Photos by Chris Patton, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Dozer Park 730 SW Jefferson St Peoria, IL 61605 Bradley Braves website Dozer Park website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 7,500 Bradley Braves Baseball The Bradley Braves baseball team shares Dozer Park with the St. Louis Cardinals Class A affiliate, the Peoria Chiefs. The stadium opened in May 2002, and Bradley’s first game in the facility was on March 26, 2003. Originally known as O’Brien Field, Caterpillar purchased naming rights in 2013. The current name refers to Caterpillar’s bulldozers. Dozer Park has 7,500 chair back seats, along with grass seating down the left and right field lines and behind the left field wall. There are also multiple picnic tables around the concourse. The Braves play in the Missouri Valley Conference. The most notable player in Bradley history is MLB Hall of Famer, Kirby Puckett. The late Minnesota Twin played in Peoria in 1981. Puckett’s opponent in the 1987 World Series, former Cardinals first baseman/outfielder Jim Lindeman, donned the Bradley red and white as well, from 1981-83. Food & Beverage 3 While only one of the many concession stands in Dozer Park is open for Bradley games, they do serve the entire menu. Yes, the entire menu does include alcohol, a rarity at college baseball games. Draft beer options are Bud Light, Miller Lite and Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy (each $6). During the cooler portion of the college baseball season, $5.50 spiked coffee or hot chocolate might hit the spot more than a cold beer. A large Pepsi product in a souvenir cup is $5. Hamburgers, cheeseburgers, veggie burgers, turkey burgers, pork chop sandwiches, chicken tenders, and corn dogs all sell for $6 or less. Combo meals featuring one of the above items, French fries and a soft drink are all $9 or less, a nice deal for ballpark food. Atmosphere 3 Dozer Park is just over ten years old and a nice facility. Unfortunately, the most recent game I attended included an hour long rain delay. By first pitch, the stands were practically deserted and most of the remaining fans watched the game from the cover of the concourse. With the eerie quiet, it felt like the game was being played in the middle of the night. Inside the main entrance to Dozer Park is a merchandise stand and marketing table. The small stand features Bradley gear for sale, including t-shirts with the new school mascot, Kaboom the Gargoyle. The Chiefs merchandise store is not open during Bradley games. The marketing table contains picture schedules, posters and laminated cards for baseball bingo. The bingo winner receives a coupon for free pizza. The 7,500 green seats feature cup holders. Seats in rows 20 and 21 are under an overhang from the press box and suite level. These seats remain nice and dry in the event of a rain shower. Legroom is ample. The field at Dozer Park features grass and clay. The Bradley players and coaches are in charge of getting the tarp on and off the field. Dimensions are 310 feet down the lines, 375 feet to the power alleys and 400 feet to straightaway center field. The Braves use the Dozer Park video board, a luxury not available to most mid-major, college baseball programs. The screen features information about the players and airs videos for between inning contests. Neighborhood 4 Kelleher’s Irish Pub and Eatery is located on the historic riverfront, two blocks away from the park. The restaurant is housed in an old warehouse. They feature traditional Irish fare, along with American bar food. Kelleher’s touts their 20 micro or import drafts and 90 different bottled beers. The stadium is on the eastern edge of Peoria’s downtown. Peoria features a wide variety of nightlife for fans looking for a late night on the town. Just across the river in East Peoria, the recently developed area features nearly every dining and shopping chain possible. Fans 2 The trade off of playing in a shiny, off-campus facility is that students have to travel to attend games. They can’t just spill out of the dorms and into the game. The team needs to be winning and playing an exciting brand of ball to ensure lively, invested crowds. In all fairness to the Bradley student body, I attended a weeknight, non-conference game that featured an hour-long rain delay before the first pitch. Once the game started, there were only a handful of students in attendance who weren’t working at the game. Parents of the players make up the majority of the crowd. Access 5 Free parking is available on multiple streets around the ballpark. There are also nearby office lots that might be available for use, depending on the day and time of your visit to Dozer Park. Check the signs on the streets and the lots to make sure you won’t come out of the game to find a ticket on your windshield. Unlike the concession stands, all of the concourse bathrooms are open. The facilities are clean and spacious. Return on Investment 2 Admission is $6, which seems high, when many competing programs offer free admission. Free parking helps to make up for the admission charge. A pretzel and Pepsi in a souvenir cup totals $8.50. The souvenir cup features the Peoria Chiefs instead of Bradley. The cup is a leftover from seasons ago because it still shows the Chiefs as a Cubs affiliate. The Chiefs have been a Cardinals affiliate since 2013. It might be in your best interest to wait until the summer and visit Dozer Park for a Chiefs game to get the most entertainment for your dollar at this ballpark. Extras 2 While most everything in the park references the summer tenant, the Braves have two prominent areas where their history is on display. On the third base side of the concourse, there are two, wall-length posters featuring photos, names and records of great players in Bradley baseball history. Down the right field line, next to the retired Chiefs numbers, are the names and numbers retired by the Braves. Along with Puckett’s number 14, Bradley has retired the numbers of former pitcher Mike Dunne (#11) and longtime coach Leo Schrall (#2). Final Thoughts Dozer Park is a comfortable and fan-friendly stadium with a view of the downtown Peoria skyline. It is well worth checking out on a sunny day or a clear night. Unfortunately, it feels like Bradley is an afterthought at their own home field.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Tranquilo Golf Course at Four Seasons Resort Orlando 3451 Golf View Dr Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 LPGA Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions website Tranquilo Golf Course at Four Seasons Resort Orlando website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 50,000 True Golf Enjoyment in Disney’s Back Yard The Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions is unique in golf for several reasons. First, it is located at the Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World in Orlando. Second, it features only LPGA pros who have won a tournament in the past year. Finally, it also features some top-level sports and entertainment celebrities, as well as some of the best access to them that fans can expect. While modestly advertised, this “best kept secret” remains popular among fans and locals in the know, and features a game-day experience that rivals the best in the local sports scene. While professional golf has a history at Disney World thanks to the 41-year run of the Walt Disney World Golf Classic at the Palm and Magnolia courses, the 2019 tournament is the first official return of golf that is part of a season, and not just a one-off event – from 2013 to 2018 the event was a PGA tour and celebrity invitational. Food & Beverage 4 The food booths are pretty well spread out around the golf course, making it easy for fans to grab a bite to eat or something to drink. While most concessions stands have limited menus for food, the drink options are quite extensive. The most extensive menu is found at the main food stand just past the shuttle drop-off zone for the 3rd and 17th holes. Here you can find a grilled hot dog for $5, a grilled cheeseburger, grilled Italian sausage, or grilled chicken sandwich for $8, or a Mediterranean chicken salad bowl for $10. The stand also offers turkey spinach wraps and almond tarragon chicken salad sandwiches for $9. Snacks like Smucker’s Uncrustable PB&Js are $4, while chips, crackers, cookies, and fruit are $2; drinks like bottled water and soda are $4. Various alcohol companies that sponsor the event are also on hand to sell variations on popular cocktails using their respective products. For example, The Glenlivet has their own bar setup that features seven different cocktails ranging from $12 to $20. Local brewer Crooked Can Brewery is also on hand with their beers at various concessions stands and in their beer garden, with beers costing anywhere from $8 to $9. In addition, this year American brewer Yeungling featured a beer garden that included free samples of their latest beer, as well as their other beers for sale. Atmosphere 4 The weather in Florida in January is almost always as picture perfect as it gets – highs range in the upper 60s to low 70s in the day, meaning it’s perfect golf weather. The course itself is also stunning; the 18-hole course is laid out on the property that was once Disney’s Osprey and Eagle golf courses, but now is part of the Golden Oak neighborhood and Four Seasons Resort. The fans also turn up in respectable crowd sizes, meaning popular players are usually followed by a solid crowd of patrons to cheer them on. This may not initially look like the PGA stadium-style setups that are popular among bigger tournaments, but the facilities and atmosphere here are no less enjoyable. A minimalist golf tournament taken to its max potential, fans are sure to enjoy their day at Tranquilo Golf Course. For example, where massive grandstands may usually sit at various greens, here fans can find stacks of comfortable outdoor lounging chairs which can be positioned wherever you want to watch from, giving fans the best view possible at each hole. The relaxed setting transfers over to the 18th hole, where a DJ spins tunes throughout the entire day, and fans party to celebrate the final hole for each group’s day. Neighborhood 5 Tranquilo Golf Course is located on the property of the Four Seasons Resort, which is deep in the heart of Walt Disney World. Nestled between the Fort Wilderness Camp Grounds and the Port Orleans Resort, the sounds of the Magic Kingdom train whistles and monorail horns can be heard as the wind blows over the property. Because of this, you’re not far from pretty much everything you need on your trip. For obvious reasons, the best place to stay would be at the Four Seasons Resort. Guests of the resort get a special entrance to the course and tournament, placing them literally steps from the first tee. The other resorts closest to the course would be Port Orleans Riverside, Fort Wilderness Campgrounds, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. For food, anywhere on Disney’s Property is a go-to. Kona Café at the Disney Polynesian Resort is a popular stop for sushi and a south seas flavor for dinner, while California Grill at the top of Contemporary Resort is also a popular go-to for a more upscale experience. In addition, popular tourist stops include EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom theme parks. In addition, Disney Springs, accessible via bus and by car, is home to countless restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities for the whole family. Fans 3 While you may not have that Sunday crowd feeling at the 18th hole, the fans here are no less passionate than those at the LPGA Tournament of Champions. The addition of various celebrities and athletes also helps bring out bigger crowds. There still could be a lot more people on various days at the course, but part of the appeal is the ability to see top-level golf without the massive crowds of people. The big downside here for fans hoping to grab autographs from celebrities is the large number of autograph hounds and resellers that attend the event in hopes of getting that prized signature. Access 4 Getting to the tournament is pretty easy and very stress free. Parking is free for the tournament, but is not located on the property of the golf course, so make sure you have everything you need before you leave your car, because a trip back to the car for anything is not as easy as at a normal sporting event. Most fans park at the Magic Kingdom parking lot; once there you will also find will call and the box office. Fans can also go through bag checks and security checkpoints in the parking lot as well, making it easy to get into the tournament as soon as you arrive, without waiting in line yet again. Once through security, fans are put onto a Disney bus and driven to the course, which is no more than a 5 to 10-minute trip. Once at the course you are dropped off right at the entrance to the clubhouse next to the driving range; pickup for the parking lot is also in the same place. Return on Investment 5 Tickets for the weekend are $15 for a single day or $30 for the full four-day weekend. Combined with free parking, this easily vaults to the top of the list for best bang for your buck in professional sports in Florida. When also considering the time of year, location, and ease of access, it is hard not to want to attend the same tournament year after year. It also is extremely family friendly, with most golfers and athletes/celebrities willing to stop for photos and autographs after the tournament, especially for kids. Extras 4 The event has several vendors and displays throughout the course that give fans a chance to see some new golf technology – these displays almost always feature free giveaways. Also, tournament merchandise, once only available in modest amounts at the pro shop in the clubhouse, now features a massive air-conditioned tent. Inside, fans can find a variety of merchandise, including t-shirts as well as hats, sports memorabilia for autographs, and branded merchandise from some of the celebrities appearing in the event. In addition, the autograph zone near the media center and scorer’s check-in area allows fans to get up close and personal with the visiting athletes, celebrities, and LPGA pros after the tournament is over. Final Thoughts This is easily the best hidden gem of sports in Florida. A perfect mix of location, event access for fans, affordability for tickets and concessions, and perfect weather for the time of year, this is the event fans of the LPGA say is one of the most enjoyable on the calendar.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Protective Stadium 1101 22nd St N Birmingham, AL 35203 Birmingham Bowl website Protective Stadium website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 45,000 TicketSmarter Birmingham Bowl - Protective Stadium There is often talk that the college football bowl season has too many games, everyone goes to a bowl game, or that these games don’t matter. But while the games themselves are glorified exhibitions they are far from meaningless – the TicketSmarter Birmingham Bowl does a wonderful job making the game a memorable experience for both the players and the fans who turn out to support them. Food & Beverage 4 Several factors contribute to great food experiences at stadiums; two of the top factors are a variety of choices and a local touch to those options. While the price and quality of the food are definitely contributing factors, the first two are good starting points. Protective Stadium delivers on the food front and is enhanced by the pre-game options around the stadium. The handful of restaurants that make up the Uptown Birmingham development (more on this in a moment), provide food for a multitude of taste buds. Within the stadium, concessions stands are abundant around the concourse and offer many options. The area's history in the iron industry is recognized with Sloss Smokehouse offering BBQ choices, all for under $11. Crossroads Chicken Co. features a spicy chicken sandwich or an “Alabama White Corn Dog”, which is a typical corn dog but with white Alabama BBQ sauce. The Anvil Grill serves up more typical stadium fare with burgers, hot dogs, and chicken tenders as their highlighted choices, and non-meat eaters will be pleased to know Beyond Burgers are available. Alcohol sales are available throughout the stadium – domestic beers start at $8 with premiums going for $11, which include many local craft brews. Also, wine by the glass for $9 and mixed drinks starting at $13 are offered at Lady Electra's. Protective Stadium is a cashless facility; visitors will either need to pay by credit/debit card or buy a cash-to-card gift card to load funds on at one of the various locations around the stadium. Atmosphere 4 Protective Stadium is a modern facility which provides magnificent views of downtown Birmingham. It is the crown of the Uptown Birmingham “eat-play-stay" development. The bowl organizers have done an excellent job in using the Uptown Development to create a fun atmosphere for fans prior to the game. From 4 hours prior to the start of the game, fans are treated to concerts leading up to game time, and also have several tents, games, and activities set up in that area leading up to kickoff. The bowl has a tie-in with the Southeastern Conference, but is hurt significantly if the SEC does not qualify enough teams for bowl participation – the 2021 game that included nearby Auburn University saw 41,000+ fans attend, while the 2022 contest between East Carolina and Coastal Carolina only drew close to 16,000 fans. However, while the lack of a Power 5 conference team does significantly hurt the overall attendance numbers, it doesn’t hurt the excitement of the game; there are enough storylines with the smaller conferences to drive the passion of the fans in the game. Neighborhood 4 Located in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Birmingham, Uptown and Protective Stadium are a few blocks from downtown. The downtown area is home to the Birmingham Institute of Civil Rights and Kelly Ingram Park, which features statues of many civil rights leaders and iconic scenes from Birmingham’s civil rights movement. Uptown Birmingham consists of 6 to 8 restaurants, two major hotels, a dog park, and pickleball courts. As alluded to previously, the restaurants provide fans with several different choices of food with Texas de Brazil, Uptown Cantina, Eugene's Hot Chicken, or Mug Shots Grille and Bar, just to name a few. From meats to Mexican, hot chicken to pub-grub, there is something for everyone. The area around Uptown and Protective Stadium offers many entertainment options, from Topgolf which is a driver and a wedge away, to the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. However, no trip to Birmingham would be complete for stadium enthusiasts without visiting historic Rickwood Field – built in 1910 as the home of the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro League, the stadium is still in use today and offers weekday tours. Birmingham is also home to a handful of professional teams who are in the middle of their seasons during the TicketSmarter Birmingham Bowl. Legacy Arena, just a half-mile from Protective Stadium is home to the Birmingham Squadron of the G-League. Also the Birmingham Bulls , members of the Southern Professional Hockey League play just south of the city in Pelham. If coming from out of town for the bowl experience, Uptown Birmingham includes two hotels, Westin and Sheraton Birmingham. As would be expected, staying in the heart of it all comes at a premium price. If looking to save a bit on a hotel room, however, there are many 3-to-4-star hotels in the neighboring communities that come at a much more economical rate. Fans 3 When it comes to bowl games it can be difficult to drive interest from casual fans outside of the fanbases with a rooting interest in the game. As previously mentioned, the bowl’s tie-in with the SEC does a lot to drive ticket sales, but if the SEC does not have enough bowl eligible teams, it can really hurt the turnout for this bowl. The discrepancy lies in the fact that the smaller schools just do not have as large of a fan base to pull from – when drawing teams from more than 500 miles away, the ability to fill the stadium can be difficult. If anything can be said about the fans who are at the game, though, regardless of the stadium being at capacity or only one-third full, it is difficult not to get caught up in the excitement of the fans in the stands. Access 4 Given Protective Stadium’s location in Birmingham, getting there is rather easy. Those driving to town will see Protective Stadium directly off the Interstate 20-59 ramp, and fans flying in will find themselves less than 5 miles away. Many of the hotels in the area provide a shuttle from the airport, so a rental vehicle is not a necessity for a 2-3-day stay. Parking can be found all around the stadium, but the northern lots have better tailgating options. There are a also handful of parking garages on the southern side of the stadium, but getting out of parking garages following the game can be challenging. No matter the parking lot, prices range from $20 to $25. Lastly, there is a shuttle that runs from the Uptown district to one of the suburbs of Birmingham that is heavily populated by quality 3 and 4-star hotels. Return on Investment 4 Overall prices for tickets, food, and merchandise appear to be on par with what you would expect to see at most major college football games. The merchandise is a bit pricier than you would pay on campus or at retail stores, but given the one-of-a-kind nature of these bowl game keepsakes, the inflated price does not come as a shock. Ticket prices for the TicketSmarter Birmingham Bowl come at a price that is comparable to most college football games – tickets start at $34 for upper-level seating and end zone seats. Club seats start at $200 with access to the bar and food buffet. With an average ticket price of approximately $80, tickets for any of these types of seating are available at reasonable rates. Extras 3 The bowl organizers go out of their way to provide visitors with the ability to experience the city of Birmingham, outside of just the area around the bowl site. The free shuttles from the Uptown district to some partnered hotels and various locations of interest around the city makes navigating Birmingham convenient for visitors from out-of-town. Protective Stadium also considers sensory sensitive fans – Kulturecity is designed for those with sensory processing needs to be able to utilize if needed. In addition, sensory kits with headphones, fidgets, and other sensory input items are also available to check out, free of charge. Final Thoughts While some bowl games typically have a difficult time appealing to the casual football fan, the TicketSmarter Birmingham Bowl organizers do a wonderful job of creating a memorable experience for bowl-goers – from the pep-rallies and fireworks the night before the game to the ease of being able to find entertainment around the stadium, to the pre-game concert stage and tailgating leading up to the game itself, all is done with fans in mind. If you’re an alum or fan of one of the schools taking part, or just a fan of college football, a trip to Birmingham is bound to be enjoyable.

