The 2026 season marks 40 years since the founding of Eagle Pro Box Lacrosse League, which would eventually become the National Lacrosse League. The league welcomed the Oshawa FireWolves for their first season after moving from Albany. Partway through the season the league received word that the ownership of the Philadelphia Wings would not continue to operate the franchise after the 2026 season. At the time of writing, no alternative location for the Wings had been revealed and it is possible the franchise will just be folded. Keegan Bal of the Vancouver Warriors led the league with 124 points while Tanner Cook of the Calgary Roughnecks led the league with 49 goals. Brett Dobson of the Georgia Swarm was the top goaltender with a 7.86 GAA and an 85% save percentage. Dobson brought home the awards for both Goaltender of the Year and NLL MVP. The Vancouver Warriors ended the regular season in first place with 13 wins. However, the Toronto Rock defeated the Halifax Thunderbirds two games to none to take home their 7th NLL Championship. Sam English of the Rock was named NLL Playoff MVP. The Rock are now tied with the Buffalo Bandits for most NLL Championships. Stadium Journey was in the front row this lacrosse season with updated reviews in Calgary and the newly renovated arena for the Rock. Brand new reviews were produced for Oshawa and Vancouver. The annual NLL rankings at Stadium Journey are based on the FANFARE metric used on the website, where a number of different writers assess the hockey experience based on the categories of Food, Atmosphere, Neighborhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment and any extras that the writers experienced. The stakes are high, with an average grading of 3.63 being earned out of a possible perfect 5.0. Without further ado, Stadium Journey is proud to present the 2026 Rankings of the National Lacrosse League Experiences. 14. Lee’s Family Forum - Las Vegas Desert Dogs - NR Stadium Journey needs your help! If you can help us with a review of the Las Vegas Desert Dogs, please contact Stadium Journey!! 13. TD Coliseum - Toronto Rock - 3.14 Dave Cottenie - After being the final event in the venerable Maple Leaf Gardens, the Toronto Rock moved south to join the Leafs and Raptors at what was then known as the Air Canada Centre. The Rock enjoyed great success in Downtown Toronto, but decided to make the move west, back to Hamilton in 2021. While maintaining the Toronto Rock brand, the team, under the ownership of Jamie Dawick, helped push the FirstOntario Centre to a much-needed renovation. After a year in Mississauga during construction, the Rock have returned to the newly christened TD Coliseum and are optimistic about the future in the Hammer. TD Coliseum opened in 1985 as Copps Coliseum to attract an NHL expansion franchise in the forefront. The shock of Ottawa gaining the Senators at the detriment of Hamilton still has not fully healed. The Coliseum has been home to a host of AHL franchises and the OHL’s Hamilton Bulldogs. In 2024, the City of Hamilton began a $300 million renovation on what would become TD Coliseum. 12. Ball Arena - Colorado Mammoth - 3.29 Meg Minard - The Mammoth put on a good show; it is all very well coordinated. The introduction includes motorcycles on the court and smoke and fire when the Mammoth players are announced. The young, pretty, athletic Wild Bunch dancers entertain the crowd during breaks in the game. And, a half time show includes various entertainment acts. 11. Canadian Tire Centre - Ottawa Black Bears - 3.29 Dave Cottenie - It was a somewhat surprising announcement that saw the rebirth of box lacrosse in Ottawa. GF Sports, the New York-based owner of the New York Riptide, announced the relocation of the National Lacrosse League franchise to the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario. The circumstances surrounding the move were a little bit hazy, however, it is believed that the Riptide were evicted from their home, the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island, due to low attendance. The return of lacrosse to the Capital Region is a welcome one. The NLL left Ottawa as the Ottawa Rebel struggled at the gate, playing from 2001 to 2003. The Rebel would move to Edmonton and eventually become the current Saskatchewan Rush. 10. Tribute Communities Centre - Oshawa FireWolves - 3.43 Dave Cottenie - In 2021, the Toronto Rock moved westward from Toronto to the city of Hamilton. Among the most controversial issues surrounding this move, along with keeping the Toronto brand, was the greater distance that lacrosse fans on the east side of Toronto would now have to travel for the highest level of professional lacrosse. In 2025, a plan to help alleviate this issue was hatched with the relocation of the Albany FireWolves to Oshawa. Oshawa is 63 km east of downtown Toronto, about equidistant east of Hamilton is west. The FireWolves franchise lineage dates back to the original Philadelphia Wings, who were an original Eagle Pro Box Lacrosse League, now the National Lacrosse League, team in 1987. The Wings moved to Connecticut in 2015 to become the New England Black Wolves, and Albany in 2021 to become the FireWolves. 