Photos by Bart Wilhelm, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Athletic Park 324 E Wausau Ave Wausau, WI 54403 Wisconsin Woodchucks website Athletic Park website Year Opened: 1936 Capacity: 7,000 A Jewel of the Northwoods League Originally built in 1936, Athletic Park in Wausau, Wisconsin has been housing competitive baseball for over 80 years. Minor league teams such as the Wausau Lumberjacks, Timberjacks, Mets, and the Timbers called Athletic Park home from 1936 to 1990. After the 1990 season, the minor league affiliate moved to Geneva, IL, and, in 1994, the Wisconsin Woodchucks were formed as a charter member of the summer collegiate Northwoods League. Twenty-seven years later, the park has been renovated section by section and is one of the jewels of the league. Food & Beverage 5 Athletic Park offers a very good selection of food and beverages. There are two main concession stands, one behind the first base dugout and a larger one down the left field line. The dugout stand has pizza slices, soft pretzels, popcorn, and peanuts for $3. They also have vanilla and chocolate soft serve and several frozen treats. A great selection of various craft beers for $5-$6 is for sale. Down the left field line is a bigger concession stand with several entrée options. The standard hot dog is $3, bratwurst is $4, hamburgers and pulled pork sandwiches both run $5. Several “ballpark favorites” really stand out. They have mac n cheese with bacon for $4 or pulled pork for $5. Regular nachos with cheese and jalapenos are $3.50 or you can upgrade to bbq pulled pork nachos with coleslaw for $7.50. I dove into their Irish nachos. Instead of tortillas, it’s seasoned waffle fries topped with bacon, cheddar cheese sauce, onions, jalapenos, and sour cream. Definitely worth a try! Other favorites are chili cheese waffle fries and white cheddar cheese curds, $6-$7. A wide selection of craft beers is available for $5-$6. Miller Lite and Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy are their standards and there are about ten other crafts from various breweries. White Claw cans are $4 and 5-Tool Ale, a Northwoods League exclusive pale ale, is available for $4.50 for a pint-sized can, the cheapest I’ve seen it anywhere in the league. Bottled water and bottled Pepsi products are $2.75-$3.50. Atmosphere 4 Athletic Park was originally built in 1936, but the entire ballpark has been rebuilt in the last decade. It feels like a newer ballpark, mainly because it is. General admission tickets for metal bleachers are $9. These are located down the third baseline. They are attached to the rest of the stands and not just a “temporary section” of seats. Box seats behind home plate are $10. New in 2021 is the Dugout Seats above the first base dugouts for $12. The seats are all raised about 10 feet above the playing field. There is an elevator available for wheelchairs or people who have difficulty with the stairs. There are various on field games and contests in between innings. Unfortunately, my game was rained out in the 5th inning so I didn’t get to see the whole array of their contests. The scoreboard is above the right field wall and is quite basic. It displays the score, runs, hits, errors, outs, and the player’s number. There is no video board in the stadium. There were only a few hundred people the night I attended, but a lot of that can be attributed to it being a Monday game with rain in the forecast. I’m told that there is usually a solid fan base that shows up. Neighborhood 2 The park is in a residential neighborhood. There’s really nothing of note in the immediate area. The only food options within a walking distance are a Subway and Biggby Coffee and Thrive Foodery, an American food restaurant about a block away. Downtown Wausau and its River District is a mile or so south of the stadium. There’s a large selection of bars and restaurants downtown. The Wisconsin River is also nearby which provides nice scenery for walking. Many standard hotel chains are within a few miles of the stadium. The Motel 6 ran me less than $50 for the night and is only a few minutes drive away. Fans 3 I wish there had been more fans on the night that I attended. I loved the ballpark, but it felt a little empty. I’m sure it was just a bad night because of the weather. The fans who were there seemed to be really into the game. I talked to a few people who said they love coming out to the games. Access 3 While Wausau isn’t near any interstates, State Highway 29 and US 51 are nearby and both are divided highways. The ballpark is about two miles off the junction of those highways. The actual address is 2401 N 3rd Street. There is no actual parking lot, but a half block beyond the center field fence is a large grassy lot that many people use for parking. There is also street parking available with no meters. There is one main entrance to the park behind home plate. Return on Investment 3 $9 for a minimum ticket is starting to be a good price for a baseball game. The food selection is very good and the beer prices are very reasonable. This quickly became one of my favorite parks in the league. Extras 3 One point goes to the renovation job done to the park in recent years. The current owner bought the team about a decade ago and he put his own money into updating the stadium section by section. It looks great. One point goes to the incredibly friendly staff. Several people noticed that I was wearing a shirt from a rival team in the league (my home park in Traverse City) and they stopped to talk to me about their park and mine. People seemed to go out of their way to talk to me. One point goes to the elevated seating. I like the raised view and being slightly above the field. It’s a different experience from most ballparks. Final Thoughts Athletic Field quickly became one of my favorite parks in the Northwoods League. There might not be any feature that absolutely stands out, but the park just had “it” for me. It’s definitely a ballpark that I’m looking forward to visiting again.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Clarence T. Ching Athletics Complex 1105 Lower Campus Rd Honolulu, HI 96822 Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors website Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 15,000 Ohana Means Football Family A decade and a half removed from their magical undefeated 2007 regular season, Hawaii Football often goes unnoticed on the national stage during the weekly college football landscape. Falling into the same trap as a traveling sports fan would be an incredible mistake. Perhaps no other game day experience captures the true feeling of family, the connection to the local culture, and the enthusiasm that college sports can create than that you’ll experience at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex. Located on the campus of the University of Hawaii Manoa, this growing facility has quickly morphed from a track-and-field facility to a respectable football facility in short order. Food & Beverage 5 If you’re looking for a local flavor instead of stadium basics, Hawaii football is going to be your promised land. A myriad of local vendors and food trucks pack into the east end zone and offer nearly every type of food possible. Local grilled meats, snow cones, grilled seafood, fresh fruit and veggies, Asian fusion, sushi, and so much more are available for fans to choose from on game day. Beer and drink concessions are also located around the stadium, ranging from $9 to $12 for a beer; even snack and soda vending machines are available outside of the Ewa end zone entrances. If you leave this stadium hungry, that is simply a problem of your creation. Atmosphere 5 There is so much more to the game day experience at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex than meets the eye. An expanded seating capacity for 2023 has grown the seating here to accommodate 15,000 fans, an increase that will only grow as time progresses with the school’s continued investment in the facility. In a perfect mix of old and new, the former video scoreboard from the team’s former home, Aloha Stadium, has been relocated to the stadium, paying homage to the Rainbow Warriors’ past. Additionally, new green-backed seating along the sidelines adds to the green color palate seen in the team’s aesthetic. While pre-game tailgating is not allowed at the nearby parking lots and garages, the Hawaii athletics department has an impressively solid alternative. Hours before the game starts, the team opens up access to nearby Les Murakami Stadium (the Warriors’ baseball stadium), complete with open concessions stands, a team store, kids bounce houses, and various sponsor activations. Live music from local artists is performed on a stage set up on the baseball field for fans to enjoy until the football stadium gates open up. For Hawaii, cultural traditions run deep within the game day experience. Did you feel a light rain on your face while walking into the stadium? That is a good omen! Hawaii fans welcome the periodic light mist that wafts off the nearby Koolau Mountain range as a sacred good omen that washes away bad luck and cleans the air. When the team runs onto the field, they’re led by tribal drummers and torch-carrying warriors chanting to lead the players to glory. At various locations around the field, sacred ti leaf leis have been placed to bless the field, players, and fans for the coming season. These leis are not to be touched out of respect for what they represent. You also will hear the “Chee hoo!” yell over the PA system whenever the ‘Bows get a first down, a yell that is called back by the fans. Finally, at the start of the game, both the National Anthem and the Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī are performed on the field, honoring Hawaii’s heritage, in addition to its history as a US territory. Neighborhood 4 The stadium itself is located on the University of Hawaii campus, located just north of the popular Waikiki Beach area of Honolulu. Just a few miles from campus are the world-famous sandy beaches that have attracted visitors for hundreds of years. You’re also not far from local restaurants, as well as chain favorites and hotels. To the east is Diamond Head State Monument, a popular hiking site, and beyond that are iconic shorelines of rocky cliffs. Fans 5 The fans pack into Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex for each Hawaii home game, and with them, they bring a fervor and loyalty for their ‘Bows that many would believe was reserved for teams in much larger conferences on the mainland. Hawaii fans are hardcore, knowing all the players as well as the team’s long history. On game day, many can be seen holding gathered ti leaves, sometimes waving or shaking them in the air. This is meant to ward off evil spirits and enemies. If you wish to join them, local flower shops often sell ti leaves, as taking them off of plants not at your own house is frowned upon in Hawaiian culture. Many fans have been coming to games since they were kids, and now bring their kids. And speaking of which, Hawaii games are the perfect family affair – fans of all ages can be spotted in the stadium. The student section located in the Diamond Head end zone is also alive with loud cheering fans all game long. And don’t let the small capacity for its crowd fool you; this stadium gets loud during big-time plays. Access 3 The parking at Hawaii football games is arguably the biggest struggle for game day experiences. The nearby Kalele Road Garage and UH Guest Parking Garage offer the best and closest options. Entry off nearby Dole Street or Kalele Road makes for easy in-and-out access. Both of these are located right off of the H1 Highway, making for easy driving if you’re staying nearby, or farther away. Once at the stadium, fans can easily access the entire perimeter of the stadium via walkways and pathways both around and under the grandstands. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start at $20 for end zone seats and go up to $95 for 50-yard line seats. Coupling this with several free parking lots in the area, as well as the affordability of various food options, makes this a stellar value for the price paid. You also get some of the best views in all of college football. Hawaii’s iconic sunsets show off when the sun drops below the iconic dome of the Stan Sheriff Center . Off to the east, the stunning peak of Diamond Head rises in the distance above the palm trees swaying in the breeze. To the north, stark mountains filled with tropical misty forests serve as a verdant backdrop. Extras 3 The stadium features stunning views from practically every seat, including views of the video screens. Two different screens are in place, including the recently installed scoreboard from Aloha Stadium. The facility is also close to the rest of Hawaii’s sports facilities, including the baseball , softball, tennis, and basketball stadiums. Finally, thanks to the frequent mist that falls from the nearby mountain ranges, rainbows frequently appear over the stadium during games, a fitting sight for the home of the Rainbow Warriors. Final Thoughts Though nearly every stadium in the FBS division of college football features a larger capacity for its home crowds, this is by far one of the best stadium experiences in the NCAA. Perhaps no stadium features 360-degree views that are all stunning in their way. The fan base is among the most loyal in sports, showing their ability to cheer on their athletes regardless of record or score on the field. The concessions showcase the best local cuisine available. Without a doubt, no team is as connected and active in respecting the traditions of the local culture as Hawaii football. This is the biggest Ohana you don’t realize you’re a member of until you arrive through the gates.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Target Center 600 North 1st Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403 Minnesota Timberwolves website Target Center website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 19,356 Targeting Success The Target Center has served as the home court for the Minnesota Timberwolves since it opened in 1990. It is in the Warehouse or Northloop District of downtown Minneapolis. The arena holds 18,500 in its basketball configuration. One of its most unique features is its “green” roof, which is covered in native Minnesota prairie plants, and captures water and melting snow that would otherwise wind up in the nearby Mississippi River. The Target Center has undergone frequent renovations in recent years, with a major two-year upgrade in 2016-2017. This renovation included a new HD video board and a completely new glass atrium lobby that really opened the facility to the street. The arena is also unique in that it has two entry levels, with one at street level and a second that attaches to the Minneapolis Skyway System. The renovations also brought a great deal of light into both the lobby area and the concourses, brightening up what was a very enclosed structure. Numerous picture windows are now in place to provide stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline. Like most professional sports arenas, championship banners are hung from the rafters. Unfortunately for the Timberwolves, these primarily celebrate the four WNBA titles won by the Minnesota Lynx. Food & Beverage 3 The Target Center has put together a rather eclectic group of concession stands rather than feature multiple generic stands. Many of these are owned by local vendors featuring farm to table selections. There is a heavy emphasis on foods rooted in the Upper Midwest. The Nord Haus features brats ($8) and pretzels ($8). The Old Lake Lodge carries fish tacos ($15), along with Walleye sandwiches ($15). The Loon Café is especially known for its chicken Chili ($12), while Mac Time features Mac Original ($9), Smokehouse BBQ Ma ($12) and Buffalo Chicken Mac for $12. Arena standards include hot dogs ($7), popcorn ($6), candy ($6) and fries ($6). Beverages include Coca-Cola brand sodas ($6), bottled water ($5), domestic beers ($10) and a wide variety of craft beers at $12. The Warehouse Row District right outside of the Target Arena has a wide variety of restaurants and bars to choose from for a before or after game meal. You might want to reserve your purchases at the Target Center to beverages and snacks. Atmosphere 3 The Timberwolves came into the NBA as an expansion team in 1989 and moved into the Target Center in their second year of existence. They play in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference. They have gone to the playoffs frequently, only to lose in the first round. The exception to this frustrating situation was in 2004, when they made it to the Western Division Finals, only to lose to the Los Angeles Lakers. The team’s attendance picked up during the years Kevin Garnett played with the team but has dropped off in recent years. The renovation of Target Arena is designed with a Northwoods theme. The exterior is painted a dark brown, which is suggestive of a cabin by a frozen lake. The interior utilizes a great deal of wood finishes along with a great deal of brick, which is in keeping with the many warehouse buildings surrounding it. The seating bowl provides excellent sight lines, with no bad seats in the house. It really does not appear to have as high a seating capacity as it does. The seats are very comfortable and have beverage holders. The arena can raise or lower the floors depending on the needs of the game. The court features the Timberwolves logo prominently at mid court, with the color scheme of the team used on the sidelines and in the paint under the basket. Neighborhood 4 The Target Center is in the Warehouse Business District or the Northloop neighborhood, Minneapolis’ downtown sports and entertainment district. The arena is linked to its next door neighbor, Target Field , by the Target Plaza. The Warehouse District is filled with trendy shops and restaurants, including the Cityworks Eatery and Pour House (with more than 90 craft beers on tap) and the Capital Grille. There are several hotels within the district that are an easy walk via the street or the skyway system to the arena. These include the Embassy Suites and the Hampton Inn and Suites. Just a few blocks from the Target Center is Nicollet Avenue, the city’s shopping mecca. It has a limited access road, allowing only cabs and busses to use it, making it very pedestrian friendly for shoppers. Nicollet is also home to the iconic statue of Mary Tyler Moore throwing her tam in the area as shown in the opening sequence of the “Mary Tyler Moore Show.” The statue can be found at the corner of Nicollet and Seventh Street. Fans 3 The Timberwolves are a young and inexperienced team, and their record shows it. Quite honestly the team has experienced attendance problems ever since Kevin Garnett retired. The fans who do attend tend to be older and remember the glory days of the franchise back in the early 2000’s. The Timberwolves also are up against the Minnesota Wild in a state that proclaims itself the State of Hockey and a resurgent Minnesota Vikings football team that plays its games in a state-of-the-art stadium just a few blocks south of the Target Center. It is not unusual to have the Target Center half-full when there is a competing game. Access 4 Getting to the Target Center is very easy, whether by car, on foot through the city’s skyway system or the Metro System’s Light Rail System. There are more than 12,000 parking spaces within a five-block radius of the arena. The closest of these are the ABC Ramps which connect directly to the Target Center via skyways. The special event parking rate in these lots is $15. The Spot Hero App can help you locate spaces and pre-reserve a space at other lots in the area at a very discounted rate. The Target Center is also easy to reach via the Metro Light Rail System. The Warehouse District Station is just a block from the arena. The light rail system is quite extensive, as it links to the Mall of America to the south and to St. Paul and the Excel Energy Center to the east. A 24-hour fare on the Metro costs $6.50 for unlimited rides. The Minneapolis Skyway System is another way to connect to the Target Center. It is the largest contiguous system of enclosed second level bridges in the world at 9.5 miles. This connectivity allows you to avoid the Twin Cities brutal winters while walking in a heated, dry environment. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices at the Target Center are typically available in the $20 range and up. These prices escalate quickly when the Lakers, the Celtics or the Warriors are the opposing team. Parking near the arena averages $15 or more, but you can save a great deal by using the Spot Hero App and prepay for your parking space. Depending on where you are staying, either the Metro Light Rail System or taking the skyway system from your downtown hotel can save you even more money. Extras 5 One extra must go to the Target Center for its green roof and water conservation efforts. Thirty-five members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame have performed at the Target Center The Target Center also serves as the home court of the four-time WNBA Champion Minnesota Lynx. The arena has been used for a variety of major sports events, including the US and World Figure Skating Championships, Davis Cup tennis, the 1994 NBA All Star Game and the 2004 NBA Western Division Finals. A statue of George Mikan, the original “Mr. Basketball” in the NBA is in the lobby of the Target Center. Mikan played for the Minneapolis Lakers, the Twin City’s first NBA franchise, before it moved to Los Angeles. Final Thoughts The recent renovations at the Target Center have vastly improved the fan experience for the Timberwolves faithful. New gathering areas, opening the building to more outside light and the improved electronic package in the seating bowl area are major improvements. The key for improving the attendance at the Target Center is putting a winning product on the court.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 M&T Bank Arena 305 Sherman Ave. Hamden, CT 06518 Quinnipiac Bobcats men’s hockey website M&T Bank Arena website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 3,386 Back at the Top of the Polls Editors Note: The venue name changed from People's United Center to M&T Bank Arena in April, 2022. The People’s United Center is a multi-use facility consisting of two full-sized playing surfaces for Quinnipiac’s winter sports teams. The two venues ( a basketball court and hockey rink) share a common lobby and concession area. The facility is located on Quinnipiac’s York Hill campus and is the centerpiece of an expansion project on that campus. Completed in 2007 for $52 million, it was designed to be a drawing point for potential student-athletes. Building the facility involved moving 615,000 tons of earth and rock, all of which remained on campus to construct roads for the development of the 250-acre York Hill campus, located less than a mile from the school’s main Mount Carmel campus. The hockey rink is formally named the Frank Perrotti Jr. Rink. Perrotti was a New Haven resident, local entrepreneur, and devoted Quinnipiac hockey fan. He is described by the university as “a neighbor, friend, and benefactor of Quinnipiac.” Hockey began as a varsity sport at Quinnipiac in 1975 as a Division Two squad called the Braves. The Bobcats moved up to Division One in 1998 as a member of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The team rechristened the Bobcats in 2003, and now plays in the ECAC. The Bobcats have qualified for the NCAA Tournament seven times, reaching the championship game in both 2013 and 2016. Six Quinnipiac alumni have played in the National Hockey League. Food & Beverage 3 There is a single concession stand in the lobby of People’s United Center. It serves a limited menu, with turkey wraps, hot dogs, chicken fingers, French fries, and nachos the highlights. Assorted snacks, ice cream novelties, and candy are sold here. While the menu isn’t the most extensive you’ll come across, most items are priced at five dollars or less. If you’re looking for a quick snack and want to avoid the lines in the lobby, there are a pair of vending machines on the concourse. Pepsi products are featured at People’s United Center. Fans looking for an adult beverage can head on over to the basketball court, where the “Bobcat Den” serves up a variety of beer and wine to be enjoyed before games or during intermissions. Spots in the Bobcat Den must be reserved in advance . Free snacks are served along with the cash bar here. For a fancier dining experience at a Bobcat game, purchase a ticket to the University Club, which features a private dining room, full-service bar, and dedicated seating section high above the ice. Atmosphere 4 With a packed house every night, you would expect a lively atmosphere at People’s United Center. You wouldn’t be disappointed. While it’s not the loudest arena you’ll ever visit, game-day plenty is going on during a Bobcats game to keep you entertained. There’s a crisp video scoreboard at center ice that is put to good use with hype videos, game stats, contests, and more. The student section, anchored by the pep band and Ice Cats, comes prepared with a repertoire of chants and routines designed to distract the opposition. Boomer the Bobcat roams the stands interacting with fans throughout the game. There’s a souvenir stand set up in one corner of the arena for fans needing some Bobcat gear. Neighborhood 3 While Hamden is a lovely community, once named one of America’s “best small cities” by CNN Money, it is hardly a destination location. Surrounding the campus are several strip malls, which give visiting fans some options for pre- and postgame dining. Many visiting fans will opt to head into New Haven, which has a well-deserved reputation as a foodie hotspot. Right across the street from Quinnipiac’s Mt. Carmel campus is Sleeping Giant State Park, a popular destination for hiking and other outdoor activities. If visiting the area before the weather turns, the many trails here are worth exploring before a game. Whitney Avenue dissects the two Quinnipiac campuses. There are plenty of eateries here if you wish to stay local. Eli’s on Whitney is a Bobcat's sponsor and a popular choice of locals. If you continue south on Whitney Ave. for a few miles you will find yourself in downtown New Haven on the campus of the Bobcats’ chief hockey rival, Yale University. Visiting fans will find plenty of lodging and dining options in this area, including Louis’ Lunch, the birthplace of the hamburger, as well as Frank Pepe’s and Sally’s, the originators of New Haven-style apizza. Fans 5 Quinnipiac annually fills the People’s United Center to over 95 percent of capacity, averaging around 3,100 fans per game. Hockey is absolutely the number one sport at Quinnipiac, drawing rabid hockey fans from all over greater New Haven. Compare Quinnipiac’s attendance to local rival Yale, who averages about one thousand fans less per game despite being only a few miles away. The student section, located at the far end of the arena, is packed with fans every night. As the Bobcats have returned to the top of the national rankings, the student body has seemed to have gotten their groove back, as they add a lot of energy and noise to the Perrotti Arena. Notable in the student section is four students who dress as Teletubbies and take up residence in the front row. It would appear the costumes are passed down over the years, as the Tubbies have been in attendance every time this writer has visited Quinnipiac. Access 5 Quinnipiac is located in the New Haven suburb of Hamden. This town of just over 60,000 residents is located just to the north of New Haven. Quinnipiac University is located in the northern, Mount Carmel section of town, which has a rural feel to it. The university is split into two campuses about a mile from each other on opposite sides of Whitney Avenue. The newer, York Hill campus contains the People’s United Center, the Rocky Top Student Center, and several dorms. Most of the school’s facilities, including the Quinnipiac Baseball Field , are located on the older Mount Carmel campus. The university is easily reached via Interstate 91, which runs a few miles east of campus. Visiting fans will take exit 10 off I-91 to the Mt. Carmel Connector (Route 40). Travel a mile north on Whitney Avenue to Sherman Avenue, and the entrance to the York Hill campus will be on your right. Fans will enter the arena into the shared main lobby, which contains the concession stand and some restrooms. The hockey arena will be located on your right, with the basketball court on your left. There is a single concourse that circles the entire rink at the top of the seating bowl. The rink is visible from all spots on the concourse, and there is plenty of standing room on this level. Fans will walk down to their seats, which are all blue plastic folding stadium seats. The restrooms are located in three corners of the venue. Lines do form at the concession stand and restrooms during intermission, so plan your trips appropriately. Likewise, with only one road in and out of the venue, don’t be in a rush to leave. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Bobcat hockey games are priced at twenty dollars per game for all seats. Tickets for seniors are discounted to fifteen dollars, and youth tickets to twelve dollars. Certain games are designated as “premium” games, with ticket prices increased by five dollars. Parking is free in the lots adjacent to the People’s United Center. Concessions are inexpensive, with most items priced under five dollars. Extras 3 Several banners hang at the far end of the Perrotti Rink honoring championship teams, tournament appearances, 100-point scorers, and Frozen Four appearances for both the men’s and women’s teams. One banner commemorates coach Rand Pecknold’s 500th career victory. An extra point is awarded for the presence of the Ice Cats, the Quinnipiac cheerleading squad at Bobcat hockey games. In addition to leading cheers from their perch above the student section, the squad takes part in pregame festivities on the ice. This squad does it all. Outside the entrance to the facility is a statue of a Bobcat, the school’s mascot. When the school decided to change its name from the politically incorrect Braves to the Bobcats, students developed the legend of the Bobcat, which guards the Quinnipiac campus. At the same time, the sleeping giant does his thing over at the state park. The legend can be read on a plaque next to the statue. Final Thoughts One of the best sports stories of the last decade was the ascension of tiny Quinnipiac University to the top of the college hockey world. After a couple of down years, the Bobcats are back at the top of the polls and People’s United Center is filled with rabid Connecticut hockey fans. This hidden gem of an arena is a must-see for anyone who enjoys college pucks. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Winchester Fieldhouse 399 Thompson St. Winchester, IN 47394 Winchester Community Falcons website Winchester Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1951 Capacity: 2,300 Winchester Fieldhouse a Generation of Basketball The Winchester Fieldhouse has been part of the community since its construction during the 1951-1952 school year. When it opened, it had a seating capacity of 3,000 and was the home of the sectional tournament for 23 years and various county tournaments. It is the home of the Winchester Community High School basketball program. The boys' and girls' teams have had years of success, winning 15 and 19 sectional tournament titles, respectively. The girls made it to back-to-back state championship games in 2018 and 2019, while the boys made it to three state championships in 2002, 2007, and 2008. The boys and girls programs have 19 and 21 Randolph County Championship titles, respectively, as well. The fieldhouse is now over 70 years old but is still a venerable part of town. In recent years it received LED lighting and a new floor surface. However, the original wiring, bathrooms, plumbing, and locker rooms are from the original construction. Most notable is the steam boiler heater that was installed in 1972; when the gym gets too hot, windows at the top of the bleachers have to be open, even in the dead of winter. It has been said that once the boiler system outlives its usefulness, parts will be almost impossible to find and a new system would have to be installed. This could lead to a massive renovation of the building or a new one at the high school. It would be hard to imagine the Golden Falcons playing anywhere else but at their historic home. Food & Beverage 4 There is a large area for concessions that feature two wide windows for quick and easy expediting during games. The menu options are similar to those found at other gyms throughout the state and include hot dogs, popcorn, candy, and nachos. However, there are additional items that make it difficult to choose what to eat. The local Chicago Pizza locations offer pepperoni, cheese, and sausage slices for $2. The concession stand also sells hamburgers, cheeseburgers, nachos, and soft pretzels. Chili can serve on the nachos and hot dogs for an additional charge. The pork hot dogs are bigger than most gyms and are served in a steamed bun. If you have a sweet tooth, cotton candy, and caramel corn are additional options. Pepsi products are the drinks of choice in the building. Atmosphere 4 The historic gym is dripping with nostalgia from the signage and paneling on the walls, the multiple banners, and the original wooden bleachers in the upper section. The end lines are a few inches away from the padded walls, making it somewhat hazardous to dive for a ball underneath the basket. The team rushes onto the court while the school fight song is sung by the cheerleaders. Fans stand up to sing and clap along. When the starters are introduced a few minutes later, the gym darkens for a light show while the Alan Parsons Project “Sirius”, AKA Chicago Bulls introduction theme, is played over the sound system. The cheer block and band wave their flashlights on their phones during the intro. At half-time, anyone with a dollar comes down to take a shot at the basket for a chance to win a 2-liter bottle of soda pop. It is called Pop Shot and features mostly kids coming down to take a shot at the basket. Also, during half-time, the cheerleaders are introduced by name to the crowd. At half-time, anyone with a dollar is asked to come down to take a shot at the basket for a chance to win a 2-liter bottle of soda pop. This is called Pop Shot and features quite a bit of contestants, mostly kids, coming down to take a shot at the basket. Also during half-time, the cheerleaders are introduced by name to the crowd. Neighborhood 2 Winchester is a town of close to 5,000 people in Randolph County. The fieldhouse is near the town square that offers a small movie theater and Chicago pizzeria. The two businesses are connected, offering flat TV screens. Roots by Tree Hills is a farm-to-table restaurant that specializes in stone-baked pizzas and subs, along with pulled pork and chicken. They are served in specialty sauces that include Alabama White, Peach Pepper, and Candy Apple BBQ sauces. A few more places include Mrs. Coe’s Noodles for homemade noodle dishes, Mrs. Wick’s Restaurant for homemade pies, and A&B Cafe for late-night pub food and drinks. The Haines Hallmark Gift Shop & Soda Fountain is an old-fashioned drug store that serves up sodas, milkshakes, and ice cream floats at the counter. It has been a tradition in town since 1954. It should be noted that many of these restaurants close early, except for the A&B Café. Fans 4 The Falcon fans are supportive of both the girls' and boys' basketball teams; many have been attending games for decades. They clap along to the school song, let the referees know of plays they don't agree with, and focus on the game during the entire time. Many arrive early with seat cushions before the end of the JV game to grab a parking space in the adjacent lot. Access 3 Winchester is accessible via state and county roads from many parts of the state. The gym features three outer concourses to move around and staircases to the upper seating bowl. The concession area is massive and offers quick trips back to your seat with your food and drink. Return on Investment 4 The Winchester Fieldhouse is worth the trip. Ticket prices for adults are $5, and concession prices range from $2 for a slice of pizza, soda pop, or a hot dog to $3 for nachos and burgers. The gym is dripping in history, the crowd is friendly, and some nice traditions take place during the game. However, many of the local restaurants and attractions are open before the game, so plan accordingly. Extras 3 The Fieldhouse earns a point for the Pop Shot contest during half-time. A second point is awarded for the ambiance that includes old signage, banners in the rafters, and the smell of the building. The last point is for the food that is slightly above the norm at many high school gyms across the state of Indiana or even nearby Ohio. Final Thoughts The Winchester Fieldhouse is regarded as one of Indiana’s best smaller high school gyms. It is worth a visit and reminds us all that small-town basketball is alive and well. The building's history, tradition, fan involvement, and atmosphere make it a nice little trip during the basketball season. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Drew Cieszynski, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Les Murakami Stadium 1337 Lower Campus Rd Honolulu, HI 96822 Hawaii Rainbow Warriors website Les Murakami Stadium website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 4,312 Les Gives Hawaii More One of the more popular collegiate baseball programs today resides at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, calling Les Murakami Stadium its home. Initially known as Rainbow Stadium after head coach Les Murakami led the efforts for the new stadium, it had to be built quickly as it would sit on the same grounds as the previous home, the University of Hawaii Stadium. It was constructed in roughly nine months at an initial cost of $11.2 million and opened in February of 1984. The University would soon get a return on the stadium with greater attendance, as the capacity increased from 2,500 at the old stadium to over 4,000 at the new. With all of green in the Hawaii landscape, it's no surprise that the initial surface was natural grass. Appropriately enough, the base paths were a mix of sand and crushed lava rock. Unfortunately, initial plans did not work out as hoped and an additional $1 million in costs were added (bringing total cost to $12.2 million) for a roof over the seating area and switching the playing surface to Astro Turf. Renovations have since occurred (speakers, roofing, scoreboard), but most welcomed by the players was the switch from Astro Turf to Domo Turf in 2008. The new turf is polyethylene 'grass' blades with rubber infill granules, which has significantly reduced player injuries. The batter's box and pitching mound are the only areas of the field that appear to have real dirt. It was around this same time that the seats were changed from the unappealing red, orange, and blue colors to green in an effort to improve the aesthetics of the stadium to align with the school's colors of green. Today, Les Murakami Stadium sits with a capacity of 4,312 and has three WAC titles to its name. Of the total seats, over 85% of them are covered to protect fans from the Manoa Mist' that frequently makes appearances. In 2001, the University renamed the stadium after the man who led the baseball program for 31 years, changing the name to Les Murakami Stadium. Some fans even affectionately call it 'the house that Les built' for the man that was not only the school's first Division I coach, but also led Hawaii to the College World Series in 1980. Food & Beverage 3 While the food and beverage options are not as extensive as they are at the Stan Sheriff Center, the value is still one of the best in collegiate sports. Fans can get a whole meal for the same cost as a single box of chocolate covered pineapples at the nearby Dole plantation. Larger items included sub sandwiches ($5), Eisenberg All Beef Hot Dogs ($2.50), Warrior dog ($4.75, add $1 for chili), chili frank plate ($5), cheese nachos ($2.50 or add chili for 50 cents), pizza slice ($3.75), chili bowl ($2.25), or saimin, a Hawaiian noodle soup ($2.25). The two "combo" options included the teriyaki burger with fries ($4.25) and chicken strips with fries ($3.75). Smaller side items included the churro or pretzel ($2), french fries ($2.25), Enjoy-brand snacks ($2.50), assorted candy ($1), Italian ice ($4), popcorn ($1.75), and peanuts ($2.50). A popular snack item is the roasted macadamia nuts. Fans could receive a small bag of these or chocolate covered raisins, pecans, or almonds for $4 or two for $7. The beverage options included bottled water ($2.75), Pepsi products (20 oz for $2 or 32 oz for $2.50), coffee ($1.75), hot tea or cocoa ($1.25), bottled soda ($2.75), Gatorade ($3), Sobe Life Water ($2.75), lemonade ($3.50), and Rockstar energy drink ($3.50). Finally, in what I would deem the best value in all of sports was the price of beer at the ballpark. The value price of beer translated to many fans lining up for a purchase throughout the game (yet, surprisingly all remained well-behaved). The mass Domestic drafts were offered in either a 16 oz for $5 or a 32 oz for $7. The more premium names such as Heineken and Gordon Biersch had a 16 oz option for $6 and 32 oz for $8. The non-alcoholic O'Douls was also on hand for a mere $2.50 and those interested in wine could have a glass for $5. Atmosphere 5 In all of my college and minor league baseball visits, Les Murakami Stadium hands down provided the best atmosphere. Interestingly enough, there were few promotions between innings. The aura seems to create itself with the quality team on the field. As is the case with all Hawai'i events, it starts off with not only the National Anthem, but also the playing of Hawai'i Pono'ī, which is the former national anthem of the state from when it was a territory. Certainly, there were a few levers pulled to get the fans engaged including a "casual" t-shirt toss, but everyone seemed to be most interested in the live play. Fans were reacting to every at-bat and as I walked the concourse I often mistook a routine ground out for a home run by the boisterous applause in the seating areas. There's a nice ambiance to the stadium, with the tall trees outlining the outfield wall, the school's green colors on all seats, and a nice Under Armour sign next to the dugout with the Hawai'i logo that reads, "Protect This House." The organ was used heavily and the crowd would clap along at any opportunity. I have never witnessed a crowd that was so into the action without being cued in any specific way. These fans love their baseball team and it certainly created a both fun and entertaining atmosphere. Neighborhood 3 Outsiders who visit Honolulu may be amazed by how close the campus is to a robust downtown area and Waikiki Beach. I would argue that few campuses nationwide offer such a diverse number of restaurants in the general vicinity of campus. Many of the nearby establishments offer sushi, fast food, Indian, Korean, Hawaiian BBQ, Thai, and even Vietnamese. The baseball and basketball venues sit on campus, as opposed to Aloha Stadium (home of the Hawaii Warriors football team). Stan Sheriff is still in the vicinity of Pearl Harbor (and USS Arizona Memorial), the Diamond Head Crater, and the Punchbowl National Cemetery. Two establishments that I tried after the game due to cues from local television commercials included Mac 24/7 and Zippy's. Mac 24/7 is a bar/restaurant that really made its claim to fame with its Man vs Food exposure. The Mac Daddy Pancake Challenge offers 5 different options of three 14" pancakes that need to be eaten in 90 minutes. If you complete, you will be awarded as a "Mac Daddy," get your meal free of charge and get a photo on the Wall of Fame. Zippy's is a well-known casual fast food chain on the islands of Oahu and Maui. This 24 hour establishment does not limit itself to any one cuisine type, offering a mix of American, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Hawaiian. While chili is their claim to fame, they also take pride in their locally grown meats, coming from ranches on the islands of Hawaii. Fans 5 It is difficult to challenge the devotion of the Hawaii fans. Despite living in what many describe as paradise with numerous entertainment options, over 2.5 million fans have attended Hawaii baseball games since 1984. The team has led the NCAA in attendance on two occasions. The first was in 1986 when the stadium averaged 2,599 fans and again in 1992 where they experienced their best year of 4,433. Not to dwell on the past, as recently as 2011, the team was 17th in attendance across all of Division I baseball with 3,320 fans per game. While it seemed to take them a bit to arrive, the stands were mostly full by the end of the third inning. The fans here did not rely on the PA system to get them involved as they seemed to be hanging on every play. Noticeable groans were present after a Hawaii player struck out or hit a foul ball. When the Hawaii players made a great offensive or defensive play, the crowd would show its appreciation in such a way that it could probably be heard on the shores of Waikiki Beach. The fans also took every opportunity to distract the opposing players. When the visiting team reached first base, several fans sitting on that side began to jeer the base runner. When the opposing pitcher began to struggle, the PA system played Queen's "We Will Rock You," and the fans went nuts in an attempt to further shake the pitcher. Even though there is not permanent seating in the outfield, even the opposing center fielder faced some jeers as fans set up temporary seats on a hill beyond the outfield face, allowing them to peer into the action. Access 3 Fans driving on the H1 freeway can spot the lights of Les Murakami Stadium and it is just a few turns off of the exit. Like any metropolitan area, there can be quite a bit of traffic congestion, and fans should be advised to allow plenty of time to get to the stadium. Parking required a permit that ran at a cost of $6 daily, which is on par with most mainland collegiate and minor league programs. The restrooms were small, but they did manage to cram quite a few stations inside and the crowds came and went rather quickly. Despite a large attendance on this evening, I did not notice any backups at any of the restrooms despite the 32 ounce beers. The concourse was spacious, and the steps were not at all challenging to get to the second level. The scoreboard would probably be improved, and it appeared that the video board was not in operation on this evening. Return on Investment 5 Having participated in many of the attractions on the island of Oahu, I cannot suggest a better value than Rainbow baseball. Ticket prices at $9 for lower level seating at an upper echelon Division I program still stuns me. The upper level still provides great, unobstructed views at $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for students. I would consider these prices to be a great value at any Division I school, let alone one with a great stadium and tremendous atmosphere. Parking is a reasonable $6 and I consider the concessions to provide the best value pricing that I have ever witnessed at a college event. Pairing these together provides my most convincing Return on Investment score to date. I would challenge anyone to come forward with a better entertainment value (for all ages) on any of the islands of Hawaii. Extras 3 The first thing that caught my attention in making the simple climb to the upper concourse was the spectacular view of the tip of Diamond Head Crater just before sunset. Fans can hike the Diamond Crater free of charge and if they make it to the top, they can look down at the University of Hawaii campus. Embracing the program's history, fans can spot the retired numbers of Derek Tatsuno (16) and Les Murakami (11) in the left field corner. On the lowest level, fans will find framed photos of recent 2010 and 2011 WAC Championship teams. There are also display cases filled with historic items from years past. The Bud Light Bullpen is found in right field and is a popular spot for large groups that want to check out a Rainbows game. Les Murakami Stadium has also been the home of the minor league Hawai'i Islanders in 1986, the Hawai'i Winter Baseball League, and the Hawai'i Island Movers summer baseball club has called the facility home for more than two decades. Final Thoughts In all of my reviews for Stadium Journey, Les Murakami Stadium was easily my most pleasant surprise. Not only were the aesthesis of the stadium beyond expectations, the fan support puts this venue over the top. Oahu is a popular vacation spot for many sports fans, and the sun does occasionally go down, so do yourself a favor and spend a few hours with one of the best programs in college baseball.

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 HODGETOWN 701 South Buchanan Street Amarillo, TX 79101 Amarillo Sod Poodles website HODGETOWN website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity : 6,631 A Sodding Good Time The city of Amarillo lost its minor league baseball team back in 1982, when the Gold Sox moved to Beaumont, Texas. That franchise later became the Wichita Wranglers and is now the Northwest Arkansas Naturals, but in the meantime, Amarillo had to make do with independent and college wood-bat teams. Until 2019 that is, when the San Antonio Missions moved here as part of a rearrangement orchestrated by the Elmore Sports group. San Antonio now has a AAA team; Colorado Springs has a club in the Rookie Pioneer League, while the poor fans of Helena, MT no longer have minor league baseball. The new team had to have a new name, and they did a great job in finding something appealing and unique, choosing Sod Poodles, after the prairie dogs that can be found around the area. The marketing has been perfectly handled and Sod Poodles merchandise was flying off the shelves before the team even took the field. But what matters to us is the stadium experience. The Sod Poodles built a new venue in downtown Amarillo and named it HODGETOWN, after Jerry Hodge, the 26th mayor of the city, who was instrumental in bringing the team to the city. According to the team’s website, 'TOWN’, defined in the Prairie Dog culture as ‘multiple colonies forming one large community,’ reflects the concept of the ballpark being a gathering place for everyone in the Panhandle to enjoy professional baseball and other events as one large community.” It is a unique moniker in the minor leagues, lacking any sort of Field, Ballpark, or Stadium in the name, and also missing any corporate affiliation, which is always appreciated. So how does attending the game rate? For a ballpark nearing the end of its first season, very well indeed. Food & Beverage 4 There are four main concession stands, each with a different name (Feed & Seed, Panhandle Pizza, and the Route 66 Grill, with Barnyard being closed on the day I attended). Each had the same main menu, with hot dogs at $4.25, a jumbo dog for $6, and nachos for $6. A Frito Pie is the local specialty and costs $5.50, while snacks such as pretzels ($3.75), peanuts ($4.50), and Cracker Jack ($4.50) are available. Panhandle Pizza offers regular and pepperoni pizza ($9), chicken wings ($10), chicken tenders and fries ($9.50), and funnel cake fries ($6.50). Route 66 Grill serves black Angus bacon cheeseburgers ($12), German bratwursts ($6), chicken Philly cheesesteaks ($10.50), and Texas foot-long coney dogs ($6). The Barnyard offers two special items: Super Soddies Nachos is a mound of tortilla chips with toppings ($9) and the Piggly Wiggly covered with pulled pork and cheese ($9). Feed & Seed has more regional treats: corn in a cup ($7) and pulled pork sliders ($10). Each also has a few specialty items, for example at Feed & Seed, you could get a massive Dessert Mound for $9.50. The Sugar Cone with Rocky Road is well-satisfied for $3.75. There is a great variety of beer available, with a small draft going for $6.50, a large for $9, and a premium for $10. Pepsi products are the choice for those not imbibing, with a small soda at $4.50 and a large at $6. Overall, there is a good variety, but it can be hard to find as each concession has the same basic menu up front. Also, prices are quite high for AA balls. Atmosphere 5 Start with the incredible façade at the main entrance, which could have been designed back in the 1920s. This is a highlight of the venue and all visitors will doubtless start here with a few pictures. Take the time to walk down Buchanan Street to fully appreciate all the Midwest Art Deco touches, such as the ticket signs at the main box office. The ticket office incorporates the classic Midwest Art Deco look of the neighborhood, Photo Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Inside, a single seating bowl contains grey plastic seats that are quite a bit lighter than the usual Kelly green seats that decorate most ballparks. There are drink rails behind some sections, including one right behind home plate that is ideal if you like a bit of space, or to have somewhere to rest your scorebook. The entire concourse is open so you can watch the game while standing in line for food or drinks. As you make your way around the spacious concourse, you will notice several different areas that cater to groups. Picnic areas in both corners are most obvious, but there is a suite level as well, with a lounge right behind home plate. Only those with suite tickets can get into the lounge, and those are generally not available to the public as they are held by season ticket holders, but if you ask nicely, you might get a chance to take a picture. Other group areas are generally reserved, but there are table areas behind the left field fence that are first come, first serve. There is also a full-service bar behind the left field fence dubbed Bar 352, as that is how many feet it is from home plate. The large scoreboard is next to the bar and is quite nice, with a line score, batting lineup, and player stats, as well as replays. The berm is behind the right field fence and is limited to those with lawn tickets. In other words, an SRO ticket does not allow access to the lawn, though I can’t imagine they can police this very efficiently, nor do I imagine that fans without a lawn ticket would prefer to sit there than in their seat. A large kids' area is located well away from the concourse, which should make it safe from stray foul balls. The third base side is shaded during afternoon games, which can make a big difference when the temperature is nearing triple digits. There is no doubt that all new ballparks have the advantage of picking the best elements of their predecessors, and the folks who built HODGETOWN did their research and put together a park that has something for everyone. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is located right downtown, but there isn’t a lot in the immediate vicinity. The Amarillo Civic Center Complex is directly north, the Embassy Suites with its 1887 Social House is across the street from this, and a Performing Arts Center is just north of this. There is a nightlife area a few blocks west, but as I attended on a Sunday afternoon, nothing here was open so I did not get a chance to explore. If you are looking to tour, the Cadillac Ranch (an art installation with 10 Cadillacs buried in the sand) is a few miles west of downtown; remember to bring your spray paint to add your decorations. Also, the second largest canyon in the country, Palo Duro, is south of the city and worth a trip if you are staying more than a day. If you are looking for a challenge, the Big Texan Steak Ranch east of the city offers a 72-oz steak (plus a salad, roll, shrimp cocktail, and baked potato) that is free if eaten within an hour. If not, you will be out $72. Fans 5 The locals have taken to their new team with abandon and the game I attended was the 23rd consecutive sellout. It was good to hear fans talk knowledgeably about players acquired in recent trades and about the state of the Padres farm system in general. Fans were polite and well behaved throughout the stadium and everyone had a great time from what I could tell. Access 5 Located on Buchanan Street just north of I-40, you should have no problem getting there or finding a free parking spot on the street within a few blocks, at least for night and weekend games, when street parking is free. There are team-operated lots for $5 but if you arrive early, you shouldn’t have to bother with them. There is no problem moving around the concourse, and there don’t appear to be long lines at the concession stands or restrooms during the game. HODGETOWN Entrance, Photo by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey. Return on Investment 4 Tickets range from $18 for the best seats down to $6 for SRO or lawn seats. It can be tough to find more than a pair of seats on game day as season ticket holders have bought up most of the supply, but you might get lucky. For me, though, an SRO ticket and a spot on the drink rail are good enough to start, and eventually you can find a seat down the lines once things settle down. Parking is free, but food can be a bit pricey here, and that is why this section loses a point. Extras 4 For a new ballpark, there is a lot here that is worth checking out. The design of the ballpark alone stands out among other minor-league facilities. It blends in well with the existing buildings in town and features a main entrance that is well-designed and will soon be an iconic symbol of Amarillo. RUCKUS is possibly the most energetic mascot I have ever seen in the minors, particularly impressive given the heat and the heavy costume. There was a stadium replica giveaway for the game I attended, one of many Sunday afternoon freebies during the season, which merits an extra point. Another point for the brilliant marketing campaign that took place before the team had thrown a pitch. The Sod Poodles name was ridiculed by many when it was first announced, but that did not stop the team from selling merchandise to every state in the country, and from making their team a destination in the Texas Panhandle. Final Thoughts HODGETOWN is a great new ballpark that seems to have something for everyone. The main entrance is one of the most alluring in all of the minors and the unique stadium name shows creativity and a desire to be different. Of course, there is no history or “Road to the Show” display yet, but I am sure that will be added as the seasons pass. I think the Sod Poodles will be a mainstay in the area for years to come and all minor league aficionados should schedule a visit at their earliest convenience.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 RE/MAX Field 10233 96 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5K 0A5 Canada Edmonton Riverhawks website RE/MAX Field website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 9,200 Hawks of Edmonton RE/MAX Field, formerly Edmonton Ballpark, and Telus Field, opened in 1995 as home to the AAA Edmonton Trappers of the Pacific Coast League. Since 2005 it has been home to various teams in various leagues. John Ducey Park was its predecessor at this location from 1933 to 1995 and was home to the Edmonton Cubs, Edmonton Dodgers, Edmonton Drakes, Edmonton Navy Cardinals, Edmonton Eskimos, and the Trappers Five-time Stanley Cup winner Randy Gregg is head of the ownership group for the Riverhawks. The Riverhawks played their first game in 2022 as part of the West Coast League, a collegiate summer baseball wooden bat league. Food & Beverage 3 The RE/MAX Field menu is pretty standard fare, with all your typical ballpark options at typical prices. The concessions also offer a selection of domestic beer as well as many specialty beer choices. Atmosphere 4 The seats in the main portion of the stadium go from first base to third and are nice ones for fans. Further down on both sides are metal bleachers which are available for general stadium seating. Beyond the outfield walls is a fairly interesting industrial area, as well as a very beautiful bridge. Both areas offer a great view from the stands. You can also see the Alberta Legislature building from various parts of the ballpark. The infield is artificial turf, while the outfield is natural grass. This gives the field itself an unusual look that you won’t find in a lot of places. We attended a combination fireworks and “play catch on the field after the game” night. This was a bit of a mess as kids were running and playing just a few feet away from staff setting up fireworks on the same field. Then after the fireworks were done, kids were jumping over the spent fireworks equipment. We would suggest they add some roping or something in the future as we were shocked the whole time, expecting disaster to happen any second. They did push the crowd during the actual fireworks past the foul lines, but we might suggest keeping things a bit more separate. Neighborhood 2 The stadium is located just to the south of downtown Edmonton and near the Alberta Legislature area. The area around the stadium itself is primarily residential though and doesn’t offer much to do before or after the game. Although pleasant enough the rating is impacted by the poor access to the stadium on days with high attendance. Fans 4 The team draws fairly well and if fireworks or other promotion nights are involved, you can expect a large crowd. The fans in attendance seem to be a knowledgeable lot, although the general admission bleacher sections are often filled with kids who may be less involved in the game action. Access 1 Although located right near the heart of Edmonton, RE/MAX Field is hard to get to on game days if there is any amount of substantial attendance. There is not a lot of parking in traditional lots at the stadium. There should be enough parking spaces, but you may end up packed into a grass lot across from the stadium. The streets leading up to the area will be jammed with traffic. We thought we would miss the start of the game although we left plenty of time to get to the stadium. We would recommend taking 105 Street NW north and turning east on 96th Avenue NW as a backway into the grass lots. 10427 96 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 0A7, Canada is a good address to put into your GPS, but remember to come from the west. Another recommendation is to use public transportation, or even if a bit of a walk, find parking downtown. It will be an uphill walk back after the game, so be aware. The concourse also has a few pinch points around the concourse. It is hard to believe this concourse was a AAA ballpark as it is far too small for any large crowd. Return on Investment 4 General admission tickets are $19.99 for adults, $14.99 for students and seniors, and $9.99 for kids 17 and under. You can also upgrade to Balcony seats for $24.99. There are also premium areas available from $24.99 and up. Parking is $10. The prices are fairly high but not outrageously so. Extras 3 The Alberta Legislature and Parliament are close by and provide a cool view from certain areas of the stadium. If you have time, you should stop by and check out their free hourly tours. There is a mascot and the usual games and items found at many minor league stadiums. There is a nice souvenir stand located in the crowded concourse. Final Thoughts RE/MAX Field is a nice place to watch baseball even with the poor access to the stadium.