Photos by Gregory Koch Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Penn State Field Hockey Complex 250 University Dr University Park, PA 16802 Penn State Nittany Lions field hockey website Penn State Field Hockey Complex website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 750 We Are Penn State Field Hockey Penn State is one of the elite field hockey programs in the country, having qualified for the NCAA Tournament 30 times, with seven appearances in the Final Four and two in the title game. Despite this, the Nittany Lions have yet to win the NCAA Tournament, though they did win two national championships in the pre-NCAA era. The Nittany Lions’ home stadium is appropriately known as the Penn State Field Hockey Complex. This 750-seat stadium is the fifth different home of the field hockey team, having opened in 2005. The stadium is located near several other sporting venues on campus, including the baseball , softball, ice hockey , and soccer stadiums as well as the Bryce Jordan Center and Beaver Stadium . Food & Beverage 2 There is one concession stand operating out of a truck at the Penn State Field Hockey Complex which offers only the very basics. The only things that can be a meal are hot dogs and nachos for $5 each. Candy is $4 and chips are $1. Bottled water is $4, while soda and Gatorade are $5. Credit cards are accepted. Atmosphere 5 Unlike the vast majority of field hockey programs in the country, Penn State really puts in the effort to create a great atmosphere here and it shows. The team will play music after big plays to pump up the crowd, and the public address announcer is enthusiastic and helps the fans get into it as well. There is also a very small but active student section who will do chants throughout the game to improve the atmosphere, a feature ubiquitous at basketball and football games but quite uncommon for college field hockey. There is a scoreboard at one end of the field that shows the basic information as well as shots, saves, and penalty corners for each team. It is also capable of showing video, and plays a hype video before each game to get the fans ready. Neighborhood 3 Penn State is located in State College, which as the name would imply is a classic college town. If looking for a place to eat or hang out, your best bet is to head downtown to College Avenue where one will find a number of restaurants and bars. However, fans with a sweet tooth may want to check out the Berkey Creamery on the Penn State Campus, a short walk from the stadium. Fans 5 Penn State consistently ranks towards the top of the nation in attendance, routinely drawing 300-500 fans a game in a stadium that seats only 750. This gives the impression of the stadium being quite full and it can get loud and rowdy in here. As mentioned above, the students bring some energy but so do the rest of the fans. Some of them are friends or family of the players, but others are just fans of Penn State athletics showing up for a game. The fans and the atmosphere here go hand in hand, with each of them helping to make the other better. Access 2 If driving to the game, your best bet is to park in the Stadium West lot in between Beaver Stadium and the soccer field. Parking is $5.50 if reserved in advance through the Parkmobile app or $10 the day of the game. Note however that if you plan on attending another Penn State game in the vicinity the same day, such as soccer at Jeffrey Field or ice hockey at Pegula Ice Arena , if you are buying an event-specific parking pass in advance you will need to pay separately per event, but if you pay the $10 the day of, you will be good for the entire day and will come out ahead in the end. We recommend parking as close to University Drive as possible for the shortest walk – this is the opposite end from the football stadium. From the lot, head down Curtin Road to the stadium. Note that some lots are closer than Stadium West, but if you do not have the appropriate permit you will be ticketed and/or towed. While students, faculty, and others with the appropriate permits may be able to park in these lots, everyone else will have to use Stadium West. Once you are in the stadium, getting around is easy enough because of the small size. There are no permanent restrooms, but there are a few port-a-potties scattered throughout. Return on Investment 4 As with most college field hockey across the country, admission to Penn State games is free. Concessions are affordable as well, if limited, and this is one of the nicest college field hockey venues in the country. However, the high cost of parking takes this score down a notch. Extras 3 On your way over to the stadium from the parking lot, look for the large “We Are” sculpture in reference to the Penn State athletics chant “We are … Penn State,” which is often shortened to just “We Are” and used as a slogan for the University The Penn State Field Hockey Complex is one of several Penn State athletic venues in the vicinity. On the right fall day, fans can easily check out a soccer, field hockey, and ice hockey match all in the same day . A third and final star for all the effort the team and fans put in to improving the experience here, which is something not seen in most college field hockey programs. Final Thoughts College field hockey is simply not that big in most of the country, and most schools do not put in any real effort to promote their team. Penn State is a notable exception. The atmosphere here is top-notch for college field hockey, and the facility itself is one of the nicest in the country. Throw in the opportunity to see several venues in close proximity and a trip to Penn State field hockey is well worth it

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 JMA Wireless Dome 900 Irving Ave Syracuse, NY 13210 Syracuse Orange website JMA Wireless Dome website Year Opened: 1980 Capacity: 49,057 The High Wireless Dome One of Syracuse, NY’s most recognized names changed after the 2021 college football season, as the Carrier Dome became the JMA Wireless Dome. The change in naming rights was part of a multiyear $118 million renovation of the building, which opened in 1980. The stadium remains the country’s largest domed stadium on a college campus, the largest domed stadium in the Northeastern United States, and the largest on-campus basketball arena with a capacity of 35,652 for roundball. The capacity of the JMA Wireless Dome for football is 49,207. The renovations on the Dome literally start from the top down. The building’s original air-supported roof was replaced with a fixed roof supported by cables and a translucent material that will allow more light into the venue. The roof has a 40-year life span and will not require snow removal, as the original roof required. Air-supported roofs can collapse under the weight of heavy snow, as happened at Minnesota’s Metrodome Stadium. This is a much-needed change, as Syracuse can experience some intense winter storms. Just below the roof is the Dome’s first center-hung football scoreboard/videoboard. The scoreboard measures 62 X 20 on each of its four sides. The scoreboard is a part of the Dome’s total updating of its electronics package, which includes two new videoboards at the end of the field, ribbon boards on the facing of the stadium’s upper decks, air conditioning, and the installation of Wi-Fi capability in the building. Sound and lighting systems received a much-needed updating as well. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions area also received a great deal of attention during the renovation project. The individual stands were reconfigured to allow better flow along the concourse and more efficient and compact equipment was installed for better operations within the booths. Like most stadiums, the building converted to cashless purchases and the capability of receiving orders remotely via an app. There are several brands of concessions available at the Dome. Each brand has multiple locations within the stadium. All stands offer Pepsi brand beverages ($5/20 oz) and water ($4.50). Dome Dogs offers hot dogs ($7), sausages ($5), soft pretzels ($6), nachos ($9.50), popcorn ($5) and candy ($4.25), and fries ($5). The ‘Cuse Chicken Express serves chicken tenders with fries ($13) and chicken sandwiches ($9). The Tomato Wheel is your best choice for pizza, including cheese ($6), and pepperoni ($6) options. Alcoholic drinks are sold at separate stands from the general concessions. Their offerings include 16-ounce domestic beers (Bud Light, Coors Light, and Labatt Blue Light) for $10. 16-ounce Premium beers (Sam Adams, Michelob Light) are $12, and craft beers (Fiddlehead IPA, Meir’s Creek, Heritage Hill), are $14 for a 16-ounce can. Hard seltzers are $12, and wines are $9. Rounding out your dining options are Perry’s Ice Cream and Salt City Popcorn. Salt City is a nickname for the city of Syracuse. The Orange Team Store carries the widest selection of Syracuse Orange merchandise. It is located on the main concourse at aisle 107. Atmosphere 5 Football Saturdays at Syracuse have a great deal of tradition and spectacle attached to them. These begin before you even enter the JMA Wireless Dome. The Syracuse campus is known for its spectacular fall foliage. Be sure to allow plenty of time to take in the colors before entering the building. Another pregame activity is the entertainment on the quad outside the building. The Syracuse Pride of the Orange Marching Band performs, the cheerleaders lead the cheers and there are appearances by Orange players of the past. There is also a Family Fun Zone, which opens three hours prior to kickoff. It includes music, games, face painting, and a team store. The renovation project has greatly improved the atmosphere at Syracuse home games. The videoboard and the improved sound system make it much easier to stay connected with the important plays during the game. The translucent roof has brightened the interior of the building so that fans can see much better during the day games. The seating options have also come more diverse, as the seating bowl now includes 48,000 aluminum bleacher seats, 850 theatre seats, and 40 luxury suites. The building has retained its nickname of the “Loud House,” a result of the domed roof that tends to amplify the noise level in the building. Syracuse fans use this to the home team’s advantage, as they can make it very difficult for the opposition to call plays. The student section of the stadium is known as both the “O-Zone” and “Otto’s Army” and is widely known for its decibel level. After the Orange win a home game the band and Syracuse fans head over to Varsity Pizza, a longtime shop located just off campus for a victory celebration. Varsity Pizza has a tradition of hanging the opposing team’s pennant up prior to each game. If the Orange win the game, the pennant is then hung upside down as a sign of defeat for the visitors. Neighborhood 4 The JMA Wireless Dome and the Syracuse University campus are in the University Hill neighborhood, which lies just east of Downtown Syracuse. Most of the main attractions in the area are in the downtown area. Two spots you will want to check out are the Erie Canal Museum and the Everson Art Museum. The Armory District offers great shopping, nice restaurants, and a pleasant neighborhood to check out. After you have worked up an appetite, head over to Dinosaur BBQ. Although most people do not think of BBQ in upstate New York, Dinosaur BBQ is the exception to the rule. It has been featured on the Man versus Food television show several times. Fans 5 In the past, it has been difficult to award a high score to the Orange’s football fans. First, the Orange are members of the ACC, which is primarily in the southeastern United States. This means that most of the teams that make up the Syracuse schedule are based several hundred, if not a thousand miles from the Syracuse campus, which is not near the Atlantic Coast. This makes it difficult for fans to travel to away games. Second, Syracuse has been seen as a basketball school for many years due to its regular appearances in March Madness. There are a couple of fan traditions involving Syracuse football. The first involves ‘key” plays. The fans take out their keys and shake them loudly when the visiting team is facing a 3rd and long situation, or time is running out and they are behind. This makes it very hard for the opposition to communicate and can disrupt their playcalling. It can also result in motion penalties due to linemen being unable to hear the snap count. The second tradition takes place before the games begin and the fans are out on the Syracuse campus. It is considered good luck to make a pilgrimage to the statue of Orange football icon Ernie Davis and touch the statue. Over the last few seasons, the Syracuse football program has made great strides, including becoming bowl eligible, with the fans playing a major role. The Loud House gets its high decibel readings through the combined efforts of its fans from the alumni and the student body, as well as the townspeople of Syracuse. Our ears are still ringing! As a result, we have raised our score for this section of the review over past years. Access 3 The JMA Wireless Dome is easily accessible via Interstate 81 and the NY State Thruway. The parking lots are some distance away from the JMA Wireless Dome, especially with the possibility of icy weather at some of the late-season games. Shuttle buses will bring fans from the parking lots to the Dome and return them after the game. The JMA Wireless Dome has seven main entrances, and buses will drop fans at the gate designated on their ticket. This prevents concentrating too many people at one entrance and improves the circulation on the concourses. Once inside the Dome, there are some major points of congestion involving the restrooms and the concessions areas. Most fans enter the JMA Wireless Dome at the 200-level of the stadium. This is the main concourse level, and it includes the restrooms and concession areas. The 200-level concourse also serves as the 300-level source for restrooms and concessions. The 300-level seats are connected to the 200-level concourse by sets of stairs every few aisles of the stadium. Even though the 300-level has the most seats of any level in the stadium, it does not have any service areas of its own. This results in very long lines and a great deal of time lost from viewing the games for fans from both the 200 and 300 levels during breaks in the action. There are very few TV monitors open to the field viewing areas along the 200 -concourse. The 100 level of the Dome has its own set of restrooms and concession stands, so it does not share in this flaw. Return on Investment 3 There are several price points for tickets to an Orange game. The overall range runs between $20- $60 a ticket. There are three levels of seating and the 300-level seats range from $20-$40, with the higher-priced seats along the side of the field and near the 50-yard line. 200-level seats run $20–$30 and the 100-level seats are priced between $40 and $60. Honestly, the seating bowl is angled so that there really is not a bad seat in the house. Even the upper-level seats provide a great view of the field. You also have a huge new videoboard to catch the best plays close up. Parking in one of the remote lots costs $20 and parking passes must be purchased in advance. Extras 5 $6 million of the Dome’s renovation cost made the building much more ADA friendly. The building first opened prior to the passage of the ADA so was lacking in many areas of compliance. Items receiving attention include the installation of more elevators, more wheelchair-friendly seating options, upgrading restrooms to allow for better accessibility, installation of wider entry points into the stadium, and closed caption capabilities on the videoboards. In addition to football games, the JMA Wireless Dome hosts both the basketball and lacrosse programs of Syracuse University, concerts featuring some of music’s top performers, commencement ceremonies for the University, and even ice-based events including hockey and skating competitions. The Dome has hosted either the semifinals or the finals of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament seven times. Syracuse University salutes its most famous athlete, Ernie Davis, in many ways on campus. Davis was a star running back at the school, winning the Heisman Trophy. He was the first African American to reach this achievement, and he was the first African American to be the #1 pick in the NFL Draft. Tragically, he died of leukemia before ever playing a game in the NFL. The turf field at the Dome is officially known as the Ernie Davis Legends Field. There is also a statue of Davis on the Syracuse campus, as he was an excellent student. There are additional statues of fellow Syracuse football icons Jim Brown and Floyd Little at the football athletic office building. The Orange have had some very successful seasons since the football program began in 1899. They won a National Championship in 1959, with the powerful Jim Brown playing running back. Other football stars for the Orange that went on to NFL stardom include Ernie Davis, Tim Green, Art Monk, Floyd Little, Larry Csonka, John Mackey, and Donovan McNabb. Final Thoughts There is still no place like ‘Dome at Syracuse University… even if the title sponsorship has changed. The gameday experience has been greatly enhanced by the many updates that have taken place over the last 2-3 seasons. The new scoreboard, an improved sound system. increased accessibility under the ADA and a new roof that allows more light to filter into the playing field all add up to a facility that is well prepared for its next 50 years of use.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Shell Energy Stadium 2200 Texas Ave Houston, TX 77003 Houston Dynamo website Shell Energy Stadium Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 20,039 Houston Dynamo FC – Shell Energy Stadium In 2006, the owners of the original Major League Soccer (MLS)  San Jose Earthquakes were granted the right to relocate, and they chose the fourth-largest city in the country as their new home. The cosmopolitan Houston, Texas proved to be a perfect fit for the rechristened Houston Dynamo FC . The team experienced immediate success upon their arrival in Space City, winning the MLS Cup in 2006 and 2007. The team was also runners-up in the MLS Cup in 2011 and 2012 and additionally won the U.S. Open Cup in 2018 and 2023. Since 2012 the club has called the now named Shell Energy Stadium its home. The stadium has been the site for numerous international soccer and rugby matches, and high school football showdowns, and is the home stadium for the Texas Southern University Tigers  football team, as well as the Houston Dash  of the NWSL. Situated at the heart of Houston’s vibrant downtown, Shell Energy Stadium was designed by the same firm that was responsible for the famed Emirates Stadium  in London, home of Arsenal FC. The facility was recently renovated in 2023 to replace most of the seats and upgrade the LED boards and has proven to be a hit with fans. Read on to learn more.   Food & Beverage   4 The food and drink scene at Shell Energy Stadium is pretty stellar. At every stand – which is all located on the main concourse – you can purchase your traditional game day fare such as water, sodas, popcorn, peanuts, candy, etc. There are also quite a few area restaurants that have stands in the stadium selling their goods, all representing the diverse cultures of H-Town. Fans can sample Vietnamese bahn mi sandwiches from Roostar , or tacos and Mexican street corn from Hugo’s Restaurant , Taquerias Arandas , and Elotes Bravos . You can also get pizza from Vinny’s , Thai noodles from Street to Kitchen , and burgers from legendary Trill Burgers . If you’re looking for an adult beverage to enjoy the match with, Shiner Bock Bar, Legends Bar, and Corona Premier Bar are options for you – you’ll eat and drink well at Shell Energy Stadium.   Atmosphere   3 The atmosphere and game day experience were enhanced thanks to the recent remodel. The seats on the West side of the stadium spell out “HOUSTON” in glorious fashion, and there are also quite a few photo op spaces around the stadium for fans. There is also a main team store (open even on days when there is no game) located near the main entrance. Inside you can purchase all manner of team merchandise and souvenirs, take photos with all the Dynamo’s championship trophies, and visit a studio where you can don the team’s kit and have a photo taken by professionals. The facility also has two exclusive clubs, the East Club and the West Club, for specific ticketholders. The clubs have exclusive menus, drinks, and viewing areas.   Neighborhood   5 Houston is an exciting city – there is really no denying it. It’s sprawling and the traffic is awful, it’s miserably hot and humid nine months out of the year, but it is exciting. There is an energy to H-Town that is palpable; it is hard to miss this feeling when you’re downtown and there’s a game going on. Not only do the Dynamo call the area home, but so do the Astros and the Rockets . If you consider that the Texans are also in town and not too far from downtown, you can imagine the excitement and energy the area has to offer. If you’re able to stay downtown when attending a game at Shell Energy Stadium, which I highly recommend if at all possible, you will find an abundance of entertainment, dining, and lodging options to choose from. The only limitation is your budget. A few options near the stadium include Texas Tailgate (which is literally across the street from the venue) and Pitch 25 . Both eateries are of the sports bar variety, but offer a great atmosphere before and after games; as said both are within walking distance from Shell Energy Stadium. If you’re looking for things to do, I always like to recommend a few of my favorite attractions in H-Town, the Houston Zoo and the Downtown Aquarium . Both are world-class facilities, and both offer hours of opportunities to explore. These would be great options if you’re attending the game with younger fans. Again, though, you have countless options in the Houston area for things to do – whatever you’re into, you’ll find options for it. Lastly, for lodging, this again depends on your budget. There are hotels within walking distance of the Shell Energy Stadium; both Marriott Marquis Houston  and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Houston Downtown Convention Center are less than half a mile away.   Fans   3 Houston Dynamo FC currently averages just over 17,000 fans per game at Shell Energy Stadium. While this places them almost at the bottom of attendance averages in MLS, this also means the stadium is near capacity on a nightly basis. I admittedly attended my most recent game here right after Hurricane Beryl hit Houston; the stadium was fine, but residual weather delayed the game for almost two hours, so the crowd was not as full as it normally would have been. The fans that did attend were by and large sporting Dynamo orange and purple gear. The team currently has four supporter groups, El Batallón, Texian Army, Bandera Negra, and The Surge – these groups chant, set off smoke for goals, and bang drums for the entirety of each Dynamo match. Their passion for the team adds to the energy and atmosphere on game days.   Access   4 As mentioned earlier, Shell Energy Stadium is located in Houston’s downtown, which makes it eminently locatable and surprisingly easy to get to. The facility is only about a 20 to 30-minute drive from both William P. Hobby Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The traffic in Houston, though, as I always mention, will get you. If you’re driving you will be sitting in it for a while, and there is nothing you can to do avoid it unless you take public transportation, which Houston has figured out. The Houston METRO will drop you off right in front of the main entrance to Shell Energy Stadium – you can’t beat it. If you do choose to drive, parking is plentiful near the stadium. Two lots across from Shell Energy Stadium are officially affiliated with the team, but virtually every business in the area will have options to choose from; the cost depends on how close you want to be and/or how much or how little you want to walk.   Return on Investment   3 Single-game tickets for Houston Dynamo FC games at Shell Energy Stadium start at $22 per person; this varies depending on the match and opponent. Parking in the lots in front of the stadium starts at $30 per car, and the concessions are a little on the higher side, but the facility does offer fare that is not your traditional ballpark food, so it’s worth the extra money. The Houston Dynamo rank in the top half of MLS in terms of cost to attend a game , but are still comparably affordable compared to their NFL , NBA , and MLB Space Town counterparts.   Extras   2 There is not much in the way of Extras for fans attending games at Shell Energy Stadium. Honestly, this venue seems pretty comparable to what I’ve experienced at other MLS games – the energy of the crowd and the action on the pitch seems to be the main selling points. What keeps this from being lower is that the Dynamo and the Dash share a mascot, Diesel . The human-sized red fox is pretty active and is amenable to photos with fans, especially younger ones. I don’t know of many MLS teams that boast a mascot, but it’s always refreshing when a team has one.   Final Thoughts To be quite frank, soccer isn’t my sport. However, I always try my best to remain objective in these reviews. I think Shell Energy Stadium has a lot to offer and still seems quite fresh, despite it being over a decade old. Plus Houston is a great city to visit – having so much to see and do in and around the facility adds quite a bit to the experience. That said, if you’re a fan of soccer I’d recommend visiting the Dynamo. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 UW Milwaukee Panther Arena 400 W Kilbourn Ave Milwaukee, WI 53203 Milwaukee Panthers website UW Milwaukee Panther Arena website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 10,783 Old Milwaukee Gets Better With Age The UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena is the oldest sports arena still in use in the Milwaukee area. Built in 1950, it has gone through several name changes over the years, including the Milwaukee Arena, the MECCA, the Wisconsin Center Arena, and US Cellular Arena. Past tenants have included the Milwaukee Hawks, the Milwaukee Bucks, and Marquette University basketball. Today it serves the UW – Milwaukee Panthers basketball program, the Milwaukee Admirals AHL hockey team, the Milwaukee Wave of the MASL, and the Brew City Bruisers women’s roller derby team. There have been numerous renovations done to the arena throughout its nearly 70-year existence. More than $6 million in upgrades have brought the arena up to modern standards. These repairs were paid for by the Milwaukee Admirals and the Wisconsin Center District, the owner of the building. Among the upgrades are the replacement of all 10,783 seats in the arena, the renovation of all bathroom and locker room facilities, the installation of LED lighting, and the expansion of concession areas. A new shared team store was added to service the spirit gear needs of the fans of the Panthers, Admirals, Wave, and Bruisers. Food & Beverage 3 The Panther Arena has 13 concession stands spread equally throughout the building. They include Palermo’s Pizza, Southwestern Grille, Loaded Dogs, the Milwaukee Sausage Company, Victory Grill, and Cedar Crest Ice Cream. Prices at the stands are standard for stadium fare. A review of the prices for the most popular items includes sausages ($7), beef hot dogs ($4.75), nachos ($5.50), pizza ($6.50), popcorn ($5), and candy ($4). The arena carries RC Cola brand beverages including sodas ($4.50), bottled water ($4), tea ($4), domestic beers ($7), and imported beers ($8) Atmosphere 4 Even though the Panther Arena has been heavily renovated, the first thing you will notice is the aura of history present in the building. Except for the signage out front, the building’s exterior looks just as it did in 1950. Inside, numerous displays and plaques are recalling the Milwaukee Bucks NBA Championship in 1971, the NCAA Championship season of 1977 achieved by Al McGuire and the Marquette basketball team, and the many concerts that took place in this facility. In addition, the entry lobby has brought back the original terrazzo floors and ticket booths of the 1950s. Once you reach the seating bowl, there is no doubt you are in the modern-day home of the UW Panthers. The seats are in the black/gold color scheme of the school’s athletic teams. A massive Panther video board hangs over the mid-court area and a very contemporary Panther logo appears on the court. Neighborhood 5 Milwaukee has a very vibrant downtown area with many great restaurants, bars, and attractions within walking distance of the Panther Arena. The arena is located adjacent to both the UW – Milwaukee and Marquette University campuses, guaranteeing the nightlife will just be getting started as the game ends. On the restaurant front, Milwaukee is a melting pot of great ethnic restaurants, many of which are located along the riverfront on both Water Street and in the Old World Third Street section. Two restaurants to check out are the Milwaukee Brat House and Mikey’s Burgers and Bombs. When you think of Milwaukee two things come to mind… beer and Harleys. A great way to spend your pregame time on weekends is to check out the nearby Harley Davidson Museum and go on the Miller Brewery Tour. Both attractions are located just west of the Panther Arena. You can save a great deal on parking by staying in one of the many hotels within walking distance of the arena. The closest is the Hyatt Regency around the corner from the Panther Arena, but for a more uniquely Milwaukee experience stay at the Brewhouse Inn and Suites. It is a former brewery converted into a great boutique hotel. The lobby even still has the distilling tanks as a furnishing in the lobby. When scheduling a trip to Milwaukee, check out the sports calendar to see if you can score either a double or triple hitter of games in a weekend. In addition to the Panthers and the Admirals, you may also have Marquette University or the Milwaukee Bucks playing at the new Sports and Entertainment Center across the street. Fans 4 Panther fans are very basketball-centric as the school does not have a football program. Alumni remember the glory days of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar leading the Bucks to their only NBA Championship and Al McGuire leading Marquette to the NCAA Championship over UNC. Younger fans are aware of the more recent successes of the University of Wisconsin / Madison reaching the NCAA finals and UW – Milwaukee reaching the Sweet Sixteen. The Panther basketball program has had great success over the years. They are often found at the top of the Horizon League rankings and have won four league championships, along with four trips to the NCAA tournament. The fans at UW – Milwaukee Panther Arena are led in their cheers by Pounce, the Panthers mascot. Assisting Pounce are the Panthers Cheer and Stunt Team and the Panther Pep Band. The student section is known as the Panther Pit and they stand throughout the game while disrupting the competition as much as possible through some very witty, but clean cheers. Access 3 The Panther Arena has more than 10,000 parking spaces available within a six-block radius around the facility. It is very easy to access from I-43 via exit 72-C, then stay straight on Kilbourn Avenue. Please be aware that there may be some street closures in the immediate area of the arena in conjunction with the construction of the Bucks new arena. Better yet, stay at one of the many hotels located within a few blocks of the arena and walk to the game. Once inside the Panther Arena, there is some evidence of the facility’s age as far as access. The concourse areas tend to be narrow and can get very congested when the concession stands are busy. There are also some ramps leading to the various seating levels that are unique to a separate era. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices for Panther games range from $12 for a loge level seat up to $55 for a seat at court level. In most cases you should be able to obtain these tickets at standard pricing, avoiding the pricier secondary markets. Parking runs between $10 – $20 depending on which lot you use. Concessions are very reasonably priced. Extras 4 The Wisconsin Athletic Walk of Fame is located just outside of the UW Panthers Arena. In 1977 the facility hosted the NBA All-Star Game. Elite players who appeared in that game included Julius Erving, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Pete Maravich, and John Havlicek. Among the entertainers who have appeared at the arena over the years are Prince, Frank Sinatra, Elvis, the Doors, the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, and Bob Dylan. Ironically, the facility built to replace the UW – Milwaukee Panthers Arena in 1988 will face the wrecking ball first. The BMO Bradley Center is being torn down and replaced by the Wisconsin Sports and Entertainment Center. Final Thoughts In an era of disposable stadiums and frequent tear-downs, the UW – Milwaukee Panthers Arena is a great example of successful historical preservation. It is not only surviving but thriving, as it is in use nearly every day of the week by a different sports franchise.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Spuhler Field 10723 School Street Fairfax, VA 22030 George Mason Patriots website Spuhler Field website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 900 Patriot Games at Mason The George Mason Patriots baseball team has been in existence since 1968, but for the first two decades of their existence, they were forced to play their home games on temporary or high school fields. Finally, in 1986, they got their own field on campus when Spuhler Field opened. The stadium seats only 900 and is part of a sports complex on the George Mason campus which also includes the Field House and various other stadiums. It is named after Raymond H. “Hap” Spuhler, the school’s first baseball coach. Food & Beverage 2 There is a food truck at select Mason home games selling a basic selection of food. Hot dogs are available, as are assorted chips, candy, other snacks, soft drinks, and beverages. Prices are reasonably affordable with nothing being more than about $5 but the selection is not very good. Fans are also permitted to bring their own food into the stadium, so we suggest doing that or eating before. Atmosphere 2 There are three sets of bleachers at Spuhler Field, all of which are behind netting. While it can be frustrating to watch the game through a net sometimes, this is a necessity as the seats are very close to the action and the ball can come off the aluminum bats very fast. All seats are bleacher seats with no backs, although fans in the top row can lean against the back fence. There is a small digital scoreboard in right-center field which shows the line score in addition to the count and other standard information. Once the game starts, the team doesn’t really make a lot of effort to keep fans engaged. There is a PA announcer and music played between innings and at-bats, but that’s about it. There isn’t even so much as a marketing table to keep fans informed of what’s going on with the team. Neighborhood 3 George Mason’s campus is located in suburban Fairfax County, just across the border from the City of Fairfax, which like all cities in Virginia is a politically separate entity from any county. This confusing situation aside, Fairfax is a typical suburb located about 25 miles outside of Washington, D.C. The University Mall shopping center is located across the street from campus and features the Oh George! Taphouse (whose name is derived from the university) as well as several chain places and a movie theatre. The Glory Days Grill on Nutley Street is a local favorite as well. While Fairfax doesn’t have the same excitement you’d get in the District, it’s still a nice suburb with plenty to do and eat before or after the game. Fans 2 Mason averages about 100 fans a game, and most of them into the game at all. There were a handful of cheers occasionally, but these were mostly from friends and family cheering on one particular player rather than the whole team. Some fans didn’t seem to be paying attention to the game at all, but they were thankfully a small minority. Still, even a few fans completely ignoring the game can be noticeable when the crowd is as small as it is here. Access 3 George Mason’s campus is about six miles off the Capital Beltway (I-495) or three miles off I-66. Once you’re on campus, ample free parking is available in the lot between the Field House and the stadium, with more parking available on the other side of the Field House in the unlikely event it is actually needed. Parking in the lot is $7.50, payable at a kiosk or via the Parkmobile app on your cell phone. The lot usually does not fill up, but if there are other events at the Field House or George Mason Stadium, it may. You can also park on the side of University Drive for free - just make sure to pay attention to all signs. There is one port-a-potty right outside the entrance to the stadium, and fans looking for a real restroom can walk the short distance to the Field House, where they will find some inside. Unfortunately, the George Mason campus is not easily accessible by Metro. The closest station, Vienna/Fairfax-GMU on the Orange Line, is about five miles away. There is a shuttle bus from the station to the George Mason campus that takes about 15 minutes, but then it is another 15-20 minute walk across campus to the stadium. The Virginia Square-GMU station serves Mason's satellite campus in Arlington and is nowhere close to the main campus in Fairfax, despite the name, so under no circumstances should you use that. Return on Investment 2 Tickets for weekend games (typically Friday-Sunday) are $10 for adults with discounts available for children, seniors, and Mason faculty/staff. Weekday games are free and GMU students get in free to all home games. As mentioned above, parking is $7.50, which is absurd, particularly since it was free just a few years ago. Although a visit here certainly won't break the bank, it is far too much for the barebones experience you are getting. Extras 2 There are free programs available in a bucket attached to the center set of bleachers. Although they don’t provide much other than rosters and a very basic scorecard, it’s hard to complain when they don’t cost anything. The outfield fence has banners showing the Patriots’ postseason appearances as well as three retired numbers. Final Thoughts Although college baseball is huge in the southeast, including parts of Virginia, George Mason doesn’t seem to be located far enough south to take advantage of that. With sparse crowds and little done to encourage more people to attend, there is not much to make the casual fan want to come here. If you’re a fan of George Mason or their opponent, or are just baseball crazy and will check out any game anywhere any time, you’ll want to check out Spuhler Field. However, for a typical neutral fan, there is nothing here of note.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Ellen Ryan Field N Latchs Ln Merion Station, PA 19066 St. Joseph’s Hawks website Ellen Ryan Field's website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 200 The Hawckey Will Never Die Nestled among several other athletic fields on the Maguire Campus of St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia, you will find Ellen Ryan Field, home of the Hawks' field hockey team. Since 2011, St. Joe's has played in this 200-seat stadium in Merlon Station, Pennsylvania, just west of the Philadelphia city line that runs right through the campus. The Hawks are the most successful field hockey team in recent years, winning all but one Atlantic 10 Conference title since 2016 and earning the automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament each of those years. Food & Beverage 1 There is no concession stand at Ellen Ryan Field. However, when Stadium Journey visited, a local non-profit was selling apple cider for donations to their organization. There may be similar things at other games. Fans are also permitted to bring in their food and drink except alcohol, and many do. Atmosphere 3 Ellen Ryan Field has two small sets of bleachers, separated by a camera stand and media area. Most of the Hawks fans like to sit in the bleachers that are behind the home bench, while the visitors fans tend to sit on the side behind their team's bench. The stands are all very close to the action, although the camera tower can obstruct views in the corners. Seeing over the benches is no problem, however. Since the bleachers tend to fill up, many fans also stand along the chain-link fence surrounding the field or bring their chairs. If you do not arrive early enough, you will have no choice but to do this. Plan accordingly. St. Joseph's has a mascot known as The Hawk who will sometimes show up at games. The Hawk is famous for flapping his wings continuously throughout every game, never once stopping even for a moment. "The Hawk Will Never Die" is the motto of St. Joseph's athletics, and he certainly lives up to his billing. However, other than cheers from the crowd and the mascot's appearance, there is not much going on here besides the game. Even PA music can only occasionally be heard. This does mean you can hear much of what the players, coaches, and referees are shouting on the field, which some may appreciate. Neighborhood 4 Although St. Joseph's University is one of Philadelphia's Big 5 universities, Ellen Ryan Field is located on the Maguire campus in Merion Station, just over the city line from Philadelphia itself. St. Joseph's straddles the line between the two, with Ellen Ryan Field falling outside the city limits. Merion is considered part of Philadelphia's Main Line, a wealthy area on the west side of the city. Despite The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air giving West Philadelphia a bad rap (figuratively speaking - we have nothing against the theme song), this is one of the nicest parts of the area. You will find many restaurants and hotels along Route 1 (known as City Avenue as it passes by the stadium but several other names in different places) a short walk or drive from Ellen Ryan Field. You will find everything from pizza to Mexican to delis to classic Philadelphia cheesesteaks. It's a more suburban feel than downtown, but it's a nice enough place to hang out before or after a game. Fans 4 Although Ellen Ryan Field only seats 200 fans, the Hawks regularly exceed that capacity. The bleachers will be full and fans will line the chain-link fence around the field on all sides. Hawks flags fly from the top of the bleachers as fans urge their team to victory. While friends and family of the players make themselves known, they are not the only ones here by any means. St. Joseph's draws well for field hockey. Their on-field success and Hawk Will Never Die mantra have helped them build up a large fan base compared to most other teams in the sport, especially those outside the elite conferences. Access 3 The St. Joseph's campus is easily accessible from I-95 and I-76, and Route 1 runs right along the sideline of the field, so you should have no problems getting to campus. It's more of an issue of what to do when you get here. On weekends, parking is available on the Maguire Campus near McShain Hall for free, although it is not signed or advertised. On weekdays, you will need to pay to park in the Hawk's Landing Parking Garage on the nearby Hawk Hill campus and walk about half a mile. This will probably cost between $3 and $5 depending on how early you arrive and how long you stay after the game. Two single-person restrooms are located on the first floor of Connelly Hall behind the field, although this information isn't immediately clear either without asking. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for admission to regular season games at Ellen Ryan Field, though the policy may vary for Atlantic 10 or NCAA postseason events. Parking is free on weekends if you know where to go, and even on weekdays, you won't end up paying too much. This makes a St. Joseph's field hockey game a great value. Extras 2 The legendary Hawk mascot is worthy of his star here. Look for the banners surrounding the field honoring St. Joseph's field hockey achievements. Final Thoughts Great sports experiences can be found in many places if you know where to look, and a St. Joseph's field hockey game at Ellen Ryan Field proves that to be the case. It is certainly not the most well-known sport or the most well-known venue, but with steady crowds, an intimate and tightly packed stadium, and a Hawk will never die mantra, it is well worth checking out a game of field hockey at St. Joseph's University.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Swenson Athletic Complex 325 Plymouth St. Bridgewater, MA 02324 Bridgewater State Bears football website Swenson Athletic Complex website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 1,600 Bears of Bridgewater State Bridgewater State University is the largest of the nine state universities in Massachusetts. Founded as the Bridgewater Normal School in 1840, the school is still known for its education programs. Today, BSU has the largest enrollment of teacher education programs in the state. Its 11,000 students study in 108 majors in 30 academic departments. The Swenson Athletic Complex, home to the majority of Bridgewater State’s athletic teams, is named for Ed Swenson, who was the school’s athletic director from 1949 to 1977. He was instrumental in bringing football back to the school in 1960 after a 30-year absence. Mr. Swenson served as coach for the school’s football, soccer, and basketball teams at different times during his tenure. In 2023 Bridgewater State dedicated the football field in honor of Peter Mezzoferro, who coached the Bears football team from 1968 to 2004. Mr. Mezzoferro, who also served as an associate professor at the school, won 195 games during his time coaching at Bridgewater State. He was inducted into the BSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995. The Bears currently compete in the MASCAC conference alongside several other teams in and around Massachusetts. Since their return in 1960, football teams representing BSU have qualified for four NCAA postseason tournaments and have played in seven postseason bowl games. Food & Beverage 2 The Bears Bites food truck is parked beyond the north end zone and provides food for hungry Bears fans during football games. A basic menu is offered, featuring hot dogs, burgers, chicken fingers, french fries, and nachos. If you need a snack during the game, they’ve got you covered. Long lines do form at halftime, so plan your visit wisely. The food truck offers cans of Pepsi products and bottles of water for thirsty Bears fans. There is a water fountain in the north end zone, which was a popular spot for fans to refill their water bottles on a warm fall day during Stadium Journey’s visit. Fans can bring in their beverages during a Bears football game. No alcohol is allowed at this on-campus facility. Atmosphere 3 The game day atmosphere at Bridgewater State University is pretty typical of the small schools throughout New England. It’s a laid-back way to spend a fall afternoon and take in some quality football with friends and family. BSU does its best to make the experience a positive one. The school’s cheerleaders, pep band, and dance squads are present and perform throughout the game. The sound system is excellent if turned up a bit too loud. The PA announcer leans into his work with a stereotypical “announcer voice.” He may be a bit over the top but does a good job of providing game information and hyping up the home fans. The game day crew does a good job integrating music into the game day presentation. A small scoreboard in the south end zone provides basic game information. For a small facility playing Division III football, there’s a nice tailgating scene here in Bridgewater. Many fans have setups in the parking lot adjacent to the football field, where they arrive early and fire up the grill before the game. Neighborhood 3 The Swenson Athletic complex is located about a mile from Bridgewater Central Square, which is where you’ll find most of the action in this small town. Visitors looking for a place to eat before or after the game will notice most of the choices in the area are fast-food chains. Locals recommend a stop at Barret’s Ale House, Emma’s Pizza, or the local outpost of 99 Restaurant as the best choices near campus. Stadium Journey recommends Gonzalez House Mexican Restaurant as a hidden local gem worthy of a visit. There are no lodging options in the immediate area around campus. Visitors will have to check out the areas by Route 24 or Interstate 495 for places to stay. Fans visiting Bridgewater from out of town will likely want to continue to Boston, located 30 miles to the north, or Cape Cod, about 30 miles to the southeast, for more points of interest, dining, and lodging options. Also located nearby are the coastal towns of Plymouth and New Bedford. Fans 3 Bridgewater State enjoys good support from the locals at football games. The bleachers at the Swenson Complex seat 1,600 fans, and they are more than halfway filled for Bears games. Many of the fans in the stands have a personal connection with the players on the field and are knowledgeable about the game and vocal in their support of the home team. With the compact geographic footprint of the MASCAC conference, it’s not unusual to see a lot of visiting fans in the stands as well. While the fans are passionate in their support of the home (and visiting) team, this is not a rowdy atmosphere or a place where you’d feel uncomfortable sporting the visiting team’s colors. Access 3 Mezzoferro Field is part of the Swenson Athletic complex, located at the northern edge of the sprawling Bridgewater State University campus. Also located here is the Tinsley Center , home of the school’s basketball and volleyball teams, as well as the Alumni Field baseball and softball fields. Mezzoferro Field also serves as home to BSU’s soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey teams. It’s a busy place. The town of Bridgewater has a population of about 29,000 residents. It’s located in southeastern Massachusetts about 30 miles south of Boston. It is accessible via Route 24, which runs north-south from Randolph to Fall River, and Interstate 495, which loops around Boston. The BSU campus is located approximately five miles from the interstate via busy local streets. The Swenson Complex is located directly off Route 104 (Plymouth St.), about a mile from the Bridgewater Central Square. There is a small parking lot adjacent to the field as well as an ancillary lot a short walk from the stadium. On-street parking is not available in the area, but these two lots provide enough parking for all fans. Seating is located on a single large grandstand located on the west side of the field. Metal bleachers provide general admission seating while reserved seating in the center sections consists of individual molded plastic seats. There is a track that surrounds the field and pushes the grandstand further from the action. Fans wanting to stand while taking in the action will find plenty of standing room around the facility. Restrooms are available in the field house beyond the north end zone. They are new and clean, just time your visit wisely, as lines form at halftime. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to a Bridgewater State University football game are sold as general admission tickets for 8 dollars. Fans wishing a reserved seat in the midfield sections can purchase those seats for 11 dollars. Parking is free in the lots near the stadium and concessions are reasonably priced. An afternoon at Mezzoferro Field is an affordable entertainment option for local sports fans. Extras 1 There’s very little going on at BSU that can be considered extra. The team does give out nice programs, which contain a lot of information about the program and its history. There’s an oversized Adirondack chair in the north end zone for photo ops. Final Thoughts If you’re looking for a good way to spend a lovely fall Saturday afternoon in New England, you can do a lot worse than spending a few hours at one of the many small college football stadiums in the area. Mezzoferro Field at the Swenson Athletic Complex in Bridgewater is a fine example of how the dedicated people in these athletic departments put on an affordable, fun afternoon of quality football far from the limelight of big-time college sports. ----- Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Chuck Utech and James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 McLeod Center 2501 Hudson Rd. Cedar Falls, IA 50614 Northern Iowa Panthers website McLeod Center website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 7,018 UNI Fight The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) is sometimes overshadowed by the University of Iowa and Iowa State University. The Panthers have called 7,018 seat McLeod Center home since 2006 and the experience stands on its own. Prior to 2006, the adjacent UNI DOME was the home of UNI hoops action. While the Dome could provide larger crowds (it is still the football stadium), it was not ideal for always viewing hoops action. McLeod provides great viewing and a fan friendly atmosphere for men’s and women’s basketball, wrestling and women’s volleyball. The center has also seen concerts and other events pass through. UNI basketball has given fans teams to remember such as the Eldon Miller led 1990 squad that upset #3 seed Missouri in the first round of the NCAA tournament and the Ben Jacobson led team that went to the Sweet 16 in 2010 defeating top seeded Kansas. Food & Beverage 3 Traditional stadium food and drinks are on the menu for the most part. Prices more than make up for it. Coke products are proudly served with sizes that range from regular ($4), large ($5) and souvenir ($6). Coffee is $3 and a bottle of water is $4. 2019 marked the first year for public beer sales in McLeod as they followed the lead from fellow Missouri Conference foe Drake that introduced it in 2018. The maximum per person on a trip is two but one can get a Busch light, Coors Light or Angry Orchard for $7. A local favorite is the Gable, by Singlespeed Brewing Co. It is a nod to Iowa legend and gold medalist in the Munich 1972 Olympic games, Dan Gable, from nearby Waterloo. For food, Klements products are proudly served. A Dome dog is $4; brat $4.50. A walking taco is $5. Pretzels are also $4 as is a regular popcorn. A large popcorn is $5. A personal pan pizza tops out at $7. Want to satisfy a sugar craving? There are options. Blue Bunny novelty treats are $4. Soft serve ice cream in a dish or cone is $4. A shake is $4.50. Mini donuts are also served. They run 6 for $4, 12 for $6, a big ‘ol bucket for $17. Atmosphere 4 The school colors for UNI are purple and gold. Those are prevalent throughout the experience. One enters on top and then goes into bowl seating. Up top is the wide concourse, restrooms, merchandise, concessions as well as programs. Each corner features a charging station for those needing extra battery life in their devices. In addition, there are split the pot tables where one can purchase a chance to win a portion of proceeds with the rest going to local charity. There is also a table where one can purchase a small soft basketball to then hurl down to the court later for a chance to win a gift card. This proved very popular as little basketballs were raining from the rafters. There is a main video board over the student section. There are also smaller boards throughout for easy viewing. The crowd gets fired up as the team is introduced and the school fight song plays in conjunction. Bleacher seating is in the corners and baseline. The corners can get a little loud as they pack up with the majority of $10 ticket sales. The sidelines feature traditional chair backs. It is an attentive and active crowd throughout the arena. Neighborhood 5 Cedar Falls is the epitome of a college town. It has a full repertoire of options to choose from. The university area has a strip called “The Hill.” It has many options for fans on game day. There is a University bookstore for souvenir hunting, some eclectic shops and tattoo parlors and of course food and beverage establishments. The Other Place or The OP as the locals call it, is a great spot for pizza and drinks. Just past that neighborhood a few minutes away is another great option. Peppers Grill and Sports Pub on E. 18th Street can accommodate a legion of fans and all of their eating, drinking and sports needs. Peppers features an excellent appetizer, pepper cheese sticks, their take on mozzarella sticks. Try with both ranch and marinara. The staff at all of the local establishments are quite friendly, hospitable and provide a fun game day experience before and after. For an added treat, visit the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. This museum features everything a sports fan could want. It is a treasure trove of knowledge and memorabilia. It also features an amazing mural of a young Abraham Lincoln being challenged to a wrestling match. There are displays of icons such as Dave Schulz and Cael Sanderson, and Frank Gotch. Fans 4 Fans are into it. They are knowledgeable and support the home team. There was some tailgating even on a cold winter day prior to game time. The band and student sections are engaged from opening tip until final buzzer. The fans stand at the beginning of the game and at the start of the 2nd half and do not sit until the opposing team scores. Access 5 Cedar Falls is located in the northeast quadrant of the state of Iowa. It is about 2 hours northeast of Des Moines and about 90 minutes north and west from Iowa City, which are on I-80. Cedar Falls is on Highway 20 which is a freeway that goes east / west across Iowa. The UNI Dome is a great landmark as one approaches and the McLeod Center is next door. To the immediate west is parking for season ticket holders and for special access. Free parking is across the street, to the south. Concourses are wide and lines are short. Even prior to tip with 7,000 filling the center, the ability to get around is not too difficult. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices run from $10-$40. $10 tickets scream great return and feature excellent views still. If one takes that, the fair cost of concessions, a souvenir and a trip to Cedar Falls into consideration, a family outing can be had at both a reasonable expense and with maximum enjoyment. Extras 4 An extra point goes to the Eldon Miller banner as well as all the banners hanging from the rafters. Miller’s efforts helped put UNI on the map and are celebrated inside. In the future, one could expect to see Coach Jacobson there as well. An extra point to the full color, informative and free program available as one comes in. An extra point goes to the staff. They are knowledgeable, courteous and more than happy to assist anyone. An extra point goes to the arena for embracing alcohol sales but doing it in a very conscientious manner. The staff is professional and allows adults to make appropriate decisions. Final Thoughts A trip to Cedar Falls to see a Missouri Valley Conference basketball game can be rewarding. With the 2018 trip to the Final Four by Loyola of Chicago, “Hoosiers” images were conjured for folks dreaming of the smaller school defeating large universities. The McLeod Center houses those dreams and passionately puts them on display.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Rice Stadium 6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005 Rice Owls website Rice Stadium website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 37,000 Rice Owls – Rice Stadium Rice University first fielded a football team way back in 1912. As members of the Southwest Conference back in its heyday, the Rice Owls  became a regional powerhouse through the 1960s, winning conference titles in 1934, 1937, 1946, 1949, 1953, and 1957. Along the way, all-time greats such as Weldon Humble , Tommy Kramer , and Bill Wallace  suited up for the Owls and helped lead them to glory. Since 1950, historic Rice Stadium has been the home field for the Owls. Built right on campus, the venerable venue has been the home of Rice football and the Houston Cougars, the NFL’s Houston Oilers, and was the site of the Bluebonnet Bowl from 1959-1967 and again from 1985-1986. It was also the venue for Super Bowl VIII, which saw the Miami Dolphins repeat as champions in a victory over the Minnesota Vikings. In 1962, Rice Stadium was the host for one of President John F. Kennedy’s most famous speeches , one which would kick off the United States’ mission to land a man on the moon. Rice Stadium has maintained much of its classic look and feel for the past 70-plus years. Read on to learn what continues to make Rice Stadium one of the great venues in Texas college football.   Food & Beverage   3 Rice Stadium has gone to a full grab-and-go operation for their two main concession stands this season. Fans can pick up their burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, bottled sodas, etc., at these stands – one each on the home and visitor sides of the stadium. Chick-fil-A provides a pared-down menu of its offerings at these stands; you can get chicken sandwiches, chips, and lemonade there. I’m a fan, so this is a real bonus for me. Other amenities include a Kona Ice truck parked on the concourse, near an entrance on the home team’s side. You can also find a Dippin’ Dots stand as well as one for Doc Popcorn , which offers up what I feel is the best popcorn you can find. There are also freestanding beer kiosks throughout the stadium. Everything offered up is good; it’s not flashy, but it’s good. My one complaint is that, by halftime, the grab-and-go stands on the visitor’s side were virtually picked clean. So, consider that on your visit.   Atmosphere   2 Rice has done a few things over the years to upgrade the atmosphere at Rice Stadium. The team’s training facility, the Brian Patterson Center, is a great backdrop for the action in the south end zone. Rice also upgraded its team store, located on the home team side concourse, so that fans can purchase even more merchandise than in the past. Across the upper bowl of the stadium, you’ll find the names of some of Rice’s all-time great players and coaches, such as Jess Neely , King Hill , Jarett Dillard , and John Heisman  – yes, that Heisman. The ring also highlights their Bowl game appearances, while the team’s conference championships are highlighted on the press box above the home team stands. The stadium still looks like one built in the 1950s, however – the vast majority of seats are either metal bleachers (you can rent a folding seatback chair for $10 apiece) or concrete bleachers, such as in the general admission stands in each end zone. If you’re into nostalgia, that’s fun; if you’re not, it can get uncomfortable after a while.   Neighborhood   5 Rice University and Rice Stadium are set in the picturesque and eponymously named Rice Village neighborhood. Quite frankly, this is my favorite area in Houston; it feels separated and self-contained, away from the rest of the busyness of Space City. Rice Stadium is on the university campus and is near both Tudor Fieldhouse , home of Rice basketball, and Reckling Park , home of Rice baseball. If you plan your visit right, you might be able to catch another game during your visit. As Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the country, it comes as no surprise that it’s a haven for sports fans. The NFL , NBA , MLB , and MLS all have franchises in the city, as well as the NWSL , MiLB , UFL , and no less than four other Division I college programs in the University of Houston , Houston Christian University , Prairie View A&M University , and Texas Southern University . As I said, if you’re a sports fan, Houston is going to be a playground for you. If you’re looking for other things to do besides sports, Houston has you covered. If you’re coming with a family, I would highly recommend taking a tour of NASA’s Space Center Houston  – this is where America’s space program was ostensibly born, and the tours are full of activities for the entire family. I would also recommend Houston Zoo , which is annually recognized as one of the best in the nation. For dining options, Houston has an abundance; it all depends on what you’re in the mood for. High-end steakhouses, old-school barbecue joints, authentic Chinese, and legitimate Tex-Mex are all on the menu. A few of my Houston favorites include Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen , which is exactly how you would imagine it to be. It’s a restaurant pulled straight from central casting, complete with over-the-top deli sandwiches, matza ball soup, and black and white cookies. I also highly recommend a visit to Lankford’s Grocery & Market  – this former corner store serves up Guy Fieri-approved burgers and sandwiches, and it is legit. Lodging options follow the same advice as dining; options abound, and you’re only limited by your budget. There aren’t any hotels within walking distance of Rice Stadium (unless you’re going with the vacation rental option); however, not too far from the stadium are Houston Hilton Plaza/Medical Center  and Hyatt Place Houston Medical Center .   Fans   2 Attendance figures will show that Rice averages around 19,000 fans per game, and the ones who do show up regularly sport the Owls blue and gray. This level of attendance places Rice third among the Group of 5 teams in Texas. However, because of how vast Rice Stadium is, even 20,000 fans make it feel like closer to around 9,000 or 10,000. The visiting side stands are routinely filled in the lower bowl – this has something to do with a combination of Rice’s performance over the years, its overall size as a university, and the number of other things there are to do in Houston. I’m not sure if anything other than a return to its pre-World War II era level of success would change things, but that seems unlikely in the current college landscape.   Access   3 The Rice campus and its athletics facilities are located near the Museum District of Houston, which is near downtown and is one of the highest-trafficked areas in Space City. The Rice Village neighborhood and the campus are sandwiched between two of the major highways that run through the city, Highways 69 and 610, respectively. The exit off Highway 69 for Rice University is marked, and the stadium is off University Blvd and Rice Blvd, so it is easy to find. I have written a lot over the years about the traffic situation in Houston, so I won’t belabor the point here, but I will just emphasize that it is bad, and you will be stuck in it. As an example, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, which is a major hub, is 24 miles away from Rice Stadium, but you can plan on a drive from there taking upwards of an hour. As always, plan accordingly. Once onsite, parking for Rice Stadium is plentiful and affordable; more on that next.   Return on Investment   4 Single-game tickets for Rice Owls home games start at $25 per person, which is still a bargain for an FBS-level program. Playing in the American, which is arguably the best Group of 5 conference, the Owls bring in some quality conference opponents for their home games and will traditionally bring in a good opponent or two for their non-conference games. Quite frankly, you’ll probably be able to adjust your seats at some point. Parking at Rice Stadium is also on the affordable side, as most lots – even those close to the stadium – will set you back just $10, and there are even more affordable spots if you choose to park farther away from the campus. The one issue that keeps this ROI score from being higher is the concession costs. They were a little steeper than I was expecting; however, the lower costs for everything else balance this out for the most part.   Extras   3 Rice brings out a lot of the traditional pageantry that is expected with college football. The Rice Dance Owls Team performs during breaks in the action, and the Rice Cheerleaders  perform on the sidelines throughout the game. The main draw, however, is the Marching Owl Band, aka the MOB . Dressed like extras from The Blues Brothers, the MOB is known for its irreverent performances and unique halftime shows. The Owls also fire off fireworks over the roof of the Patterson Center for every Rice score, which is always fun. I know Rice also has a mascot, Sammy the Owl , but he has been conspicuously absent in recent years from football games.   Final Thoughts I have been to a ton of games at Rice Stadium over the years. For me, it’s a nostalgic trip every time I head there – the venue has so much history to it, which is the draw. For what it lacks in modern-day amenities, it more than makes up for in gravitas. On the surface, Rice Stadium shows its age. However, if you want to see a game at the field where Earl Campbell and Mike Singletary played, this is the place. It’s the same field where the Miami Dolphins last hoisted the Lombardi Trophy and where America entered the Space Race. History abounds here, so go see a game at Rice Stadium when you can, but rent one of their seatbacks; you won’t regret it. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Don Gurney Memorial Rink @ Brant Sports Complex 944 Powerline Road Paris, ON N3L 0B2 Paris Titans website Brant Sports Complex website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 700 From Mounties to Titans Located a stone’s throw from Brantford, Paris, Ontario is a town of 14,000 not unique to Junior C hockey.  Paris has been the home to former NHL coach John Muckler, skier Todd Brooker, hockey legend Syl Apps and Canada’s most famous hockey dad, Walter Gretzky.  The Paris Mounties were founded in 1985 and had a relatively successful run in the various iterations of the confusing landscape that was Junior C hockey.  The Mounties won their league in both 1996 and 2014 and took home the Schmalz Cup as the best Junior C team in the province in 1996.  The Mounties were sold in 2023 to Jon Clark and rebranded as the Paris Titans for the 2023-2024 season. Home for the Titans is at the Brant Sports Complex, located on the edge of town.  Built in 2010, the Brant Sports Complex became the home for the Mounties as they abandoned the Syl Apps Community Centre, which is now an indoor field.   The Brant Sports Complex features two ice rinks and the Don Gurney Memorial Rink is the main ice rink and home to the Titans.  Don Gurney was a local sportsman and is now memorialized in Paris. Food & Beverage 3 Between the two rinks at the Brant Sports Complex, fans will find the concession stand.  Typical arena offerings are found including hot dogs, burgers, fries, chicken fingers, poutine, popcorn, pretzels and candy.  Coca-cola products are the soft drink available as well as coffee, tea and Powerade.  At the north end of the ice surface of the Don Gurney Memorial Rink is the Lafarge Hall which has windows looking out above the ice.  The Paris Titans Social Club is found here and alcoholic beverages are sold in the hall.  Only the hall is licensed and beverages must be consumed inside. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of the Brant Sports Complex is attractive with a low profile from the west.  It is built on a hill so the east entrance provides a grander scale entrance.  The exterior features silver siding with glass and a large “Brant” etched into the siding which can be seen from Powerline Road.  The sign at the west entrance is illuminated a sharp and distinct green.   Entering from the west is the best way to avoid having to traverse stairs, as the east entrance is at ice level, while the west is at seating level.  The two tier lobby is clean and bright.  The lower level entry to the ice pad is marked the Don Gurney Memorial Rink and there are large banners covering the glass during Titans games.  Brant County sports history is displayed on both the upper and lower lobby levels.  The upper level features the Brant Sports Hall of Fame while the lower level features the Wall of Recognition.  It is unclear what the difference really is between the two, however the Wall of Recognition will give treasure hunting fans a couple of nuggets with Syl Apps and John Muckler enshrined.  Outside of the Don Gurney Rink there are also framed jerseys of locals Zac Dalpe who played with the Carolina Hurricanes, and referee Steve Cruikshank. The ticket table is at the upper lobby as well as a merchandise table and a promotions and 50/50 table.  Entry to the seating area is past the concession stand and is right between the two ice pads.  The Don Gurney Rink has five rows of plastic arena seats with plenty of standing room behind.  The seating area is significantly higher than the ice surface, with the lowest row of seating actually higher than the glass.  The ice is oriented north-south and the seating is on the west side, protected entirely by netting.  The north end features Lafarge Hall, which hosts the Paris Titans Social Club, where fans can purchase and consume alcoholic beverages and watch the game from the windowed end.  The south end has a large Paris Titans banner and in the first year of the team, the centre ice logo remains the old Paris Mounties logo.  On the east side hang a variety of youth sports banners as well as the Syl Apps banner which came from Scotiabank Arena  in Toronto.  Zac Dalpe also has a 2023 Florida Panthers Stanley Cup Finalist banner.  Paris Mounties achievements are also found on the east side including 1996 and 2014 Championships and the 1996 Junior C Championship.  The gameday production at a Paris Titans game is what one would expect from a Junior C hockey experience.  It is fairly simple and promotions include 50/50 and chuck-a-puck.  In an unfortunate circumstance, fans who purchase chuck-a-puck are required to walk to the east side, where the benches are, to throw their pucks on the ice at intermission.  The PA system is very good in the Don Gurney Memorial Rink. Neighbourhood 3 Paris is a small town of under 15,000 in Brant County.  It has been referred to as “The Prettiest Little Town in Canada.”  For a town the size of Paris, it is surprisingly a bit of a Foodie paradise.  There are plenty of spots to try for a pre or post game meal, including Grand Gayou, Paris Pub, Legends Taphouse, Stillwaters, Cobblestone and 2 Rivers.  The Brant Sports Complex is on the edge of town and there is nothing really in the immediate area so a quick trip in the car is necessary.  For fans looking for more sporting options, the city of Brantford is just minutes away.  From the Brant Sports Complex, the Brantford Civic Centre, home of the Brantford Bulldogs , is less than 15 minutes away.  The Brantford 99ers play in the OJHL and the summer months finds the Brantford Red Sox  taking up residence.  Auto Racing can be found at the Paris Speedway.  For other tourist options, fans should walk through Downtown Paris or check out the Paris Museum.  For fans wishing to stay in Paris, the Arlington Hotel is an option. Fans 2 The Paris Titans averaged between 130 and 260 fans per game.  It appears that Paris is in the bottom third in attendance in the PJHL, so there is plenty of room for improvement.  Fans in attendance are typical Southern Ontario fans, as in fairly quiet who get loud when something big happens.   Access 4 Brant Sports Complex is located at the southern tip of Paris, very close to Brantford.  Getting to the Brant Sports Complex is very easy.  It is very close to the confluence of Highways 24 and 403.  If coming from the north, then fans will have to drive through town, but that should not hinder travel very much.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  Unfortunately, there is not public transit in Paris, so fans will be required to drive or take a form of rideshare to the game. Getting around the Brant Sports Complex is easy.  There is a rather large staircase that joins the lower and upper lobbies, but an elevator is available for those with mobility issues and it is probably not necessary to go to the lower lobby if fans are just in and out for the game.  The washrooms are adequate for the size of the facility and crowd. Return on Investment 5 In an era of rising costs for sports experiences, the PJHL remains a bargain.  Tickets for the Paris Titans go for $10.  Concession prices are what one would expect at an arena in the PJHL and there is plenty of free parking on site.  The product on the ice is good and the gameday production, although simple, fits the ambience and the league.  All of these factors go together to produce an experience that provides terrific value for the sporting dollar. Extras 2 An extra mark for the Paris Titans continuing the tradition of Junior C hockey in Paris that was driven by the Paris Mounties. An extra mark for the Titans keeping the same colours as the Mounties. Final Thoughts With the birth of the Paris Titans from the tradition of the Paris Mounties, Junior C hockey in Paris continues to provide a solid experience for hockey fans. Catching a Paris Titans game will satisfy sports fans and bring them to a quaint town with plenty of possibilities.  A worthwhile experience for sure. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey & SIU Athletic Department Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Saluki Stadium 2 Arena Dr Carbondale, IL 62901 Southern Illinois Saluki website Saluki Stadium website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 15,000 Having Fun with the Salukis Saluki Stadium is home to the Southern Illinois University football team. The venue was completed in 2010, features a horseshoe-shaped design, and houses 15,000 for games. The stadium replaced McAndrew Stadium, which operated from 1937-2009. The $25.3 million stadium was part of the $83 million Saluki Way Project. The stadium features a two-story press box, 12 club suites, a 2,500-square-foot VIP Club Room, a video board, and field turf. The stadium offers 1,080 seat-back chairs and seating for 2,500 fans in the grass berm area in the north end zone. In total, the capacity is 15,000. The Salukis name was adopted in 1951 and replaced the name Maroons. A Saluki is an ancient Egyptian hunting dog, and Southern Illinois is known as Little Egypt. King Tut (a living dog mascot) debuted in 1953; he became a fixture at games and around campus but passed away a year later. A concrete tomb was erected in 1960, where his remains exist inside in front of the stadium. The football program has been a member of the Missouri Valley Conference since 1985 and has shared or been outright champions on 5-occasions. They appeared in 10 FCS playoffs, with the bulk of them coming between 2003 and 2019. In 1983, the school won a national championship with a 43-7 victory over Western Carolina. The school has several current and former National Football League players. A few former players include Jim Hart, who quarterbacked the St. Louis Cardinals for 15 seasons, and former Ravens and Jets All-Pro Bowl linebacker Bart Scott. The current list: Jeremy Chinn, Madre Harper, and MyCole Pruitt. Ryan Neal and Craig James. Food & Beverage 3 The food and beverages are similar to many other venues in the Missouri Valley Conference. Fans can enjoy hot dogs, brats, nachos, chicken tender baskets, and an assortment of soft drinks and sweet treats. MillerCoors products are available at the game. There are enough snacks to enjoy during the game, but many many get their fill up on food and beverage during the tailgate. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere kicks off 3 hours before kickoff on Saluki Row, where visitors can enjoy tailgating on the grass practice fields, pre-game food and drink, a wide range of entertainment, and free admission to many of these spirited pre-game events. The Marching Saluki Show starts at the Banterra Center and is a must-see before the game. The marching band makes its way through the fans and into the stadium. It passes through the concrete pyramid containing the original mascot remains and has become a good luck symbol for the football team to touch while entering the stadium. The stadium is designed in a horseshoe shape with a grass berm at one end of the bowl with a digital video board. There is a large press box standing on the side of the stadium, and a plaque commemorating McAndrew Stadium is on the main concourse. Except for chairback seating in sections 4, 5, and 7, all other seating is metal bleachers that rise 20 rows high. Neighborhood 3 The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a short drive from campus and consists of 11 wineries, restaurants, specialty shops, breweries, art galleries, inns, and cabins. The well-marked trail takes visitors through the rolling hills to scenic spots and plenty of vino and memories. Downtown Carbondale offers a nostalgic town square that includes 25 historic buildings. The historic square offers places to shop and eat for visitors. You will find places to eat and drink in the area, including the Underground Public House, Bombay Olive, Sausea’s Seafood, Mary Lou’s Grill, and Quatro’s Deep Dish Pizza. The area offers a few things to visit, including the hands-on children’s museum, The Science Center, Super Splash Park (if there before Labor Day), and the nature preserve Marberry Arboretum. There are also three vineyards within a few miles: Monte Alegre, Kate Hill, and Black Jack. Fans 5 The fans support the football team well year after year. An average size crowd can range anywhere from 7,000 to 10,000. The Dawg Pound is the school’s student section and is where you will find many decked out in maroon and white striped overalls or waving flags in support of the Salukis. Access 3 Carbondale is on SR-13 and 51, 18 miles west of Marion, Illinois, and I-57. Visitors should expect a 30-minute drive to campus from this direction, but the stadium is easy to locate off of South Illinois Ave. It sits next to the basketball arena, Bantera Center. The stadium's layout is simple, with the concourse underneath the seating bowl. The concourse area offers various concession stands, restrooms, a merchandise store, and an information center. Return on Investment 4 The price for a ticket is as low as $12 for end zone seats in sections 11-16, while sections 1-4, 8-10, and 22-27 are $15. The student seating is located in sections 17-21, and premium seating with chairback seating exists at midfield in sections 5-7 at $35-$40. Crowd sizes are impressive and range between 8,000 and 10,000. A $12 ticket for a festive crowd is a nice return on the investment's price. Extras 3 King Tut's Tomb, outside the stadium, pays homage to the school's first mascot, King Tut. He was fatally hit by a car and buried in the corner of the old McAndrew Stadium. When the tomb was moved to the current stadium, his remains were left behind. The pyramid is touched for good luck by players and staff and is an ideal photo spot for fans. The two bronze Saluki statues are another great feature at the stadium. The tailgating is impressive in the various lots around the venue. Final Thoughts A Salukis game offers a festive atmosphere for an FCS stadium. The fanbase, brand of football, and gameday atmosphere visit Southern Illinois, a joyful weekend divergence during the college football season. --- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Kyocera Dome Osaka Naka 3-2-1, Chiyozaki Nishi-ku, Osaka City 550-0023 Japan Orix Buffaloes website Kyocera Dome Osaka website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 50,000 Dome Away From Home In 1997, the Kintetsu Buffaloes moved from their old and decaying stadium at Fujidera to a brand new dome in the city of Osaka. Using the typical Japanese penchant for creativity in naming, the stadium was dubbed Osaka Dome. Known more for its resemblance to a silver spaceship in the middle of the city than an actual functioning ballpark, the dome took on naming rights from electronics concern Kyocera in 2006, and has retained the name Kyocera Dome Osaka since. The Buffaloes merged with the Orix Blue Wave two years before that, and the resulting team (Orix Buffaloes) made the dome their regular home ballpark, much to the chagrin of their faithful based in Kobe, where the Blue Wave played. This choice has left the Dome empty much of the time, as it can be difficult to get to from Kobe, and hence the true fans are often left at home. The dome is also used as the temporary home stadium for the Hanshin Tigers when Koshien Stadium is reserved for the high school tournament, and it is likely a far livelier spot for these games than when the Buffaloes are at home. (Note that the exchange rates are as of the time of this posting, August 2013.) Food & Beverage 2 A good variety of food greets you here, but unfortunately, the items I had were less than appetizing. A spicy fried chicken (¥400/$4.10) looked good but turned out to be bland, with no spice whatsoever. I also had some chicken sticks (¥400/$4.10) that were hard and flavorless. Other options include crepes at ¥700 ($7.20), beefsteak rice bowl (¥650/$6.70) and takoyaki (fried octopus balls, ¥400/$4.10, and a Kansai staple). As usual, I recommend that you wander the concourse before the game and look at all the options that are available. There are 22 different concession stands each with something unique; hopefully, you will have better luck than I did on my most recent visit. On the beverage side, there are plenty of beer girls with kegs on their back who will serve your favorite variety of draught throughout the game; just wave one down, and you will have a cold brew delivered to your seat. Atmosphere 2 This place is too big to have a great atmosphere, and it is made worse by the fact that so few fans show up. There are a couple of mascots that try to get fans excited, and an energetic group of cheerleaders who perform outside the stadium prior to the game and also dance on the field at various breaks in the action. Still, this is probably the least interesting place to watch a Japanese baseball game, as the cavernous surroundings kill any real noise or excitement. Neighborhood 4 Although the stadium itself is located in a less-than-inspiring part of the city, there are two shopping malls right next door that allow you to cool off before entering the ballpark itself. Meanwhile, the bustling nightlife district of Namba is nearby, just 2 stops away on the Hanshin Namba line. There are hundreds of clubs and bars here that will keep you awake until the early morning hours if you are still suffering from jet lag. Club PURE is the most recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday when you can drink all you want for just ¥3,000 ($30.75). Fans 2 The Buffaloes fans have been through a lot, what with their team being merged and all. Regardless, the logistics make it so that they are unable to show up in numbers, leaving vast tracts of the dome empty on a weeknight. At the game I saw, the visiting Lotte fans were much louder and energetic and for this, the Buffaloes’ fans must be punished. Access 4 There is a subway stop right in front of the dome on the Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi line, as well the Hanshin Railway has a stop on the Namba line. Both of these are just seconds away from the dome itself, while the Hanshin line has the advantage of being just two stops away from the Namba neighborhood mentioned above. Outside, you can walk around the entire venue, but there is little to see with three propane tanks the dubious highlight. Once inside, concourses are wide enough and you can walk around to the outfield area, where as usual in Japanese ballparks, you are stopped by fencing. This is the only fault here and hence the lost point (for what it’s worth, no NPB park scores a perfect 5 in this category because of this). Getting in and out is not a problem since the stadium is only about a third full. Note that gates open here just an hour before first pitch, unlike most parks here which give you two hours to explore. Return on Investment 4 Tickets vary widely in price, and I quote the day of game price for the average Joe here, although you can save a bit if you buy in advance or if you are a member of the team’s fan club. The most expensive seats are those on the field, known as the MobaPro seats after an online baseball card game, which go for ¥8,000 ($82) for those near the bases, and ¥6,500 ($66.60) for those a bit further down the line. My recommendation is to spend ¥3,000 ($30.75) on the B seats, which are near the corners and still in the lower deck. These are generally quite empty and you can move around to get some space. The upper deck seats in the infield are unreserved and go for ¥2,400 ($24.60) if you like to sit higher up. For an extra ¥100 ($1), certain seats allow you to enter three hours before game time to watch batting practice; you are then kicked out of the stadium and readmitted when gates open just one hour before first pitch, forcing you to wander the area for 75 minutes, and thus not a highly useful choice. Extras 3 There was a T-Rex sculpture out front advertising a show that was taking place in the Sky Hall, which is an event center on the 9F of the dome and might be worth a visit if you have time. Outside the stadium, there is Bs Park (the Buffaloes refer to themselves as Bs and I will refrain from making any wisecracks), which is a small area with a few food options and a cheerleader performance before the game. Although it is not recommended, the option to watch batting practice is a creative approach and nets another point here. Final Thoughts A bizarre design might be the highlight of the Osaka Dome, because once you are inside, you will not see this as much different than the Rogers Centre in Toronto. Sure, the food is slightly better and more varied, but the fact that this team is unable to generate significant fan support makes it a poor choice to experience your first Japanese ballgame. You are much better served in visiting nearby Koshien, home of the Tigers, which is the best Japanese baseball experience to be had.