9. SaskTel Centre - Saskatchewan Rush - 3.57 Jim Flannery - Until 2016 the province of Saskatchewan was home to just a single professional sports franchise: the Roughriders, playing in Regina as part of the Canadian Football League. That is no longer the case as the Saskatchewan Rush are now residing in Saskatoon. The Rush had a busy and exciting 2015. In their 10th year of operation in the National Lacrosse League, they won their division for the third straight season, went to the Champion’s Cup for the second time, and won their first championship. A few weeks later, the team announced that they were relocating from Edmonton to Saskatoon. As a result, folks in Saskatoon are not only getting their first pro sports franchise, but they’re getting to see it played at the highest level, with a top-ranked squad coming to town. The Rush now play indoor (aka ‘box’) lacrosse at SaskTel Centre. The arena has undergone a number of renovations, expansions and improvements since it opened its doors in 1988, with seating capacity more than doubled in that time, such that the facility can now hold more than 15,000 people. 8. Pechanga Arena - San Diego Seals - 3.57 Meg Minard - The San Diego Seals are members of the National Lacrosse League (NLL), beginning play in the 2018-2019 season. They have been successful, enjoying winning seasons since their inception. The Seals play their home games at Pechanga Arena in the Midway District of San Diego, CA. Pechanga Arena also hosts the San Diego Gulls (AHL hockey). It is also home to a variety of other entertainment such as concerts, Disney on Ice, Harlem Globetrotters, and more. A busy and popular Kobey’s Swap Meet is held every weekend in the parking lot of the arena. Built in 1966, the arena is set up to be functional, not like the whiz-bang marvels built these days for sports facilities. It serves the Seals well from a fan perspective. 7. Gas South Arena - Georgia Swarm - 3.57 David Welch - Lacrosse has long been popular in the mid-Atlantic, northeastern states, and throughout Canada, but the sport’s popularity in the south has just started to blossom in the last decade. The growth of lacrosse in Georgia has been helped by the addition of the Georgia Swarm of the National Lacrosse League. The NLL is a 14-team indoor lacrosse league with teams throughout the United States and Canada, playing their inaugural season in 1987. Indoor lacrosse is a combination of field lacrosse, played within a hockey rink on sports turf, with the production level of professional basketball. 6. Scotiabank Centre - Halifax Thunderbirds - 3.71 Greg Johnston - Halifax, Nova Scotia has quickly become an enticing city for attracting professional sports franchises.​ Curt Styres pursued an opportunity to relocate his National Lacrosse League’s (NLL) franchise. ​The Halifax Thunderbirds commenced play at Scotiabank Centre in 2019 after twenty-five seasons competing in Rochester, New York. Formally known as the Knighthawks, the team celebrated much success on the field winning five championships (1997, 2007, 2012, 2013 & 2014) and ten division titles. In an unusual turn of events, the Knighthawks are still in existence, but now as an expansion team with new owners, players and logo. The records and championships belong to the Thunderbird franchise. 5. Xfinity Mobile Arena - Philadelphia Wings - 3.71 Dave Cottenie - RIP Philadelphia Wings 4. Rogers Arena - Vancouver Warriors - 3.86 Dave Cottenie - The National Lacrosse League has long been known as an everyman league, where the players are generally more accessible than those in other major leagues, and many are actually “weekend warriors” who have regular jobs during the week. In 2018, the Vancouver Stealth were sold to Francesco Aquilini and his Canucks Sports and Entertainment and moved from the Langley Events Centre in Langley, a significant distance from downtown Vancouver, to Rogers Arena. This was a huge moment for the newly minted Vancouver Warriors bringing NLL lacrosse back downtown for the first time since the days of the Vancouver Ravens in 2004. The Warriors franchise was originally the Albany Attack in 2000. The team moved to San Jose in 2004 to become the Stealth and then up to Everett, Washington in 2010. The move was made to Langley in 2014. 