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Lowell Park 10 Lowell Ave Cotuit, MA 02635 Cotuit Kettleers website Lowell Park website Year Opened: 1947 Capacity: 2,000 Have A Hit!   The small village of Cotuit contains what is arguably one of the most picturesque baseball diamonds in the nation. Located in the town of Barnstable, Lowell Park is named after Elizabeth Lowell, the daughter of George Jones, one of the co-founders of the New York Times. Mrs. Lowell donated the land that the ball field and adjoining nature reserve are located on. The Kettleers are the most successful team in Cape League history, having won the league championship 15 times in the “Modern Era” of the Cape Cod League, which began in 1963. Cotuit has won 17 championships overall.   You may be wondering what exactly a “Kettleer” is. Although the details can be a bit murky, it is a term that goes back to colonial times. The most popularly accepted story is that the earliest settlers from England were unable to sufficiently farm or hunt for themselves and ended up trading frequently with the local Native tribes. Most frequently, the trades consisted of crops (usually corn) for kettles. Other stories tell of the colonists purchasing the land that became Cotuit from the natives for two kettles and a hoe. Thus, the term “Kettleers” refers to the locals of Cotuit.   Food & Beverage 3   The Lowell Park snack bar, operated by Cotuit Fresh Market, is behind the third base grandstand. The menu consists of standard ballpark fare, with hot dogs, hamburgers, and sausage sandwiches available. Also on the menu are numerous snack items, including peanuts, popcorn, and nachos, as well as candy and ice cream treats.   Thirsty visitors to Lowell Park can choose from various Coca-Cola products. As is the case at all Cape Cod ballparks, alcoholic beverages are not sold here.  Fans who have not visited Cotuit in a while may bemoan the downsizing of the menu and the deletion of many local items.   Even with the solid selection of food sold at Lowell Park, visitors are free to bring their food and drink to a Kettleers game. Just no alcohol in your coolers, please.   Atmosphere 4   The game day atmosphere at Lowell Park is a baseball purist’s dream. There is very little extra activity going on here to distract one from the action on the field. The loud music and over-the-top PA announcements that are present elsewhere are not to be found here. Batters do not stride to the plate with any walk-up music blaring over the speakers, nor is there music between most innings. PA announcements are limited to upcoming batters, lineup changes, and some advertisements for local sponsors.   Lowell Park is located in a former nature reserve and has been compared to Field of Dreams in Iowa, as it seems to have been similarly carved out of its natural environment. Recent grants from the Yawkey Foundation have allowed the club to purchase the land around the ballfield to prevent any development around the park as well as to make improvements in the facility. New to Lowell Park is a large grandstand on the first base side of the field, a new scoreboard with video capability, a nature trail, and landscaping in the area beyond the outfield fence. The open spaces around the field provide lots of room for younger fans to chase down foul balls and for the many four-legged fans in attendance to run around.   Cape League teams are run as non-profit organizations which rely on donations from fans and corporations to fund their operations. During every game, the Cotuit Kettle is passed around for fans to drop donations into. In addition, a nightly 50/50 raffle offers numerous prizes for fans to win.   Neighborhood 3   Cotuit is a quintessential Cape Cod village surrounded on three sides by water. Called “Little Harvard” back in the day due to its popularity among Harvard professors who would spend their summer vacations there, Cotuit has an area of only five square miles.   Lowell Park is located just blocks from Cotuit Bay and Main Street. Visiting fans will find some fantastic golf courses and picturesque beaches near the ballpark. Main Street runs near Lowell Park and contains several quaint shops and excellent places to eat. Locals swear that the lobster roll at the nearby Kettle-Ho Tavern is the best on Cape Cod, which is high praise indeed.   More dining and shopping options can be found at Nearby Mashpee Commons, located at the junction of Routes 28 and 151. After the game, get some of the best ice cream on Cape Cod, at Polar Cave, a kitschy neighborhood ice cream parlor featuring dozens of flavors and loaded with Coca-Cola memorabilia.   Fans 4   Crowds at Kettleer games are similar to those at the other Cape League games, with a mix of locals and tourists present. If you are looking to avoid the larger crowds, try and attend a game in June before tourist season picks up steam. Cotuit generally draws around 1,000 fans per game, good for the middle of the pack in the Cape League. Fans who come to games on the Cape are, for the most part, very knowledgeable about the game of baseball, and are really into the game being played, despite the laid-back atmosphere at the park. You'll be sure to know your neighbors very well after nine innings of baseball. Lowell Park feels more like a neighborhood gathering than a baseball game.   Access 4   Cotuit is located on the southern coast of Cape Cod, about halfway between Falmouth and Hyannis. Lowell Park is located a little over a mile off Route 28, which runs parallel to the coastline. There is no public transportation serving the area, so driving is the best way to reach Lowell Park.   Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the ballpark (beware of foul balls if parking here), on the streets around Lowell Park (just watch the signs, as some areas are restricted), and in a nearby elementary school parking lot.   Once inside Lowell Park, seating consists mainly of two newly constructed grandstands on either baseline. Both grandstands are handicapped accessible. Fans wishing to bring their lawn chairs will find ample room in a grove down the left field line. Picnic tables and benches here provide shaded seating and room to roam. Fans can walk around the field and watch the action from any number of vantage points.   Permanent structures behind the third base grandstand house the concession stand and restrooms.   Return on Investment 5   As is the case with all Cape League games, there is no charge for admission to games at Lowell Park. Donations are happily accepted in return for a roster sheet. Parking is also free, either in the small lot adjacent to the field, on some local streets, or in a nearby elementary school parking lot.   Food prices are reasonable, and fans can bring their food to the game if they choose. It is entirely possible to attend a game featuring some of the best collegiate baseball players in the country without spending a single red cent.   Extras 4   Some of the finest collegiate talents in the country spend their summers on the Cape. The league boasts that over 370 Cape League alumni play in the Major Leagues annually. Over 1,600 Cape League alums have played in the Majors. Whenever you take in a game at Lowell Park, you’ll be seeing numerous future big leaguers in action.   Surrounding the plaza behind home plate is a building that houses the press box, team store, and scout's seating. Circling this area are plaques atop several posts honoring the 17 Kettleer championship teams. Identified on these plaques are the coach, MVP, and Outstanding Pitcher for each team. Cape Cod Hall of Fame inductees are honored on the wall of the concession stand. Visiting fans will find some familiar names listed here.   The recent facility improvements which added to the Kettleer experience without affecting the natural environment of Lowell Field earn another extra point.   Final Thoughts   Lowell Park is a jewel among summer league parks.  In addition to Cotuit's picturesque location, Cape League lineups are loaded with future Major League players. This combination makes a visit to Cape Cod a must for any baseball fan. Just remember to put a few dollars in the kettle when it’s passed around, and “Have a Hit!”   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Michelo Ultra Arena 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109 Las Vegas Aces website Michelob Ultra Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 12,000 Todo dentro Los Ases de Las Vegas de la WNBA juegan sus juegos en casa en el Mandalay Bay Events Center de Las Vegas, NV. El equipo tiene historia fuera de Las Vegas jugando en Salt Lake City, UT y San Antonio, TX antes de mudarse a Las Vegas en 2018. El Mandalay Bay Events Center es un lugar excepcional para observar a un equipo de la WNBA. Ofrece muchos asientos cerca a precios asequibles y una fantástica experiencia de día de juego para los juegos de Ases. Organizó el Juego de Estrellas WNBA 2019 y alberga otras formas de entretenimiento durante todo el año. Alimentos y Bebidas 3 Los precios de alimentos y bebidas en el Centro de eventos me parecen un poco altos. Para las bebidas, una botella de agua cuesta $ 5. Los cócteles varían de $ 15 a $ 22, una copa de vino cuesta $ 12, la cerveza cuesta $ 10 – $ 14 con un tall boy a $ 15. No sé qué es esto (en cuanto a bebidas), pero un ‘tarro de masón’ tiene un precio de $ 24. Los carros y las concesiones a lo largo del concurso ofrecen tacos para caminar ($ 8.50), Aces Dogs con papas fritas ($ 9.50 – $ 10), Real Pit BBQ (carne de cerdo, carne de res, pavo a $ 10.50) y filete de queso ($ 13). Los conos de Sno, Dippin ‘Dots, Five Spot Coffee, Dole Soft Serve y mini-donuts también adornan el vestíbulo. El recuento de calorías de los artículos se proporciona en los principales puestos de venta. Aunque el vestíbulo es amplio, las líneas de concesión son largas. Ambiente 5 Los asientos tienen forma de U alrededor de la cancha. Una sección VIP de piso y el DJ están en el extremo abierto. Dos niveles de asientos están en su lugar; el nivel superior sube a la fila K. Hay disponibles pasamanos. No hay pasarela entre los niveles, sube a los 200 asientos de nivel o baja a los 100 asientos de nivel. Muy fácil. Los asientos en la arena son acolchados pero bastante estrechos con muy poco espacio para las piernas y están placenteramente cerca de la acción en la cancha. El marcador de video cuelga en la cancha central y tiene el tamaño perfecto para la arena. Proporciona el juego, las repeticiones, las estadísticas individuales de los jugadores, el tiempo restante en cuartos, faltas y casi cualquier cosa para aquellos que llevan la cuenta. La temperatura en la arena es cómoda y para aquellos que tienen frío, solo se necesita una camisa de manga larga. Las leyes de Nevada todavía permiten fumar cigarrillos en los casinos, incluido el Mandalay Bay Casino (pero no en la arena), por lo que los fanáticos pueden atragantarse atravesando el casino antes de llegar al evento de baloncesto. Barrio 4 El vecindario más cercano es el casino con sus más de 5 restaurantes (algunos de los cuales parecen ‘presumidos’ si no eres parte del grupo o asociación que tiene un evento allí) y el centro comercial justo al lado con su propia variedad de alimentos y bebidas. opciones que incluyen Slice of Vegas, Fat Tuesday y Hussong’s Cantina (mexicana). No recomiendo Libertine Social, ya que parecen los más reacios a aceptar a un visitante informal para tomar una copa. Los restaurantes del casino son agradables pero son caros. En su lugar, visite el Slice of Vegas en el centro comercial. Tienen excelente cerveza y pizza decente. Ofrecen una rebanada de pastel de queso gratis (del tipo que doblas y no comes con un tenedor y un cuchillo, como debería ser) cuando se muestra tu boleto de Ases. Y tienen ofertas de comida y bebida todos los fines de semana. Al lado de Mandalay Bay se encuentra el Luxor Casino and Resort y luego está Excalibur con el Tropicana al otro lado de la calle. Todos estos casinos tienen habitaciones si pasan una o dos noches. El Mandalay Bay tiene el Acuario Shark Reef, el Luxor tiene el Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Excalibur tiene un teatro de cena medieval y el Tropicana tiene un club de comedia. Por lo tanto, hay mucho que hacer a poca distancia, además de apostar en un casino lleno de humo. Para ver otros deportes en el área durante la temporada de la WNBA, echa un vistazo al nuevo Las Vegas Ballpark (inaugurado en 2019), Las Vegas Lights (USL), y dependiendo de qué tan lejos lleguen los Ases en la temporada posterior, ser capaz de ver un juego de pretemporada de Vegas Golden Knights (NHL). Ventiladores 5 Una buena mezcla de fanáticos asiste a los juegos de ases: familias, parejas, niños y grupos. Los fanáticos gritan “Noche” durante el lugar apropiado en el Himno Nacional. Me dijeron que esto se hace en todos los lugares deportivos de Las Vegas desde que el hockey Golden Knights se instaló en Las Vegas. Los fanáticos hacen un buen trabajo gritando a los árbitros por faltas injustificadas y se aferran a cada regate, pase y tiro, y rugen de emoción cuando los Ases hacen una canasta o un buen juego. En la primera temporada de los Ases en 2018, una asistencia promedio de aproximadamente 5,300 fanáticos entró por las puertas. A pesar de que el Centro de eventos tiene 12,000, un gran bloque de asientos (detrás de un objetivo completo) no se usa para los juegos de Ases, lo que hace que la arena se sienta abarrotada. Acceso 4 Llegar al Mandalay Bay Events Center es relativamente fácil. Está justo a la salida de la I-15. El estacionamiento oeste parece ser el más cercano al Centro de Eventos. El monorraíl MGM Grand Station de Las Vegas está a una milla a pie. El aeropuerto internacional McCarran está a 2 millas y media del lugar. Muchos hoteles ofrecen servicios de transporte hacia y desde el Mandalay Bay Resort, así que aproveche aquellos que no se hospedan en el centro. Las puertas no se abren a las 6 p.m. (como me dijo el agente de boletos) pero se abren a las 6:30 p.m. a través de grandes cantidades de seguridad, aunque no fue desagradable. Solo espere una larga cola si llega temprano. La explanada puede estar un poco congestionada, especialmente alrededor de las concesiones de alimentos y al medio tiempo. Los baños son adecuados y se mantienen excepcionalmente limpios durante todo el juego. Retorno de la inversión 3 Los precios de las entradas cuestan $ 24 (cancha central, segundo nivel, fila alta) con filas más bajas que cuestan $ 42. El asiento final es un poco más bajo. Agregue una tarifa de servicio grande de $ 5 incluso si se compra en la taquilla a esos precios. Consulte su calendario para cualquier regalo durante la temporada. Tome el monorriel u obtenga un servicio de transporte desde su hotel para reducir las tarifas de estacionamiento. Los precios de concesión son altos para un recinto deportivo. Sin embargo, vale la pena asistir a un juego de ases y gastar sus dólares en entretenimiento deportivo. Extras 2 Los ujieres en la arena son extremadamente amables y serviciales. En el Mandalay Bay Casino se muestran pancartas y letreros en columnas y otras áreas. ¡Recuerda ir a Slice of Vegas antes o después del juego! Pensamientos finales Cuando asista a un juego de Las Vegas Aces, verá el esfuerzo que contribuyen todos los involucrados: los jugadores, el personal, la seguridad, los entrenadores y, sobre todo, los fanáticos. Desafortunadamente, WNBA no está recibiendo el reconocimiento que debería y eso es una pena. Es un gran deporte para ver sin las travesuras de la NBA. ** Special thanks to Jim Minard and Raul Perez for translation assistance. **

Photos by Lloyd Brown and Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Michelob Ultra Arena 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109 Las Vegas Aces website Michelob Ultra Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 12,000 All In The Michelob ULTRA Arena is a 12,000-seat sports and entertainment venue at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. It opened as the Mandalay Bay Events Center in 1999, before changing its name as a part of a naming rights agreement in 2021. Since 2018 the arena has served as the home of the Las Vegas Aces of the WNBA. The Aces were previously the San Antonio Stars before moving to Nevada. The Aces play in the Western Conference of the WNBA. The team has been a regular in the playoffs since moving to Las Vegas, including two trips to the WNBA Finals. The Aces won the 2022 WNBA title in a four-game sweep over the Connecticut Sun. The arena also hosted the 2019 and 2023 WNBA All-Star Game. The Aces are one of two WNBA teams that play in an arena attached to a casino. The other team is the Connecticut Sun, who play at the Mohegan Sun Arena . Food & Beverage 3 It is nearly impossible to starve or lose weight in Las Vegas, as food is ever-present, and in large servings. Even before you get to the arena itself, you’ll be passing some very tempting restaurants. However, this is a review of the arena’s food options… so here is what you can expect. There is nothing unique about the food and beverage options at the Michelob Ultra Arena. It offers the typical arena foods including hot dogs, pizza, popcorn, BBQ, and dessert items like snow cones, soft serve ice cream, and mini donuts. Beverages start at $14, and they serve Budweiser products. All concessions at Michelob Ultra Arena are done through either permanent stands or roving carts along the concourse. We suggest getting something from Slice of Vegas either before or after an Aces game. They offer an extensive menu of pizzas at very reasonable prices. It is in the Shoppes at Mandalay Place. Atmosphere 4 This is Las Vegas, so you are sure to be entertained at an Aces game. The team introductions are quite a spectacle, and that’s just the beginning of the show. Entertainment during breaks in the action is provided by the High Rollers Dance Team and the antics of Bucket$, the team’s desert jackrabbit mascot. Fans shout out the word “Night” during the National Anthem. This has become a Las Vegas tradition at all sports activities in the city since the arrival of the Vegas Golden Knights of the NHL. Even though the capacity of the Michelob ULTRA Arena is listed at 12,000, it feels much more intimate than that. Most of the seating is at the lower level, providing you with an up-close view of the action. The electronics package at the arena is top of the line, as the sound system and the lighting are frequently used for concerts and other types of shows. Neighborhood 5 The Mandalay Resort and Casino is located at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip. It is located just 2.5 miles from the city’s McCarran International Airport. The immediate neighborhood of the Michelob ULTRA Arena is the Mandalay Resort and Casino itself. There is plenty to do in the Resort, including shopping at the Shops at Mandalay Place, or having a bite to eat at restaurants including Slice of Vegas, Border Grill, and Wahlburgers. Attractions at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino include The Michael Jackson ONE show by Cirque du Soleil and the Shark Reef Aquarium. Of course, the Las Vegas Strip also awaits just outside of the Mandalay’s doors. It offers world-class entertainment, unique attractions, and great restaurants. If you are a sports fan, you can choose to attend a Raiders football game, a Golden Knights hockey game, or an Aviators baseball game. Of course, in Las Vegas, you can bet on the games as well (legally!). Fans 4 The fan base in Las Vegas is unusual in that most of the locals are involved in the hospitality industry and are actively working to serve you during your visit. However, the Aces seem to be very popular after work or weekend breaks for the locals from their work in the industry. We saw lots of families and groups of young people enjoying a night off with the Aces. Other than some high rollers seated on the floor or at midcourt, the locals form a majority of the crowds at the basketball games. You may want to people-watch the seats on the court, as NFL GOAT Tom Brady is one of the part owners of the Aces! The Aces draw an average attendance of 5,607. Even though that seems only half full in a 12,000-seat venue, it is important to realize that only a portion of the seats in the facility is used for Aces games. Access 3 We advise against renting a car in Las Vegas unless you plan to visit some outlying areas such as the Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon. In addition to the wait and expense of getting a rental car, there’s the expense of parking at each stop and the hassle of Las Vegas traffic. Free shuttles are available at most hotels, and options including the Las Vegas people mover and Uber also exist. Upon arrival at Mandalay Resort and Casino, head inside and go right at Lupo and continue past KUMI and Stripsteak. Follow the walkway past Starbucks and take the first right down the hallway leading to the Michelob ULTRA Arena entrance. The arena has only an exterior entrance from a parking area and the entrance that takes you through the casino. Doors to the Michelob ULTRA Arena open only 30 minutes before tipoff, instead of the customary one hour. This results in some backup at the gates before the game. The concourse serves both levels of arena seating and can also become congested. The concession stands to get overwhelming at halftime, so try to get your food and beverages during other breaks in the action. Return on Investment 3 Tickets on the lower level of the Michelob ULTRA Arena carry a high roller price tag of $100 for seats at midcourt. Celebrity wannabes can also purchase a table for $238 a person or $500/$1,000 for courtside seats across from/next to the team bench. Seats in the 200 level are $10. Be aware that only certain sections of the 200 level are available for the Aces game. Parking is available at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center for $30. However, most people do not need a car during their stay in Las Vegas, as most hotels along the Strip provide free shuttles in between the Strip attractions. Extras 5 The Michelob ULTA Arena has also played host to numerous WWE events and UFC fights throughout the year. The Las Vegas Desert Dogs lacrosse team also plays their home schedule at the arena. They play in the National Lacrosse League. The owners of the Aces are Mark Davis, owner of the Las Vegas Raiders of the NFL, and Tom Brady, formerly the quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New England Patriots of the NFL. Aces coach Becky Hammon was the first female coach in the NBA. She previously served as an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs. Among the non-sports events that have been held at the Michelob ULTRA Arena are the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants and concerts featuring Journey, Ozzy Osborne, Luciano Pavarotti, and the Latin Grammy Awards. Final Thoughts We’re betting you are going to have a great time at a Las Vegas Aces game at the Michelob ULTRA Arena. Terrific basketball, Vegas-style entertainment during the breaks, and easy access to food, drink, and gambling add up to a very entertaining evening!

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Harbor Park 150 Park Ave Norfolk, VA 23510 Norfolk Tides website Harbor Park website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 12,059 Ride the Tide to the Ballpark Located on the Elizabeth River in Downtown Norfolk, Virginia, Harbor Park is the home of the Norfolk Tides of the International League. The Tides were a long-running Mets affiliate between 1969 and 2006, but have been the Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles since 2007. Originally known as the Tidewater Tides in the broader region, the team changed its name to the Norfolk Tides to honor its home city when the new ballpark opened in 1993. Harbor Park takes its name from Hampton Roads, the natural harbor that divides the region of the same name in two and is located just minutes from the stadium. Fans can see ships of all sizes going up and down the Elizabeth River beyond the outfield fence, from small craft to large ships. Food & Beverage 5 Harbor Park has a strong variety of concessions sold throughout the concourse. In addition to the usual items such as hot dogs, burgers, and chicken nuggets, fans can enjoy pizza slices from local vendor Ynot Pizza, as well as tacos, quesadillas, cheesesteaks, and more. Although soft pretzels are a ubiquitous concession item seen at most baseball stadiums across the country, the ones at Harbor Park are unique in that they are grilled rather than warmed in the usual manner. Fans can enjoy these pretzels topped with salt or cinnamon sugar. Alcohol is also available to those of age, while fans can also enjoy soda and bottled water. Atmosphere 3 Most of the seats at Harbor Park are located below the concourse, although there are a few seats above it further down the lines in addition to the luxury suites closer to home plate. Although the third base seats will be in the sun during the game and can get very hot during the summer, they also offer the best view of the Elizabeth River. Unfortunately, the view has been obstructed somewhat by a large new scoreboard the team constructed in right-centerfield, but it is still one of the best views of any baseball stadium in the nation. The team has the usual between-inning contests on the field, although they do not distract from the game itself. They have two mascots, Rip Tide and Triton, who roam the stands throughout the game interacting with fans. As a nod to Norfolk's nautical location and proximity to several naval bases (and the occasional naval ship passing beyond the outfield fence during the game), a submarine dive horn plays after Tides home runs. Neighborhood 4 Harbor Park is located less than a mile from Downtown Norfolk, where you will find many options to eat, drink, and stay. From bars to steakhouses to Italian eateries to local favorite Ynot Pizza (which also sells its food at the stadium), there is something for everyone here. There are also numerous hotels ranging from the Hilton to more budget options. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is about 20 to 30 minutes away, although the exact travel time will depend on traffic. Fans 4 The Norfolk Tides draw good attendance to their games, especially on weekends. Firework nights are typically sellout with over 12,000 fans in a standing-room-only crowd. Sundays also draw large crowds, which isn't always the case in minor league baseball, while weekdays will of course draw less. The fans in attendance can be passionate when the Tides have big plays or home runs, but at other times they are more subdued. Of course, it is similar to most minor league parks in this respect. Access 3 Although Harbor Park is located just off I-264, driving here can still be challenging. The highway can have miles-long backups with beach traffic, especially if coming from the other side of the harbor, in which case you will need to cross the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel to get here. There are several large lots near the stadium where fans can park for $6. You may have to park far away if you do not get here early, but you should have a space somewhere. If coming from this side of the harbor, there are some public transit options, although driving access is far easier from this side than the other side. The Tide, that is to say, Norfolk's light rail system, not the baseball team who plays here, has a stop right outside the stadium. A ferry is also available from Portsmouth, across the Elizabeth River, although that does not start running until one hour before the game, the same time gates open, so this may be inconvenient for some fans who want to get here early. Depending on which entrance you use, you will either need to walk up a ramp or some stairs to get to the concourse, though in the case of the latter, an elevator is available for those who require it. Restrooms are available on both sides of the concourse, including a family restroom down the third base line. Like most of minor league baseball, the Tides have a clear bag policy. While this is frustrating, it is to be expected at this point. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are available for between $15 and $16 depending on where you sit. Given the small difference, we suggest paying the extra dollar for lower-level seats rather than sitting above the concourse way down the lines. Unfortunately, the team sells tickets through Ticketmaster, so expect to pay fees that bring this rating down. Parking is $6, which is a bit high but not outrageous given the park's location. Concessions are about average as well. Although there are minor league parks that offer better value, a trip to Harbor Park certainly won't break the bank. Extras 3 One star for the gorgeous view of the Elizabeth River and passing ships beyond the right field fence. A second star for the team store located behind home plate on the concourse. A third and final star for the Tidewater Baseball Hall of Fame just inside the home plate gate, before you go up the stairs to the concourse. Final Thoughts Although traffic can be a nightmare in the summer to get to Harbor Park, once you deal with beach traffic and make it in, you will find that it has all been worth it. A Norfolk Tides game is a family-friendly and affordable way to spend a summer afternoon or evening in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.