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Koskinen Stadium 106 Whitford Dr Durham, NC 27705 Duke Blue Devils website Koskinen Stadium website Capacity: 4,500 College Soccer in Durham Though the city may be more known for its basketball and football programs, the Duke University men’s soccer program is no less impressive a team to watch. A consistent contender year after year, the team has numerous NCAA tournament appearances and conference titles to its name. Their home stadium boasts an impressive 4,500-seat capacity, with multiple grandstands and a viewing patio that make it an impressive facility to watch from. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions stand at Koskinen Stadium is impressive for a smaller college sports facility – the food variety isn’t wide, but what they have is solid. Hot dogs ($5), cheeseburgers ($8), and Bojangles Chicken Supremes and fries ($11) make up the main menu items, while popcorn ($5-$10), peanuts ($4.50), pretzels, cotton candy, and nachos (all $5) make up the rest. Drinks are limited to water ($4) or sodas ($4.50 to $5.50); a hot dog combo with a drink runs $10.50. Atmosphere 4 Koskinen Stadium features a standard main grandstand setup. Seating is not shaded, though, so prepare for warm temperatures during hot afternoon games. The opposite side of the field from the bench features a small grandstand as well, with benches that have no backs to them, and the right side end zone is where you can find the elevated and covered patio area. During game days this offers a unique angle to watch the soccer matches from, and also features info plaques about various people important to Duke soccer’s history. Underneath the main grandstand is where you can find the best shade during halftime, and post-game autograph sessions are held here during various games throughout the season. Neighborhood 4 Durham and the area around Duke’s main campus are experiencing a revitalization, especially in downtown Durham. The campus itself is beautiful and easy to navigate, with Koskinen Stadium sitting next to the school’s football stadium and track & field facility. Hotels are plentiful nearby, as are shopping and dining. Raleigh-Durham Airport is also only a 15-minute drive away, meaning that a weekend trip to catch some college sports in town doesn’t involve a lengthy drive out to somewhere far away. Fans 3 The fans of Duke soccer are loyal and loud but usually consist of family and friends of players on the field. The stadium can at times fill in with bigger crowds, but most games feature a modest attendance. Nonetheless, the ones who occupy the grandstand seats are often loud and proud, sport-knowledgeable, and eager to cheer every goal scored on the field. Access 3 The parking at Koskinen Stadium is at times less than ideal – free parking is available but is located near the football stadium, requiring a long uphill hike back to Koskinen Stadium itself. Metered spaces are available next to the stadium’s main entrance, but those are few and fill up quickly on even the quietest of game days. Thankfully there are two entrances on either end of the stadium, meaning you can get in and out easier depending on where you park. To get to the stadium, you just need to follow the signs locally for the college itself. Located near I-85 and perfectly framed by the 501 and 147 Highways, Duke University is just west of Durham proper. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Duke soccer run just $7. Couple this with the affordability of the concessions at the stadium, as well as the option for free parking, and you have a solid price for watching a quality college soccer program. Weather in North Carolina is usually nice in the fall as well, meaning you’re likely to have a rather enjoyable game-day experience at Koskinen Stadium. Extras 3 The team offers free giveaways at the promotion tables by the entrances on most game days, be they posters cowbells, etc. Various games also include post-game autograph sessions with the players, which is a hit for the young fans in attendance. Finally, if you wish to learn some of the history of Duke soccer, the patio viewing area features numerous plaques, with historical info on them about important figures in Duke’s past. Final Thoughts Koskinen Stadium is impressive for a college soccer facility, offering a variety of viewing options and affordability for fans. Free parking, solid concessions pricing, and a variety of giveaways make this a great option if you want to see some of soccer’s bright young stars in person.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Pensacola Bay Center 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL 32502 Pensacola Ice Flyers website Pensacola Bay Center website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 8,049 Welcome to the Hangar Hockey on the beaches of the Florida panhandle is something that might seem crazy to some.  After all, the humid subtropical climate and year-round sunshine, combined with a location in the football-crazed south, might make hockey seem like something that wouldn't be a big draw. But for over 25 years hockey has thrived in the minor league loving sports city of Pensacola. Hockey was born on the Emerald Coast in 1996 with the ECHL's Pensacola Ice Pilots, who played until the 2007-08 season. Then after a season of no hockey, the Ice Flyers of the SPHL were founded in 2009 and have played ever since to great success. As of 2024, the Ice Flyers have made the playoffs 13 times and won the President's Cup four times (2012-13, 2013-14, 2015-16, and 2020-21). The team's nickname pays tribute to Pensacola's Naval history, which is only appropriate given the fact that Pensacola is home to one of the largest Navy bases in the country. However, the Navy base may best be known as home to the Blue Angels flight squadron, who perform all over the country throughout the year, but are based in Pensacola. The Ice Flyers play in downtown Pensacola at the Pensacola Bay Center. Affectionately nicknamed ‘The Hangar’, the 8,049-seat venue opened in 1985 and was known as the Pensacola Civic Center for a number of years. From the outside the venue cuts an impressive figure, sitting at the foot of I-110 and being the first thing most people see when driving into downtown Pensacola.   Food and Beverages   3 There are four full-service concession stands in The Hangar, as well as several pop-up bars located throughout the facility – there are two concession stands each on the east and west side concourses. On the west side you can find Blue Reef Grill which sells hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, and pretzels, as well as Coop's Chicken Kitchen which sells chicken items such as tenders and sandwiches. On the east side you'll find Five Flags Filling Station, which sells the same items found at Blue Reef Grill, as well as Tarragona Taco Company, where you can get tacos and nachos. For drink selections Coca-Cola is the official soft drink provider of the Bay Center, while for alcohol local brewer Pensacola Bay Brewery has a stand set up on the west concourse offering all their signature beers (Napoleon IPA, Treasure Grove, Riptide Amber, Lighthouse Porter, Pensacola Premium, and Desoto). You will also find a full-service bar called Slap Shot Bar located in Section 124, on the open concourse on the south side of the building.   Atmosphere   4 There's no denying who the main tenant is here when arriving at the Bay Center; signage of past players and championship banners take up the poles in the parking lot, as well as a giant ‘Home of the Ice Flyers’ signs sitting above the main entrance and box office, located on the west side of the building. Pensacola Bay Center has kind of a unique shape with its perfectly symmetrical square design and flat roof. Once inside the building there is one concourse on the second level, designed in a wraparound configuration, consisting of concession stands and a team store – the east and west sides do not offer views of the ice, but the north and south sides do. Pensacola Bay Center has received some renovations in recent years, the most notable being the high-definition LED scoreboard hanging at mid-ice that was installed in 2020. The new board replaced the very outdated dot matrix board from the 1990s, which was so old they couldn't get replacement parts for it. Also hanging from the rafters are the Ice Flyers two retired jersey numbers, as well as banners celebrating the teams’ four President’s Cups. During part of the season they will tarp off the upper decks, making for a much more intimate experience, but there are several $5 admission games throughout the season where they will remove the tarp, allowing fans to sit in the upper deck. The mascot is Maverick, a bald eagle dressed as a pilot, who is a constant presence at The Hangar during games. In addition, when the Ice Flyers score fans will move their fists up and down in unison; this has become sort of the unofficial cheer of the team, as almost 90% of the crowd will participate in this celebration. The Ice Flyers also do a tremendous job making sure every game has a different feel to it, with almost every night having a theme or having the Ice Flyers wear an alternate jersey. For example, this season the Ice Flyers wore jerseys modeled after Toy Story, the Cars movies, Peanuts, Ugly Sweaters, St. Patrick’s Day, Mardi Gras, and SpongeBob. Photo courtesy of the Pensacola Ice Flyers Neighborhood   4 The Hangar is located in downtown Pensacola, several blocks north of the famous Seville Quarter and all the bars and restaurants of Palafox Street. No trip to Pensacola would be complete without a trip to Rosie O'Grady's – famous for its dueling pianos and signature Hurricane cocktail drink, the place is located in the Seville Quarter, a one-block section of buildings that resemble those you would find in the French Quarter. These buildings, most of which were built in the 1800s, also feature numerous other bars and restaurants as well. Another popular place just down the street from Pensacola Bay Center is McGuire's – this place has been a fixture of Pensacola for over 40 years and gets pretty packed on weekends, with live music in over five bars. McGuire's makes for a great pregame and postgame hangout after Ice Flyers games, but you can also find plenty more bars and restaurants on Palafox Street, as well as tons lining the Pensacola Bay waterfront, about a mile south of the Bay Center. The beaches of Pensacola are located about 10 minutes away as well, where you can find plenty of restaurants and beach-related activities. With the year-round warm weather, it's also not uncommon to be able to go for a swim in the Gulf before an Ice Flyer game. In addition, plenty of lodging can be had, from cheaper hotels near the Interstate to more expensive hotels downtown. During the winter months you may find cheaper rates at some of the hotels on Pensacola Beach, should you want to stay out there. And of course, no trip to Pensacola would be complete without a trip to the National Naval Air Aviation Museum. Located on Pensacola’s navy base, this large museum has many exhibits and over 150 vintage aircraft, and is devoted to the history of naval aviation in the U.S. The famous Blue Angels are also stationed at Pensacola NAS for most of the year, but during the winter months are based in California – if you are lucky you may get to see the Blue Angels fly over while practicing.   Fans   4 Year in and year out, the Ice Flyers are consistently one of the top teams in terms of attendance in the SPHL, never finishing below 4th in the League. The 2023-24 season set the record for most tickets sold in franchise history, and they also averaged 5,300 fans per game, also the most in franchise history. Many of the locals remember the days of the old Ice Pilots of the ECHL, part of hockey's I-10 corridor when there were eight ECHL teams from Jacksonville to Lafayette. The teams created fierce rivalries among themselves and brought packed houses to an unlikely hockey market; that fan support has carried over to the Ice Flyers days. The Pensacola area is also unique in that it attracts people from all over the country – with the beaches and year-round warm weather, the area attracts a lot of snowbirds from the north who flock to warmer climes in the winter. You'll encounter a lot of these people at The Hanger, and in addition, Ice Flyers games have a large military presence, with lots of people in attendance from all over the world who are stationed at Pensacola NAS.   Access   4 Pensacola Bay Center is located at the southern end of I-1110, a north and south auxiliary road that connects Interstate 10 to downtown Pensacola. With the arena located about 10 miles south of I-10, the Bay Center is not hard to miss as it sits at the foot of the I-110 extension, and is the first thing most people will see upon entering downtown. There are many parking lots scattered around the arena, each charging about $10 to park. Unfortunately the free lots that used to be located about a block south, across from the cemetery, are now paid lots as well. Entering the building you can enter at ice level and walk up to your seats, or you can take the ramp up to the second level; personally I like the ice level entrance better. Once in Pensacola Bay Center everything runs smoothly, although the concession lines sometimes back up during intermissions.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets in the east and west lower bowls will cost $19, while tickets in the north and south lower bowls will cost $15; you cannot find a better return on investment for minor league hockey in the south. The Ice Flyers do a great job keeping fans entertained with their constant promotions and theme nights – some of the promotions this season include wiener dog races and a Mardi Gras parade on the ice, so you don't even have to enjoy hockey to have fun at an Ice Flyers game. With the success of the Ice Flyers in Pensacola, hockey will be played here for many years to come.   Extras   3 The Pensacola Bay Center is the largest indoor multi-purpose venue on the Florida panhandle, and the arena also receives the national spotlight each year as the host of the Sun Belt Conference Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament , every year since 2021. March Madness takes over Pensacola during this week, and the Ice Flyers usually go on the road. Multiple concerts have also taken place here ever year – Michael Jackson even rented out the building for a few weeks to rehearse for his 1988 "Bad" World Tour; fans would camp out in the Bay Center parking lot every day hoping to catch a glimpse of the King of Pop.  Kiss was the first event in the Bay Center when they opened the building in 1985.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Charger Park Soccer Field 851 John Wright Dr NW Huntsville, AL 35805 Alabama-Huntsville Chargers website Charger Park Soccer Field website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 200 Getting a Charge Out of Soccer The University of Alabama in Huntsville, or UAH to locals, is a state university that is part of the University of Alabama System. The school began in 1950 as an extension of the University of Alabama but drastically changed in 1960 when Wernher von Braun, a German rocket scientist brought to the United States under Operation Paperclip, after working for the Nazi regime, helped create a research institute to provide advanced engineering and science curricula to NASA scientists and engineers. This set forth a more scientific path for this institution. UAH offers 89 degree-granting programs, but Engineering is the largest college program at the university. UAH is known for engineering and science programs, including astrophysics, atmospheric science and aerospace engineering. It is a Space Grant university, and has a history of cooperation with NASA at the Marshall Space Flight Center, and the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal. UAH sponsors eight men’s and eight women’s varsity athletics programs and is a member of the NCAA Division II, except for men’s ice hockey, where it is Division I. In most sports they are a member of the Gulf South Conference. Unlike many southern schools, there is no football team at UAH. Dr. Stromecky was the founder of the UAH Soccer team in 1969, as well as their first coach. Throughout his career he lead the UAH Soccer team to 16 NAIA District Championships, and six NAIA National Tournaments. Charger Park Soccer Field has been around for awhile, but was integrated into Charger Park, built in 2010, which is also the home of the baseball and softball teams. Food & Beverage 2 For many games there may be no food stands in operation. If the small stand is in operation expect a very simple menu with very good prices for hot dogs and similar items. Atmosphere 3 The field is a beautiful and immaculate soccer pitch. Fans watch the game either from standing or sitting in their own chairs along the sideline or by sitting in the small, simple metal bleacher. The setting for games is nice, if unremarkable. Neighborhood 4 Huntsville is now the largest city in Alabama (Birmingham has a larger metro area) with a population of 194,585 people. The area is home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, the United States Army Aviation and Missile Command nearby at the Redstone Arsenal, and the state-owned US Space & Rocket Center. The replica Saturn V at the center can be seen quite aways away, especially on the nearby UAH campus. Nearby University Drive going west towards Madison has a plethora of food options, from both chains to small operations. Phil Sandoval’s Mexican Restaurante, Shaggy’s Burgers and Tacos, ChopChop and TopGolf are some of the best options in that area. One should also look at the numerous brewpub options around the area. Downtown Huntsville is also becoming a nice quaint place for a stroll. There will be a few food and drink options down there as well. The Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment complex is an old factory and mill that houses numerous small artist studios as well as food and drink from options like Piper & Leaf Artisan Tea Company and Alchemy Lounge. Fans 3 The fans are also very knowledgeable about the game and action. Many of the fans in attendance will be family or friends of the players. Access 5 Huntsville is served by several U.S. Highways, including 72, 231, 431, and an Interstate highway spur, I-565, that links the two cities of Huntsville and Decatur to I-65. The UAH campus is off of Sparkman Drive, just south of I-565. There should almost always be plenty of parking found by the soccer field. Check the signs for games that happen during normal class times. Return on Investment 3 The games are free to attend currently as they are being sponsored by a local credit union. Extras 2 Drive around the campus of UAH and check out the beautiful surroundings, as well as the intimidating nature of the learning what happens in places such as the Optics building and the Von Braun building. See if you can see the Saturn V rocket from the soccer pitch. Final Thoughts The University of Alabama in Huntsville has managed to make a very basic, although pretty, setting into one of the better soccer fields in the area. If in the area, make sure to stop in and see if you can catch a match.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Barker-Lane Stadium 558 Wade Stewart Rd Buies Creek, NC 27406 Campbell Camels website Barker-Lane Stadium website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 5,500 The Creek Is Rising After decades of not fielding a football team, Campbell University restarted their football program in 2008 by opening Barker-Lane Stadium in front of a standing-room only crowd of 5,845 against Birmingham Southern. However, from 2008 to 2012 there were only permanent stands on the east side and the west side had temporary bleachers and a temporary press box. Lights were added to the facility in 2012 and in 2013, the west side permanent stands and the press tower were completed. Barker-Lane Stadium now has an official capacity of 5,500 and is one of the nicest facilities in the Big South Conference. Food & Beverage 3 Barker-Lane Stadium offers your traditional stadium concession food that is on par with many college football venues. Food choices include chicken sandwiches ($7), beef hot dogs ($4), and Papa John’s personal pizzas ($9). Snack choices include popcorn ($3), nachos and cheese ($4), peanuts ($3), hot pretzel ($3), cheese pretzel ($4), potato chips ($2), candy bar ($2), and cotton candy ($3). Beverage choices are bottled water, bottled Pepsi products, and Gatorade all for $4. Campbell University is a Baptist-affiliated so alcoholic beverages are not served. Concession stands take both cash and cards; however, when we attended the card reader was very slow and was holding up the line due to the internet speed (that is what they told me). Barker-Lane Stadium does offer one local food choice. Pelican’s Sno-balls are sold from a Pelican’s on the concourse underneath the west side stands. Atmosphere 4 Campbell football is still a relatively new college football program, but Barker Lane boasts an atmosphere that many long-time programs would dream of. Even though the stadium is relatively small, the fans show up and the stadium has many modern amenities. The field at Barker-Lane Stadium is shiny new field turf that is outlined in black and looks sharp. One endzone says “CAMPBELL” and the other says “CAMELS”. The midfield logo is over 25 yards long and is an outline of the state of North Carolina that contains the Campbell logo. Just beyond the north endzone is a large 24’ x 42’ HD video board that shows live game action and video highlights. At the south end of the stadium is the W. Irvin Warren Center which houses the home and visiting team’s locker rooms. This is also where the Campbell football and lacrosse offices are located. There is a giant inflatable Campbell football helmet in front of this building, which the team runs through pregame. Seating is available on both the east and west sides of the stadium. The west side has seating for 3,000, with 867 of these being chair back and the rest being bench back. At the top of the west side stands is the two-story Carley C’s IGA Hometown proud Press Tower that includes a President’s suite, two patios, and seating for the press, TV crew, home and visitor radio crews, and home of and visitor coaching staffs. The seating on the east side are just metal bleachers with no backs that are bricked in. This is the side where the marching band sits along with many of the visiting fans. We recommend sitting on the west side since all of these seats have a back and since the sun will be behind you as it sets and not in your face. The Campbell marching band plays on the field pre-game and at halftime, and in the stands during the game. Even though the band is small, they add quite a bit to the atmosphere at Barker-Lane Stadium. Neighborhood 2 Campbell University is located in the tiny town of Buies Creek, NC, between the larger towns of Lillington and Dunn on US 421. Its population is just over 2,000. In fact, the pre-game video at Barker-Lane boasts that on gameday, the population of Buies Creek triples. Since Campbell routinely has crowds of 5,500+, this claim is spot on. Other than a couple fast food places on campus (Chick-fil-A, Moe’s Southwest Grill), there is not much else to choose from. If you are looking for somewhere to eat or stay, our recommendation is to take the short drive to Dunn. It is located on I-95 and has a few restaurants and hotels to choose from. The larger cities of Raleigh and Fayetteville are approximately 30 miles away in either direction, and offer many more activities if you desire. Fans 4 While you will not see 50K or even 10K fans at a Campbell football game, don’t let that fool you. The Campbell faithful love their football, and you can expect to see nearly a sellout crowd at every game. In 2021, Campbell averaged nearly 5,100 fans per game, which is 94% capacity. As you approach the stadium pre-game, you will see fans tailgating in the lots all around the stadium. Nearly all fans are decked out in orange and black Camels gear, and cheer loudly and really get into the game. Access 5 Access is Barker-Lane is a breeze. Since Buies Creek is such a small town, there is almost no traffic when approaching Campbell’s campus. The stadium sits directly across US 421 from the main campus, so it is not hard to find at all. Parking is plentiful on campus. There is even a pedestrian tunnel now under US 421 to provide an even easier access from the main campus to the stadium. No longer is it necessary for policemen to stop traffic to allow fans to cross the highway. The ticket office and main entrance are located on the east side. Once inside the stadium, there is a sidewalk that goes around the north end zone to take fans to the west side stands. Even when the stadium is at capacity, there is plenty of room on the concourse, and there is little to no line for restrooms and concessions. Handicap seating is available on both sides on the first row of stands. There are ramps in all the vomitories instead of steps, which provide easy access for those who are handicapped. Return on Investment 4 As the Campbell football program continues to rise through the ranks of FCS football, the ticket prices rise as well. However, tickets are still reasonable compared to their FBS neighbors. Ticket prices are $38 for chair back seats, $25 for bench back seats, and $15 for bleacher seats. Even though this is “just” FCS football, you still cannot find a better deal at many places. General public parking is available in the green lot near the stadium for $10; however, if you don’t mind the walk, parking is free at many places on campus on the weekends. Concession prices are also reasonable; so, a trip to Barker-Lane Stadium will not break the bank. Extras 4 Campbell now has two mascots (male and female) – Gaylord and Gladys – who are very involved in the game, and make their way throughout the stadium during the game taking pictures with fans. A second extra for the new pedestrian tunnel under US 421 that enables easy access from main campus to the stadium. A third extra to the security and game operations staff who are very friendly and make entering the game hassle free. You do not have staff at every section checking your ticket each time, and that is worth extra points! Barker-Lane Stadium is also the home to Campbell Women’s Lacrosse. Final Thoughts Campbell University is located in NC, and is within 3 hours drive of seven FBS schools ( NC State , Duke , UNC , Wake Forest , East Carolina , Appalachian State , UNC Charlotte). Since Campbell is also relatively new on the college football landscape, it is probably not what immediately comes to mind when thinking about college football in NC. However, if you are in the area, do yourself a favor and take a trip to Barker-Lane Stadium. You will find a full-house, passionate fans, exciting FCS football, and it will not break your budget!