3. Scotiabank Saddledome - Calgary Roughnecks - 3.86 Jim Flannery - The Calgary Roughnecks (NLL) are one of the most successful franchises in Calgary sports history. Since they started playing in November, 2001, they have won three championships, in 2004, 2009, and 2019. Needless to say, their standards for performance are high and their fanbase are dedicated and enthusiastic. While the Saddledome was state-of-the-art when it opened for business, it is starting to be a little long in the tooth more than 30 years later. However, a new arena is now under construction just north of the Saddledome. It is slated to open in 2027, so the clock is officially ticking on when the Saddledome will close its doors. 2. Blue Cross Arena at The War Memorial - Rochester Knighthawks - 4.00 Meg Minard - The Rochester Knighthawks are a member of the NLL (National Lacrosse League), an action-packed game of box lacrosse. This is the second Knighthawk franchise to call the Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial in Rochester, NY its home. The first was a very successful franchise that operated from 1995 to 2019. Its owner relocated the team to Nova Scotia and rebranded them as the Thunderbirds after the 2019 season. The NLL granted an expansion franchise to Pegula Sports and Entertainment (owners of four other professional sports teams in Western New York) to begin playing the 2019-2020 season. Pegula Sports purchased the Knighthawks name to keep that name and lacrosse in Rochester. The organization hired new players and staff and designed new logos and colors for the new team. All championship records of the former team moved with them to Nova Scotia. 1. KeyBank Center - Buffalo Bandits - 4.29 Dave Cottenie - The year was 1992. The Buffalo Bandits were founded in what was then the Major Indoor Lacrosse League. The fledgling league was only five years into their existence and four from being the Eagle Pro Box Lacrosse League. Of that group of seven teams from the 1992 season, only the Bandits remain, uninterrupted and undeterred. The Bandits even predate the current National Lacrosse League, which is what the MiLL would eventually become. Since then, the Buffalo Bandits have been the crown jewel of the league, which has seen plenty of change, strong years and lean years, and looks currently to be stronger than ever.

Photo courtesy of Empower Sports I wrote an article back in July of 2025 about the stadiums that I stumbled upon during a summer vacation in Europe. Quite a few of those were in Norway. Since that trip I have kept up on various soccer/football news coming from “The Land of the Midnight Sun,” so the following news about Bodø/Glimt and their new stadium came across my desk and interested me greatly. Also a favorite YouTuber of mine, Steve Marsh, posted a visit to the team's current stadium. That video will be embedded at the end of this news article. Today (May 20th), Bodø/Glimt officially broke ground on the "Arctic Arena." Scheduled for completion in 2027, the new 10,000-seat facility is specifically designed to meet UEFA requirements for international matches. For a club located north of the Arctic Circle, the project represents a massive infrastructural leap to match their recent on-pitch success. Photo courtesy of Empower Sports Video courtesy of Empower Sports The timing of the construction capitalizes on incredible momentum. The four-time Norwegian champions are coming off a historic UEFA Champions League campaign, reaching the Round of 16 for the first time in their history. The Arctic Arena will serve as a modern upgrade built for the next chapter of the club, ensuring they have a venue suitable for European soccer's biggest stages while acting as a catalyst for business and community growth in Northern Norway. Photo courtesy of Empower Sports Frode Thomassen, CEO of Bodø/Glimt, emphasized that the project is more than just a new pitch and grandstands. “It is a statement about who we are, what we have built together, and where we want to go,” Thomassen noted. “This arena will be the future home of Bodø/Glimt and a place that reflects the ambition, energy and unity that have driven this club’s remarkable journey.” Steve Marsh's Video:

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey If you are heading to the Indy 500 this Sunday and are a first-timer, here are a few reminders for a full day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The gates open at 6 am and include access to retail shops, food stands, and the Midway. This year’s race is sold out, so the earlier you arrive, the better your spot. There is a new retail shop at the Midway with items not sold outside the track. Also, note that the speedway is cashless. The traffic and parking can be a hassle. Passes for the areas around the IMS are sold out, and the residents of Speedway will charge a price for the right to park on their lawns. Some could ask as much as $50 to have their car sit on their lawn, while others will negotiate the price. This might be the only part of your trip where you might want to have some cash on you, but I am sure the business-minded folks might accept cash apps as well. If you can walk, there is parking for $10 in various lots, including churches to fraternal organizations (VFW, Knights of Columbus, or an American Legion post). The Amvets Post 99 at 2807 Merchants Drive, about a mile away, offers a free shuttle service. The leisurely walk among the thousands of others to the race is quite the experience in itself. You will see a collection of characters in great spirits, adding to the ambiance. However, the shuttle is a bit quicker and easier on your feet. Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Fans are allowed to bring in food and drink in appropriate-sized coolers that are no bigger than 8” x 15” x 15’ (hard or soft-sided coolers). Patrons can bring in food of their choice, aluminum cans of their favorite beverage, from soda pop to beer, and plastic bottles of ice-cold water. However, no glass bottles and no peanuts (they are considered bad luck at the track). Smoking tobacco is prohibited in any grandstand or seating area, but allowed 20 feet away from any buildings, seating entrances, and infield viewing mounds. This includes vapes and similar products. Once through the gates, look for your section and enjoy the next few hours of cars zipping by at over 200 miles per hour. The green flag will drop at 12:45 pm. Driver introductions take place at 11:47, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and “Back Home Again in Indiana”. The Indianapolis 500 is quite the spectacle and one of those sporting events that should be seen in person at least once in a lifetime. There are many ways to enjoy it, but knowing a few tips will ensure maximum enjoyment. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo by Patricia Beninato, Stadium Journey For the first time, fans can bring home a literal slice of the action from the home of the Steelers and Panthers. Following a massive seat‑replacement project at Acrisure Stadium, MeiGray – the memorabilia specialist behind some of the sport’s most coveted collectibles – is offering approximately 22,000 refurbished seats for purchase. “There’s no way to get closer to the Steelers than to own a piece of the stadium in which so many great moments occurred,” says MeiGray President Barry Meisel. “It’s an exciting time for Steelers fans and hobby collectors.” The Steelers recently signed a multi‑year agreement with MeiGray, a company known for dealing in game‑used and game‑worn gear. The deal gives fans the exclusive chance to buy sustainably repurposed, authentically verified stadium seats, each bearing the distinct look and feel of the venue where legends have been forged. “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with MeiGray, giving fans the first opportunity to own a piece of the Steelers iconic home—sustainably repurposed and authenticated by a renowned game‑used sports memorabilia authenticator,” explains Ryan Huzjak, Senior Vice President of Business Operations for the Pittsburgh Steelers. What’s Available The current inventory comes from three areas of Acrisure Stadium. Fans can choose a single seat, a matching pair, just the back, or the bottom. A limited run of seat backs carries signatures from former Steelers greats, adding a personalized touch for collectors. Section Item Type Price Upper Level East, Single seat $399 Upper Level West, North Club Same sections Pair of seats $590 Same sections Seat back $199 Same sections Seat bottom $149 Selected seat backs (signed) *Signed seat back $299 (*Signed seat backs will be signed by James Harrison, Santonio Holmes, & Joey Porter, Sr. - others may be available in the future.) Acrisure Stadium has been the backdrop for countless iconic moments. Owning a seat from the Upper-Level East or West, or the plush North Club, lets fans relive the roar of the crowd each time they glance at the reclaimed stadium seats. The refurbishment process respects both preservation and sustainability. Each seat is thoroughly cleaned, repaired, and inspected before being assigned a unique authentication certificate, ensuring buyers receive a genuine piece of NFL history. The seat‑replacement initiative is still underway, meaning more sections will become available as the project progresses. Collectors who miss the current drop can keep an eye on future releases, as MeiGray plans to rotate inventory aligned with the stadium’s phased upgrades. How to Purchase Interested parties can visit the MeiGray online store or contact the company directly for bulk orders and corporate gifting options. Shipping is handled nationwide, with careful packaging to protect the memorabilia during transit. Whether you’re building a “fancave” shrine, looking for a unique gift, or want a tangible reminder of Steelers lore, these refurbished seats blend heritage, sustainability, and authenticity in a way no other NFL merchandise does.