A few years ago, I wrote an article on this site about a ballpark in Thetford Mines, Quebec , that was once part of Autostade in Montreal. It was quite a discovery for me since I thought the former home of the Montreal Alouettes was demolished right around the time of my birth, but little did I know that parts of it were still in play a few kilometers to the north in the mining town. As with many things, my curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to dig deeper into the stadium’s origins. I soon realized that it was never really intended to be a professional sports stadium, but just happened to become one based on what was happening in the city at the time. During its ten years of usage, and loathing, by almost everyone who took in a game at the stadium, it was home to pro sports clubs: Canadian Football League, North American Soccer League, Continental Football League. and when the National League expanded to Montreal, the ill-conceived home of the Montreal Expos. The Allouettes had hoped to have a stadium built in Ville D'Anjou by the 1965 CFL season At the time, Montreal did not have a proper football stadium. McGill Stadium was built in 1915 and is not the same venue today. Delorimier Stadium was in a residential area and was unable to be expanded. In 1963, the Als announced they would build a new 40,000-seat stadium in time for the 1965 CFL season. The stadium would be located in Ville d'Anjou, offer parking space for 10,000 cars, a practice field outside its exterior, and feature a three-tier press box. It could be expanded to 60,000 and completed in three phases that would end with a $5,000 domed roof. Unfortunately, the plans fell through soon after the announcement. However, a new stadium for Expo 67 was in the planning stages. Construction began on January 28, 1966, and the major selling point was that it would be portable if it ever had to be relocated to another part of town. The 25,000-seat venue cost $3.2 million and was built at the Point St. Charles Waterfront in Montreal. It was built expressly for Expo 67 and used during the six months of Expo 67 for military events, circuses, horse shows, and international soccer. Autostade Managing Director Dave Dauphinee was optimistic about the stadium's future after the Expo's events in a statement in the Montreal Gazette after its completion. “It’s an idea setting for an all-round sports centre. It has unlimited possible parking facilities in the area, including ample spaces under the Bonaventure thruway. The field itself is an excellent one. The stadium complex has every conceivable ultra-modern facility to handle big crowds.” Autostade opened for business with a Montreal Beavers loss to former Als head coach Perry Moss's Orlando Panthers The Montreal Beavers of the Continental Football League were its first main tenants. The minor league operation had been based in Ft. Wayne the season before but relocated for the 1966 season. The Beavers inaugurated Autostade with a crowd of 10, 800 in a 49-27 defeat to the Orlando Predators. However, there were ominous signs of things to come in that first game. Kick-off was delayed by 20 minutes after the main fuse blew three hours before the game and knocked out the lights in the stadium. Fans complained that they had trouble finding their cars after the game in the unpaved, unlighted, and unmarked lots surrounding the venue. The rest of the season crowds between 4,000 to 11,000 were the norm for Beavers games. Even with respectable crowds at the stadium, it was still at best one-third full. The wind whipped fans from the nearby St. Lawrence River, a harbinger of things to come with style and comfort. The Beavers were forced out of the stadium for Expo 67 and relocated to a 10,000-seat stadium in the suburb of Verdun before quietly folding after its second season. The Beavers did leave a legacy and one that is most likely ignored by football historians; they were the first pro football team to utilize the slingshot field goalpost. The revolutionary field goal posts were different from the standard H-shape posts of the time, and in just a few short years, a majority of football stadiums adopted the single-post field goal. It was invented in Montreal by Joe Rottman, a retired magazine distributor, and part-time inventor. He came up with the concept of what newspapers called at the time a “tuning-fork design” during lunch with Alouettes head coach Jim Trimble and Jack Rabinovich, the originator of skateboards in Canada. Rottman was so upset that he couldn’t get a word in between the two men about skateboarding that he held up his fork, bent it, and asked them if they ever heard of a one-legged goalpost. The slingshot-stye goal post made its debut at Autostade, and by the following year it was in every NFL stadium in the United States He then began work on his concept and displayed it at Autostade. A set of posts cost $2,200 and were custom-made, and Rottman and Trimble both saw the potential of 38,000 colleges and high schools in the United States and 3,000 schools in Canada adopting their invention. Autostade also featured Xenon lamp lights, the first of its kind, in North America. A few newspaper reporters added that the lighting was so natural that it was almost daylight. However, those lights would be looked upon a lot differently a few years later when meager crowds braved the cold and chilly nights for football and soccer games. The first CFL game played at the stadium with the tuning-fork field goalpost took place on November 19, 1966, between the Ottawa Rough Riders and Hamilton Tiger-Cats in game two of the Eastern Conference Finals. Renovations on the North Side stands, and the construction of the Civic Centre (now known as TD Place Arena) prevented the game from being played at the Riders home at Lansdowne Park. The field had to be adjusted from the American version to the Canadian version. The sidelines left about 7 feet between the grass turf and the hard-surface track. The players and field crew were pushed back on the track along with placing down coconut matting next to the turf boundaries to help guard against injuries. The first CFL game at Autostade was a playoff game between the Rough Riders and Tiger-Cats in 1966. An estimated 14,000 fans made the trip to Montreal with rail service departing the Canadian capital at 8:45 am and returning at 6 pm; a crowd of 20,000 plus witnessed the game creating a Grey Cup vibe a week before the big game in Vancouver. The Riders mauled the Cats 42-16 to win the aggregate series 72-17. The crowd control was described as disgraceful and inexcusable during the playoff game. It was reported that fans flocked to the field in the second half, and spectators who remained in the stands threw bottles from the stands delaying the game several times. All balls kicked into the end zone were gobbled up as souvenirs by fans wrestling with one another for the ultimate prize. A few more engaged in fisticuffs with players with reports of shoving, arguing, and running onto the field during the final quarter of play, chasing loose balls, and attempting to climb the goalpost. There was one report of Hamilton’s Angelo Mosca knocking a fan onto the ground with his helmet after being punched on his chin by an unruly customer. Ottawa GM Red O’Quinn said Montreal police refused to enter the stadium to police the games. The next year Expo 67 opened and attracted millions of people from all over the world. The world exhibition commemorated the country’s centennial birthday with hundreds of exhibits on display, Autostade became the venue to host a myriad of events from international soccer to horse shows. Six countries took part in a round-robin soccer tournament from May 31 to June 11 that was sanctioned by FIFA and the Canadian Soccer Association featuring the Soviet Union, England, Czechoslovakia, Italy, West Germany, and Canada. The national teams were split into divisions of three in a double-elimination format that capped off with England defeating West Germany in the final in front of 20,653 people. A total of 652,344 people took in a variety of events that included a two-night track and field meet, a three-day lacrosse tournament, the Ringling Brothers circus, the Canadian Armed Forces tattoo, the Maurice Chevalier’s Flying Colors show, the Gendarmerie Francaise, the Wild Horse Spectacular, and the Great Western Rodeo. When the National League expanded to Montreal in May of 1968, it was Autostade that was slated to become the temporary home of the baseball club. The initial plan was to increase the capacity to 35,000 and cover it with a roof for $3 million. The dimensions would be 330 feet to the left and right field and 410 to centerfield. Being that the stands were removable, the conversion of the football field to a baseball stadium would seem very logical at the time until a permanent dome stadium would be ready in 1971. “The only thing that worries me right now is giving people a good ballpark. Fans will have to rough it at Autostade before the other park is ready, but this is a good baseball town.” This could have been the baseball dimensions for the Montreal Expos inaugural season in 1969. That changed when NL president Warren Giles visited the stadium in July of 1968 and deemed it unsuitable for baseball. The cost of the roof now ballooned to $7 million. That prompted a four-hour meeting between the mayor, sponsors, city officials, and baseball executives to upgrade Jarry Park from a 3,000-seat venue used for local baseball leagues to a 33,000-seat venue that would now be the home for the baseball club in 1969. The switch in venues ended Autostade’s brief run as a major league venue. A similar position would take place six years later when there was a chance that it would have to substitute as the main stadium for the upcoming Summer Games due to a province-wide strike of 1,200 ironworkers that began in November 1974. The strike forced the shutdown of the $380 million Olympic Stadium; if it was not completed on time, sections of Autostade would be relocated near its site which would include a second deck to increase the capacity to 55,000. The strike ended in May 1975, and construction resumed on Olympic Stadium. After the Expo had concluded, the Montreal Alouettes moved from Molson Stadium downtown to the new facility in 1968. Management thought that the lack of parking space at McGill was to blame for the sparse crowds. The club also relocated ticket offices, executive offices, and practice facilities to the two-year-old stadium. However, it soon became clear that the new venue had its red flags. Workers did not have much time to prepare the field for the game; the goalposts were inverted by the groundskeeper, who was from Europe and unfamiliar with gridiron football. Assistant Coach Ralph Goldston quipped: “As if we didn’t have enough trouble kicking field goals last year.” Als head coach Kay Dalton felt that they would fill the stadium once the team began winning, adding that “in Montreal, it’s what’s up on the scoreboard that counts, you’ve got to win faster here.” However, there were other concerns about the new stadium that would put a black cloud over it for the rest of its existence. The local newspaper columnists and reporters described it as being “a dark, dismal concrete cavern” and “damp and dark.” The conditions of the dormitories and tunnels resulted in one player walking out over the conditions at the stadium. Dalton thought the lighting hurt his players finding the ball on passes. Autostade featured large gaps between each seating section The practice field was much worse with potholes littering the grounds that caused injuries to two of the Larks star wide receivers. “You could shoot ducks off it any day you care, too,” added Dalton. There was also the mighty wind of the St. Lawrence River that would snap up balls in the air and send them into the water. A crowd of 27,214 took in a game against the Toronto Argonauts that was the largest in club history. However, the Alouettes would average 18,000 per game during the 1968 season; the following season, average attendance fell to 12,169. It was becoming evident that Autostade was a highly unfavorable facility for football at a time when the team compiled a 5-19-4 record over two seasons at Autostade. The crowd was much better during the 1969 Grey Cup between Ottawa and Saskatchewan. A total of 400 police officers marched around the playing surface with three-foot-long billies and wearing hard hats for crowd control. The influx of police officers was due to concerns about ongoing FLQ separatist terrorist bombing activities in Quebec and to secure the protection of Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, who was in attendance. The 33,172 fans taking in the game went off without notice. It was the largest crowd for a sporting event in Montreal history at the time. The championship game netted over $400,000 in ticket sales money, the first Grey Cup to reach this mark. Attendance did improve to 24,191 during the Larks 1970 Grey Cup-winning season, but quickly tumbled the following season, prompting an announcement that the club was moving back to McGill University for the 1972 season, citing that the “windswept waterfront stadium had been disappointing in terms of attendance, season ticket sales, and sightlines.” Attendance for the first four years at Autostade was much lower than expected. The move back to the smaller Molson Stadium (20,000) would be offset by adding seating to the track around the field and bumping up ticket prices. The belief was that fans would pay more for better seating to watch a CFL game. The stadium could also be expanded to 26,000 if needed. During this time, Als’ owner Sam Berger purchased a club for the North American Soccer League in hopes of bringing in additional revenue. The Montreal Olympique operated at Autostade for the 1971 season to disappointing crowds before relocating to the smaller University of Montreal Stadium the next season. The team would cease operations after three years after being unable to secure a suitable venue in town. The Allouettes return to McGill in 1972 proved to be a disaster for Berger and his wallet Berger was paying for rent, taxes, and maintenance at the “architectural monstrosity” and then had to rent out another football field. Berger had gambled that he would have complete control of the stadium and reap money from other events from concerts to sporting events. A three-year deal was set to play at the McGill with the hopes of Olympic Stadium being ready for the 1975 season that Berger believed would set up a trial run for the 1976 Summer Olympics. The plan backfired, average attendance fell to a meager 14,224 fans per game at McGill, resulting in the club returning to Autostade the following season. The Als would win the Grey Cup in 1974 and lose a heartbreaker 9-8 the next year in the championship game on a missed field goal in the closing seconds. By 1975, construction had begun on the new Olympic Stadium, and all eyes were focused on when it would be ready for football. The difference between the two venues was night and day and helped usher in a few years of record crowds, not just for the team but for the league. Berger couldn’t wait to get out of the Autostade that he switched dates with the Ottawa Rough Riders to ensure a meeting would take place at Olympic Stadium, a crowd of 50,000 would be on hand for that contest. Berger might have thought he was dreaming when he looked at the packed stands in the ultra-modern stadium. The last game held at Autostade was a 28-0, trouncing of the Argos in front of 20,444 spectators on September 5, 1976. Three weeks later, the Larks beat the Riders 23-2 at Olympic Stadium in front of 68,505 people, a record crowd for the league at the time. The top four crowds in CFL history took place at Olympic Stadium during its first four seasons and would culminate with 69,093 for a game on September 6, 1977, against Toronto. The 1977 Grey Cup established a still-standing record of 68,318. Montreal was in love with its football team again and finally had its modern stadium A record crowd enjoys a Thetford Blue Sox game on Canada Day in 2015. The old stands don't look much different. Autostade would quietly be dismantled from the Montreal landscape with its parts transferred to other cities in the province. A total of five sections would be relocated to Thedford and repurposed as a baseball stadium, and four more sections moved to the city of Hull, now Gatineau, for a planned baseball stadium at Mont-Bleu High School. However, it appears that the latter never occurred. Former Als and NFL Hall of Fame coach Marv Levy reflected on the difficulty of selling tickets to football games during his time with the club (1973-1977) in his autobiography Marv Levy: Where Else Would You Rather Be? "The stands were low and far removed from the playing field. Traffic around the stadium, where several freeways met and tangled, was heavy and chaotic. The parking lots were ill-lighted, unmarked, and filled with deep, jagged potholes. The walkways were damp and slippery. Autostade sat in a soot-covered field, devoid of landscaping or vegetation, with no structures on any side to deflect the icy, knifing winds that attacked during Quebec's early arriving winters. Try selling tickets to that show!" It can be concluded that it was never meant to be a permanent fixture of professional sports, but more of a temporary home at a time when a lot was happening in Montreal: Expo 67, Major League expansion, the re-emergence of the Alouettes, and even the 1976 Olympic Games all laid claim to the funky, mod stadium nobody liked. Autostade was indeed an accidental football stadium. ---- Follow Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel .

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Reed Green Coliseum 112 M. K. Turk Circle Hattiesburg, MS 39406 Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles website Reed Green Coliseum website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 8,095 The Eagle's Nest at the Yurt In the Hub City of Hattiesburg lies the University of Southern Mississippi. The men’s basketball team here has experienced some success on the hardwood since their first season in 1912-13, including appearing in the NAIA National Tournament four times in the 1950s, as well as appearing in three NCAA Tournaments (1990, 1991, and 2012). In 2022 a new era began for Southern Miss athletics as they joined the Sun Belt Conference, after competing in Conference USA for 27 seasons, winning one C-USA Championship. In their first year in the Sun Belt the Golden Eagles would take the conference by storm, winning the Sun Belt Conference regular season title, but the Golden Eagles would experience their most success as members of the Metro Conference from 1982-1995, with their biggest feat winning the 1987 NIT Championship. Since 1965 the Golden Eagles have competed on campus at Reed Green Coliseum. The building is named after long-time Southern Miss Athletic Director and three-sport coach Reed Green, but the arena is known by Golden Eagle faithful as ‘The Yurt’. It is small, yet all the seats are close to the action, and there is not a bad view from anywhere in the building.   Food & Beverage   3 The Yurt has two permanent concessions stands, both located on the same side at the north entrance. The aptly named Eagles Bites stand features reasonable prices but a small menu – hamburgers or sausage dogs ($7), hot dogs, nachos, or boiled peanuts ($5), and candy ($3) are your options. You can also order a hot dog, hamburger, or sausage combo that comes with a Southern Miss souvenir cup for $10. For beverages, Coca-Cola is the official provider with 22 oz drinks costing $5, or you can get the souvenir cup for $7. If you purchase the souvenir cup you will get $1 refills throughout the game. Reed Green Coliseum also has a side stand located off in a corridor on the east side of the building, called Black and Gold, which sells pulled pork or brisket sandwiches for $5, popcorn for $3, and a few other items. Alcohol is available at all three stands here, with 16 oz domestic cans selling for $5 (Miller, Coors, and Michelob Ultra) while premium cans are $7. Southern Miss also partners with the local Southern Prohibition Brewery which serves their signature Gold Rush beer – this beer is available for $8 and features a black and gold can with the Southern Miss logo, and when shown under the light you can see a hologram of the M. M. Roberts Stadium , home of Southern Miss football.      Atmosphere   3 Yurt is Turkish for "tent-like cover”, and as it turns out the first thing you notice upon entering Reed Green Coliseum from the outside is its large tin dome-shaped roof. In addition, they recently re-did the lighting system so the roof of the building stands out instantly, explaining the nickname. The coliseum goes by several other nicknames as well, such as Green House and NITChampsburg, honoring the 1987 NIT Champions. Upon entering the arena you’ll see that all the seats are built below ground level – all 8,095 seats are located on one level, so there is not a bad view from anywhere in the building. You enter along the concourse and walk down to your seat; the main entrance is on the north side of Reed Green Coliseum, but you can enter the building from wherever, as there are doors on all sides of the building with ushers present. The arena has one wraparound concourse with views of the court from everywhere you walk except for the concessions area. The seating bowl features about 25 rows of seats; over half the seats are wooden bench seating, while the black and gold chairback seats are located on the north side of the facility in five black and gold alternating sections. The Golden Eagles have only made three NCAA Tournament appearances, not winning any of those tournaments, but you wouldn’t be able to tell it here. Just walking around Reed Green Coliseum you can tell the Athletic Department takes great pride in the history of the men’s and women’s basketball programs. Along the concourse is a trophy case with trophies dating back to the Metro Conference days, and both the men’s and women’s teams have banners that wrap all around the ceiling of the building – the main banner that stands out is the 1987 NIT Champions banner on the south side of the arena. The Yurt also recently installed two video boards in the end courts and they take advantage of this by frequently playing videos and replays on the video boards. The court faces east and west with the student section located on the west end court.   The court is also illuminated well, with the state of Mississippi painted at center court and the Golden Eagles logo located where Hattiesburg is in relation to the rest of the state.   Neighborhood   3 Hattiesburg (aka The Burg) is a decent-sized city of about 50,000 people, so it has everything you could want in a city, but still retains that college town feel. The Burg has a wide selection of bars and restaurants, but unlike most college towns they are not located near each other – instead they are spread out throughout the city. A cool little spot nearby to check out is the Long Leaf Trace; what was once a railroad is now a paved trail that runs right through campus. It is possible to get on the Trace and ride a bike into the city. A couple of places within walking distance to campus from the Trace are places like Patio 44, Brewsky's, and 4th Street Bar – if you are looking for vintage Southern Miss memorabilia then 4th Street Bar is your place. Another popular spot on the Trace about a half mile away from campus is Colludium Brewing Company, Hattiesburg's newest brewery. Colludium has a nice outdoor patio overlooking the Trace, and makes for a great spot to have a beer before the game. Closer to downtown you'll find popular spots like Keg & Barrel, The Porter, Hattiesburger, Fairley Wings, and Nostalgia. As a southern city, Hattiesburg has its fair share of restaurants centered on the local fare; popular spots include Crescent City Grill, Brass Hat, Midtown, Chesterfields, Ed's Burger Joint, Stricks, and Murky Waters BBQ. There is also plenty to for all ages – for families there's the Hattiesburg Zoo and Serenghetti Springs Water Park. Downtown also features the popular Pocket Museum, Mississippi's tiniest museum; located in an alleyway downtown, the popular museum has a different theme each month (we can't tell you where the alley is because part of the charm of the Pocket Museum is being able to find it). For shopping there are plenty of chain stores as well as Turtle Creek Mall, while another popular spot is the Lucky Rabbit – located downtown, Lucky Rabbit is a two-story vintage thrift store with tons of antiques and local Southern Miss memorabilia. Or if you are into the outdoors, in addition to Long Leaf Trace there is Paul B. Johnson State Park, just south of Hattiesburg and an excellent spot for camping. In addition, another popular pastime is rafting down the Okatoma River that runs right through Hattiesburg, all the way to the Coast.    Fans   4 It is a new era for Southern Miss basketball since joining the Sun Belt Conference in 2022 – the once lowly basketball program has experienced a great turnaround over the past two years. In their first year in the conference the Golden Eagles unexpectedly won the Sun Belt Conference regular season, and there's been a certain buzz in the air in Hattiesburg about Southern Miss hoops ever since; fans are now returning to the Yurt for the first time in years. The Golden Eagles are averaging 4,000 fans per home game this season, compared to 3,700 fans per game last year, including the largest crowd in Southern Miss basketball history ever, with over 8,000 fans attending the game. Reed Green Coliseum has also turned into a tough place to play for visiting teams; last year Southern Miss team went undefeated at home with a record of 15-0. When school is in session games here have a big turnout from the students as well, although during Christmas break games there are not a lot of students. The band also doesn't attend certain games when school isn't going on either, but when the students show up it can be a pretty loud and intimidating place to play. The Golden Eagles also do a good job keeping fans engaged, with many contests and giveaways during timeouts and during halftime. The staff also has a lot of promotions on the court where they give away gift cards, as well as have free throw contests, three-point contests, and a putting game where you can sign up to win prizes. Seymour, the Golden Eagle mascot, is there in full force as well, interacting with fans and kids. The school president Joe Paul is a constant presence at games too, and can often be found mingling with students or walking up and down the aisles shaking fans’ hands. When Dr. Paul walks out the fans scream his name and cheer, something I've never seen a fanbase do for a school president.   Access   4 You will not miss the campus when coming into town, as the campus is located right on the corner of Highway 49 and Hardy Street, the two main roads through the city. Interstate 55 runs to Hardy Street on the west side of town, so you could use that exit as well, but traffic might be backed up on Hardy Street. Reed Green Coliseum is on the back side of campus at the 4th Street entrance. There is plenty of parking right next to the venue, but this is reserved for season ticket holders and people who have chairback seat tickets. However, there are two free lots you can park and walk to the venue from – the Pride Field lot on the other side of the volleyball facility has plenty of parking, and Thad Cochran Center closer to the football stadium  has plenty of free parking as well. The Union also has a large metered parking lot right across from Pride Field. Once inside the building there is plenty of room to move around, and you can leave the venue and come back again, as the no re-entry rule is not enforced.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets for a Golden Eagles basketball game can be found for $11 in the wooden seat section, or $22 in the black and gold chairback seats. The atmosphere is laid back here for most games, though, so it is possible to move around and sit wherever you want. I would consider a trip to the Green House a great experience and one I recommend – it is a very cozy and intimate place to play without a bad view anywhere, so wherever you sit you are going to get great views of the court.   Extras   4 Southern Miss has had five players play in the NBA or ABA, including two players from the 1987 NIT Championship team (journeyman Joe Courtney and 1987 first-round pick Randolph Keys, who had a six-year NBA career). ABA champion and 2-time ABA all-star Wendell Ladner had a prominent career at Southern Miss in the late 1960s as well, but perhaps the program's best player was Clarence Weatherspoon, who played here from 1988-1992 and would follow it up with a 14-year career in the NBA – Weatherspoon and Ladner have banners hanging from the rafters at Reed Green Coliseum. Another extra for the area outside the Coliseum being named NITChampsburg Field. There is also a small gathering area, intramural fields, and a few disc golf baskets located near this area, which is located on the west side of the coliseum. Reed Green Coliseum is also the largest indoor multi-purpose venue in Hattiesburg, so has played host to some top acts such as Willie Nelson, Heart, Jimmy Buffett, the Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, ZZ Top, Billy Joel, the Doobie Brothers, and WWE, all of whom have visited The Yurt over the years. The Southern Miss campus is also a nice campus to walk around before the game – giant oaks surround the beautiful Greek column buildings on campus. Some of my favorite sights on campus include the All-American Rose Garden and the giant eagle sculpture at the front entrance, or just walking or riding down the Long Leaf Trace. Lastly, the Hub at the center of campus is where Jimmy Buffett could be seen playing his guitar in between classes, as a student here in the late 1960s.   Final Thoughts The Southern Miss basketball program may not be the first thing that comes to mind when talking about college basketball in the State of Mississippi – with a program that has only made three NCAA Tournament appearances, the Golden Eagles are often a forgotten program, and sometimes take a back seat to the Southern Miss baseball program in terms of fan support, even in Hattiesburg. However, with its ample access, laid back atmosphere, great views, and cheap ticket prices, coming to a Southern Miss basketball game makes for a great experience; the program is on the rise and the best it's been in over 20 years. I highly recommend coming here to any basketball fan in Mississippi – after all, the Golden Eagles do have an NIT Championship on their resume, and that’s something its counterparts up the road in Starkville  and Oxford  have yet to accomplish. Southern Mississippi to the top!