Photos by Andrew Maurins, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 William Peccole Park 1664 N. Virginia Reno, NV 89557 Nevada Wolf Pack website William Peccole Park website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 3,000 Root Root Root for the Wolf Pack Many Wolf Pack fans are surprised to learn that former football coach Chris Ault was not the longest-tenured head coach at Nevada. Instead, that honor goes to former baseball manager Gary Powers, who led the program from 1982 to 2013. In the span of that 31-year career, Powers’ teams won 937 games overall, including 17 seasons of 30 or more wins, three conference titles, and four NCAA Tournament appearances. His players also boast equally extensive achievements, like 17 All-Americans and more than 75 draft selections by Major League Baseball teams, including Chris Singleton, Lyle Overbay, Kevin Kouzmanoff, and Braden Shipley. The Wolf Pack’s home of Peccole Park saw its first sellout just last year, beating the previous record by more than 500 fans while accompanying the school’s first Mountain West Conference title since joining the league in 2012. New managers Jay Johnson and now T.J. Bruce have tried to add to that rich legacy in a ballpark that Powers himself had a hand in getting built in 1988. And after that first taste of success, Nevada fans and players alike are eager for more. Food & Beverage 3 The food and drink selection is adequate in both variety and quality, but could greatly benefit from the addition of some signature items. The short lines, availability of beer, and acceptance of credit cards buoy this rating. Food items at the main concession stand include hot dogs, Polish dogs, and ice cream bars for $6, nachos or children’s hot dogs for $4.75, pretzels for $5, popcorn or assorted bags of candy for $4, and bag of peanuts or a box of Cracker Jacks for $4.50. The secondary concession stand on the third baseline offers cheeseburgers with fries for $9, bags of sunflower seeds for $4.50, and small bags of chips for $1. None of the items will overwhelm you with quality, but they also won’t set you back much. Fountain drinks like Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and Sierra Mist fetch $3.50 for a child’s size, $5 for a souvenir cup, and $6 for a large, while Gatorade bottles go for $4.50 and bottled water for $4 (the secondary stand has 20-ounce soda bottles for $4.50). Like other Wolf Pack sporting events, beer is also sold at the park, with a domestic draft or bottle (Budweiser or Bud Lite) fetching $8 and a premium draft or bottle (Lagunitas IPA, Red Hook ESB, New Belgium Fat Tire or Angry Orchard) selling for $8.50. The cheeseburger with fries has crisp, fresh toppings with your choice of cheese, and is our food recommendation. Discounts on all of the above items are available to Dugout Club boosters. Atmosphere 3 A game at Peccole Park is a fairly typical college baseball experience, quainter and much less bombastic than its football or basketball counterparts. Most of the stadium’s 3,000+ seats are aluminum-backed benches near the two dugouts, with sections of individual aluminum seats behind home plate and green plastic seats in the “Dugout Club” for boosters on the first baseline. While lacking cup holders, they’re all fairly comfortable for what they offer, and all but the general admission section face the infield close to the action. The turf is entirely artificial save for the dirt pitcher’s mound, and its dimensions are perfectly symmetrical: 340 feet down the left and right field lines, 383 feet to left- and right-center, and 401 feet to the large wall in straightaway center. Peccole Park’s scoreboard is strictly business, with the innings, runs, hits, errors, and batter at the plate the only stats shown. Ditto for the entertainment, with the game’s only music confined to the short breaks every half inning on the stadium’s serviceable PA system. Assigned seats are located in the sections behind home plate and the dugouts, while open general admission seats are next to left field. If you don’t mind benches, the latter seats offer a nice view of the ballpark and beyond. Things to consider before a visit include the ballpark’s lack of covered seats and northern Nevada’s notoriously unpredictable springtime weather. We can’t emphasize that last part enough: it’s not uncommon to need both sunblock and a good jacket for certain games. Neighborhood 3 Peccole Park is tucked away on the northeastern edge of the University of Nevada campus near recent additions to its medical school and a set of railroad tracks across the street. This is also applicable to hotels and other attractions. A stroll north through campus or a visit to the Fleischmann Planetarium are both worth looking into. The University Inn offers the closest stay, while the downtown core trades proximity for a greater variety of lodging options. Shows, bars, and restaurants are the names of the game in that area, and the greater Truckee Meadows offers potential day trips like Lake Tahoe and Virginia City. Fans 3 The fans at Peccole are exactly what you’d expect from a typical college baseball crowd: small in number but sufficiently engaged in the action. Typical attendance is slightly above the average for the seven teams comprising the Mountain West Conference, which is still only about a third of Peccole Park’s capacity of 3,000. While cheering and booing at appropriate times, there still isn’t a ton of them for most games, which are an even mix of a few hundred diehards and a few hundred more casual fans. The singing of “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” by the park’s regulars at the 7th Inning Stretch is a welcome sight in an otherwise sedate affair. Access 4 Arriving at the ballpark is accessible on most days, and getting into the park is one exception shy of a perfect score in this category. The most practical public transit option is the Sierra Spirit bus operated by the Regional Transportation Commission. For 25 cents per rider from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm most days, a bus will make half-hour rounds throughout the University and downtown areas. Reno-Tahoe International Airport is about 15 minutes away by car. Most of the parking around Peccole is behind the center field wall and foul lines, and getting into and out of these free areas on non-school days is not a problem. Knowing the usual risk involved in parking where foul balls tend to land, we recommend parking a few rows behind the high center field wall when possible. The park’s two main entry gates don’t strenuously check visitors, but there’s one thing in this area fans should know about it before attending a game. If you plan on buying tickets at the main gate on the day of a game, bring cash, as the ticket office is not set up to take credit cards at this time, and there are no paperless options. For the crowds typically on hand, the park is spacious and easy to move around in, although it’s not open from the main concourse area. The permanent restroom on site is also sufficient for the park’s needs, and reasonably clean. There are several handicap-accessible parking spaces behind the third baseline and a smattering of accessible seats throughout the stadium. Return on Investment 4 An outing at Peccole Park is just about the right price for a program at Nevada’s level and is sports entertainment on a budget. Single-game tickets start at $7 for the outfield general admission section and go up to $9 in the two reserved sections behind the dugouts and $11 behind home plate. Youth and senior tickets in the outfield section are just $5. Group purchases of 20 or more tickets can bring costs down to $5 each in the outfield or $7 each in the reserved areas. Tickets for a whole season – usually 20-25 home games – start at $130 in the outfield and “Dugout Club” booster area, $145 in the reserved sections, and $190 behind home plate, with youth and senior season tickets in the outfield only $45. Mini-plans in increments of four games ($28 outfield, $32 reserved) and eight games ($46 outfield, $54 reserved) for any games you choose are also available. Another way to save even more money at the park is the $2 Tuesday games, where general admission tickets and hot dogs are just $2 each. For most other home games, a standard ballpark hot dog and a soda won’t eclipse $15. Extras 2 While the ballpark itself is thoroughly adequate in most ways, one particular extra sets it apart from its peers in the Mountain West, and that’s the view from inside. The downtown Reno skyline and Sierra Nevada mountains in right field and hills out in the left field make for a great backdrop. This is especially true for night games when the field and the skyline are lit up, and you can tell the stadium was oriented with those views in mind. Other extra features common at other ballparks include the numbers and pictures of former Wolf Pack players on the left field wall, a similar poster for retired manager Gary Powers in the right center, a banner of the team’s various championships near the first baseline, and some custom laid stonework of a large Wolf Pack baseball at the main concession stand. While not an “extra,” it’s nice to see these dedications to the program’s past displayed on the outfield wall instead of tons of advertisements. Lastly, the Wolf Pack athletic staff members at the park are courteous, informative, and easy to work with, which is always good for a point in this area.

Photos by Robbie Raskin, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Meridian Centre 1 IceDogs Way St. Catharines, ON N7T 7W5 Niagara Ice Dogs website Meridian Centre website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 5,300 Niagara Through Thick and Thin Near Toronto, the world-famous Niagara Region offers a huge number of delights for visitors beyond the eponymous waterfall. It hosts a world-renowned wine country, with related fine dining, spas, and natural attractions. Nearby, the charming British village of Niagara-on-the-Lake, one time capital of Upper Canada, hosts the annual Shaw Festival of theatre amidst its historic homes converted into B&Bs. The Niagara Escarpment offers excellent hiking, and two Great Lakes feature sandy beaches.But for locals, the crowds of Niagara Falls and high prices in Wine Country are not what bring together the nearly half-million strong region, especially in the depths of winter. In the midst of all these tourist draws lies the locals’ favourite activity – the Niagara IceDogs. The OHL’s IceDogs play out of Meridian Centre in the city of St. Catharines, located at the urban heart of Niagara Region. Known as the ‘Garden City’ due to its mild climate and abundant gardens, St. Catharines is tucked in between Lake Ontario and the towering Niagara Escarpment. The city of 150 000 is the largest in the Niagara Region, and Meridian Centre has anchored its town centre since 2014.  Although the arena is lovely, the past couple years on and off the ice have been difficult for the hockey club. In 2022, a human resources scandal rocked the club and forced the owners, the Burke family, to sell it. A new consortium, including the legendary Wayne Gretzky, purchased the club and restored hope for stability. But it wasn’t to be. Another scandal hit the club shortly into the new ownership’s tenure involving multiple players, bringing suspensions, fines, and forfeited draft picks. All the chaos has caught up with the club, who have struggled mightily on the ice. But the Boys in Red still have the support of Niagara, and it looks like that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. In the meantime, Meridian Centre is an excellent place to catch an IceDogs game, in a touristic paradise. Food & Beverage 3 Niagara’s stature as a wine region of global repute has been growing momentously for about two decades so far. With that comes a culture of gastronomy that flows through St. Catharines’ hip downtown core. The food inside the arena is fairly standard for a modern OHL rink, with a couple signature items but largely ordinary fare. Just about every concession offers the usual poutine ($10.75) and pizza ($7.50), with the standout savoury item being a Chicken Parm sandwich (16.50 for a combo). You certainly won’t go hungry, but Meridian Centre isn’t exactly a culinary destination either - enjoy the restaurants of nearby St. Paul and James Streets if you’re including a meal as part of your evening. Being in wine country, though, it’s the drinks selection that sets Meridian Centre apart, as well it should. Beyond the usual ‘cheap’ imports, craft beer cans come from Oast House and Bench Brewery, with cider from Niagara Cider Co. (all $13). But where the fun really begins is Niagara wine on draught, with a small variety of local wines from Vineland Estate on tap for $14. That’s the way to drink in wine country! Atmosphere 4 Meridian Centre is best described as clean, bright, spacious, and new-feeling, even though it’s now a decade old. It also manages to avoid the cookie-cutter bowl shape with many modern rinks; an asymmetrical layout keeps things interesting.  The defining quirk of the arena is its topographical situation. The arena is located in a deep ravine, at the bottom of the high land upon which downtown St. Catharines is perched. In fact, the roofline of the arena is mostly even with street level of the surrounding neighbourhood, rather than rising above it. Fans don’t enter at ground level and climb up to their seats, as usual. Here you actually enter from the roof and descend into the arena. Two footbridges connect the top level of the rink to bustling St. Paul Street, though usually only one is open for hockey. Fans descend two or three levels to the seating bowl. Strange as it may seem, the design works efficiently. Emerging from the stairwell, fans enter a concourse that wraps all the way around the arena and is wide open to the ice, meaning no one has to miss any action when leaving their seats. At the west end of the rink, the open feel is particularly notable, with a double-height open terrace. Along here there are concessions, exhibitor booths, and the interesting St. Catharines Sports Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is small but features interesting rotating displays, and is open to the ice, rather than tucked away into a separate room. The seats themselves are steeply pitched and comfortable, affording good views. Unfortunately they are painted in the blue and orange colours of title sponsor Meridian Credit Union, rather than the IceDogs red and black. It isn’t too distracting, as the seats are usually quite full anyway. Upstairs at the club level, a tier of suites lines each side of the rink with a spacious hospitality area at the east end. At this end, banners hang commemorating the current club’s achievements as well as the historic Blackhawks and Teepees clubs who used to play in town. In-game presentation is focused, without too much obtrusive music or advertising. The IceDogs uniquely (for Canada) employ cheerleaders, but they are relegated to a corner of the seating bowl and dance in place to any music piped in. Neighbourhood 5 Few places offer as many tourist attractions in such close proximity as does Niagara Region. Niagara Falls is twenty minutes away from Meridian Centre, with its Vegas-level glitz as well as the famous waterfall. Minutes downriver is the genteel Niagara-on-the-Lake, a world away from the light and sound of the Falls, with postcard-perfect villages set amidst vines. Here, the crowds eschew casinos and theme parks for old pubs, fine dining, historic forts, and of course wineries. Just outside the doors of Meridian Centre, downtown St. Catharines has emerged as a trendy, somewhat bohemian locale centred on St. Paul Street and James Street. Fans looking for dining or drinks on either side of the match will do well to take a stroll up St. Paul Street or James Street, a couple blocks in either direction from where the footbridges deposit you. Not far away, in warm weather, the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta is reputed to be one of the top two rowing venues on the planet. The serene course is tucked away in the tony Port Dalhousie neighbourhood and has excellent walking trails alongside. Another spot for the enthusiast is the new Canada Games Park up the hill in Thorold, where Brock University’s hockey teams play. The brand new arena was built as a showpiece of the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games and is truly magnificent for Canadian university sport. Fans 4 The IceDogs have struggled mightily in recent years, and attendance has definitely fallen from pre-pandemic averages of near-sellout crowds. Still, a steady core of nearly 4000 have stuck it out at Meridian Centre, which puts them in the top half of the league. That loyalty is something to be proud of, given the shambolic state of the club in recent years. As is common with most hockey in English Canada, the real unfiltered boisterous fans remain in the junior leagues, with the spotless new arenas being a more family-friendly environment. Still, IceDogs fans are fairly loud and the generic ‘Go Dogs Go’ chants and Viking claps are common. When the arena is full for a big match, though, the crowd can be one of the better ones in the OHL. When the on-ice product improves, expect a rebound to sellout crowds quickly enough. Access 5 It couldn’t be easier to get to Meridian Centre from around Niagara, as long as you can handle a short walk as part of the journey. The ravine-bottom entrance of the arena is actually right alongside Highway 406, which connects St. Catharines with southern Niagara cities of Welland and Port Colborne.  That said, parking at the bottom level is extremely limited. Drivers should go up to street level in the downtown and park there. There are two large city parkades on either end of the neighbourhood, within five minutes’ walk, and lots of private parking that will cost $15-$20 for the evening. Public transport is a great way to get to the hockey, given the St. Catharines bus terminal is steps from the rink.  All local bus routes pass through the terminal as do a number of regional routes from cities like Niagara Falls. Express bus service with GO Transit, Flixbus, or Megabus comes from Toronto, Hamilton, and Niagara Falls better than every hour. Similarly, GO Trains from Toronto pass through the nearby station (15 minute walk) en route to Niagara Falls. For the adventurous American fan, there are even trains from New York City that call in St. Catharines en route to Toronto. Within the arena, concourses are wide and there are ample washrooms as would be expected of a modern arena. Lineups for toilets are rarely an issue, even during intermissions. Return on Investment 4 Single match tickets range from $15-$30 and represent the typically strong value proposition of junior hockey. Season memberships begin at roughly $450 and rise to about $1300 for the ‘Club’ seats, with their private mezzanine above one end of the ice. Concession prices are average for the OHL, and there are regularly sales on for merchandise at the team shop. Extras 4 One aspect that stands out at Meridian Centre are the classy ushers, outfitted in their bespoke red suits. These folks do a great job assisting fans and are present at every section of the seating bowl. Another point for the history on display from previous St. Catharines hockey clubs including the Teepees and Blackhawks, as well as local NHL legend Stan Mikita. Despite the newness of the IceDogs in their current iteration, they’ve done a good job absorbing the history of previous teams in the city. An extra point is deserved for the richness of the surrounding area in terms of attractions for any visitor. StadiumJourney is about 'away days' and exploring new areas anchored by sport. There is so much more for any type of traveller, all within twenty minutes of Meridian Centre; few stadia on earth can compare in this regard. Finally, a point for the enjoyable Sports Hall of Fame, worth an intermission visit. Final Thoughts The IceDogs will get better some day, eventually it will be inevitable. Until then, strong support and a great arena make a trip here worthwhile. Meridian Centre still feels shiny and new after a decade, yet it also avoids feeling like a cookie-cutter modern venue. Coupled with a charming surrounding neighbourhood and world-class tourism draws beyond it, hockey fans should definitely consider OHL hockey in St. Catharines as part of a trip to Niagara.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Emirates Stadium 75 Drayton Park London, England N5 1BU United Kingdom Arsenal FC website Emirates Stadium website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 60,432 A Game for Gunners The Gunners, what a nickname for a football club. Essentially it is a spot-on moniker, as the Arsenal Football Club was erected by and for the employees of the Woolwich Arsenal Armament Factory in 1886. The club first was known as ‘Dial Square,’ which referred to one of the factory’s workshops. Only 5 years later, the official Woolwich Arsenal was adopted, which eventually turned into Arsenal, the club name as we know it now. Arsenal would move to its new grounds Highbury (which is now turned into luxurious lofts, a must see, check the extras sections), finances were the main reason. In 1912/13, the finances didn’t match the ambitions for Arsenal. A move was therefore imminent and after a long process of seeking the right place, they landed in Highbury, which would remain their home until 2005/06. Read more here about the first game at Highbury in 1913. In the time between the first and last game at Highbury, the former stadium of Arsenal had undergone several renovations and extensions. At first, only 20,000 spectators could fit in the basic stadium ground. In 1932, the old west stand was built and opened, again adding 4,000 seating capacity and an additional 17,000 standing seats. In 1936, the monumental East Stand was added and gave an extra 8,000 in capacity (and housed the offices and former main entrance (Marble Halls). In 1935, Arsenal saw its largest crowd at Highbury, when they took on Sunderland in front of 73,295 people. Of course this was during the standing (terrace) area. The Clock End (nicknamed because of the large clock on its roof) stand was redeveloped completely in 1989, providing for 48 executive boxes, and after the Hillsborough disaster (the death of 96 supporters of Liverpool there and the subsequent Report in 1991), work began to convert Highbury into an all-seater stadium.. A new, North Bank stand was opened, providing an additional 12,000 in seating capacity as well as housing a shop and museum. After all, Arsenal was now a top Premier League squad, with probably the smallest stadium around. Highbury (in the 2000s) could only house 38,419 spectators. With Champions League football played yearly, a desire to be on top of the league all the time and with a waiting list for season tickets so humongous, it was time to move on. As there was no space to extend anymore, the club found a piece of land, just a stone’s throw away. The new stadium was built in 2004-2006 and is now the home of Arsenal FC. Emirates Stadium is a very modern and up-to-date stadium, giving seats to 60,704 spectators. Moreover, it houses 150 business units, several restaurants and a clear, close view of the pitch from all seats. It has a two-tier setup, with a stadium round tier of business units in between. The business seats are 7,139 in total and the 150 units hold an additional 2,222. Food & Beverage 3 Food and beverage options are several in the stadium. Service though isn’t very good. The food and drink servers tend to be slow and even refusing larger bills (£ 20 is even considered large), leaving us without a drink on our most recent visit. Drinks are priced at a hefty fee for a plastic bottle of a Scandinavian brew. The stadium offers hot dogs, chicken burgers, a “Jerk Dog” along with variety of pies, chips, sausage rolls, and drinks. Other stands also serve pizza and a bag of sweet indulgence (Maltesers and so on). As for drinks, a small bottle of wine can be purchased along with soft drinks in either a 22 or 32-ounce cup. Water and a hot brew are also available. Furthermore, ordering an alcoholic beverage gives you another disadvantage. You’re not allowed to bring it into the stands, leaving you sipping a half warm, overpriced beer in the concrete jungle underneath the stands, while watching your favourite team score goal after goal. Atmosphere 3 The streets surrounding Emirates Stadium become crowded with fans heading to the game. Vendors sell merchandise from kiosks, matchday programmes are available by multiple vendors, and burgers are grilled as well at certain portable stands. It is suggested to arrive early if you want to take in the ritual of grabbing a couple of pints and a pie from one of the local establishments en route to the grounds. Within the stadium, the design creates a nice and cosy atmosphere. It is reminiscent to the Stadion Feyenoord in Rotterdam, with stands close to the field, rounded out, and no obstructed views. The upper and lower parts of the venue feature standard seating. The upper level of seating is contoured to open space up in the corners and the roof is slanted inward to provide natural airflow and sunlight to the field. Two giant screens are suspended from the roof in both corners of the stadium. As for singing and intensity, consider visiting a game against a higher ranked team. The atmosphere has fallen a bit flat from the Highbury era, when it was all passion and all involvement. The higher prices, the involvement of tourists and all make it an experience that rather falls short of expectations for Premier League football. The stadium will still erupt during high stakes games (such as the North London Derby against Tottenham). There are two giant cannons ouistde the stadium near The Armoury (official team shop) that are act as a barrier and can withstand the impact of a 7-ton vehicle barreling through. This feature is also incorporated in the tall ARSENAL lettering nearby. Neighborhood 4 The neighborhood is one that has been poor for a very long time, but is now somewhat up and coming. If you happen to have time in your schedule, consider stopping at Finsbury Park station (there’s a large fan shop there as well) and hop into the Twelve Pins Pub, offering some good drinks and company (you’ll find a bunch of Arsenal loyals there). Further down Blackstock Road, there are several Eastern-inspired eateries, with a special mention for Yildiz (163 Blackstock Road) which offers one of the best Turkish Kebabs you can find. Get a nice Turkish beer with it and you’re stuffed for the game. As you stroll down you’ll find the Gunners Pub, with wall to wall Arsenal paraphernalia and photos of former legends and squads. Expect prices in this area to be very reasonable (around £2,50 a pint). After some drinks, get to the stadium via Gillespie Road, approximately a short 10 minute walk. The best spot for home supporters would be the Bank of Friendship pub where on a nice day you can sit outside in the beer grade, chat with die-hard Gunner supporters, and maybe even spot a few former players. However, if you are an away supporter the Drayton Park is the ideal spot for you for a pint before the match. Fans 3 Arsenal fans are amongst the more loyal and numerous you can find. For example, the stadium now can hold 60,000 plus spectators and there’s still a waiting list of approximately 40,000 people for season tickets. The memberships are numerous and you will find banners from Arsenal fan clubs from Indonesia, Bulgaria, Korea, Japan and so on throughout the stadium. To the contrary, this makes a lot of fans in the stands, one time tourist visitors. Also, the prices for tickets force a lot of the original fans into bankruptcy, changing the supporters body significantly. The fans do travel all over the world with their team, and they know everything about their team and are very vivid and unanimous in their hate of cross town rival Spurs. Access 4 Access to the stadium is very good, as is basically the case for all London clubs. Tubes run every couple minutes to Arsenal Tube station (take the Piccadilly Line). And from there it’s only a short five minute walk to the stadium. On your way there, first take a peek into Avenell Road to check out old Highbury Stadium. As for other options, you can take the train to Finsbury Park Train Station or Highbury and Islington, offering less crowded exits and a 10 minute walk (Great Northern Rail). Tubes can take you to Holloway Road as well, at the other end of the stadium (also on the Piccadilly line. Reminder: this is exit only). Parking in London is not a viable option as a car is something you can (and should) go without easily. Return on Investment 2 Matchday tickets at Emirates Stadium are hard to come by. Expect to pay a premium through sites such as Viagogo or the official Arsenal ticket exchange. Still, if tickets are available (don’t count on it) then the cheapest seat is £27 for a categorie C game (against low ranked opponents). Most games are either category A or B, starting at a whopping £37 or £65 for the highest. The most expensive go for £97 a game. The return on investment, considering the atmosphere (not a lot of variety in their songs) and being part of a more touristy crowd than diehard supporters, this is not a venue you would love to go back, considering the large hole in your pocket after paying for tickets, not even considering the ridiculous prices for drinks and food in the concourse. Extras 4 Visit the former Highbury Ground, now turned into Highbury Square. You may not be able to get inside, but from the outside the look of the former football venue is awesome. The old East Stand is still intact from the outside, as it is listed as a Grade 2 building (making it impossible to tear down, luckily). Stadium tours are available on non-matchdays, with self-guided tours going from £25 (including Arsenal Museum access) and a legends guided tour costing you a nice £40. These last tours are given by former Arsenal Legends like. Lee Dixon or Perry Groves. Families (2 adults, 2 kids U16) can get a self-guided audio tour for £48 in total, which is a better price. Statues of Arsenal’s great players (Tony Adams, Dennis Bergkamp) are featured just outside the stadium, giving it a nice look and feel. The Arsenal Museum is also located next to the stadium, giving you some interesting insights in Arsenal’s history, its great players, the stadium and so on. It’s interactive and is included in the price for the tour. A nice feature is the old Arsenal clock that has been reinstalled, being moved from the original Highbury stadium. The original clock is located on the outside of Emirates Stadium and inside, you’ll find a newer, bigger version.