The 2025-2026 Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League season has come to a close with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens winning their first championship since 1994. The Sags won their third Gilles-Courteau Trophy in six games over the Moncton Wildcats. Stadium Journey’s annual QMJHL venue rankings have been released. Using the site’s FANFARE rating system, our writers evaluated the full game day experience at arenas across the league, scoring categories such as food and beverage, atmosphere, neighborhood, fan support, access, value, and any unique extras encountered along the way. The league’s average score this season came in at 3.73 out of a possible 5.0. As always, these rankings reflect the combined perspectives of multiple Stadium Journey contributors and may not align with every fan’s personal list. We encourage readers to join the conversation on social media—how do your rankings compare? What did we get right, and where did we miss the mark? With that, Stadium Journey proudly presents the 2025-2026 QMJHL Rankings. 1. Centre Vidéotron - Québec Remparts - 4.57 Andrew Kulyk - Quebec invested in building a new, NHL- ready arena. Bold isn’t the word. This is a grand arena that not only swamps its peer venues in the Q for its stunning design, architecture, size, modern amenities, and fan-friendly spaces, but put this building into the NHL tomorrow, and it immediately rockets to a top six venue in that league. 2. Scotiabank Centre - Halifax Mooseheads - 4.43 Andrew Kulyk - Halifax in and of itself offers a superb vacation destination, albeit this region is more geared for tourism in the warmer months, and that means not so much during hockey season. Plenty of attractions, historic sites, a vibrant and bustling downtown, and this arena, which strays away from the mold of the quintessential rural “community rink”. 3. Avenir Centre - Moncton Wildcats - 4.29 Dave Cottenie - The Wildcats were founded as the expansion Moncton Alpines in 1995 and played out of the Moncton Coliseum. After one season, they were purchased by local industrialist Robert Irving and renamed the Moncton Wildcats. For the 2024-25 season, the Wildcats have lured USports hockey coaching legend Gardiner MacDougall to take the reins of the team. 4. Mary Brown’s Centre - Newfoundland Regiment - 4.14 Dave Cottenie - The newest member of the QMJHL has hockey fans talking. There are high hopes for the return of hockey to Newfoundland, and the results are being seen at the turnstile. Hopefully, the Newfoundland Regiment will have a long and successful reign at Mary Brown’s Centre despite the travel challenges it brings to the league. Hockey on the Rock is a necessity, and Junior Hockey is the perfect fit. 5. Palais des Sports Leopold-Drolet - Sherbrooke Phoenix - 4 Dave Cottenie - This old arena, named after the founder of the Sher-Wood hockey stick company, is now one of the model arenas in the QMJHL, and an example of what can be done to modernize an aging arena. New paint gave a fresh face to the arena, and new luxury boxes gave a fresh source of revenue. 6. Centre Gervais Auto - Shawinigan Cataractes - 3.86 Dave Cottenie - If you want to see what Québécois hockey is all about, make a trip to see the bedrock of junior hockey in Quebec. The Shawinigan Cataractes are a fantastic entertainment experience and a must for all hockey gurus. When in Shawinigan, you will most definitely feel l’energie! 7. Centre Agnico Eagle - Val-d’Or Foreurs - 3.86 Dave Cottenie - When travelling to Northern Québec, fans should want to get the true feel of the Québécois culture in the north. A trip to see Les Foreurs de Val-d’Or is an absolute must. An old-school hockey experience in a gem of a building, the Foreurs will provide a great evening’s entertainment at a cost that will shock fans with how affordable it is. 8. Centre 200 - Cape Breton Eagles - 3.71 Andrew Kulyk - As a destination venue, Centre 200 in and of itself is not the kind of building that will make an indelible impression. It lacks some of the glitz that has become part of some of the newer arenas in the QMJHL. But what makes this a compelling and worthwhile travel experience is the totality of the destination itself. Sydney offers a lot to see and experience, even in the winter. Its location as a waterfront town provides a sense of wonder at the beauty of Nova Scotia. 9. Colisée Financière Sun Life - Rimouski Océanic - 3.71 Dave Cottenie - Having passed off the Rimouski Océanic to his grandson, Alexandre Tanguay, Maurice Tanguay must be proud of how his team has continued. The Océanic continues to be a solid franchise in the QMJHL and has continued to enjoy success on and off the ice. They are truly one of the best experiences in the league and were worth the trip to the south shore area. 10. Centre Georges-Vézina - Chicoutimi Saguenéens - 3.71 Dave Cottenie - A trip to see Centre Georges-Vézina and the Saguenéens is truly a trip to see the church of hockey. An old school hockey barn that bleeds history and is a throwback to days of old, a trip through the Q is not complete without Georges-Vézina. 