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 University Stadium 1111 University Boulevard SE Albuquerque, NM 87131 New Mexico Lobos website University Stadium website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 39,224 This Way to Albuquerque! Editors Note: The venue name changed from DreamStyle Stadium to University Stadium in Sept 2020. Home of the New Mexico Lobos football team, DreamStyle Stadium opened in 1960, has a capacity of just over 39,000, and sits not quite a mile above sea level (a mere 5,100 feet). The previous stadium, Zimmerman, held only 16,000, and was demolished to make way for the expanding UNM campus. Attendance at DreamStyle Stadium has been on the upswing for the past decade, and Lobos football has boasted average attendance over 30,000 in each of the past four years. See a brief tour of the stadium here: Food & Beverage 5 DreamStyle Stadium’s concessions offer everything you could ask for and then some, including stadium basics, local fare, and even traditional fair food, such as fried Twinkies. So where to begin? The main stands on the east and west sides offer basics, such as burgers (three varieties, all served with chips), hot dogs, corn dogs, and brats, but you can find additional items on the plaza along the north side, including pizza, pulled pork, boneless and traditional wings, turkey legs, sausage sandwiches (with or without pulled pork), chicken tenders, and even Navajo tacos. These items range in price from $5 all the way to $12 for the largest items. However, if you are more into snacks and desserts, you will find traditional items such as nachos, cotton candy, popcorn, peanuts, pretzels, and glazed nuts, as well as more exotic fare such as ribbon fries, fry bread, fried Twinkies, fried Oreos, fried ice cream, dessert nachos, caramel apples, root beer floats, and even roasted corn-on-the-cob. These items will cost between $4 and $7. Drink options are not as numerous, but provide a good selection. Note that like many college venues, no alcohol is sold on-site. However, you will find coffee, hot cocoa, and cappuccino, as well as Pepsi products, Gatorade, bottled water, and fresh-squeezed lemonade (about $4 to $7 per item). Atmosphere 3 DreamStyle Stadium has a modern feel, with premium seating on the south side, and regular seating on the north, east, and west. All of the seats are metal bleachers except the premium seating, which are plastic bucket-style seats. The mountains provide a nice backdrop, and the scoreboard above the north end zone is large enough to be seen by all fans. The east side has some nice landscaping on each end, including a stepped garden complete with local vegetation. The experience at DreamStyle Stadium includes the normal amenities, such as fireworks and the cheer squad running around with flags after home team scores, as well as two mascots (male and female). The band also does some unique formations, such as forming the letters U-N-M. There are ramps all the way around the stadium, so you can take in the game from multiple vantage points. You will also see flags from all of the Mountain West schools above the east grandstand. Neighborhood 3 There are several good restaurants near DreamStyle Stadium, as well as some local attractions nearby (mostly of the outdoorsy type). Traditional fare in the area is, of course, Mexican, and there are plenty of these restaurants near the stadium, such as El Modelo or Pasion Latin Fusion. However, if you are looking for something less traditional, you might try Kellys Brew Pub on Central Ave. Kellys is located in a converted body shop, and features house brews and a large menu. The number one attraction in Albuquerque is the Sandia Peak Tramway, which takes you across canyons and other beautiful terrain, providing fantastic views of the local landscape. The Tram is generally open daily from 9 am to 8 pm, but is closed occasionally in the fall for maintenance, so be sure to check the schedule. Fans 3 Fans at New Mexico are loud and involved, and wear team colors, but won’t always fill the stadium, depending on how their team is doing, or if the weather is too cold or too windy. In recent years average attendance has been over 30,000, but the crowd tends to get smaller late in the year as the weather gets colder. And if the Lobos do not have a winning record, the attendance also tends to drop. You will hear a lot of howling during the game (recorded wolf songs played through the loudspeakers) – for example, before the game, or after big plays, or during opposing third downs. You will also hear the crowd, who stay loud throughout the game, and cheer (or boo) at the appropriate times. Access 4 Depending on where you are coming from, Albuquerque could be a long drive up a lonely road, but DreamStyle Stadium is very easy to find. The stadium is right off I-25, and there is plenty of parking right off the freeway, for about $10 per car. There are entrances all around the stadium, and the east, west, and south sides are all connected by a long pathway/ramp that goes all the way around, so no matter where you park, it should be easy to get to your seat. The concourse is easy to move around, and most of it faces the field, so you can easily see the game while you walk to and from your seat. There are plenty of bathrooms, which are all very spacious, and there are plenty of concession stands, so the lines are not too long. Return on Investment 4 Attending a Lobos game is a great value for the money – concessions are reasonable, depending on what items you purchase, and parking is fair. Ticket prices are also very reasonable – tickets for adults start at only $16 ($11 for fans aged 2-18), and do not vary by opponent, like at many football venues. Tickets cost $5 more on game day, however, so be sure to purchase in advance. Extras 3 The mountains provide a nice backdrop, and the stadium is very well laid out and easy to move around. There is also a lot of school color, and the presence of the state flag and Mountain West Conference flags add to the effect. Final Thoughts This is a great stadium to visit if you are in the area. Be sure to check out the Tramway while you are in town to truly experience the mountain scenery.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Matthews Arena 238 St. Botolph St Boston, MA 02115 Northeastern Huskies men's hockey website Matthews Arena website Year Opened: 1910 Capacity: 4,666 Last Call at the Doghouse   The city of Boston has a rich sports history, and its venues are some of the most revered in the nation - Fenway Park, Boston Garden, Harvard Stadium. But there is an arena that pre-dates all of them that is still in use today - Matthews Arena on the Northeastern University campus.   Originally named Boston Arena, the facility was renamed for George and Martha Matthews in 1982. Mr. Matthews, class of 1956, served as the Chairman of the Northeastern Board of Trustees for ten years.  He passed away on January 11, 2024 at the age of 93.   The arena was the original home of both the Boston Bruins in 1924 and the New England Whalers in 1972, as well as the site of the first home game for the Boston Celtics in 1946. Virtually every college hockey team in the area, including all four Beanpot schools, have called this arena home. In fact, Matthews Arena is the oldest indoor hockey rink in the world still in use today.   Muhammed Ali trained here, and many of boxing’s biggest names, such as Gene Tunney, Joe Louis, Marvin Hagler and Jack Dempsey fought here. The Frozen Four was held at Matthews Arena in 1960, as was the original Beanpot hockey tournament. More recently, the World Junior Hockey Championships were held here in 1995.   Matthews Arena has always been more than just a sporting venue. Every president from Theodore Roosevelt to John Kennedy visited the venue, as did Richard Nixon and Bill Clinton. Charles Lindberg and Amelia Earhart hosted events here. Concerts by artists as diverse as The Doors, Jerry Lee Lewis, Marvin Gaye, Ludacris, Bob Dylan, The Roots, Chuck Berry and Phish were held at Matthews Arena.   Today, Matthews Arena serves as home to Northeastern men’s and women’s hockey teams, as well as the men’s basketball team. Several area high-school teams also call this old barn home.   The Northeastern men’s hockey team is the least decorated of the four “Beanpot” schools located within Boston city limits. Northeastern has won the prestigious Boston hockey tournament nine times, least among the four participating schools. However, the Huskies have won five out of the last six Beanpots. The team has qualified for the NCAA tournament eight times, reaching the Frozen Four in 1982. 31 former Huskies have played in the National Hockey League.   Northeastern began sponsoring women’s hockey in 1980. The women’s team has qualified for six NCAA Tournaments, reaching the Frozen Four on three occasions. 24 Husky Alumni have played professionally in the CWHL, NWHL/PHF and the PWHL. Northeastern has won 19 Women’s Beanpot championships.   In May 2024 Northeastern filed a letter of intent  to the Boston Planning and Development Agency to construct a new multi-purpose athletics venue, which included plans for the demolition of Matthews Arena. These plans came as concerns surrounding the structural integrity of the facility increased: scaffolding had been erected to support the east end of the arena earlier in 2024, parts of the arena had been closed off, and the foundation, which was built on reclaimed land that was once part of a wharf, was found to be sinking.   Food and Beverage 3   There are a pair of concession stands in the lobby. A larger stand offers a full menu while a second, smaller stand in the back of the lobby serves snacks. Hungry Husky fans can choose from hot dogs, veggie burgers, chicken fingers and grilled chicken sandwiches. Sides, including french fries, nachos, pretzels and popcorn are also available. Coca-Cola products are featured at Matthews Arena.   While the menu at Matthews Arena is not extensive, the prices are affordable, and the quality of food served is decent.   Atmosphere 5   We at Stadium Journey like to say the game day experience at any college hockey rink is driven by the student section and pep band. Northeastern does not disappoint in either of these areas. The student section, known as “The Doghouse,” dominates the atmosphere at Matthews Arena. Students fill the balcony sections at the west end of the arena, hanging over the ice and filling the old barn with noise throughout the action. Armed with a repertoire of chants, traditions and routines, the students are as much as part of the action as the players on the ice. They are supported by an excellent pep band, who perform during most play stoppages. Not content with letting the band play alone, the students will sing along, not stopping even as play continues.   Conspicuous by its overwhelming presence is the giant video board installed at Matthews Arena in 2019. Measuring 50 feet long by 13.5 feet high, the scoreboard is put to good use throughout the game with replays, game stats, promotions and social media shout outs. Fans with old-school sensibilities may not enjoy the intrusion of modern technology in the old barn, but Northeastern staff have done a nice job integrating modern technology in this historic location. Neighborhood 4   Northeastern University is located on the edge of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, one of the city’s most popular tourist and shopping destinations. The Fens neighborhood and South End are also within walking distance of the University. Many of Boston’s major attractions are located close to Matthews Arena.   While there are many dining and lodging options near Matthews Arena, most of them will involve a short walk or drive from the facility, which may not be what you want to do on a chilly winter night in Boston. Fans visiting from out of town will want to check out the Prudential Center and Copley Place, located just a few blocks from Matthews Arena. Symphony Hall is just around the corner, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts is a short walk away. In addition, most of Boston’s attractions are easily accessed by a short subway ride. Both the Green and Orange lines have stops less than a block from Matthews Arena.   Fans 4   Husky fans can be a fickle lot, avoiding less glamourous matchups while packing the old barn for marquee matchups. Average attendance in recent seasons numbers about 3,300 fans per game, placing Northeastern right in the middle of all Division One hockey schools in the country.   Northeastern’s membership in Hockey East guarantees that many of the school’s local rivals will visit Matthews Arena every year. These games are well attended, with the proximity of the teams in the conference guaranteeing a solid turnout by visiting fans. When Matthews Arena is full, there is an incredible atmosphere in the old barn.   Hockey is the marquee sport at Northeastern, and a solid turnout from the student body can be expected on most nights. Led by the antics of the Doghouse, there’s a ton of energy and noise in the building.   Access 3   Matthews Arena is located on the eastern edge of Northeastern’s urban campus, near the intersection of Massachusetts and Huntington Avenues. Despite the fact that Matthews Arena is easy to find, that doesn’t make it easy to get to. The ever-present Boston traffic, never-ending construction projects and streets that date back to colonial days make Boston a tough city to drive in. If you must drive, it is best to bring a local along who is familiar with the city landscape. Directions to Matthews Arena can be found here .   Many local fans will choose to take public transportation to Matthews Arena. The MBTA, known locally as the “T”, drops fans off just a couple of blocks from the arena. The E-train of the Green Line has a station at Symphony Hall, and the Orange Line has a stop on Massachusetts Avenue. At just $2.75 for a fare, the T is an affordable alternative for visiting Husky fans.   Fans visiting Matthews Arena will pass under an ornate entry arch into the main lobby. The ticket office, concession stands, and restrooms are all located here. The arena will be located to your right, accessible by a pair of walkways. Seats at Matthews Arena are separated into loge and balcony sections. All seats have excellent views of the action, although some lower-level seats will have an obstructed view of the scoreboard and banners due to the overhang of the balcony.   Fans will have no problem navigating Matthews Arena during a typical game. Expect some long lines when accessing concessions or rest rooms during intermissions. Return on Investment 3   Northeastern uses dynamic pricing for men’s hockey games. Prices start at $15 for most games, with the most expensive tickets priced at $25. Add five dollars for premium games, and an additional $3.75 in ticketing fees when purchasing online.   Parking can be had for no charge (yes, you read that right, free parking in Boston) at the Columbus Street Lot located about a half mile away on the other side of the train tracks from the Arena. As you can imagine, this lot fills quickly. Prices at the lots adjacent to Matthews Arena start at $27 for gameday parking.   Many fans will opt to skip the congestion and cost of driving in Boston, and simply take the T to Matthews Arena. Both the Orange and Green Lines pass within a few blocks of Matthews Arena, and a one-way fare is just $2.75. The Number One bus also has a stop at the arena.   Extras 5   They just don’t build them like this anymore, and that alone is worth an extra point. The exposed brick, the steel tresses, the entry arch that has greeted Boston sports fans for over a century all harken to an earlier time.   The history of Matthews Arena is worth another point. It bears repeating that this is the oldest indoor rink still in used anywhere in the world. The Boston Bruins started here. The Carolina Hurricanes played their first games here (as the New England Whalers of the WHA). The Boston Celtics played here frequently. Presidents, dignitaries, as well as athletes and musicians have visited this site. There is a history here that just can’t be duplicated elsewhere.   Some of this history is on display at Matthews Arena. In addition to banners honoring the success achieved by Northeastern’s basketball and hockey teams, there are banners reminding fans of where the Celtics and Bruins got their starts. Pictures of every varsity hockey team to represent the school are displayed in the lobby. There is also a banner honoring Reggie Lewis, the local basketball star who studied at Northeastern and went on to become an All-Star and captain with the Celtics before passing away of a heart condition while still playing for the team. His funeral was held at Matthews Arena.   A final extra point is awarded to the Doghouse, one of the most active and entertaining student sections in the country. While the Doghouse may not be completely filled every night, the students here never fail to deliver. They may be worth the price of admission all by themselves.   Final Thoughts   While it’s been widely reported that the 2024-2025 season will be Matthews Arena’s last, the final chapter for this old barn has yet to be written. Bureaucratic red tape has already delayed any demolition plans until the end of 2025, meaning the Husky teams may at least begin next season at Matthews. Rumors have begun to circulate that new plans are in the works that will involve a renovation rather than a complete replacement of the facility, given the building’s historic designation. Northeastern has been predictably silent about any future plans, as well as temporary homes for the Husky squads that will be replaced by construction. Despite Matthews Arena’s unclear future, hockey fans should come to Boston to take a last look at this historic rink before it’s too late. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 The Mini Met Rice St S Jordan, MN 55352 Jordan Brewers website The Mini Met website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 1,000 The Mini Met Stands Tall in Minnesota The Mini Met in Jordan, Minnesota is considered one of the finest town ball ballparks in the state and one of the most unusual-looking baseball facilities in the country. The home of the Jordan Brewers (Class C) team of the River Valley League has been a fixture in the city since 1935. The ballpark’s configuration fits in tightly within the surrounding area. Interestingly, it was not originally meant to be a ballpark but evolved quite comfortably between a creek, a row of trees, train tracks, and a rocky cliff. There is even a steeple from St. John the Baptist church that pokes out from the brushes of trees beyond the outfield walls. The old wooden grandstand was initially designed for the Scott County Fairgrounds for musical acts and livestock reviews as a WPA project. The fair was held after the baseball season but both the carnival rides and food trucks were set up on the field causing damage to the soil. Thankfully, the fair was moved away from the grounds in 1973. The Mini Met has seen quite a few changes in its history, including enlarging the field and the relocation of the home plate from the left field corner to the right field corner after WWII, the addition of lights in 1955, and the inclusion of a manual scoreboard in the 1980s. Most recently, the wooden grandstand was deemed by city officials as structurally unfit, and over $83,000 was approved to repair the rotting structure. New wood supports were added and a fresh coat of “Met Green” paint was applied. The repairs ensured that high school, amateur, and American Legion baseball would continue to be played under its historic conditions. Speaking of its name, the term was coined by a visiting sportswriter in 1969 who compared the stadium to the Minnesota Twins Metropolitan Stadium nicknamed “The Met.” At the time the facility was known as Fairgrounds Park, but the new name stuck and the ballpark has been known as The Mini Met ever since. Coincidentally, the last game at the original Met was played in 1981. Food & Beverage 3 The concession prices average between $1 and $3. The hot dogs, candy, peanuts, chips, popcorn, and Klondike bars all sell for one buck. Pepsi products are served by the can and are also a dollar. Gatorade and sunflower seeds cost $1.50, while nachos are the most expensive food item at only $2.50. Mike’s Hard Lemonade is $3 and beer is $2.50. You certainly cannot complain about the concession prices at The Mini Met. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere at The Mini Met is pleasurably satisfying to the baseball senses, steeped in the tradition of fans and volunteers who have made it their home for almost 83 years. Many definite traits of the stadium make the town ballpark a true original. The 6 o’clock train honks its horn as it nears town and then chugs its way into view behind the outfield wall, pretty soon it appears to hover over the left field fence before disappearing down the track. It does not disrupt the play of the game and is a delightful treat for all visitors in attendance The manual scoreboard is another beautiful touch that has been a privilege to operate by many each summer. Volunteers take their turns perched up behind the right field wall to keep score of the game the old-fashioned way: tiles are moved around, innings posted, and hopefully more zeros on the board for the visitors. The area is a tight squeeze and a one-person job. The old grandstand boasting the color of “Met Green” has been restored to past glory and encompasses the third baseline; however, it seems rather a baron as most fans enjoy the game from the grassy knoll seating adjacent to the structure. It might be more comfortable on the grass, but there is plenty of legroom underneath the wooden roof and pillars of the grandstand. Many say that the stadium has one of the best diamonds in the state. The grass is cut each day and the mound is resurfaced after every game by volunteers who take pride in having one of the best-manicured lawns in baseball. Neighborhood 4 Historic downtown Jordan features buildings dating back to the 19th century. There are a few restaurants and bars within walking distance of the ballpark that are worth visiting. The Feed Mill Restaurant offers po’boys, salads, and barbecue options. The appetizers include fried gator bites and deep-fried banana pepper slices. Carasim Coffee Shop sells old-fashioned soda fountains, coffee, espressos, Italian sodas, and small sandwiches. Clancy’s Bar and Grill offers the robin nests appetizers (cheddar nuggets, mozzarella sticks, mini tacos, and onion rings) and potato and broccoli cheddar pepper poppers. Roets Brewery is the lone microbrewery in the small town serving stouts, pilsners, fruit beers, and pale ales A few miles south of Jordan is Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store which sells various old-time candies, regional delights, and over 100 brands of bottled root beer. If you are a root beer aficionado, then you have found nirvana. There is also a wide assortment of candies from around the world, homemade whoopie pies, and various other items that would make a dentist smile. Sand Creek Adventures is also close and home to a 1,700-foot zip line ride that hovers 100 feet high above the water, while there is a two-rope course down below for more outdoor fun. Fans 3 The majority of fans enjoy the game from the grassy knoll section of the stadium, while a few can be found underneath the wooden structure. The crowd is relaxed enjoying the game with friends and even a few dogs on leashes. It also doesn’t cost an extra buck or two to bring your pooch to the game. The majority of the fans enjoy a Brewers game from the comforts of their lawn chairs or blankets. Access 4 The city of Jordan is located 35 miles southwest of Minneapolis and accessible off of M-169 and the various other interstate and state roads that connect the Twin Cities. There are directions to the ballpark once you get into town and the stadium has one bathroom for men and women located at the stadium’s entrance. Return on Investment 3 The ticket prices are $3 and collected by volunteers as you approach the parking lot by car. The price of concession items ranges from $1-$3. It is an extremely affordable way to enjoy a baseball game in a unique setting that is pleasing to the baseball senses. Extras 3 One star for the hand-operated scoreboard in right field. Another star for the 6 o’clock train that runs in the back of the outfield and appears to hover over the ballpark. A final star for the many volunteers who put in hours of hard work manicuring the field, operating the scoreboard, working the concessions, and greeting customers at the main entrance. Final Thoughts The Mini Met is considered one of Minnesota’s premier amateur town ballparks and rightfully so; its history, design, and aesthetics create a charm that is both nostalgic and uncanny. Its nearby location to the Twin Cities also makes it an easy 30-minute drive and a must for any ballpark hunter or stadium traveler. A great way to spend a lazy summer evening is at the Mini Met. ______ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter  and his YouTube channe l. Email at marc.viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Barclays Center 620 Atlantic Ave New York, NY 11217 Brooklyn Nets website Barclays Center website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 17,732 Brooklyn’s in the House Barclays Center is still New York’s newest venue in the Big 5 Sports (including MLS) as it finishes its eighth season as the home of the Brooklyn Nets. Initially reviled by many fans, and later suffering through five seasons as an inappropriate hockey venue for the New York Islanders, the arena has seen its share of problems. But for the most part, the growing pains have stopped and Barclays Center has become a pretty good place to watch hoops. The addition of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving will make it even better in 2020-21, assuming we have a season. Still, there are some outstanding issues but they can be mitigated if you know what to do, which you should after reading this review. The 17,732-seat entertainment facility christening took place November 1, 2012, against the Knicks in what was billed as the first game of a new crosstown rivalry. It marked the first time since the Brooklyn Dodgers left for Los Angeles after the 1957 season that the borough was home to a major professional sports team. It also returned the Nets franchise back to New York for the first time since the franchise left for New Jersey after the 1976-77 season. Given its incredibly accessible location on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn on top of nine subway lines and the Long Island Railroad, Barclays Center should be a good rival to Madison Square Garden as a premier New York entertainment venue. In the end, however, it doesn’t quite measure up. Food & Beverage 4 Barclays Center is committed to its Brooklyn location, and all concession stands have a special item from the Brooklyn Taste collection. Paisanos Burger has a Butcher Burger for $12, a Double Burger for $19, and a Beyond Burger for $17. Parm Famous Italian offers a Chicken Parm Hero for $16, the same price as a Meatball Marinara (3 meatballs made from a blend of veal, pork, and beef with marinara sauce), while an Italian Combo sandwich is $17. Brooklyn Taqueria has tacos for $15 or a taco salad for $17. Brooklyn Bangers and Dogs has a Beef Brisket Brat for $12, while a Spicy Asian Sausage is 50 cents more. A traditional all-beef hot dog is a ridiculous $10.50, but if you want another, it is only an additional $9. Nathan’s is the other hot dog concession, with their regular dog going for $9 ($15 for two), while a footlong is $12 and a bacon cheddar version $11. Fuku’s Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich is very popular despite its $15 price tag (add $4 for a side of fries), you can also get fingers and fries for $15. Coal Oven Pizza has 10-inch Margherita pies for $14, while an extra buck nets you some pepperoni on top. East Wind Snack Shop is somewhat misnamed as it offers wonton nachos for $10, and a variety of dumplings from $12-$14. Coca-Cola provides the soft drinks with a regular soda at $8 and a souvenir cup at $13. Various beers and other alcoholic beverages, including those featuring premium liquor, can be found around the concourse with prices generally around $14-$15. The main problem here, as with most sports venues in New York City, is price. It is tough to find a good value, which is why this category loses a point. I’d like to see a special of the game that allows regular attendees to try some of these items without blowing their paycheck for the week. There is also no designated driver program to allow fans to enjoy a free soda or popcorn. Atmosphere 4 Barclays Center has embraced a black and grey color scheme, which works well with the Nets, who use those as their primary colors. They have also embraced their Brooklyn home, and much of the game day presentation is used to strengthen the bond between the borough and the team. Fans call out “Brooklyn, Brooklyn” during breaks in the action, and local stars are featured in the Nets version of Celebrity Row. The promotions and entertainment are typical for an NBA venue and generally keep the fans occupied during breaks in the action. One problem with the arena is that lighting in some spots is quite weak, leading to the derisive nickname “Darklays Center” being used by local wags. The upper rows of the upper deck are where this is most pronounced, so if you want to read the free program that is given out, try to sit in the first few rows here or choose a lower bowl seat. Neighborhood 4 Located at the intersection of Atlantic and Flatbush, the arena is right in the heart of Brooklyn. There are so many bars and restaurants within five minutes that it is impossible to list them all here. I will say that the area along 5th Avenue is slightly less busy than that around Atlantic Terminal, with several pubs such as McMahon’s, The Montrose, and Alchemy. Uncle Barry’s is my go-to spot with a good happy hour that is perfectly suited to 7:30-weekday starts, though food is not available. No worries, though, you can grab a slice at Artichoke’s Basille Pizza across the street and bring it over to enjoy with your beer. Another advantage of pregaming here is that you are close to the Dean Street Entrance, which usually allows for quicker entry to the venue. Prospect Park is a few blocks south of the venue and worth a visit if you have the afternoon, with the Brooklyn Museum and Botanical Garden found near the northeast corner of the park. Both St. Francis Brooklyn and LIU Brooklyn are within walking distance and sometimes you can see a college sporting event at either the Generoso Pope Athletic Complex or Steinberg Wellness Center before heading over to the Nets. Unfortunately, the area is still somewhat unsafe, with a murder being committed across the street in the early evening in September 2017, and an earlier incident that year seeing a man randomly firing into passers-by in broad daylight. As always in NYC, be aware of your surroundings. Fans 3 The fans have started to show up more as the Nets have climbed the standings, sending prices for one of their 2019 playoff games into triple digits. Having attended several games over the years, I find the fans here to be a mixed bag of true fans, frat boy idiots, and (ugh) corporate types. There are a few tourists, but not as many as plague Madison Square Garden for the Knicks. Generally, crowds are into the game and cheer at the right times, but need to be more fully present at all games to see an uptick in this category. Access 3 Reaching Barclays Center is easy from Manhattan with several subway lines passing through the Atlantic Avenue/Barclays Center station, which is also the terminus for some Long Island Rail Road trains. But the ease ends once you approach the main entrance. A series of offenses forces fans past a security official who confirms that each fan has a ticket, and then you line up at security, which is possibly the worst in professional sports. Bags are thoroughly searched for contraband such as water or snacks, leading to long waits. A no bags line would be a good addition. Avoid the main entrance if you can and use the Dean Street entrance to save ten minutes, or get there very early before the latecomers start to clog things up. At no point should you consider driving to the Barclays Center, as traffic can be tough and parking expensive. Inside, the lower concourse is wide enough, but the upper concourse can get very crowded before and after the game, as well as at halftime. Similarly, queues are seen at most concession stands and restrooms during the break, so take care of your business before the game or sneak out during the action to save a bit of time. It is also difficult to enter the lower bowl for pictures, as ushers believe that everybody is trying to scam the system. The venue has received a lot of criticism over the years for their treatment of fans, and although things have improved in that regard lately, full access of the seating bowl before the game is generally not permitted. After the game, there will be a crowd at the top of the stairs returning to the subway as fans are funnelled to the staircase, but it moves quickly enough and most trains are not that crowded once you get on the platform. Return on Investment 4 The Nets have very dynamic pricing, charging a lot for top teams and relatively little for less popular opponents. The secondary market is often the best place to look for a last-minute ticket, where deals can be found. The Nets are an entertaining team these days and are fun to watch, especially when compared to their crosstown rivals. When their two new stars begin to play next season however, look for tickets to go up significantly. Extras 4 The Oculus above the main entrance with its LCD screen is quite impressive and unique in stadium design. Look for it if you are approaching LaGuardia Airport over Brooklyn. The Ebbets Field flagpole at the corner of Atlantic and Flatbush is a testament to Brooklyn’s past. The series of photos around the concourse commemorating the Black Fives is worth your time. The large mural dubbed Diary of Brooklyn by painter Jose Paris is missed by most fans but can be seen at the Dean Street entrance, another reason to use this. There is a Bed Stuy jersey on the concourse celebrating one of the many neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Final Thoughts With the Islanders disaster finally behind it, Barclays Center can return to being a basketball venue. Although not perfect in any of our Fanfare categories, it does work well in most, and I believe that management is striving to improve the game day experience. To summarize for first-time visitors, you should avoid the long security lines (use the Dean Street entrance), the dark seats (avoid the last few rows in the upper deck), and expensive food (eat beforehand or grab a pretzel). If the Nets continue to improve and management changes just a few things to upgrade the fan experience for the average attendee, Barclays Center has the potential to be a much better NBA destination than MSG and the horrid Knicks for years to come.