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Provost Umphrey Stadium 4400 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway Beaumont, TX 77705 Lamar Cardinals website Provost Umphrey Stadium website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 16,000 Lamar Cardinals Rule the Roost The Lamar Cardinals first began playing organized football in 1923, when the school was known as South Park Junior College. The school has had a few interruptions in the course of their athletic history, but formally brought the sport back in 2010, and are now members of the Southland Conference competing in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). With the return of the football team came the remodeling of their home stadium, renovated and rechristened Provost Umphrey Stadium (after a local law firm that was a benefactor of the remodeling). Since that time, the Cardinals have somewhat struggled to find their footing at the DI level. However, the fans have shown up for the home team, and have been rewarded with high-level competition at a great venue. Food & Beverage 3 Food options abound at Provost Umphrey Stadium. There are four food concessions on the home side and two on the visiting team’s side. They parallel each other with the same options on each side. There are, of course, the standard options, such as hot dogs ($4), popcorn, nachos, fountain sodas ($5 for standard, $7 for souvenir cups), and Frito pies. Papa John’s Pizza has slices for sale; a slice of pizza (cheese or pepperoni) is one of four combo meals you can purchase for $7 or $8 (sliced brisket, pulled pork, and fried chicken sandwiches are the others) – each combo meal comes with a regular non-souvenir drink. Despite not having that “wow factor” item as an offering, what Provost Umphrey Stadium does have is a good selection at reasonable prices. I would not be doing my due diligence if I failed to mention one small “strike” if you will against the concessions at Provost Umphrey Stadium – it tends to get fairly frigid in East Texas the closer to winter that the calendar gets. With that said, to date, there are no hot beverages (e.g. hot chocolate or coffee) on the menu; it was the one complaint I audibly heard from several fans regarding the stadium. Atmosphere 3 The remodeling done to Provost Umphrey Stadium makes it truly one of the best looking in the FCS. It has a great overall look and feel; the over $4 million face lift brought in new benches and chair-back seating, new restrooms and concession facilities, a new concourse area, new lighting, and a new playing surface; all of this greatly adds to the overall atmosphere. Also adding to the atmosphere is the actual layout. On one end of the field, up a sloping hill, is the brick facade of the field house. At the half, both the Lamar Cardinals and their opponents march up the hill on zigzagging walkways toward the locker rooms. This is a great visual, and is a treat for fans looking for photo ops. On the other end of the field, up another sloping hill, are the Morgan Suites, which feature the luxury boxes and a 21-and-over only lounge. Finally, yet another unique feature which greatly adds to the overall atmosphere is the fact that both the home and visiting team’s bands are seated in the visiting side bleachers. Neighborhood 3 Beaumont is the largest city in East Texas that is close to the Louisiana border; Provost Umphrey Stadium is located in the heart of the Lamar University campus. As such, you get a great view of the school on your drive to Cardinals games. While Beaumont is not your typical college town, it still has a lot of the same look and feel in certain spots, especially as you get closer to the campus. When looking for entertainment options before and after games, one of the region’s most popular is located right on campus – Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum celebrates the oil boomtown heritage of the region. If you come on the right day, you’ll get to see a reenactment of an actual oil gusher! For some out-of-the-box fun, head on down Interstate 10 to Gator Country Adventure; this is exactly what it sounds like – an actual swamp that is home to dozens of rescued alligators. If you like up-close interaction with animals, this is for you. When it comes to food, the Kampus Korner Bar & Grill is your closest bet to grab a bite either before or after games. For something a little more in line with the geography – you are in the bayou, after all – give Suga’s Deep South Cuisine a try. As for hotels, Beaumont has all of the usual chains; if you are looking for variety, try the MCM Elegante or the Book Nook Inn in nearby Lumberton, Texas. Fans 2 The maximum capacity for seating at Provost Umphrey Stadium since its remodeling is 16,000; the largest attendance is 18,500. That took place way back in 1980 against a visiting Baylor team though. Last season, the average attendance for the Lamar Cardinals was 7,429, far below capacity, and on my most recent visit, this was the case as well. In all fairness though, it was one of those aforementioned chilly East Texas nights, so that could have been the factor behind the low turnout. That being said, the fans that did brave the cold and turn out were engaged in what was happening on the field. They were decked out in their red and black gear, and cheered from beginning to end. One more positive to mention is the area surrounding Provost Umphrey Stadium and how supportive the businesses appear to be of the Lamar Cardinals – there were numerous “Go Cards!” signs and banners throughout the neighborhood. Access 3 Beaumont and Provost Umphrey Stadium are easily accessible from both San Antonio and Houston (the two closest major cities in Texas) via Interstate 10. It’s a short jaunt off the highway to the facility, and the route is clearly marked. From Houston, Beaumont is about an hour and a half drive; San Antonio is just a 4 ½-mile drive. Coming from Louisiana, Lake Charles is about an hour away. At Provost Umphrey Stadium itself, a good portion of the parking is for season ticket holders and is reserved. However, there is visitor parking at the stadium; there is a free area and a $10 parking area a little closer to the stadium. There is also ample free parking throughout the neighboring area; if you’re up for a walk, this might be the way to go, plus you get the chance to stroll the campus, which is nice. As of now, there is no clear bag policy at Provost Umphrey Stadium, but security will search any large bags and/or backpacks. Return on Investment 3 General admission seating for Lamar Cardinals games at Provost Umphrey Stadium start at $20 per person. These are your standard stadium/bench type seats. For $30, there are reserved chairback seats; if you’ve got some issues with sitting for long periods of time, like you would at a college football game, this might be the best bet for you. The Lamar Cardinals play a great conference schedule; the Southland typically has some of the best competition at the FCS level, and the team also typically has at least a game or two in non-conference against a real powerhouse on the FBS level. When you factor in the ticket cost, combined with the free parking, and the value you get at the concessions stands – especially when you look at the combo choices – you are getting a great bang for your buck in Beaumont. Extras 2 All of the trappings of big-time college football are found at Provost Umphrey Stadium. The Cardinals marching band – known as The Showcase of Southeast Texas – has won numerous awards over the years. When you see them in action at halftime, you’ll understand why. Also patrolling the sidelines and stands is Lamar’s mascot, Big Red. For kids, seeing a human-sized cardinal will be a highlight, as Big Red is known to seek out young Lamar Cardinals fans for photo ops. One last bit of “extra” to mention, this one for all the ferroequinologists – aka train enthusiasts – out there – Amtrak’s rail line runs directly behind the visitors stands, and frequently you can see the trains these during game times. It’s a neat design feature that adds just a little more flavor to Lamar Cardinals games. Final Thoughts While I personally would have liked to see more of a turnout on the home side for the game I most recently attended, overall I can say I was heartily satisfied with my visit to Provost Umphrey Stadium. Beaumont itself is highly underrated as a city, and I look forward to visiting again. The game experience for Lamar Cardinals football is one you should take in if you are in the area, if for nothing else than the bargain you get for the experience you receive. Pay a visit, you won’t be disappointed. Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 . Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com .

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.00 Kezar Stadium 670 Kezar Dr San Francisco, CA 94118 Map It Sacred Heart Cathedral website Kezar Stadium website Year Opened: 1924 Capacity: 9,000 Welcome to Kezar Stadium Nestled on the outskirts of Golden Gate Park and in the heart of San Francisco rests an elegant football stadium filled with history. Ever since it first opened its doors in 1925, Kezar Stadium has hosted countless football games and track and field events. Of course, it's best known for being the first home of the 49ers from 1946 through 1971.   After the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake , it was condemned and demolished, reduced to a high school football stadium with a public track surrounding the gridiron. On one side of the field is a replica of the arch that once greeted fans years ago. On the other side of the field is the last true remnant of the stadium, a long, dark and narrow tunnel. In the past, players were able to walk through it on their way to the game, but it's been closed for years due to asbestos. There are rumors that one day that tunnel will get cleaned and players will be able to go through one of the coolest entrances in all of high school football.  The school that most uses Kezar Stadium these days is the Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory Fightin’ Irish. Founded in 1852, it is the city’s oldest Catholic secondary school as well as its first co-ed Catholic high school. It has an esteemed history in athletics with alumni such as the NFL’s Kevin Gogan and Keith Ismael. The Fightin’ Irish football program further established themselves as a Bay Area power by winning their first ever state championship in 2021. Food & Beverage 1 With just two taco trucks on hand and the booster club selling cookies on the home side of the stadium, the food options at Kezar Stadium are scarce. However, they won’t stop you from bringing food into the venue. All through the game, one can see small pizza boxes from North Beach Pizza just across the street. Atmosphere 2 The atmosphere  resembles t he team. While it’s not usually the most talented bunch, they try hard and sometimes even come away with a victory. While the atmosphere  is  not particularly lively, the people in charge  try  their best to give the fans the very best experience possible. Even though the band  is  small it  is surprisingly loud and vibrant, a mirror image of the atmosphere at Kezar Stadium.  Speaking of Kezar Stadium, there are large patches of grass in the end zones where the stands once stood. All through the game, you can see people walking around the myriad of walkways around the green, either playing with a football or making a nice Friday night stroll to take in the scenery.  Neighborhood 3 The stadium is located in the heart of San Francisco, nestled between the expansive and gorgeous Golden Gate Park and a very busy intersection. There are numerous restaurants across the street from Kezar Stadium. These eateries are an eclectic bunch that include CreoleLa, Lava Java, the Kezar Pub and North Beach Pizza.  Kezar Stadium is five miles away from both the Golden State Warriors Chase Center and the Giants Oracle Park . The Stanyan Park Hotel is across the street, but at $162 a night, it’s a bit pricey for a three-star hotel. There are hotels dotting the landscape between Kezar Stadium and both Oracle Park and the Chase Center, some offering cheaper deals.   Fans 2 The stadium has a capacity of over 9,000 ye t when we visited,  there were probably less than 1,000 people in attendance. Of course, the away team was from San Jose, which is more than an hour away. But the Fightin’ Irish side wasn’t particularly crowded either.  No matter the size, the crowd  is i nto the game, often yelling at the referees for questionable calls, gasping at close calls and cheering on big plays. In other words, it’s a typical night in high school football. Access 1 Other than the small parking lot next to the stadium, finding a parking spot can be dicey. There is scattered parking on the street, but it's not recommended unless you’re on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. DO NOT park in the Golden Gate Park Music Concourse Garage. While the mile long walk is lovely and the $6.50 an hour isn’t the end of the world, the place is all underground and has so many entrances and exits throughout the Music Concourse that it will make your head spin. Also, most of the entrances close after night games so your head will probably spin even more. Taking the bus to the game might be the best option as there are seemingly countless bus stops all around Kezar Stadium. Once you get to the stadium, there is a small screening station where they do bag checks. But you needn’t worry about the line as high school football in the regular season usually doesn’t attract massive crowds in Northern California. Usually. There are bathrooms on either side of the stadium, under both scoreboards. While both are in good enough shape, the one on the visitor’s side didn’t have any workable sinks to wash your hands, meaning that you will have to trek all the way to the other side of the field to do so.  Return on Investment 3 The $11 spent on GoFans.com  is worth it. The nearly $30 spent on parking is not. But this is the type of experience that goes beyond the dollar amount. Even though it doesn’t look much like the old stadium, this place permeates history in every corner. In general, the home team is not the most talented, but they often play against good teams and always play against those opponents with a lot heart and a lot of hustle. Extras 2 The stadium is filled with seats from past 49ers games at both Kezar Stadium and Candlestick Park. While the old wooden benches are slowly rotting away, the red plastic seats are in terrific condition. In total, the stadium has 5,000 seats from Candlestick Park, which is a little over half of its capacity. With the stadium filled with vintage seats from both Kezar’s golden era as well as Candlestick Park, one has the unique option of either collecting splinters or sitting in a seat with armrests, a true luxury for high school sports. Final Thoughts While getting to Kezar Stadium can cause quite a headache, it’s certainly worth going to a game. If you get there early enough, grab a slice of pizza across the street and explore a ghost from the past. I recommend that you either whip out your phone to look at past pictures to see where the massive sections of seats once stood or do some research on the relic beforehand. After all, history is worth exploring.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Autzen Stadium 2700 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Eugene, OR 97041 Oregon Ducks website Autzen Stadium website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 54,000 Bright Yellow Football on the West Coast Autzen Stadium opened in 1967, and was featured in the 1978 cult classic, National Lampoon’s Animal House. The stadium underwent a massive $90 million renovation in 2002, which increased capacity to its current level of 54,000. Despite its relatively small size compared to many other FBS stadiums, Autzen Stadium is one of the loudest college football stadiums in the country, regularly hitting over 100 decibels inside, and consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top 10 places to watch a college football game. Food & Beverage 4 While Autzen Stadium has a wide variety of concessions options, its All American stand is the most common, with over a dozen locations inside the venue, especially on the upper level. That said, if you want something besides the stadium basics such as hot dogs and pizza, you may need to walk around to find one of the other stands – which is simple enough, though, as the venue is not that big. At the All American stand you can find all of the classic stadium fare, including hot dogs, smoked sausage, pizza, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, peanuts, ice cream, caramel corn, and packaged candy, as well as Pepsi products, bottled water, coffee, hot cocoa, and frozen lemonade. Prices for food items at this stand range from $3 up to $9, while beverages cost between $4 and $5. All of the other concessions stands at Autzen Stadium seem to only have two locations, one on each side, but they offer plenty of variety, including tacos, burritos, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, Italian sausage, bratwurst, pulled pork, burgers (including a Vegan selection), and even salmon sandwiches – these items may cost $2 to $3 more than the main dishes mentioned above. However, note that all of the concessions stands inside Autzen Stadium sell the same items that are available at the All Amerian stands, so you can find those items anywhere. In addition, there are also a few small kiosks dotted around where you can find other items, such as kettle corn and Oregon’s famous one-pound ice cream sandwich. Atmosphere 5 Autzen Stadium provides a great atmosphere for college football, with lots of crowd noise, near sellout crowds, lively music that gets fans dancing, and tailgating that starts at least three hours before kickoff. Like many other football schools, the Oregon Ducks also have a great marching band, which performs before the game and during halftime. The band runs several different formations during pregame, including forming a giant “O”, as well as spelling out “D-U-C-K-S” to both sides of the stadium. The PA system also plays loud music throughout the game, including video at times, which keeps the fans engaged. The videoboard will also occasionally display a decibel meter, particularly during third downs, to motivate fans to get even louder. One of the most fun moments at an Oregon football game, however, is when the Ducks come onto the field before the game, led by Oregon’s mascot The Oregon Duck, riding on the back of a motorcycle. Accompanied by flag bearers running with banners spelling out “D-U-C-K-S”, this is a cool sight to see! Neighborhood 4 Autzen Stadium is located only about a quarter mile from the University of Oregon’s campus, and is bordered on the south by the Willamette River. There are several footbridges you can use to cross the river, and there are plenty of restaurants on that side (there isn’t much on the north side of the stadium, which is bordered by I-105). Two popular restaurants near Oregon’s campus are Chula’s Restaurant and Cantina, which features happy hour specials and small plates, and Oregon Electric Station, located inside a former train station, which features live jazz. If you are planning to be in town for the day or for the weekend, there are also several things to do in the Eugene area, the most popular being the Cascades Raptor Center, which is open from 10-6 from April to October, but only from 10-4 November through March (the center is closed on Mondays). Another popular attraction is hiking or biking along the Willamette River, and there are several parks along the river as well, on both sides. The closest hotels to Autzen Stadium are the EVEN Hotel and La Quinta Inn & Suites, both of which are within walking distance of the facility. There are also plenty of choices near campus, on the other side of the river, or along I-5, to the east of the stadium. Fans 5 Oregon football has a great fan base, with most fans showing up to Autzen Stadium wearing bright yellow team gear, with some green mixed in for good measure. As mentioned previously, games here tend to be sellouts or near sellouts, and the fans are loud and generally engaged, helped by the lively music coming through the PA system. One of the traditions they are trying to start at Autzen Stadium is that before the kickoff, fans in the student section will sway from side to side, reminiscent of what you will see at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field, although not to the same scale. Access 4 Thanks in part to the smallish size, moving around Autzen Stadium is relatively easy – the 2002 renovation widened the concourses and upgraded the bathrooms and concessions stands, which means there is plenty of room to move around, and short lines for the restrooms and concessions. There is also a walkway around the top of the bowl, which makes it easy to get to your seat no matter which entrance you come in at, and you can also use that walkway to find your favorite concessions stand at halftime. Eugene even has its own small airport, which makes it easy to get in and out of town on game day. That said, I would recommend getting to the game early, however, as even 2 hours before kickoff some of the parking lots near Autzen Stadium are already full. You can find parking for $20 within a few blocks of the stadium (on the north side), or you can park for free on the streets in some of the neighborhoods on the east side of the stadium (turning down Kinsrow Ave or Chevy Chase St). No matter where you park, though, getting out afterward can be difficult, as there are a lot of cars in a small space – the local police do a great job setting up cones and routing traffic for optimal flow after the game, but it can still take 30 minutes to go a mile or two. Autzen Stadium is one of those places where you are better off parking as far away as you can stand walking, as this will save you time afterward, since the farther you are from the stadium, the less traffic you will have to contend with. Return on Investment 5 Single-game tickets to Oregon Ducks football games at Autzen Stadium start under $50 for the “upper” level (which isn’t really an upper level, since the whole bowl is a single tier), and this is actually pretty reasonable for big-time college football, and is cheaper than a lot of programs in the Power 5 conferences. Also, even at $20 parking is on par with other stadiums, and if you can park for free it is an even better deal. Plus, there are lots of concessions options for fans on a budget, so a day at Autzen Stadium can end up costing a lot less than going to a game somewhere else, football or otherwise. Extras 5 A great mascot, which actually required a special licensing agreement with Disney to accomplish, is a big plus, and there is also really terrific scenery here at Autzen Stadium, with rolling green hills visible from inside the venue, and the river to the south you can walk along on your way to the game. Some college football diehards may feel that Autzen Stadium lacks energy, since it is only half of the size of certain other FBS programs, but being able to get as loud as it does with only that many fans is pretty impressive, and getting around Autzen Stadium is also much easier, providing a more hassle-free game day (thanks in part to its size, but also a better design). Final Thoughts The chance to see Power 5 college football, at a budget-friendly facility like Autzen Stadium, and one that is so easy to move around, should not be missed. In addition, the Pacific Northwest is a great place to visit, and you can find plenty to do in Eugene while you are here. You will definitely get to see some quality opponents here, so it should be a great time for your whole crew. Go, Ducks!

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Bolding Stadium 700 Wynne Dr Farmville, VA 23901 Longwood Lancers website Charles Buddy Bolding Stadium website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 500 Small Town Baseball in Virginia Located on the campus of Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia, Charles “Buddy” Bolding Field has been home to the Lancers’ baseball team since 1994. The stadium was originally known as Lancer Stadium but was renamed after longtime head coach Buddy Bolding in 2009. Bolding continued to coach the Lancers until 2013, making him one of the few coaches to coach in a stadium named after him. ' Food & Beverage 0 No food or drink is available for sale at Buddy Bolding Field. However, fans are free to bring their own and many bring drinks from the on-campus Starbucks or food from various fast-food places located nearby. We recommend doing so or eating before the game. If you are desperately thirsty, there are a couple of water fountains located by the restrooms but it is better to bring your own bottled water. Note that alcohol is not permitted in the stadium. Atmosphere 2 Buddy Bolding Stadium has a basic layout of a few sets of bleachers separated from the field by netting with a brick façade serving as a backstop behind home plate. None of the bleachers have backs, but if you are in the top row, you can lean against the back fence or the press box depending on where you are. Be sure to get there early if you want these seats – they are the first to get taken. All seats offer a great view of the action as the stadium only seats 500 fans. There is a scoreboard in right-center field which shows a linescore, and theoretically can show video or at least graphics, but this functionality was not working for most of our visit. There is not much to keep fans engaged here other than the usual walkup music. The sound system is crisp and clear and the public address announcer does the standard announcements, advertisements, etc. but not much else. For a baseball purist, this will be fine, but fans looking for something comparable to a minor league baseball game or a Lancers basketball game will be disappointed. Neighborhood 3 Farmville is a quaint, small town, and while it’s in the middle of nowhere, there is still plenty to do here. Although there are typical chain places, your best bet is to check out the local color at places such as Walker’s Diner or Riverside Café, both of which are very close to the stadium. In fact, everything in Farmville is very close to the stadium, because it’s a very small town. Just head off campus and turn onto Main Street and just about everything will be right there. Fans 4 Although Buddy Bolding Stadium only seats about 500 fans, the place is regularly near capacity with Lancers fans. They are knowledgeable about the players, the team, and the history of this program. You will see Lancers fans from across the community come out to support their team game in and game out from longtime fans who remember the Division II days to young kids taking in their first ballgame. The fans can get loud despite their small size, particularly after big Lancers plays. Access 2 There are a few roads into Farmville, but regardless of how you get into town, you are going to have to drive quite a bit. Most likely you will end up taking either State Route 45 or U.S. Route 460, but if you’re coming from any sort of populated area, Farmville probably isn’t close to you. Lynchburg is the closest remotely large city, and it’s a full hour away. Richmond is about an hour and 15 minutes, while Washington, D.C. is about three hours. Once you’re on campus, there are several lots available near the stadium free of charge, although they have been reduced in size in recent years due to the construction of the new tennis courts. Additionally, these lots are used by commuter students on weekdays so you may encounter more crowds if coming for a weekday afternoon game even though the attendance at the game itself will generally be less. There are lots further away if you have to use them as well. There are restrooms on site which are small, but given the small crowds at least in absolute numbers, shouldn’t be much of an issue. Return on Investment 4 Admission to Lancers games is free, as is parking. You won’t pay anything for concessions because there aren’t any. However, given the rather barebones experience, there isn’t enough here to earn the top score. . Extras 1 Look for the banners down the right field line honoring Lancers greats of years past. Final Thoughts Longwood baseball has a loyal fan base despite a relatively short time in Division I. Unfortunately, the stadium they have does not befit this fan base. It is a rather barebones stadium with little going on. The fans are the main reason the experience here is as great as it is, but if the team itself put in more effort to improve the experience like they do for basketball, it would be even greater.

