement seat pieces on the concourse, which serves to further clutter the area. The restrooms are rather old, as one would expect, but there are plenty of available stalls (I counted ten in the male restroom) and quasi-modern upgrades. You should never experience a line while waiting to use the restroom. Return on Investment 5 Free is an impossible price to beat, and admission to Aggie games will not cost you a dime. I was somewhat thrown by the presence of an unmanned ticket booth, only to be told -- by a very nice gentleman, I should add -- that admission was free. It is wise to have some cash with you just in case, especially considering the low concession prices. With the admission and parking charge -- or lack thereof -- you can see a game, park your car and get a hot dog and drink for $4. This is as good a value as you will find anywhere in college sports. Extras 2 A small program-like "document" is available at the concession stand. This document contains a team photo, rosters for both teams and a score sheet. This may not be a full program, but it certainly provides a good amount of information. The people of North Carolina A&T also deserve extra notice. Every stadium worker and fan with whom I came into contact was supremely nice, going out of their way to make those in attendance feel welcome. Customer service is the easiest thing to get right when hosting events, and A&T certainly does just that. Final Thoughts A trip to War Memorial Stadium is both enlightening and heartbreaking. If you are a fan of historic venues, this is an absolute must-see facility. The simple thought of all of the events that have taken place inside the stadium is enough to bring out the nostalgic side in anyone. At the same time, the knowledge of this venue's history makes the current state of the facility that much more upsetting. The stadium's run-down appearance is by no means the fault of those at North Carolina A&T -- it is important that this be stressed -- but it deserves a much better fate than that which has happened to it. There are talks in the city now about how to renovate the stadium as part of a larger revitalization project, and the hope is that this eventually comes to fruition. A few coats of paint and some care could easily restore this beauty to her former majesty.

After months of persistent rumours, it has finally been confirmed that Melbourne will host the first ever NHL games to be played in the southern hemisphere. The Arizona Coyotes and Los Angeles Kings will make the long trip down under for a two-game preseason series in September later this year. The Global Series Melbourne 2023 is being supported by the Victorian State Government who rightly proclaim Melbourne to be the sports capital of Australia, and indeed one of the great sports and entertainment cities of the world. A temporary ice rink will be constructed within Rod Laver Arena, better known for its role as centre court for the Australian Open Tennis tournament held each January. The retractable roof will remain closed. Rod Laver Arena has proven itself as a world-class multi-sport stadium having previously hosted professional basketball, netball, the World Swimming Championships in 2007, and Commonwealth Games gymnastics in 2006 – in addition to being Melbourne’s premier major concert venue. The two teams will reportedly travel to Australia on September 16th, and will have several practice sessions at the O’Brien Icehouse (home to Melbourne Ice and Melbourne Mustangs of the Australian Ice Hockey League) before games on Saturday September 23 and Sunday September 24. Rod Laver Arena originally opened in 1988 but received a major renovation in 1995. Capacity is around 14,000 however this may be impacted by the construction of the rink, which will be similar logistically to an outdoor game. The build will take 12 days with equipment to be shipped to Melbourne from Toronto via Vancouver. Tickets will be available via Ticketek and are expected to be in high demand.