Photos by Robbie Raskin, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Coca-Cola Coliseum 45 Manitoba Dr Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada Toronto Marlies website Coca-Cola Coliseum website Year Opened: 1921 Capacity: 7,851 After a century, the Coliseum has never looked better The economics of hockey mean that all too few historic arenas remain active, with clubs of all levels moving into modern new homes and old ‘barns’ left to the past. Unlike outdoor stadiums, indoor arenas often can’t be expanded and professional clubs tend to simply build new ones when they’re ready. Thank heaven the Toronto Marlies took a different approach. The Marlies have a storied history stretching back to the late-1800s, when the Toronto Marlborough Athletic Club was formed, with the patronage of the Dukes of Marlborough, an English noble family. Fascinatingly, the hockey club won the Stanley Cup in 1902, back when that iconic trophy was awarded to the champions of the Ontario Hockey Association. By 1927, legendary Maple Leafs owner Conn Smythe purchased the team, recognising the need to develop young players ‘in house.’ Over the years, the team moved through different leagues, locations, and names, finally ending up in St. John’s, Newfoundland. In 2005, the Leafs brought the club back home to Toronto (though the Leafs’ relationship with St. John’s has continued at the ECHL level). Upon their return, the team regained the original identity bestowed upon them by the Dukes of Marlborough, but under the shortened ‘Marlies’ moniker (likely to avoid association with the Marlboro cigarette brand). As a development team owned by the immensely wealthy Maple Leafs, when the Marlies needed a new home they chose to resurrect a classic arena, applying a world class renovation to the historic Coliseum of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. When opened in 1921, the Coliseum was the largest building of its type in the world, primarily used for equestrian events and athletics. By the 1960s, renovations had covered up historic facades and the iconic copper-domed towers at the ends of the arena with grey siding. In the 1990’s this unfortunate modern facelift was removed as the arena was incorporated into a modern convention and events venue. Finally, in 2002, the arena was rebuilt top-to-bottom to restore its classic design, increase capacity, and incorporate the hockey rink. Matching the long history of the hockey team, the arena combines charm with the best of modern luxuries,. Now celebrating the beginning of its second century, the Coliseum has grown into one of the finest small arenas in the world. Food & Beverage 5 In many ways, the Coliseum is a miniature version of the Leafs’ Scotiabank Arena nearby, and one of the clearest examples of this is through AHL-leading concessions. The staples of pizza, sausage, Tim Hortons, and sweets are present, with a pizza slice going for $5.50. The more unique items are where Coca-Cola Coliseum excels, including freshly shaved corned beef at The Deli as well as gourmet burgers at St. Patties (paying homage to the Toronto St. Pats, forebears of the Maple Leafs). A very popular choice is poutine from Smoke’s, with long lineups during intermissions. If you’d rather spend the intermission with a cold one, there is a Molson Canadian ‘Hockey House’ pub, cheekily named Lord Stanley’s Mug. Here, standup tables and TVs, along with murals of frozen ponds provide a nice respite from the bustling concourse. In terms of drink pricing, ‘medium’ Molson Canadian pours go for $10, with a full pint for $14. The slightly elevated option, pub staple Rickards, is fifty cents more. Caesars go for $9.75 and Strongbow cider for $10.25. Vodka coolers, wine, and mixed drinks vary from $8.50 to $15. Non-alcoholic drinks are, of course, from Coca-Cola. All told, concessions aren’t particularly cheap, but they are absolutely top-notch in quality and choice. Atmosphere 5 Here is where, more than anywhere else, Coca-Cola Coliseum leaves an impression. At 100 years old, the arena oozes history, and the architectural details have been restored with obvious care. At the same time, fans can enjoy a slick, modern feel that beats most other AHL arenas. Approaching from the outside, the most visible element of the Coliseum is its twin, copper-topped cupola towers and gorgeous brown brick. Fans enter from a modern plaza at the south end of the rink, through a monumental doorway and into a wide concourse ringed with old photos, primarily of the Maple Leafs. The concourse makes a U-shape, but is supplemented by full rings above and in the middle of the seating bowl. Throughout, there are TVs showing the broadcast, with the commentary piped in so fans won’t miss a thing if they leave their seats. Inside the bowl, attractive seats in blue and silver are surmounted by a top-notch video scoreboard – the former NHL scoreboard used by the Maple Leafs. The crisp displays are used to excellent effect with classy and professional presentation, and no gimmickry or gratuitous advertising. At the north end of the bowl, dark curtains are the backdrop to three banners, including the 2018 Calder Cup championship won by the Marlies. The one drawback is that these curtains cover an historic arched window which, though beautiful, caused glare issues on the ice. The showstopper for the Marlies is a ring of names atop the seating bowl showing every Marlborough who has ‘graduated’ to the Maple Leafs, organised through the years. There are plenty of Hall of Famers on that ring, and its worth coming early to take in the history. One result of the arena’s history is the unique walk Marlies’ players take from their bench to change room. It involves a segment of the concourse being briefly roped off so the players can pass across it, to the delight of young fans who reach out for a first bump from the players. Also for young fans, Marlies Alley is a family-friendly area off the concourse with interactive games, open before puckdrop. Finally, Duke the Dog (named in homage to the Dukes of Marlborough), is extremely active and is a common sight in the community as well as on matchdays. It should be noted that there are no home games for two weeks each November. During this stretch, the arena reverts to its historic role as a riding ring for the Royal Winter Fair. And fascinatingly, the arena also closes to hockey for a week in January; the rink is flooded and becomes an artificial lake for the Toronto Boat Show. This is a sight that must be seen to be believed! Neighbourhood 4 Coca-Cola Coliseum is located on the Exhibition Grounds, immediately to the west of Toronto’s downtown neighbourhoods. The immediate vicinity is mostly large buildings for special events during the Canadian National Exhibition, Royal Winter Fair, and other events. For sporting fans, BMO Field is just across the street, home to Toronto FC and the CFL’s Argonauts . Aside from this venue, much of the area is closed off for construction, as a revitalisation campaign has taken over the Ex and the neighbouring Ontario Place theme park. Still, there are fantastic neighbourhoods within easy walking distance. Immediately north, Liberty Village is known for its pubs, frequented by soccer, football, and rugby (Wolfpack and Arrows) fans. To the east is the Harbourfront; glorious in warm weather though it can be windswept during most of the hockey season. During the depths of winter, brave the cold and skate on one of the many artificial rinks along the lake, or better yet on the lake itself. If you’re walking along the Harbourfront, be sure to pass under the grandiose Princes’ Gates to enter the Exhibition Grounds. Fans 4 In the years before Covid, the Marlies drew in the top quartile of the AHL, and the fans have begun to come back as restrictions ease in Ontario. Though the Marlies have been successful at the gate, you can’t help but feel there is room for improvement. Despite infamously grotesque ticket prices, the Leafs have sold out virtually every match they’ve played since World War Two. And though the Marlies are often overshadowed in the media by their big brothers, the affordability of tickets here mean they should also be selling out nightly. That’s not to say they don’t have strong support. A largely young audience, with plenty of hockey teams and school groups, means the volume of the arena is often deafening. You tend not to hear creative insults hurled at opponents, witty chants, or knowledgeable opinions from this crowd, but do get a solid wall of noise from the energetic children who come with their parents, teammates, or classmates. This noise is marshalled by Duke the Dog into ‘Let’s go Marlies’ chants that ring out constantly. Supplementing this crowd are two supporters groups created by the most dedicated fans; Duke’s Dog Pound in section 116, and the Marlies Army in 114. Access 5 Getting to Coca-Cola Coliseum by public transportation is the best option, given the central location, and it could not be easier from anywhere in the region. The Coliseum is located directly adjacent to Exhibition Station, a major interchange between regional trains and local services. There are two good options for travellers coming from the central Union Station; either a ten-minute tram ride or a very quick express train. Firstly, the 509 Harbourfront streetcar runs constantly between Union and Exhibition, with the arena being the last stop. This is a popular choice, as your ride is free when transferring from the subway or local buses. The other option is a quick one-stop ride on the GO Train’s Lakeshore West line. Frequent departures leave Union, and the line reaches as far as Niagara Falls, making it a good option for American visitors looking to ditch their cars before entering the crowded city streets. Check www.triplinx.ca for route planning within the Greater Toronto Area. A note, though, Exhibition Station is about to undergo a massive, multi-year expansion. As with seemingly everything in Toronto, it will be incredible when complete but first it will be a mess of construction. If you choose to drive, there is limited onsite parking. Pricing is generally $16, but fluctuates based on demand. Within the arena, washrooms are amply provided and the concourses are wide. However, there can be some crowds in front of concession stands during intermissions. Return on Investment 4 It’s hard to believe you can see a Toronto hockey team with a maple leaf on their chests at a price tag below three digits. But the Marlies are happy to oblige with tickets often available from $15-$20 for end seats. Platinum seats can go for upwards of $50, which still represents great value. The Marlies are frequently competitive, having won the Calder Cup in 2018. Coupled with the possibility of cheap public transportation options and relatively reasonable food and drink, a Marlies game makes for a great experience that won’t break the bank, in a city where that’s far from expected. Extras 4 An extra point for the world class reuse of such an historic arena, infused with history but thoroughly modern in amenities. An extra point for the tremendous effort the Marlies put into engaging young fans and families, who make up the majority of the crowd on most days. An extra point for the resurrection of the Marlies name and crest, with the iconic ‘maple leaf and crown’ carrying great significance in Canadian history. An extra point is deserved for the recent successes of the Marlies, coming off conference championships and the recent Calder Cup win, and the many top-billed Leafs prospects currently playing at the Coliseum. Final Thoughts Though its history as a hockey arena is relatively short, Coca-Cola Coliseum has grown into that role in style. Now into its second century, the historic venue is one of the best and most modern small arenas in the world – it just happens to be a century old at the same time. The Marlies provide attractive hockey that is accessible, compared with the virtual impossibility of seeing the deified Maple Leafs play nearby. The Coliseum is a must for stadium enthusiasts, history buffs, and indeed hockey fans, and is poised to continue that role for the next century and beyond.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Coolray Field 2500 Buford Dr Lawrenceville, GA 30043 Gwinnett Stripers website Coolray Field website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 10,427 Keeping’ It Reel When the Braves  moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta in 1966, it also marked the birth of a long partnership with the city of Richmond, Virginia, as the Braves AAA affiliate would take root in the commonwealth’s capital city for 43 seasons. After spending four decades in Richmond, the AAA Braves played their final season at "The Diamond", where they had been for 23 years. With an aging stadium and little hope for the upgrades needed for a minor league baseball team, the AAA Braves relocated to Lawrenceville in Gwinnett County, Georgia, a suburb less than an hour from downtown Atlanta, in 2009. The new ballpark in Gwinnett was billed as a mixed-use development, to include apartments, shopping, and dining. However, the development took longer than expected to materialize – Coolray Field stood alone in an open field for its first five years, while plans to build around it were still being finalized. Apartment complexes now surround the stadium, and changed the feel of the ballpark as they were completed; the first apartment building was finished in 2015, with a second completed in 2021. Since their move to suburban Atlanta, Gwinnett has made three postseason appearances, winning two International League-South Division titles and reaching the finals in 2016.   Food & Beverage   5 Coolray Field offers fans a wide range of dining options, from traditional concessions to regional specialties, as well as what seems like endless beverage choices. One standout is "All the Fixins" which specializes in Southern cuisine, offering catfish baskets with hush puppies, hot honey pork chop sandwiches, Nashville Hot Chicken, grilled pimento cheese sandwiches, and footlong hot dogs topped with bacon jam. If the offerings at All the Fixins don't pique your interest, The Boathouse restaurant on the first base concourse provides an alternative, also with an impressive menu. It doubles as more of a sit-down restaurant and craft brewhouse, and the menu is more pub fare, with cheese curds and fried pickles, along with sides such as mashed potato bowls and potato wedges. Entrees range from smoked wings and tacos to brisket nachos and specialty sandwiches. The Boathouse also pours up to ten beers from Pontoon Brewing Company and another six from Wild Heaven, both local to the Atlanta area. Additionally, basic domestics are also available. The libations also extend beyond beer, with a selection of wines, hard Italian sodas, and pre-mixed cocktails on tap as well. But wait, there’s more! Throughout the concourse, several carts offer a variety of specialty items. Smokie’s Sausage Shack not only serves Polish and Italian sausage, but also offers brisket and BBQ sandwiches, and just as expected, Steakadelphia has a selection of cheesesteaks, while Cantina Comida Hispana offers a range of Latin American-inspired choices. Lastly, to satisfy a sweet tooth head to Sweet for their sundaes, floats, funnel cake fries, and of course the ever-popular Dippin’ Dots.   Atmosphere   3 Originally named after their parent club , the team went by the name Gwinnett Braves for its first twelve seasons, before being rebranded as the Gwinnett Stripers in 2021. While the change faced significant pushback locally, it ultimately made sense to establish Gwinnett as a national brand. Additionally, it allowed for more of a theme to be integrated into the stadium and game presentation. In its first five seasons, Coolray Field sat alone in little more than an open, roadside field. Today, surrounded by two apartment buildings nearly encircling the stadium, the ballpark has a cozier feel. Beyond the stadium confines, local restaurant franchise Three Dollar Cafe overlooks the field from a distant vantage point. Like many minor league baseball teams, the Stripers host numerous promotional nights but primarily focus on appreciating local groups rather than having extravagant themes. Unlike some teams the Stripers don't have quirky promotions like "Mystery Egg Roll Night" or "Tribute to the Brannock Device” – instead they tend to stick to more traditional themes. However, each game still offers some form of promotion or discounted concession to boost weekday attendance, and in-game promotions are the standard scoreboard shuffle, variations of the dance cam, mascot races, and “Double Dare” inspired contests. When looking at seating options, the berm referred to as “The Bank” does offer space to spread out and for kids to run and play. The issue with this area though is the kids are lightly supervised by adults, which can be rather distracting if you are simply looking to enjoy the game from the grassy outfield hill. The best bet here is probably any of the grandstand seats down the first base side of the field since they offer the most shade.   Neighborhood   4 The Stripers play in Lawrenceville, a northeastern suburb of Atlanta, approximately 30 miles from downtown ATL. Coolray Field is just off one of Gwinnett County’s busier traffic arteries, Buford Drive – the area has experienced remarkable growth since the opening of Coolray Field. There used to be just a road between Buford and Lawrenceville, but now Buford Drive is lined with several restaurants, stores, and hotels, and the area is anchored by the massive Mall of Georgia. The area around the ballpark is probably not a destination by itself, but for those arriving early or staying late, attractions such as Top Golf and Andretti’s Karting and Gaming, located just off the exit for Coolray Field, might be of interest.   Fans   3 Gwinnett has typically seen routinely low attendance figures over the years. After the AAA affiliation was transferred from Richmond to suburban Atlanta, Gwinnett's inaugural season saw an average attendance of just under 6,000 fans, which was in the middle third of AAA teams in attendance. However, since then attendance has steadily declined and now ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 fans per game over the last six seasons. Much of the Stripers fan base consists of families and youth groups from Gwinnett, Hall, and Barrow counties. Some discussions around attendance troubles focus on the Stripers proximity to their parent club, just 34 miles around Atlanta’s north end to Truist Park . Although this may be a contributing factor, other AAA teams like St. Paul  and Worcester  rank in the top 10 of AAA attendance, despite being within 50 miles of their Major League affiliates. While the accessibility of the Braves  might play a role, factors such as a lack of immediate attractions at the stadium, as well as lingering animosity from the public's lack of input in the stadium funding process, seem to contribute to the less-than-stellar attendance numbers. On a positive note, attendance has begun to increase since reaching a franchise low of under 3,000 per game during the 2022 season.   Access   3 Navigating the metro Atlanta area can be quite challenging, especially during weekday games. I-85, the primary route through the northeast suburbs, often sees heavy congestion when leaving Atlanta. For the less populous communities north of Lawrenceville, however, southbound traffic on I-85 doesn’t face the same volume of traffic as you see heading toward the city during this time of day. Buford Drive leads to each of Coolray Field’s access points, which can be a bit tricky for first-time or infrequent visitors – the only entrance with any sort of signage is for VIP parking. Instinct would make one think the entrance next to that is the most accessible, and while that entrance does eventually lead to another parking lot, a lack of noticeable directions leaves drivers guessing whether to turn left or right. The actual most direct entry point is the third entrance, but much like the previous one, it is not well labeled and can easily be missed, leaving drivers to have to make a U-turn to try it all over again. With the parking lot running the length of the first base side of the stadium, it doesn’t seem like only two entrances for general seating would be enough, but fans move quickly through the gates. Once in the stadium, the concourse fully encircles the field and is wide enough to keep congestion to a minimum. Buford Drive is a divided highway so after the game, crossing back toward the interstate can be challenging. If you choose the wrong exit, a U-turn is needed to head back toward the freeway. Your best bet is to stay in the left lane of traffic, but exiting via Ballpark Lane, which runs in front of the main gates, tends to be a quick and easy exit point.   Return on Investment   3 Seating on the berm starts at just over $11 once Ticketmaster fees are factored in. As ticket prices increase, so do the service charges which are applied to each ticket.  On weekends, ticket prices increase, with the same ticket costing $17. Unfortunately, the secondary market does not offer much relief, as prices are comparable to those at the ticket office. Parking runs $10, so even a single visitor is already spending over $20 before entering the ballpark, and due to the lack of facilities in the surrounding area, there are no independent parking lots to offer a lower price. Concession prices are consistent with what you would expect at a sports stadium.   Extras   4 The left field wall displays the retired numbers of three Atlanta Braves players: Hank Aaron’s # 44, brother Tommy Aaron’s # 25, and Phil Niekro’s # 35. Jackie Robinson’s # 42, which is retired across baseball, is also displayed. Balconies of the apartments beyond the stadium, stretching from left to left-center field, are marked with distances to home plate. Those along the left field line, just under 400 feet away, are well within play, while the farthest markers measure over 460 feet. The Stripers mascot Chopper is an active participant in mid-inning contests and makes his way around the stadium stopping for endless photo requests. In recent years, a lot has been made of "robo-umps" potentially taking over calling balls and strikes, due to perceived inconsistencies in umpire strike zones. Opponents argue this takes the human element out of the game; proponents advocate for increased consistency and accuracy. In AAA baseball, a balance seems to have been struck with the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) System – this system preserves the traditional role of the umpire while allowing for questionable calls to be reviewed by batters, pitchers, and catchers. The outcome of the challenge is then displayed on the stadium scoreboard and upheld or reversed accordingly.   Final Thoughts For the Braves , having their AAA franchise located so close provides some operational advantages when it comes to roster management, but may be a barrier when it comes to attracting fans. The location does seem a bit isolated when considering the dynamics of Atlanta’s northeast suburbs. Attendance woes do not seem to be due to anything specific the staff in Gwinnett could or should be doing differently – the club is more a victim of planning circumstances that weren’t considered or planned for when deciding to build a stadium here. Promotional nights could be a bit more creative, but it takes the right organization and fanbase to pull off “ Exploding Whales ” or host a successful “ Toilet Paper Night ”. What Gwinnett does offer, though, is a decent minor-league baseball experience that is entertaining, while keeping the game on the field as the focus of the experience.