Photos by Gregory Koch Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Hesse Field on the Great Lawn 107 Larchwood Ave West Long Branch, NJ 07764 Monmouth Hawks website Hesse Field on the Great Lawn website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 1,000 (estimated) Soccer on Daddy Warbucks' Great Lawn Located just a mile from the Atlantic Ocean and 50 miles from New York City, Monmouth University is right in the heart of New Jersey. Hesse Field on the Great Lawn is located on Monmouth's campus and is home to the Hawks' men's and women's soccer teams. The stadium is located in the shadow of The Great Hall, a historic mansion that formerly belonged to F.W. Woolworth Company president Hubert Templeton Parson and his wife. Monmouth University acquired it in 1955 and it is currently preserved as a historic landmark. Movie buffs may recognize The Great Hall as the building used for Daddy Warbucks' mansion in the 1982 film Annie . The Great Hall is also known as Shadow Lawn, and is not to be confused with The Great Lawn adjacent to it. Hesse Field is the soccer stadium located on The Great Lawn, which served as a campus quad surrounded by various buildings. There is an additional grassy area behind the stadium that is also part of the quad. Food & Beverage 1 Concessions are sold out of a tent outside Edison Hall, behind the goal that will be on your left as you are sitting on the bleachers. The options are very limited here, with only bottled water, soda, and a few assorted packaged snacks such as chips, candy, and cookies. Fans can bring their food as well, and it is best to do so or eat before or after the match. The good news is that nothing costs more than $2, but bear in mind only cash is accepted. Atmosphere 4 Hesse Field on the Great Lawn features metal bleachers along one sideline, on the opposite side of the field from The Great Hall. There is also a small hill on the mansion side of the field that some fans like to sit on. Wherever you sit, you will be up close and personal to the action at all times. A scoreboard to the right of the seating area also shows shots, saves, and corner kicks for each team, but the labels are illegible at night. The setting on a campus quad in the shadow of a historic mansion does make for a unique place to watch a soccer game, and between the setting and the crowds (more on that later), the atmosphere here can be quite enjoyable. However, because of all the grass and trees in the area, there can be a lot of bugs flying around for night games, especially early in the season before the first frost. We recommend you bring bug spray, although most of the bugs don't bite and are just nuisances. Neighborhood 4 Located just a mile from the Jersey Shore, there is plenty to do in the vicinity of Monmouth University's campus. Although it is in a residential neighborhood, the beaches of Long Branch are just a five-minute drive away. While these won't be helpful later in the season when the temperature of the air and ocean is chilly, it is extremely popular early in the season, over Labor Day Weekend before it cools off. Long Branch and West Long Branch offer numerous restaurants, serving everything from tacos to pizza to Portuguese. While it is more lively when the weather is warm, it can be nice to experience the area without the crowds later in the fall. Fans 4 Monmouth soccer averages about 400 fans a game, filling the bleachers on The Great Lawn quite well. There are the usual friends and family, but also many locals, some of whom have kids who play youth soccer. College soccer is a bigger sport at Monmouth than at many other schools, and it has an accordingly large fan base. While you don't have the roar of the crowd you might see at a professional soccer venue, the fan spirit is quite good for this level. Access 3 Monmouth University is about 15 minutes off the Garden State Parkway via Exit 105 or a 90-minute train ride from New York City. There is a small parking lot right next to the stadium, but according to the Monmouth athletic website, fans are not permitted to park here and must instead park in the main campus lot near Kessler Stadium and the OceanFirst Bank Center . home of Monmouth football and basketball respectively. Parking is free as long as there is not an event at either of those venues. If there is, refer to their respective parking policies. You will want to park as close to the basketball arena as possible, then walk under one of the breezeways that connect the buildings along the academic quad. Turn to your left and walk around Edison Hall (or cut through it you can) and Hesse Field on the Great Lawn will be up ahead on your right. It is about a five-minute walk in total. All that being said, we did observe some fans parking in the lot adjacent to the stadium, and they did not seem to encounter any sort of problems. Park here at your own risk, or use the main lot and walk if you want to avoid any potential trouble. Restrooms are available in Edison Hall. Enter through the door near the concession tent. Note that players also use these doors to get to or from the field, so if they are entering or exiting (such as at halftime), you will need to wait for them to do so. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Monmouth regular season soccer games is free, parking is typically free as long as nothing else is going on, and concessions are quite affordable, albeit very limited. With the gorgeous campus settings and great crowds, a Monmouth soccer game is an excellent value. Extras 2 One bonus star here for the setting of the stadium next to a historic mansion. A second star for the banners behind one goal honoring Monmouth's conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Final Thoughts Hesse Field on the Great Lawn is in a location that is truly worthy of its name. The Monmouth soccer program has built up some loyal fans over the years, and between the crowds and the setting, a Monmouth soccer game on The Great Lawn is a great way to spend a fall afternoon or evening.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Spotswood High School Baseball Field 368 Blazer Drive Penn Laird, VA 22846 Massanutten Mountaineers website At The Foot of Massanutten Nestled in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, the Rockingham County Baseball League is one of the oldest amateur baseball leagues in the country. Virginia's version of town ball was founded in 1924 and is currently celebrating its centennial season. The league's eight teams consist of a mix of current and former college players with ties to the area. Some of the latter have been playing in the league for years. The Massanutten Mountaineers are the newest franchise in the RCBL, having joined in the 2024 season. They play their home games at Spotswood High School in Penn Laird, at the foot of Massanutten Mountain, which is visible behind home plate. In 2023, the RCBL Shockers played at Spotswood after relocating from New Market, where they had shared Rebel Park with the New Market Rebels of the Valley Baseball League for many years. However, officially the Mountaineers are a new franchise, not a continuation of the Shockers. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand at the stadium, located at a window behind home plate. Your only meal options are hamburgers for $3, cheeseburgers for $4, or hot dogs for $2. French fries cost $3, or you can add cheese for an extra dollar. Nachos are also $4. Assorted chips are available for a dollar, as is popcorn. Freeze pops cost 50 cents, and gum is five for a dollar. Candy is $2.50, and for some odd reason "candy" and "chocolate candy" are listed separately on the menu. Payment can be made through Venmo by scanning a QR code. There may be special options available - when Stadium Journey visited, they were selling strawberry shortcakes but options may vary by night. To drink, assorted soda cans are $1.50, iced tea is $2.50, bottled water is $1.5, and Gatorade and Prime (a sports drink made popular by internet personalities) are $2.50. Confusingly, there is a second menu, with different options (and different prices for the same options), visible at the back of the concession stand. This is the menu for Spotswood High School baseball games and is not used for Mountaineers games. Look at the menu that is taped to the window of the concession stand. Atmosphere 2 There is a large set of bleachers at the Spotswood High School Baseball field, located up a hill from the field itself, and down the hill from the parking lot and concession stand. Unfortunately, there is no aisle to climb the bleachers, making getting up and down challenging. The bottom rows are partially obstructed by the wooden railing between the bleachers and the hill. Stone ledge seating is located at the top of the hill as well. That being said, most fans bring their chairs and sit either on the ledges or elsewhere on the grass hill. This means the crowd will be quite spread out for a typical game. A scoreboard in right field shows only the most basic information. The Rockingham County Baseball League is classic small-town ball, and Massanutten is no exception. There are few bells and whistles here, no between-innings contests on the field, just a nice community feel and a place to take in a baseball game in a scenic setting. Like in the rest of the RCBL, fans are not permitted to keep foul balls hit out of play. However, they can return them to the concession stand for their choice of a baseball card or lollipop. You will invariably see kids chasing after the balls hoping to claim their prize. Neighborhood 2 Spotswood High School is located in the shadow of Massanutten Mountain, which is home to the Massanutten Resort. In the winter, this is a popular ski area, but obviously, that will not be possible in the summer when the RCBL plays. Instead, you can find a water park, hotels, golf, and restaurants. If you are not looking for the full resort experience, your best bet is to drive about 15 minutes to Harrisonburg. Here you will find many restaurants and hotels. Fans 3 As the newest franchise in the RCBL (even if you count the Shockers playing at Spotswood in 2023), the Massanutten Mountaineers have not had years to build up a fan base like most of the other teams in the league. Furthermore, the fact that the crowd is so spread out due to the seating arrangements hurts the environment here. That being said, the Mountaineers do draw a decent crowd most nights. As is typical of the RCBL, this is a real community feel, and since it's a small community, many of the fans personally know the players, coaches, and even the umpires. (So be nice when the umpire gets the call wrong - you could be sitting next to his family!) That being said, this is not just a friends and family crowd - a Mountaineers game turns out the whole community. Access 2 Spotswood High School is located just off US Route 33, about 15 minutes east of Harrisonburg. The parking lot is right off the main road, simply turn in and you are there. You will then need to drive around back and to the left to the lot closest to the baseball field. If this fills up, there is other parking available in the school's main lot. There are two single-person gender-neutral restrooms located behind the press box and concession stand, so you may have to wait a bit to use one. The players also use these restrooms, and can occasionally be seen walking up the hill to do so, talking to friends and family along the way. As mentioned above, one major issue here is the tricky seating layout. The bleachers don't have an aisle to climb, meaning you're going to be stepping over the benches to get up there. It may be best to bring your seat if possible. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Massanutten Mountaineers games is typically free, courtesy of a local business that will sponsor the game. On rare occasions, there may be a small charge for admission if there is no sponsor - check the Mountaineers' social media for details. Concessions are also affordable. This makes a Massanutten Mountaineers game an excellent value. . Extras 1 One star here for the beautiful views of Massanutten Mountain behind home plate and the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond the outfield fence. The Rockingham County Baseball League has many stadiums with great views, but Massanutten may have the best, with mountains on three sides of the stadium, and Massanutten almost directly behind it providing an up-close view. Final Thoughts Whether you're a resident of Rockingham County, come from elsewhere in Virginia, or live further afield, if you are in the area, you will want to check out an RCBL game. The Massanutten Mountaineers, like the other seven teams in the league, represent small-town community baseball at its finest. Most seasoned baseball fans associate town ball with Minnesota, but it is alive and well here in Rockingham County, Virginia as well. With gorgeous mountain views and a real community feel, a Massanutten Mountaineers game is a great way to spend a warm summer night.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Ballpark at Harbor Yard 500 Main St Bridgeport, CT 06604 Sacred Heart Pioneers website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 5,300 Pioneers at Harbor Yard Sacred Heart University is located in Fairfield, Connecticut. The Pioneers baseball team plays its home games in the neighboring city of Bridgeport at the Ballpark at Harbor Yard. The Ballpark, built for the professional Bridgeport Bluefish, won the 2009 Atlantic League Ballpark of the Year award. Sacred Heart is a school with an enrollment of just over 6,000 students, which makes it the second largest Catholic University in New England. Over the past 20 years the school has made the transition from a small 12-sport Division II program into a full-fledged Division I school with 32 varsity sports. In 2013 the school made headlines by hiring ex-big league player and manager Bobby Valentine to serve as their athletic director. EDITOR'S NOTE: The stadium closed after the 2017 baseball season. The venue was converted to an outdoor concert amphitheater known as Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater. The Pioneers moved to nearby Veterans Memorial Park in 2019. Food & Beverage 0 Food is not sold at Harbor Yard during Sacred Heart games. Seeing all those concession stands unused may seem like a cruel trick, but fans are welcome to bring their own refreshments to enjoy while taking in the action. Atmosphere 2 When there are only a hundred or so people in a stadium that seats over 5,000, the place is going to look and feel very empty. That is the case at Pioneer games at Harbor Yard. While the fans that are in attendance are vocal and supportive, there is only so much noise that a crowd of this size can make. Likewise, the game day presentation is a scaled down version of what Bluefish fans are used to. The video board in right-center field is not utilized. There is the obligatory walk-up music and PA announcements, but nothing else to distract fans’ attention from the action on the field. Trains pass by the ballpark throughout the game, and from some parts of the ballpark fans can also watch ferries arrive and depart to and from Long Island. Neighborhood 2 The Ballpark at Harbor Yard and its next door neighbor, the Webster Bank Arena, built in 1998 and 2001, respectively, are located in a small neighborhood wedged in between Interstate 95 and the Long Island Sound waterfront. It was hoped that their presence would spur development in the area adjacent to the sports complex. Several buildings were razed to make room for both the stadia and the planned development. Unfortunately, this development has never occurred, leaving only a couple of large unpaved lots adjacent to the ballpark that are now used for parking. Downtown Bridgeport is located on the opposite side of I-95, easily accessible through several underpasses. This area carries a long-standing reputation as an area to avoid, particularly at night. As is the case in many cities, local leaders have worked hard to reverse this reputation, and several businesses have taken up residence in the area near the sports complex. Unfortunately, the area has not totally reached its potential, and many fans come to Harbor Yard solely for the events at the ballpark or arena and leave immediately afterwards. Fans willing to explore the area can find several fine restaurants and theaters in the area, as well as the Barnum and Bailey Museum. Fans 1 The crowds at Sacred Heart baseball games can easily be classified as the “friends and family” type of crowd. Early season crowds generally top out at about 100 fans, and don’t get too much larger as the season wears on. Even though Harbor Yard is only five miles from campus, there is no presence from the student body. Access 4 Ballparks don’t get much easier to find than The Ballpark at Harbor Yard. Located directly off Interstate 95, all one has to do to get to the field is take exit 27A (whether traveling northbound or southbound), follow the signs for a block, and you are there. Parking is available in a small lot behind the ballpark which is used by the Bluefish during their season. This lot is small, but sufficient for Pioneer games. There is a surface lot across the street from the ballpark and a parking garage next to the hockey arena should crowds ever grow large enough to require that much parking. Additional free parking can be found within a short walk of the ballpark. Despite downtown Bridgeport’s less than sparkling reputation, the area around the ballpark is safe. Getting to Bridgeport is a snap, as Interstate 95 passes directly through downtown. The city is located 60 miles northeast of New York City, an hour’s drive south of Hartford, and 20 minutes from New Haven. Amtrak’s northeast corridor trains pass directly behind Harbor Yard, with the station only a couple of city blocks from the ballpark. With the small crowds present at Pioneer games, fans will have no problem getting around the ballpark. While the concession stands are not open, the bathrooms are. But beware, they need a little TLC to bring them up to regular season standards. Return on Investment 4 There is no charge for admission or parking for Pioneer games at Harbor Yard. Although the Northeast Conference will never be rated alongside the nation’s powerhouses, the level of play is good, and you can’t beat the price. Extras 2 Although they have nothing to do with Sacred Heart, the Ballpark at Harbor Yard has a couple of touches that are worth checking out. In the plaza outside of the ballpark is a statue of baseball Hall of Famer and Bridgeport resident James O’Rourke, who is credited with getting the first hit in National League history. Located behind the press box is a mural of several area residents who made their way to the major leagues. Another extra point is awarded for the unique, industrial background here at Harbor Yard. With the giant power plant looming beyond the right field fence and the frequent commuter trains passing by throughout the game, Harbor Yard boasts a most unique backdrop. Final Thoughts Partnerships between minor league baseball teams and universities in the Northeast have proven to be beneficial to all parties involved (Lowell, Tri-city, State College, etc.). The seasons do not overlap, and this arrangement allows for the ballpark to be in use for additional dates. However, with the lack of support shown for the Pioneers at Harbor Yard, one has to wonder if the team would be better served by playing on campus. If you are planning a visit to southern Connecticut, remember that this is New England, and the weather can be very unpredictable at this time of year. Be sure to check with the team, as postponements, time changes, and even venue changes occur regularly in this part of the country. Follow all of Paul Baker’s ballpark and stadium visits on Twitter @PuckmanRI

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Camelback Ranch 10712 W Camelback Rd Phoenix, AZ 85037 Los Angeles Dodgers Spring Training website Camelback Ranch website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 13,000 Dodgertown West This year (2018) the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate their 10th anniversary at Camelback Ranch, their Spring Training facility in Glendale, Arizona. The Dodgers made their move from their fabled digs at Dodgertown in Vero Beach, Florida to be much closer to their West Coast fan base. Camelback Ranch is the largest spring training facility in the Cactus League and is the second newest facility after the Chicago Cubs Sloan Park. The main stadium opened in 2009 and has a capacity of 13,000 (10,000 fixed seats and room for 3,000 on the outfield berms). It features 12 suites, a party deck, and several outfield terraces for groups and parties. The latest new amenities are an extended sunshade along the first base stands and a new 30’ X 50’ HD video board in the right center field. Food & Beverage 4 As you would suspect, the concessions at Camelback Ranch are a mix of baseball standards, southwestern cuisine, and regional favorites from the host teams’ areas. The broad menu includes hot dogs ($6), hamburgers ($8), pretzels ($5), pizza ($7), nachos ($6), tamales ($7), burritos ($6) and chili cheese fries. Camelback Ranch does offer the famous Dodger Dogs ($5). It is extremely important to stay hydrated in the hot and arid climate of Arizona. Beverages available at Camelback Ranch include bottled water ($5), Pepsi brand sodas ($5), fruit drinks ($5) and beer ($10 for domestic brands and $12 for premium brands), and other alcoholic beverages such as margaritas ($12) or wine ($8). Sunscreen is also available at both concession stands and the team stores in case you forget to bring it with you. Atmosphere 4 Camelback Ranch differs from its Cactus League brethren in that it truly embraces the Arizona landscape in its design. The stadium and surrounding facilities truly blend in with nature in an eco-friendly way. The stadium itself is very low profile, as the field is sunk 12 feet below grade and the seating is 12 feet above grade. The materials used in the stadium include stone native to the area, stucco, and earth tones for its metallic surfaces to mimic the surrounding terrain. Even the seats are caramel colored to blend in with nature. The areas outside of the stadium are equally park-like. More than 5,000 plants and trees dot the property, including an orange grove. Several nature trails dot the property, taking you to the various practice fields that are on-site. The Dodger and White Sox facilities are separated by a lake filled with fish. This lake serves as both a cooling zone from the hot Arizona sun and a water source to irrigate the many grass fields on site. A day at Camelback Ranch is truly a day in the park, both in the ballpark sense and in the natural connotation. It is a very relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy a ball game. Neighborhood 4 While the Camelback Ranch is a large facility it is somewhat isolated from services such as restaurants, shops, and lodging. The “neighborhood” when referencing Camelback Ranch can be found on just the other side of the Highway 101 interchange. The Glendale Sports and Entertainment District offers a wide variety of options for visitors to the area. It includes more than 26 restaurants, including Culver’s Butter Burgers and Frozen Custard, as well as McFadden’s. Glendale is also home to two professional sports franchises, the Arizona Cardinals and the Arizona Coyotes. Fans 4 You will see a wide spectrum of fans at Camelback Ranch games, or at any Cactus League games for that matter. First, you will see many locals who are spending their retirement years in the greater Phoenix area. Sun City is located just a few miles from the Camelback complex. They may originally have hailed from one of the cities involved in the game or have no rooting interest and simply love the game. White Sox fans gravitate towards the 1st baseline, while Dodgers fans typically sit along the 3rd baseline due to the designation of a dugout for each of the partnering teams. A second set of fans will come from the home base of the teams involved and they are checking out the prospects for their team for the season to follow. This is the primary reason the Dodgers moved closer to their fan base in Los Angeles. Since they have a large Hispanic fan base, you will see touches like a wider choice of Mexican foods available, Mexican music being played during the games, and items in the team store bearing the Los Doyers name. Another portion of the crowd is a combination of families from multiple generations. You will see many grandparents bringing their grandchildren to a game. Pre-season baseball is famous for being the easiest time to get a player’s autograph and Camelback Ranch’s design makes it very easy for that to happen. The best thing about fans at spring training time is that the vibe is very relaxed and there is not a great deal of competitiveness in the stands. Everyone understands that teams are getting the veterans into shape and prospects are getting evaluated in this period. A game result or team record is not necessarily indicative of the team’s performance once the regular season starts. This makes the fan experience very enjoyable at Camelback Ranch. Access 4 Camelback Ranch is one of the most accessible facilities in the Cactus League. Its location at the intersection of the multi-lane West Camelback Road and Highway 101 makes it very easy to reach by car or public transportation. It features several parking lots which surround the stadium, allowing you to park as close as possible to where your seats are. There are two main entry points, with one in center field and one in the home plate area. Upon entering the stadium, the concourse is at grade level, which is very easy for the large number of seniors who attend the games to navigate. Concession stands and restrooms are plentiful. The berms in the outfield are on a very gradual slope, making it easy for fans to reach their seat. Cooling stations and shaded areas dot the stadium to protect fans from the hot Arizona sun. Return on Investment 3 Camelback Ranch games command one of the highest ticket prices in the Cactus League. They range from $10 for a seat on the berm up to $45 for a seat in the home plate area. Concessions are also above average in cost compared to other stadiums. Parking at Camelback is free. There are many hotels at the West Camelback / Highway 101 interchange at various price points. Extras 5 The Dodgers kept the original name of the property as it was a working ranch at the base of the Camelback mountains. The Dodgers share the Camelback Ranch facilities with the Chicago White Sox. Both teams also use the facility as the base for their Arizona League teams. Two other professional sports franchises are located just across Highway 101 from Camelback Ranch. Gila River Arena is home to the Arizona Coyotes of the NHL and the University of Phoenix Stadium hosts the NFL Arizona Cardinals. The Dodgers have some interesting art pieces along the lakeside trail. You will meet a life-size bobblehead of Tommy Lasorda at one point and encounter the Walk of Fame featuring a large baseball signed by Dodger greats in another area. When the Dodgers are hosting a game, Dodger Dogs are served at the concession stands. Final Thoughts Baseball traditionalists who bemoan the loss of the original Dodgertown in Vero Beach forget their regrets when they see Camelback Ranch. The Dodgers’ Cactus League headquarters does a great job of remembering the Brooklyn origins of the club while providing the Los Angeles fans with a much more convenient location to visit and a great set of amenities.