Photos by Eric Hasman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Duly Health and Care Field 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr Joliet, IL 60432 Map It Joliet Slammers website Duly Health and Care Field website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 6,016 A Name to Call Home in Joliet The Joliet Slammers are members of the Frontier League and play at Duly Health and Care Field, formerly, DuPage Medical, Joliet Route 66 Field, Slammers Field and Silver Cross Field. The stadium was built for the Joliet Jackhammers which played in the former Northern League from 2002 to 2010.  In 2010 the Jackhammers changed their name to the Slammers and joined the Frontier League. The name refers to the famous prisons of Joliet and Will County (Joliet Correctional Center and Stateville Correctional Center) as well as a common baseball term for a grand slam. The team even has a logo of a jailbird donning prison stripes as its mascot. In 2018 the Slammers replaced the natural grass with field turf.  The field dimensions are 348 feet to left field, 400 feet to center field and 327 feet to right field. During the offseason, majority ownership of the team was acquired by Mike Veeck (son of former White Sox and Cleveland Indian owner) and Bill Murray (movie star/comedian). On most nights you can see Night Train Veeck, Mike’s son at the ballpark. Food & Beverage 5 The food stands have names based upon Joliet and baseball: Crossroads Grill and Steel City Grill. There is the usual ballpark fare of nachos ($7), hot dogs ($5.50), hamburgers ($9), chicken strips ($9) and pizza slices ($9.50). There are tacos from a local restaurant which is a few blocks from the ballpark (Sunshine Mexican Cafe) which are excellent ($4 each though on Saturdays they are $2). However, there are other options like the “porkando which is mac and cheese, brisket or pulled pork ($16), brisket ($12), pulled pork or pork tenderloin ($10). Cole slaw, mac & cheese and key lime pie are available as sides for $5, $4 and $7 respectively. There is also a giant soft pretzel with beer cheese ($15). I recommend any of the above. For your sweet tooth ice cream is provided by a local ice cream shop, the Creamery. They have cones and ice cream sandwiches from $6 to $10. In addition, there is cheesecake on a stick and chocolate covered bananas. New this year (2024) is a cookie stand (local cookie shop Crumbl) which has big gourmet cookies for $6. These cookies are excellent. The barbecue pork nachos are highly recommended and tasty. The lines at the food concessions move fairly quickly.  The condiment selection here is the basic: ketchup, mustard, onions, and relish and sadly they are in packets. One thing nice is that when you buy a souvenir cup of soda for $9, refills are $3. There are many varieties of tap beer: Budweiser, Corona, Shock top, Michelob Ultra, Coors and Sam Adams. A 20-ounce draft beer is $7 (domestic) or $9 (premium), 16-ounce cans are $7, and 24-ounce beer cans are $8.  The stadium has a a main bar behind home plate that provides excellent views from behind the backstop and a friendly wait staff. The area is home to at least 12 different canned craft beers (Slammers Lager, Field of Dream Honey Vienna Lager) and some tap craft beer from a local brewery. In addition, there are Moonshine based cocktails for $9 (these are excellent) and wine for $8. Atmosphere 4 Entering the ballpark, fans must walk up a flight of stairs (there is an elevator too in the main entrance) to get to the concourse which overlooks the field. The stadium has two levels: the main concourse and a level of skyboxes above. The stadium features a 360-degree concourse that links to a very large play area behind center field. The main seating area runs from first to third base and there are approximately 20 rows of seating. In addition, there are two lawn areas down the right and left field lines. There are no permanent outfield seats, but there is a chair rail along the left field wall.  There is a concession building, which is not open this 2024 season, in the left field with rooftop seating that is open to everyone on most games but occasionally will be rented out for parties. The rooftop area is a great place to watch the game for a while. Lastly, in right field, there is a standing area complete with a rail for beverages and/or food. The Slammers have two mascots Spike (a dog) and J.L. Bird (a crow in a prison outfit). Both are found throughout the stadium and on the field during the game. J.L. Bird was even featured on ESPN during his first season with the club. The team store cleverly called the “Clink,” is large, but lacks a healthy selection of team products (shirts, hats, etc).   The between inning entertainment is the usual minor league stuff: throwing t-shirts, high low, and a few kid races.   The Slammers brought back a cool a sculpture of construction guys sitting on an I-beam eating and watching the game over a third base concession stand. Recently, the Slammers instituted a “Metra train” race. It is three cutouts of different colored trains and people run from the scoreboard to the a point in right field to determine the winner. Neighborhood 4 The ballpark is located in downtown Joliet. Several businesses are located to the north and west of the park, along with a high school to the east of the park. Some residential housing is to the south of the park. There are a lot of small independent restaurants and bars within the vicinity, The Blue Taco is an excellent place with really good food. Also, the Chicago Street Pub has the best Reuben and juicy burgers. The Shoebox is piled with BBQ ham, American cheese, tomato and red onion on a Milano bun. If you want a higher end restaurant, go to Cut 158 for steaks. Beer lovers should head to Richardson’s Sports Bar which is about 1 block from the park. After the game, if you want, there is good Live music at The Forge, which is a few blocks from the ballpark. Right outside the right field side of the park, there was a gay bar Maneuvers (it is closed now but according to neighbors it should be opening again), but I have my doubts since it has been vacant for a while now. In addition, Harrah’s Casino and the historic Rialto Theater are within a couple of blocks of downtown. The Rialto books mid-level acts, plays, and various musicals during the season. In addition, the Forge, another bar / music venue, is located a few blocks from the stadium. The Forge does book some nationally known bands. Other things to do in the area are the Joliet Area Historical Museum (for the history of the city and region) and Route 66. The Illinois Rock and Roll Museum on Rt. 66 (open 2022) located at 9 E. Cass is about a mile from the park and offers a history of musicians and bands with ties to Illinois. For you record buffs there is Audiophile Records which has albums and more. Lastly, about 3 miles from the park at 1125 Collins St, Joliet, is the world-famous Old Joliet Prison (featured in the Blues Brothers movie). It was built in 1858, and offers tours. Fans 3 The fans in attendance are very friendly. The Slammers attendance is usually anywhere between 1,800 to 2,500 per game. The mix of fans is the same as any other ballpark, lots of families, people who are really into baseball and people who just like to hang out and catch up. Access 5 The park is located in downtown Joliet. It is not hard to get to since it is about one mile north of I-80. There are many ways to get to the ballpark. The Joliet Transportation Center, serving two Metra lines, is right outside the stadium. There are also bus lines near the stadium. There is plenty of parking surrounding the stadium and it is free. We do not recommend parking on the adjoining street on the south side of the stadium because there are many foul balls hit into car windows. Bags and purses are allowed into the stadium but may be subject to search. Return on Investment 5 The price of a regular ticket ranges $9 for lawn seats to $15 for reserved seating (tickets are $2 more on game day at the gate). On Tuesdays, the tickets are cheaper. The suites can be rented for $23 to $30 per person (food and soda are extra). Extras 4 There is a firehouse across the street in left field which has 560’ painted on it. Yes, if a home run hits the firehouse, it would have traveled 560’. Also, there is a small field for physically challenged people. Occasionally, I have seen kids using the field. There is a guy who dresses in a tuxedo who entertains the crowd by juggling and interacting with the fans at most games.  In addition, he comes around with a garbage bag and picks up garbage with a pair of tongs. And in the last row of Section 110, there is a Joliet Slammers superfan/historian, Craig, who is known by the name of “Mr. Downtown Joliet.”  If you need to know something about downtown Joliet, this is the man to go to. Final Thoughts Duly Health and Care Field has a surprisingly lot of pros to make it one of the best ballparks in the Chicagoland area. It offers a wraparound concourse, creative food options, cheap prices, a healthy selection of craft beers, and an active surrounding neighborhood to make it well worth your while to visit.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Skylands Stadium 94 Championship Pl Augusta, NJ 07822 Sussex County Miners website Skylands Stadium website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 4,200 Mining Success at Skylands Stadium In Augusta, New Jersey, in the extreme northwestern corner of the state, you will find Skylands Stadium, home of the Sussex County Miners baseball team. Until 2006, Skylands Stadium was home to the New Jersey Cardinals of the New York-Penn League. The Cardinals relocated to Pennsylvania and became the State College Spikes , but baseball would return the next year with the Sussex County Skyhawks of the independent Can-Am League. The Skyhawks folded after the 2010 season, but baseball would once again return in 2015 with the Sussex County Miners, again joining the Can-Am League. After the 2019 season, the Can-Am League merged with the Frontier League under the latter's name. This would have been effective for the 2020 season, but it was ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Miners instead began play in the Frontier League in 2021. Food & Beverage 5 There are several concession stands scattered throughout Skylands Stadium, offering many options, some classic, some unique. You will of course, find all the usual options at these stands such as chicken tenders, burgers, and hot dogs (the latter also coming in a deep-fried variety), but there are some other options as well such as a pickle on a stick and honey waffle fries. Be warned that the overhead signs above the window only show some of the options, there are additional boards at the back of the stand with more to choose from. Double S Smokehouse maintains a restaurant in the stadium that is open year-round, as well as a stand down the right field line. Here, you will find freshly made barbecue options such as a brisket sandwich, St. Louis ribs, pulled pork, and mac and cheese, with an assortment of homemade sauces to choose from. Alcohol is sold at several stands for those of age, but Double S has unique cocktails and mixed drinks as well. Most notable is their In a Pickle, which contains vodka, pickle juice, lime, and simple syrup. For those with a sweet tooth, Yuengling Ice Cream has a stand that offers the usual flavors, in your choice of cone, cup, or helmet, as well as one or two unique flavors per game. When Stadium Journey visited late in the season, they had a pumpkin pie flavor which was pumpkin ice cream with pieces of pie crust, but the exact selections may vary by game. In addition to the usual bottled water and other soft drinks, some of the stands sell hot drinks such as various coffee varieties and hot apple cider. Atmosphere 4 The architectural style at Skylands Stadium is mostly rural and rustic with a splash of Jersey Shore thrown in. The red-painted wood panels on the facade call to mind the many barns in the area, and the team store known as "The Company Store" has a rustic wooden exterior. Bright lights flashing "Open" welcome you to the Double S Smokehouse stand, and the Yuengling stand looks like an ice cream shop you could walk in on the Jersey Shore boardwalk, but other than that, the architecture is quite fitting for this rural part of New Jersey. An on-field emcee and superfans scattered throughout the crowd get the fans hyped up, and there are various promotions throughout the evening, such as a t-shirt toss set to the music of Zombie Nation Music, and sound effects are played during breaks in the action, even between pitches, which can get annoying at times. A buff miner mascot named Herbie roams the stands interacting with fans. The seating bowl itself consists of a middle ring that you will enter from the concourse, with seats above and below. If your section includes a double letter (for instance FF), you will be seated above the concourse. If it includes a single letter (such as D), you will be seated below the concourse. The park is small enough that all seats have a great view of the action. Neighborhood 3 Sussex County is far removed from the rest of New Jersey, both culturally and geographically, and the area surrounding the stadium is mostly farmland. You will pass by many farms and maybe even some cows as you come into town, with some of those farms selling ice cream made right there. Other options include Yetter's Diner just down the street from the stadium, and, if you are unable to grab any inside, you can always go to the Double S Smokehouse restaurant at the stadium. Fans 3 Sussex County ranks towards the bottom of the Frontier League in attendance with about 1,600 fans a game, but those who do show up, are passionate, vocal, and into what is happening on the field. Some of them to go every single home game, with a few even going to the away games. They will participate in the chants, get on the umpire's case after a bad call, and generally be unafraid to make their feelings known. They are there to support their hometown team, and despite the relatively small crowds, it can get loud here. Access 3 Skylands Stadium is located in rural Sussex County in northwest New Jersey. The ballpark is located near the Sussex County Fairgrounds, near the intersection of routes 206 and 15. The nearest interstate, I-80, is about half an hour’s drive from here. It is the only interstate highway to enter Sussex County, and only at the extreme southern end. I-84 passes just north of the county near the tri-point between New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, but never enters New Jersey at all. You can take Exit 1 in New York just before the state line and follow the signs for New Jersey. This is still about a half-hour's drive. No matter how you get here, at least the last few miles will be on rural country roads. Only part of the parking lot is paved, with the remainder being gravel. Be careful if parking there. The restrooms in the stadium are small and can occasionally have lines, with the facilities being old and not in the best condition. Return on Investment 3 Lower-level tickets at Skylands Stadium are priced at $20, and upper-level tickets are $17. This is on the high level for tickets, although the free parking is nice. Concessions are on the high end, although the food is high-quality adding to the value. Overall, the value of a Sussex County Miners game is about average. Extras 3 Look for the many statues and art installations in and around the stadium. A globe statue is located outside the entrance and is lit up at night as fans leave the ballpark. A jack-o-lantern wearing sunglasses is located in the stadium to promote the Jack-o-Lantern Halloween Experience in the ballpark every October, and there is a statue of a baseball glove as well. A second star for the stadium architecture - a rustic, rural style with a flash of Jersey Shore. The team store is also worthy of an extra, both for its merchandise and its design like a rustic wooden building. Final Thoughts Skylands Stadium may be far away from everywhere everyone thinks of when they think of New Jersey, but it is still a great place to watch a baseball game. Between the unique and fitting architectural style and all the on-field and off-field ways the team promotes the fan experience, a Sussex County Miners game is a great way to spend a summer evening.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Woerner Field at Time Warner Cable Stadium 1780 S Edwin C Moses Blvd Dayton, OH 45417 Dayton Flyers website Woerner Field at Time Warner Cable Stadium website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 2,000 Just the Right Size for Dayton Baseball The University of Dayton baseball team debuted at Woerner Field at DP&L Stadium in 2004 but it was not until the next season that the ballpark was completed. The Flyers dedicated the $4 million facility on May 7, 2005, and finished the year with an impressive 18-4 record in the conference. When the stadium opened it was known as Time Warner Cable Stadium until May 6, 2011, when it changed names to Woerner Field after alumni Larry Woerner and his wife. Worner pitched for the Flyers for four years before graduating in 1976 with a degree in mathematics, summa cum laude. The Flyers participated in the Atlantic 10 conference and they have been playing baseball at the university since 1902. They have captured two conference championships and made one appearance in the NCAA Tournament in 2012. Food & Beverage 2 The ballpark has a small concession stand underneath the grandstand that has a limited selection of items that includes hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. The stand offers Pepsi products and prices range between $2 to $3 each. The items are expected based on the size and the number of people who attend Flyers baseball games but if you are hungry, eat before the game. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark has a laid-back atmosphere due to its size and the number of people who are in the facility. It has all the essentials and includes a press box, covered chairback seating behind the home plate, concessions, and restrooms. Many lines up against the fence before the game down the right-field line to talk to players and remain there throughout the entire game. Dayton was wearing bright monochrome red jerseys for today’s game and perhaps attracted a little more attention for visitors wanting to see this blast from the past uniform. The grandstand is also a comfortable spot to watch the game and offers fans theater-style seating behind protective netting. The small press box is directly behind the seats and a scoreboard is situated behind the left-center field wall. It is a basic and simple ballpark but more than adequate for college baseball in this part of the country. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is just across the parking lot from the UD Arena and football stadium. the arena is located about two miles from downtown Dayton. There has been a serious amount of major investments in this century that have resulted in residential, commercial, and transportation developments that have brought people back to the city. Seven million people visit the high-tech friendly downtown annually. There are a collection of breweries that include Warped Wing, Lock 27, and Toxic Brew which all offer their own vibe and craft beer. The Dayton Beer Company is an ideal spot with over 36 different beers on tap that includes their own made on-site and a pizzeria on the first floor. Many of the places charge by the 4 and 8 ounces for more options of sampling award-winning beer. Most of the nightlife is concentrated near the Brown Street District, Oregon District, or near Fifth Third Field (Webster Station). A few choices to enjoy a meal are The Pine Club (steaks), The Winds (farm to table), Jay’s Restaurant (seafood), Corner Kitchen (burgers), and El Meson (a vast array of American cuisine south of the border). The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, America’s Packard Museum, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and the National Aviation Hall of Fame are all popular tourist attractions. The Oregon District has a nice balance of retail, bars, live music, restaurants, and several breweries. The architecture of the residential buildings dates back to the 19th century and is ideal for photos. Fans 2 A small gathering of fans was in attendance for the Flyers game that included mostly friends and family. This is a common theme at similar baseball stadiums in the area and what you would at others in colder climates in the late winter and early months. The fans who are at the game will provide some insight into the players on the field since they know them quite well. Access 4 The ballpark is directly off of I-75 and is visible from the interstate one needs to put the GPS away as soon as they approach the exit. There is plenty of free parking around the stadium and the entrance is located down the right-field foul line. One can easily get around during the game. Return on Investment 2 The cost to attend baseball games is free and this also includes parking in the massive lot adjacent to the field. Concession prices are inexpensive but not varied and you cannot drink a beer at the game. However, attending a game here is strictly for the die-hards or that one guy who wants to attend every NCAA college baseball stadium. Extras 2 Dayton earns a point for the bright red monochrome jerseys. Players talked with fans before the game and indicated that these were their favorites. The ballpark earns a second point for being near other facilities in town that include the basketball arena, football stadium, and softball field. Final Thoughts Unless you are a fan of college baseball, connected somehow with the university, or know some playing for the team, you probably do not want to take in a game at the ballpark. It is free to attend and concession prices are inexpensive but there is not an incentive to attract the same type of customer who attends Dayton Dragons games a few miles away downtown. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

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

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Boyce Cox Field 1501 Euclid Ave Bristol, VA 24201 Bristol State Liners website Boyce Cox Field website Year Opened: 1969 Capacity: 2,000 Along the Appalachian League Trail: Bristol Boyce Cox Field in Bristol, Virginia is one of the most interesting venues in the Appalachian League. It opened in 1969, after a conversion from its former life as a football stadium. The stadium has three main components, none of which seem to match. This is because they include a grandstand along the third base line that belonged to the baseball stadium, another set of bleachers along the first base line that was added later, and the seats behind home plate, which are a combination of stadium seats and concrete seating. It has served as the home of the Bristol Pirates since 2014. Previous affiliations of the team include the White Sox and the Tigers. Some of the major league players who got their start in Bristol include Tim Belcher, Mark “The Bird” Fedrick, Travis Fryman, Lance Parrish, and Alan Trammell. In many ways, Boyce Cox Field struggles to meet even the minimum standards required by Minor League Baseball. What is important to know is that baseball in Bristol is a labor of love run by volunteers. A non-profit organization, Bristol Baseball, leases the field from the city of Bristol for $1 a year. There is no paid staff involved in this organization. Every function of the facility, from groundskeeping to ticket taking and announcing the games, is run by volunteers. Any criticism of the park needs to be tempered by that knowledge. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand in the park. It is located at the base of the press box and is run by volunteers from Virginia High, which uses the stadium during the school year. All proceeds from this stand benefit programs at the high school. The only items available at this stand are hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, candy, Gatorade, Pepsi brand sodas, and bottled water. While the selection of foods is sparse… the prices are hard to beat. It is also nice to patronize the stand to benefit the high school programs. That being said, fans are welcome to bring their food and beverages to the park with them. There are no restrictions at the gate on bringing in such items. The aptly named Ballpark Corner Market is just across the street from the park and offers several pre-packaged picnic items. Atmosphere 3 A game at Boyce Cox Field is baseball at its basics. Fans can either sit in the various seating areas immediately surrounding the field or can choose to bring their lawn chairs or beach towels and watch the action from the hill overlooking the field. The field does have a PA announcer but doesn’t expect the between-innings contests and games. There is no large video board with graphics here… just your standard high school scoreboard. The baseball game is the only entertainment here. Neighborhood 4 Boyce Cox Field is just west of the downtown business district of Bristol, Virginia. The only food choices within walking distance of the stadium are a Krystal and a Subway. Downtown Bristol is several blocks east of the park and has a wide variety of dining and entertainment options. Bristol is probably best known for being split right down the middle by the Virginia/Tennessee state line. There is a large sign spanning State Street commemorating that fact. It is a great place to take a selfie. State Street is the dividing line, so if you are on its south side you are in Tennessee and you have a different zip code and area code from the other side of the street. Cross State Street and you are in Virginia. Unlike many small towns, the downtown area of Bristol has remained very vibrant. There are several restaurants to choose from. We found a wide choice of menu options at Quaker Steak and Lube on State Street. Across the street from Quaker Steak is the original location of the Burger Bar. This no-frills burger joint is famous for serving country music legend Hank Williams his last meal before he died (Note: The food did not kill him!). The Birthplace of Country Music Museum is a must-see attraction in downtown Bristol. Long before Nashville became the center of the country music universe, Bristol was the place to be. Artists from the hill country surrounding Bristol would come into town to perform and do early record recordings. The museum does an excellent job of covering these early artists and their songs. The other major attraction in the area is the Bristol Motor Speedway. It is located about seven miles south of downtown Bristol on the Volunteer Parkway. Most of the lodging options in Bristol are at the I-81 interchange or along the Volunteer Parkway. Two hotels we found that offer reasonably priced accommodations and are close to the ballpark are the Days Inn Bristol and the Hampton Inn Bristol. Fans 4 Bristol fans turn out in substantial numbers for each Pirates game. The stands may be half empty, but the hill overlooking the field is filled with families, youngsters, and seniors alike, enjoying baseball without the theme music for each player, the constant barrage of advertising, and the contests between innings. They are proud of Bristol’s baseball heritage and show their support by not only attending the games but also by volunteering both before and after the game to keep Boyce Cox Field playable and updated to meet league standards. Access 3 Getting to Boyce Cox Field is very easy. From I-81 in Virginia take exit 3 towards downtown Bristol. Go to the 4th traffic light and turn right on Euclid Avenue. Go ½ mile and the park will be on your right. Parking is free in the large lot by the football stadium. It is important to know that the baseball field will not be visible from this lot, as it is behind the football field. After leaving your car, look for a small sign for Boyce Cox Field and an opening in the fence. There will be a ticket table at this gate. After purchasing your tickets you will follow a trail between the football stadium and the woods to the baseball stadium. The trail is paved but hilly in places. The ballpark will be down an incline at the end of the trail. The seating areas vary in height and type of seating. If you are planning to sit in the stands it would be wise to bring a seat cushion with you. You also have the option of just picking a spot on the hillside to watch the game. The concession stand is at the base of the press box. Restrooms are located at the end of the bleachers along the first baseline. Return on Investment 4 Attending a game at Boyce Cox Field provides an excellent return on investment. Ticket prices are $5 for adults, $4 for children 5-12 years old, and children under 5 can attend free of charge. There is no cost for parking. You can bring your food and beverage into the park or patronize the concession stand and know that your purchase benefits the local schools. It is baseball with no frills, which is not necessarily a sad thing. Extras 3 An extra must go to the volunteers who have enabled Bristol to continue its long history with baseball. Final Thoughts Going to a ball game at Cox Field is like going back to an earlier time when parks were simpler. The game is the focus here, which is as it should be. Bristol also offers some unique experiences as a town, with its spanning two states.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Homewood Field 3399 San Martin Dr Baltimore, MD 21210 Johns Hopkins Blue Jays website Homewood Field website Year Opened: 1906 Capacity: 8,500 Hop To It in Baltimore Homewood Field opened in 1906 and has a capacity of 8,500 fans. The field is used for football and lacrosse (both men’s and women’s) at Johns Hopkins University – the new turf was added in 2014 and the new video board (which is used to show replays) was added in 2011. Johns Hopkins football, like almost all the other sports on campus, currently competes at the NCAA’s D3 level, while the men’s and women’s lacrosse programs (the only Johns Hopkins sports to do so) compete at the D1 level. Food & Beverage 3 There is only one fixed concessions stand at Homewood Field, in the northwest end zone, and it only sells pizza, chips and candy, and cookies, as well as bottled and canned soft drinks. However, what saves the rating here is the Al Pacino Ice Cream food truck behind the opposite end zone – Pacino’s has shaved ice, slushies, sundaes, ice cream sandwiches, and other treats, etc. – pretty much any type of ice cream you could ask for, so be sure to stop by for a cold, sweet treat. Also, the concessions at Homewood Field take cash or card, which is a real plus in today’s modern age. Homewood Field Fixed Concession Stand, Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 5 Homewood Field has a great atmosphere for college football – great fans, a peppy band that plays both modern favorites as well as oldies, fan contests at halftime (which are rare at this level of college football), the requisite dance team and cheerleaders, and an awesome 6-foot blue jay costumed mascot named Jay; Jay can be seen all game long taking photos with fans at the bottom of the grandstand on the home side. The turf field has grandstands along both sidelines; both have bleacher seating up, plus a wide cement walkway along the top which offers standing-room viewing for fans. The lacrosse center is behind the southeast end zone, and many fans can be seen watching the contest from its second-floor balcony. That end zone contains the Al Pacino Ice Cream food truck, while the main concessions stand is behind the opposite end zone. Located in Baltimore, the birthplace of the National Anthem, the singing of the Anthem before Johns Hopkins games is a bit more meaningful than at other games, and the PA announcer makes note of this fact when asking fans to stand and remove their caps. Francis Scott Key wrote the National Anthem during the War of 1812, while a prisoner on board a British ship just a few miles away in Baltimore Harbor, from which he witnessed the British bombardment of the city. Inspired by the American flag still waving after the 25-hour shelling, Key wrote the poem which became the National Anthem, on the back of a letter he had in his pocket. Neighborhood 5 Homewood Field is located only a few miles from downtown Baltimore, so as you might expect there are plenty of restaurants, hotels, and attractions in the area – you will find plenty to do before or after the game in a city this size. A couple of restaurants I would recommend are Alizee, across the street from the stadium, and Wicked Sisters a little further away. Alizee has a ton of different options, from small plates to burgers, pasta to pizza, and even roasted chicken and grilled salmon, while Wicked Sisters is an upscale pub specializing in craft cocktails and seafood dishes (this is Baltimore after all, so eating seafood should be on your to-do list). If you have time while in Baltimore, I would recommend checking out Fort McHenry and/or the National Aquarium – Fort McHenry is a national monument and was the fort being shelled which inspired Francis Scott Key to write the National Anthem. The National Aquarium is huge with a ton of attractions inside, including dolphin shows and behind-the-scenes shark tours, and there are plenty of other attractions in and around Baltimore Harbor as well. Fans 4 Johns Hopkins football brings in some stellar fans – while the stands are not full, especially on the visitors’ side, there is electricity in the air as the fans here cheer on their Blue Jays. You will hear “That’s another Hopkins first down!” shouted by fans throughout most of the game when JHU is on offense, as well as lots of shouting and stomping during opposing third and fourth downs. The Blue Jays fans seem genuinely excited to watch their team; a lot of them show up in team gear, and many of them can be seen standing the entire time. Access 3 Unfortunately, the traffic in and around Baltimore is pretty rough, especially if you end up taking I-95/I-395/I-495 (which you probably have to). There are also myriad bridges and tunnels around the city, which tend to get congested. The good news is that most Johns Hopkins football games are on Saturday, so the traffic should be a little better then. Once you get to the stadium proper, however, the access gets a lot easier – there is free on-the-street parking along University Drive, or you can turn onto San Martin Drive and park in the parking deck around the bend toward the rear – you have to pay to park there, but it is right behind the stadium so is a very short walk. The roof of that parking deck is marked for faculty only, but it seems to be open for football games, so you may be able to park there for free if you prefer. Alternatively, there are city parking garages a little further from the stadium which you can pay to park in. Inside the stadium itself, the concourse is pretty easy to move around, except note that there is only one men’s bathroom and only one women’s bathroom under each grandstand – these are located near the center of the stands. The concessions are also behind the end zones, so not near the seats, but you can walk around the stadium with views of the action the whole time, so you won’t miss anything. Return on Investment 5 Admission is free at Homewood Stadium (tickets are not even sold), so this is a bargain when it comes to football at any level, given the great atmosphere, awesome fan base, and how close you are to the action at this small stadium. Extras 3 A big plus for the “crab race” tradition at the beginning of the fourth quarter – Maryland as you know is known for crab, so this tradition is not only appropriate but also a lot of fun. The PA announcers call for “claws out” while a video of a hoard of cartoon crabs scuttling along the beach shows on the video board, during which funky dance music plays, and fans (as well as the entire football team) all put their hands up in a claw motion and jump up and down dancing while waving their arms from side to side – the football team, in particular, gets into it, which is great to see. Another plus for the great mascot, and a third plus for the free raffle you can enter (at most stadiums you have to buy tickets for those).

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 War Memorial Stadium 1889 W Pembroke Ave Hampton, VA 23661 Peninsula Pilots website War Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1948 Capacity: 3,750 Baseball on Virginia's Peninsula Baseball has been played at War Memorial Stadium in Hampton, Virginia since 1948. Originally home to the Newport News Dodgers, the stadium played home to several affiliated minor league teams until 1992 when the Peninsula Pilots, then a Seattle Mariners affiliate, moved away for good. However, baseball would return to the ballpark in 2000, when a new franchise, also called the Peninsula Pilots, moved in. This incarnation of the Pilots plays in the Coastal Plain League, a summer collegiate league with teams throughout Virginia, the Carolinas, and Georgia. Since joining the CPL, the Pilots have been one of the most successful teams, winning eight division titles and two league championships. Notable alumni include legendary Washington National Ryan Zimmerman, who graduated from high school just across Hampton Roads in Virginia Beach. The "Peninsula" in the team's name refers to Hampton's location on the tip of the Virginia Peninsula, sometimes known as the "Lower Peninsula" to distinguish it from the two to the north but most often referred to simply as "The Peninsula". Food & Beverage 5 Despite being an old ballpark, there are numerous food options at War Memorial Stadium. A seafood stand sells flounder, shrimp, crab, and clam strips as well as a basket containing all four. A barbecue stand sells pulled pork, tenderloin, and pork chops on sandwiches with several homemade sauces to top it off with. The main stand sells more conventional options like burgers, hot dogs, and chicken tenders, as well as funnel cake fries for dessert. Alcohol is available for fans of age at several locations, including a tiki bar. Prices are affordable as well. One of the sandwiches at the barbecue stand costs $6, or $8 if you want chips and a drink as well. The most expensive option at the main stand is $8. So you will not pay too much for food here. Atmosphere 4 War Memorial Stadium is an old stadium, and while there are some modern amenities, it is still showing its age in places. The Pilots recently built several new party areas for groups to watch the game, but if you are not going with a large number of other people, you will have to sit in the old, wooden bleachers. There are a few box seats, but they are reserved for season ticket holders who purchased them in advance, usually as a group. While the bleachers are not the most comfortable, they do offer an excellent view of the game. The team makes a great effort to keep fans engaged. A mascot named Slyder, who is a Pelican/seagull hybrid, roams the stands and interacts with fans throughout the game. There are numerous contests on the field between innings. The fans in the stands contribute to the atmosphere here as well, making sure the stadium stays loud throughout the game. The roof over most of the seating area helps keep sounds in, but the fans create their atmosphere to some extent. During the seventh-inning stretch, Pilot's superfan Wayne Gianettino leads the crowd in "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" while standing at his usual seat at the front of the wooden bleachers. Gianettino follows in the footsteps of legendary superfan Charles "Chuck" Williams before him. Williams attended all but about 20 games in 58 years (the exact number varies by source) before passing away in 2010, and is even honored with a plaque at his former seat. While our rankings treat fans and atmosphere as two separate things, it is impossible to speak of the latter here without referring to how the energy from the former contributes to it. Neighborhood 3 As mentioned above, Hampton is located at the edge of the Virginia Peninsula in the Hampton Roads area of southeastern Virginia. Norfolk and Virginia Beach are located on the other side of the harbor, which is also called Hampton Roads, and divide the region in two. How long it will take you to get there will depend on how backed up the bridge tunnels (not a typo, the two main crossings contain both bridge and tunnel portions). On a good day, the Virginia Beach oceanfront is 40 minutes away. On a bad day, it can be two or three times that. If you want to stay in Hampton, options include Smitty's Better Burgers, St. George Brewing Company, and Park Lane Tavern. Williamsburg is about a 25-minute drive away and offers many more options, including Busch Gardens and Colonial Williamsburg. Unlike with Norfolk and Virginia Beach, getting to Williamsburg does not require crossing the harbor so traffic will probably be less of an issue. Fans 5 As mentioned above, the fans at Peninsula Pilots games are a large part of why the atmosphere here is so great. They come decked in orange, pack the ballpark to near capacity, and bring major energy throughout the game. After big hits or key defensive plays by the Pilots, it can get extremely loud between the cheering fans and the roof over the seating area that traps the noise in. Many longtime fans have been going to games for years, but also many families with young kids are in awe of their first baseball game. The Pilots have a long tradition of superfans attending almost every game. Wayne Gianettino, like Chuck Williams before him, attends almost every game and pays tribute to him by shouting "Three up, three down" to urge the Pilots to record a 1-2-3 inning, something Williams was famous for doing. However, even the fans who aren't quite as super as Wayne (which is pretty much everybody) still are deeply passionate about Pilots baseball and bring the energy for nine innings every night. These are some of the best fans in the Coastal Plain League if not all of collegiate summer ball. Access 3 War Memorial Stadium is located just off I-264, I-64, and I-664. Ample parking is available in a large lot surrounding the stadium, with more nearby if it gets full. As noted above, if coming from the other side of the harbor, be sure to allow extra time for traffic at the crossings. Even if coming from this side, you may still hit beach traffic although there are more ways around it if you use a GPS app such as Waze. The concourse behind the bleachers is more than wide enough for the crowd, but once you walk up the ramp to the seating area, the inner concourse is much more narrow. The steps to the seating area can be steep in places, and while this improves your view from them, it also makes getting up them a challenge. There are several sets of restrooms on the concourse which are of a sufficient size for the fans in attendance. A clear bag policy is in effect, which is disappointing but unfortunately becoming more and more common. Return on Investment 5 Single-game tickets for Pilots games are $8, with children under 12 getting in for just $5. Parking is free and concessions are affordable, with even more added value for certain deals. When you consider what a great atmosphere a game here is, that makes a Pilots game of outstanding value. Extras 3 There is a Kids Zone and wiffleball field down the right field line. The ticket windows at the entrance to the ballpark are shaped like lighthouses, a reference to Hampton's location on a major harbor. Look for the banners on the concourse honoring all the great players who have played here. Final Thoughts There is no doubt that War Memorial Stadium is an old ballpark. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of more modern facilities in the CPL and elsewhere in the area, the energy at Peninsula Pilots game is top-notch. The team and the fans both contribute to the excellent experience here. Baseball fans who find themselves in the Hampton Roads area on a summer night would do well to check out a Pilots game.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey. Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex 2555 Pulford St Windsor, ON N9E 4H5 Windsor Lancers hockey website Capri Pizzeria Recreation Center website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 500 Lancers on Ice The southern point of Ontario finds a traveler at Windsor, Ontario. Higher education in Windsor is found right on the border of Windsor and the Detroit River. The University of Windsor was established in 1857 as Assumption College. In 1956, when public funding models in Ontario changed for post-secondary education institutions, Assumption was renamed the University of Windsor and adapted a more secular model. Athletics has been a big part of Windsor student life for quite a while. The Windsor Lancers hockey team first took the ice in 1964 as Assumption College. The Lancers would join the OUAA, precursor to the OUA, in 1971. The Lancers would play at the venerable Windsor Arena. With the OHL’s Spitfires moving across town to a new building and the city finding that the upkeep on the old building was just too much, the old arena was set to be demolished and the Lancers were forced to find a new home. Since 2013, the Lancers have played south of campus at the South Windsor Recreation Complex. The complex was built in 1970 and renovated and renamed in 2017. Currently known as the Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex after a naming rights deal was signed with a local pizza restaurant, the CPRC is a hub for local recreation with a pair of hockey pads, gymnasium and other activity rooms. The Lancers are putting forth a strong effort to bring the students south, off campus to come out and support the Lancers. The CPRC is a throwback to those old youth hockey mornings that so many Canadian families remember fondly. Food & Beverage 4 The concession items at the Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex are better that one would expect for an OUA hockey facility. The Lancers have the advantage of playing in a complex that is a hub of the community and needs to service more people than just those Lancer fans. Rico’s Food & Refreshment provides concession options. The concession is just outside of the rink, which offers easy access to fans. Onion rings, sweet potato fries, chicken fingers, hot dogs, tuna, roast beef or turkey sandwiches, poutine and pogos are all available in a surprisingly diverse menu. A variety of hot and cold beverages are also available for purchase. Pepsi products are the soda of choice and coffee, tea, cappuccino and hot chocolate are examples of hot beverages available. The temperature inside the rink may force fans to make the hot beverage selection. Prices are very affordable and surprising. Combos are also available to save some money. A plethora of vending machines can also be found around the complex. Atmosphere 3 Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex is a community hub that services far more than just the Windsor Lancers. The exterior of the complex is nothing overly special. It still has that seventies feel to it with the brown brick and red trim. Being of a larger purpose, there is not much in the way of Windsor Lancer markings on the exterior. Once inside, the 2017 renovation becomes fairly obvious. The differences between the modern area and the seventies area are like night and day. Heading toward Rink 1 is where the Lancers can be found. A temporary ticket table sits between the concession stand and the entry to the rink, ready to welcome patrons. Inside the rink, it becomes a little more obvious that this is the home of the Lancers as some team markings can be found. The rink itself lends itself to the “hockey barn” ideal, with the wooden, peaked roof with tin-foil insulation lining it. The ice surface runs from east to west with the seating on the north side of the ice. Capacity for the rink is perfect at 500. The east wall features a simple scoreboard, while the south wall has a number of youth hockey banners hanging. It is here that the 1998 and 2014 Queen’s Cup conference championship banners can be found along with the retired number 23 for Ken Minello, the all-time leading scorer in Windsor Lancer history. Unfortunately, the scoreboard does not track the shots on goal, which can be very annoying. The other key element of the rink is the temperature, it is darn cold! Being able to see one’s breath when watching the game is not unheard of in the Capri Complex. When selecting a seat, fans should consider looking up to the old-school, propane heaters that sit above the seating area. Choosing a seat that is under a heater may be the difference between an enjoyable or not-enjoyable event. The game day production at a Windsor Lancers game is very simple. It fits with the environment. Fans have the opportunity to sit right on top of the action, where everything seems to move faster and feel bigger. The sounds of the game are prevalent this close and Windsor does its fans a service by not overproducing the game. Neighbourhood 3 The Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex is located in South Windsor at Oakwood Park, approximately six kilometers from the University of Windsor campus. The location for the arena is very suburban and fans are going to need to take transit or the car to find a pre or post game spot for a meal. The most options that are close by can be found on the EC Row Expressway. Chain restaurants like Moxies, the Mandarine, and the Keg are all found close by. For something a little more original, try the Southside Grill or Cramdon’s Tap and Eatery. There are a number of entertainment options available in Windsor. As far as sports go, the Lancers also field a football team at Alumni Field at the University of Windsor Stadium and basketball in the St. Denis Centre. The Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League are the crown jewel of the city and they play at the WFCU Centre. It is also not inconceivable to hop the border to the north and catch one of the multitude of Detroit sport franchises. Other entertainment options to consider include Caesars Windsor and Adventure Bay Family Water Park. For fans wishing to stay in the Windsor area, there are a number of hotels available. The Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn & Suites Windsor are good options to consider. Fans 3 Fans for almost all OUA hockey spots are of the die-hard variety. OUA hockey does not bring out big crowds usually. The Windsor Lancers usually draw around 200 fans per game, which ranks in the middle of the conference. Many other programs have a signature game to draw from, which skews attendance figures annually. However, Windsor does not currently have a game like that. The Lancers benefit from a small capacity at Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex. Even though the Lancers do not draw much more than most other programs, the atmosphere at Capri is solid. Such a small capacity makes Capri seem full all the time. The fans in attendance are pretty loud and supportive. There are a surprisingly high number of students who make the trek from campus to catch the games, which is great. Access 4 The Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex is located in the neighbourhood of South Windsor, in Oakwood Park. The neighbourhood is nestled south of EC Row Expressway and east of highway 401 and the arena can be found on Pulford Street on the west end of the neighbourhood. Getting to the arena is easy as it is so close to the highways. There is plenty of free parking available at the complex for fans who are coming by car. Public transit is available near the complex and many students take transit from campus to the games. For fans interested in public transit, check out the Transit Windsor website for maps, fares and schedules. Tickets are purchased or picked up at the temporary table outside of the rink entry. Lineups are not a huge issue. The washroom facilities are shared with the rest of the complex. Washrooms are quite large and more than adequate for Windsor Lancers games. However, they are not right in the rink but this is not a huge deal. Return on Investment 4 Canadian university hockey provides a phenomenal value for the sporting dollar. Tickets for the Lancers go for only $8. Discounts are available for seniors and students. University of Windsor students are free. There is plenty of free parking for patrons and the concession prices are pretty good. The action on the ice is fast-paced and pure making OUA and Windsor Lancers hockey one of the best kept secrets out there. Extras 2 An extra mark for the lineage that saw the Lancers play in the venerable Windsor Arena, before moving to South Windsor. An extra mark for the perfect fans to capacity ratio. Final Thoughts The Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex is a great location for OUA hockey. The Windsor Lancers enjoy a classic, Canadian hockey barn that has the perfect capacity for their needs. Fans will be able to be right on top of the action and able to enjoy all of the sounds and sights of the game in its most pure form. Checking out a Windsor Lancers game is well worth the money and an experience that will surprise many. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram .

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Strawberry Stadium 500 Western Ave Hammond, LA 70401 Southeastern Louisiana Lions website Strawberry Stadium website Year Opened: 1937 Capacity: 7,408 Lion Up!!!! In 1928, Southeastern Louisiana University opened its doors on 60 acres of farmland in Hammond, on the estate of attorney Hunter Leake II – the college originally opened as Hammond Junior College in 1925, at a separate location before moving to the current site. The football program began in 1930, and in 1937 work began on an on-campus stadium funded by Franklin D. Roosevelt's Works Progress Administration (WPA). Due to pressure from Louisiana Governor Richard Leche, the 7,200-seat stadium was built in just four months. The stadium was originally supposed to be named after Leche, but was dedicated as Strawberry Stadium to honor the local strawberry farmers in the region. This area's rich and fertile soil, combined with the swampy humid climate, makes this a perfect place for growing strawberries, giving this region of Louisiana the nickname "The Strawberry Capital of the World". Strawberry Stadium hosted its first game on Sept 17, 1937, with the Lions, fresh off an 8-0 1936 season, defeating the LSU  freshman team. Today, SLU has expanded to include 365 acres, and with an enrollment of 14,400 is the third-largest college in the state. The Lions have established a quite stellar football tradition in their over 65 years of football, including three undefeated seasons and 7 conference titles, before the football program was discontinued in 1985. Since restarting in 2003, however, the Lions have only continued their winning ways, winning three Southland Conference titles and playing in the FCS playoffs five times.   Food and Beverage   3 There are four main concessions stands inside Strawberry Stadium, two on each side of the facility. You can find the usual items, and prices are fairly cheap – hamburgers and nachos ($5), hot dogs and slices of pizza ($4), peanuts ($3), or candy, chips, and popcorn ($2). They also have Chick-fil-A sandwiches available for ($7), but for a local item on the menu try the Veron Sausage po’ boy for $6; Veron is a special brand of famous Cajun sausages made in nearby Prairieville. You also can't come to Louisiana without getting a po’ boy, so I recommend this item on the menu. For drinks, Coca-Cola is the official soft drink provider of SLU Athletics – you can get coffee, Dasani bottled water, and 16 oz soft drinks for $3. Alcohol is also available at Strawberry Stadium, as you can purchase Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, and Budweiser in tallboy cans for $8. Rainbow Daiquiris, a popular daiquiri spot in town, also has a stand set up selling daiquiris, while Hammond-based Gnarly Brewing offers several craft beers for sale, as well as their "Lion Up" brand of beer, custom made for Lions games. In addition, new for 2024 is the "Lion's Legacy" brand of beer that is being brewed for the 100th anniversary of the opening of Southeastern Louisiana University.   Atmosphere   4 Southeastern Louisiana provides a lively atmosphere on campus, thanks in part to a winning tradition the past few years. Before the game you can find tailgaters spread out throughout campus, with the most popular spot being Friendship Circle right out in front of the stadium on the north side. Beautiful Spanish moss trees, with a stunning several hundred-year-old oak and a giant lion statue, provide a stunning backdrop with the stadium in the background. It's a common tradition for couples to kiss under Friendship Oak, as legend states this will keep them together forever. Strawberry Stadium is located behind Friendship Circle – the facility has 7,408 seats, with brick-and-steel grandstands on the east and west sides, along with open end zones. The venue still retains its original exterior brick appearance from when it was built. Interestingly, when the facility first opened it had campus buildings under the grandstands; the first floor of the east grandstand held the cafeteria and post office, while the second floor had student dorms, and the west side had athletic dorms and offices. In fact, university and athletic offices still occupy the west grandstand, while classrooms still occupy the area under the east grandstand. There are four main entrances into the stadium, one located at each corner. Many of the Lions fans and alumni will enter and sit on the west side, while the band, students, and visitors section take up the east grandstand – take note you cannot walk between the east and west grandstands, so you must enter on the correct side. In the east side concourse, Southeastern Louisiana University does an excellent job honoring its sports history – you'll find an impressive display of signage and murals filling the concourse, honoring past players and achievements in not just football but in all sports. All the school's Hall of Famers are honored, and there is also a huge mural honoring former quarterback Cole Kelley (2019-21), who won the 2020 Walter Payton Award as the best player in the FCS. You'll be able to get great views of the field no matter where you sit in the stadium. Once inside, you will be greeted by over 20 rows of bleacher-style seats on each side of the facility; there are also four sections of green and yellow chairbacks at midfield on the west side. The metal bleachers are painted in the Lions colors of light green, and when Strawberry Stadium is empty you can see the chairbacks are designed to spell out SLU in the stadium, which I thought was neat. Also, in the end zones you'll find 15 on-field cabanas that are for sponsors and boosters. Strawberry Stadium has received several renovations over the years – in 2008 they added six luxury suites and the Victory Club, an enclosed climate-controlled room with food and a bar, as well as 116 covered club seats located just outside the Victory Club. A new turf field was also installed prior to the 2012 season; this turf was the playing surface used in the Caesar’s Superdome from 2010-2011, and is still being used at Strawberry Stadium as of last season.   Neighborhood   4 Hammond is the largest city in the Parish, with a population of 20,000 located about 40 miles east of Baton Rouge, and 45 miles northwest of New Orleans. Hammond is a true college town, with most of the attractions centered on the university and a pretty big downtown area. The campus is located within walking distance of downtown, only a few blocks north – this area is quite pretty with a railroad that runs right through the middle of downtown, along with several small parks. You can find plenty of restaurants and bars downtown including La Carrenta, Brady's, Tommy's, Mariner's Inn, Cate Street Seafood, Lee's Diner, and Tope La for popular creole and Cajun foods. For popular spots to get a drink you can try the Cate Street Pub, Red White and Brew, Benny's Place, or the Crescent Bar, while for attractions in Hammond you have Louisiana Children's Discovery Museum, which makes for a great place to take the kids. Keibert & Sons Gator Tours and the Global Wildlife Center, just outside Hammond, are also good options – the latter is home to a drive through safari-style zoo. For shopping in Hammond you have Hammond Square, a beautiful outdoor shopping mall with plenty of mall-style chain stores and restaurants. If you have time I recommend taking a trip to neighboring Ponchatoula, which is about 5-mile drive south of SLU’s campus. This beautiful small town is centered on its strawberry industry, as the Strawberry Capital of the World – if you are here in the spring make sure to check out the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival. Ponchatoula has a nice downtown with plenty of restaurants, as well as a giant strawberry right next to City Hall. They even have a cool market inside of an old train station where you can buy all kinds of items, such as shirts, art, and food. For places to stay in the area there are plenty of hotels in Hammond closer to the Interstate, or for a more upscale hotel in Hammond you can try Michabelle Inn, located in a historic 19th century home. You can also find plenty of hotels in Baton Rouge if you elect to stay in the Louisiana capital city.   Fans   3 Sitting in the backyards of both LSU  and Tulane , the Lions had a little bit of trouble fighting for relevancy after restarting football. In addition, SLU can sometimes get lost in the shuffle of the other Southland Conference programs in the state, but in recent years the school has experienced sudden growth, and is now the third-largest university in the state. Winning ways have also taken over Strawberry Stadium; since 2013 the Lions have made five FCS playoff appearances. The Lions winning again and putting a competitive product on the field has only increased attendance in recent years – this season the Lions are averaging about 4,000 fans per game, and in the past five years have Lions averaged 4,980 per season. Also, with many of the schools in the Southland Conference being in Louisiana too, you can expect to find a good number of visiting fans who make the trek to Hammond on game day. The Lions biggest rivalry is with Nicholls State , just 90 miles south of Hammond; the two schools battle it out every year in the River Bell Classic. When Nicholls State, Northwestern State , or McNeese State  visit you can expect to find plenty of visiting fans; the attendance record in recent years was set during the 2019 River Bell Classic, with over 10,000 fans, while the all-time attendance record is 12,000, which occurred during a 1981 game with Jackson State . The Lions fans that do show up are knowledgeable about the history of the program; you'll find a mix of older folks who remember the first incarnation of the football program. You will also find a good number of alumni who turn out for games, as many of the alumni continue to live in the area after graduation. During the game the fans seem into the game, and stay throughout. The band sits on the east side bleachers and plays throughout the game, while Roomie, the Lions mascot, can be seen constantly interacting with fans and students on both sides of the stadium. Roomie became the mascot in 1964, and is named after a longtime professor and avid Lions supporter, Hollis “Roomie” Wilson. The original mascot was a live lion named Lobo, which is Spanish for wolf, but that didn't sit over well. Another thing I think is cool is all the different uniform combinations the Lions wear for the games – you'll almost never see them wearing the same jersey and pants, similar to how Oregon  does their uniforms.   Access   3 Getting to Hammond is fairly simple – the city is conveniently located right on the 1-12 and I-55 corridor, about 40 miles to the east of Baton Rouge and 45 miles northwest of New Orleans. Getting to SLU’s campus is pretty easy; just take I-12 to Exit 40. SLU is then about 2.5 miles north of the exit, a few blocks north of downtown. Along the way you'll pass by all the shopping at Hammond Square, and you'll have a nice drive through downtown. You won't miss Strawberry Stadium, as it's at the front entrance of campus behind Friendship Circle. Louis Armstrong International Airport, closer to New Orleans, will be your main airport if flying in for the weekend – I-55 ends near the airport, and Hammond is a straight 45-minute drive up I-55. This drive will take you through Manchac Swamp on the second-longest bridge in the country. Sometimes the GPS will advise you to take Lake Pontchartrain Causeway to the North Shore, which is the longest bridge in the country, but it can sometimes take over 2 hours to get from New Orleans to Hammond, with traffic, if you use the Causeway. The one issue you may have once on campus is parking; they did build a parking garage attached to the west side of Strawberry Stadium, but this is reserved for season ticket holders and those who have premium seating. There is also plenty of parking on campus for $25, which I thought was kind of high. Alternatively, for free parking there is plenty on the north side of campus near University Center, home of the basketball team.   Return on Investment   4 This season tickets are priced at $25 for metal bleacher seats and $40 for chairbacks, if purchased at the front gate or through the athletics website. However, my advice would be to purchase through a third-party site like Vivid Seats instead, where you can get tickets for less than $10. Attending a Lions games remains a cheaper alternative than attending an LSU  game, for example, if you are looking for a college football game to attend in Louisiana. The Lions put a great product on the field, and the game day atmosphere rivals some of the best FCS colleges in the country. I consider seeing a game at Strawberry Stadium to be a good return on investment – you get to watch really good competitive football for this level, and Hammond is a very off the radar city to visit in Louisiana.   Extras   5 The Lions have had 23 players drafted into the NFL in the history of their program, including two players drafted since football was started back up in 2003. Cornerback Robert Alford is the highest draft pick from SLU, picked 60th overall by the Falcons in 2013. The Lions also have one Walter Payton Award winner in Quarterback Cole Kelley, who won the award in 2020. Besides being home to Lions football, Strawberry Stadium is also home to the Lions women's soccer team, which was added in 2013. The facility is also a historic high school venue for the state, having hosted many LHSAA state championship games over the years. The venue currently serves as the home stadium for local St. Thomas Aquinas High School, which is located in town. Hammond High School also plays their rival Ponchatoula High School every year here in Strawberry Stadium, and that game usually draws a sold-out crowd. Strawberry Stadium has also seen a few legendary players play on this historic field – three future Pro Football Hall of Famers all went down in defeat when they played here. For example, in 1967 the Lions upset a Roger Staubach-led Pensacola Naval Air Station Goshawks military team, while one week later SLU beat a Terry Bradshaw-led Louisiana Tech  team for Homecoming. Halloween 1970 also welcomed another future Hall of Famer to Strawberry Stadium, when Ron Jaworski and the Youngstown State Penguins lost to the Lions. Another bonus is the turf here being first used at Caesar’s Superdome  – the playing surface was installed at the Superdome after the Saints won their first Super Bowl in 2010, and two years later was moved to Strawberry Stadium, where it remains to this day. Another bonus for Strawberry Stadium honoring local strawberry farmers – at one time the North Shore of Louisiana was home to over 14,000 acres of strawberry farms, and today the strawberry remains an integral part of Louisiana's agriculture. In fact, Tangipahoa Parish, where Hammond is located, is the state's leading strawberry producing area, accounting for 75% of the state's strawberry consumption.

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