11. Centre Slush Puppie - Gatineau Olympiques - 3.57 Sean MacDonald - The city of Gatineau awarded the non-profit organization Vision Multisports Outaouais (VMSO) the contract for the construction and management of a 4,000-seat arena, including three community ice rinks. The venue is now known as Centre Slush Puppie after naming rights were acquired by the maker of the “original non-carbonated frozen beverage treats enjoyed by millions of people worldwide.” 12. Aréna Glencore du Centre Dave-Keon - Rouyn-Noranda Huskies - 3.57 Dave Cottenie - The horns, oh the horns! They may not be the horns of justice or the horns of victory. They may only be made of plastic and cardboard, but the horns are a staple of Aréna Iamgold du Centre Dave-Keon. The building is as old school as they come and totally fits the Northern Québec area. If there is one thing that the hockey experience in this town should be known for, it is the horns. 13. TD Station - Saint John Sea Dogs - 3.43 Dave Cottenie - The Saint John Sea Dogs were founded in 2005. In 2011, they won their first Memorial Cup and, in so doing, became the first Atlantic Canada team to achieve the feat. The Sea Dogs would hang a Memorial Cup Championship again in 2022, as well as post the curious moniker “City of Champions” in the arena. It is undeniable that the Sea Dogs have enjoyed a great deal of success in New Brunswick. 14. Eastlink Centre - Charlottetown Islanders - 3.29 Andrew Kulyk - While this arena and the hockey game day experience will not blow you away, what makes a trip to see the Charlottetown Islanders is not the game itself, but immersing into a cultural and tour experience that embraces the community and the region. Prince Edward Island offers charm and beauty that is so palpable. 15. Centre Marcel-Dionne - Drummondville Voltigeurs - 3.14 Dave Cottenie - On the south shore of Quebec, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, lies the city of Drummondville. A trip through the QMJHL will find Drummondville as one of the solid francophone franchises. It’s worth the trip to see an arena that is from a different time and a great group of fans who know how to be loud. The air horn is a favorite of the Drummondville fan, and they use it liberally. The fans that we met were very friendly and accommodating. 16. Amphithéâtre Gilbert-Perreault @ Colisée Desjardins - Victoriaville Tigres - 3.14 Dave Cottenie - Travelling through Quebec can be a bit intimidating for any Anglophone, especially in the smaller cities, away from the tourist areas of Montreal and Quebec City. However, stadium travelers should attempt to see real grassroots hockey the way it was meant to be seen in Quebec. The passion is there, and the price is right. In Victoriaville, they have the tiger by the tail, and the Tigres will put on a show for you. Photo Courtesy of El Nomad 17. Centre d’Excellence Sports Rousseau - Blainville-Boisbriand Armada - 3.14 Dave Cottenie - You will not find a whole lot of bells and whistles at an Armada game. Simple. However, the product that they put on the ice is pretty good, and the atmosphere there is good as well. Don’t feel that Montreal is only about Les Habitants. Check out the Armada in the suburbs the next time you are there! N/A Baie-Comeau Drakkar - Centre Henry-Leonard Unfortunately, Stadium Journey does not yet have a review for the Baie-Comeau Drakkar. If you are interested in writing a review for Stadium Journey, please contact us.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Jack Burch Park 100 North 7th St Cannon Falls, MN 55009 Cannon Falls Bears website John Burch Park website Year Opened: 1938 Capacity: 675 From a View to a Hill in Cannon Falls John Burch Field in the town of Cannon Falls, Minnesota is one of the most curious-looking ballparks. The grandstand is wedged into a hill and hovers ten feet above the playing field, while the left field borders against a river. The Cannon Falls Bears have been playing baseball on this site since 1938, but its current grandstand was constructed in 1984. The Cannon River runs behind left field creating a short distance of 293 feet from home plate; a 20-foot high fence is set up to ensure that cheap home runs don’t find themselves in the river behind the wall. Beyond that, copious amounts of trees plaster the area, while the town’s water tower and streets are downtown. The ballpark itself is named after a local legend who was at the center of baseball history in Cannon Falls for over half a century. John Burch began his town ball career in 1946 and retired after the 1961 season. In 1948, it was reported in the St. Paul Pioneer Press that he knocked the cover off a baseball during a game. The humble Burch would later say that the ball must have been manufactured wrong. When he retired he played softball, umpired games, and ran the concession stands. The town would honor him by renaming the baseball stadium in 2000 and creating a small museum featuring his old baseball uniforms and equipment. Even at an advanced age, he would ride his electric cart five blocks from the nursing home to attend games. Town ball has been played in Cannon Falls since 1887 and the Bears would make the tournament for the first time in 1949, a few seasons later the club would win 42 consecutive games (regular season and playoffs). The highlight was winning the Class A tournament championship over the Belle Plaine Tigers in 1952, their only state championship to date. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand near the entrance of the ballpark that offers basic concession items at very affordable prices. A hot dog is two bucks, hamburgers are a dollar more, and peanuts are a buck and a half. You can wash it all down with a pop for two bucks. The stadium offers combo platters with its hot dogs and hamburgers that come with chips and a drink for $5 to $6. Atmosphere 3 John Burch Field offers a typical townball experience. The fans in the stands are a majority of friends and fans, the play is high quality, and the ballpark becomes an area of socialization among the locals. The majority of the fans sit on the first base side that is shaded with trees and provides an area to spread out a blanket or two. The field has a unique design that keeps all of the seating areas well above the playing field and provides a nice view of the lush forestry that is behind the outfield walls near downtown. The covered grandstand features bleacher-style seating, a small press box, and protective netting. A simple, but lovely sign spells out the ballpark above the grandstand. Cannon Fall players, at least this year (2018), don light blue and white striped pullover tops, a look first made popular in the early 1980s but being rediscovered by today’s baseball clubs at all levels. Neighborhood 4 Cannons Falls has a population of 4,083 and features a historic downtown. The Cannon Valley Trail is recognized as one of the ten most beautiful rail-to-trails projects. It runs along the Cannon River and is used for skiing during the winter months. The Cannon River Winery is within a short walk that features both full-bodied reds and dry whites. A few places to eat include Nick’s Downtown Diner serving breakfast all day, specialty sandwiches, and homemade pies; Mill Street Tavern offering an urban atmosphere and casual dining, and Tilion Taproom is open from Wednesday to Sunday with ten beers on tap, including Lake Andrew unCommon–a California Common that is not found at many breweries. Fans 3 The small gathering of fans takes up residence on the hill on the first base side of the stadium overlooking the field. The fans spread out blankets and sit back to enjoy the game. The grandstand is often near empty but provides for a view of the stadium. This appears to be common at The Mini Met in Jordan and Tiger Field in Belle Plaine where most fans opted for open seating areas away from the grandstand. Access 3 Cannon Falls is about a 35 to 45-minute drive from the Twin Cities and Rochester. The entrance to the ballpark is on the first base side and top of the hill overlooking the baseball diamond. The grandstand is not full all the time since most fans covert a spot on the first base seating area underneath the trees. The facility has one concession stand (with a nice view of the playing field) and bathrooms. Parking is available next to the stadium or on the residential streets. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices range between $2-$3, concession prices are all under $3 for single items. Downtown Cannon Falls is also enjoyable to visit for a few hours and with trails, a winery, and a brewery in town makes for an ideal location to visit with friends, a loved one, or solo. Extras 2 John Burch Field receives a point for having its grandstand hanging over the playing field and providing an interesting view of the diamond. John Burch Field gets a second point for the limestone seating area that also rises well above the playing field down the first base line Final Thoughts John Burch Field is among the most curious ballparks in Minnesota and is worth a visit if you happen to be nearby in Miesville, Rochester, or Red Wing. The experience is quite different but highly enjoyable. A bonus is that downtown is worth a visit any time of the year.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey In a baseball landscape increasingly dominated by billion-dollar stadiums and big-league spectacle, the heart of the game still beats strongest in places like Minnesota. Home of the Miesville Mudhens, this small-town ball club represents everything that makes Minnesota Town ball one of the most distinctive and enduring traditions in American sports. For Brian Meyers, Mudhens groundskeeper and vice president of the board, the connection to the team and the game runs deep. “I grew up just down the road from Miesville,” Meyers said. “I was going to games three days a week, just like most kids around here still do.” That lifelong bond is a common thread throughout town ball communities, where generations of families grow up around the local diamond. Meyers himself first attended games in the late 1980s and eventually realized a dream shared by many local kids, taking the field as a Mudhen. A Century of Town Ball Tradition Amateur baseball in Minnesota dates back to the early 1920s, with the first state tournament held in 1923. Over the decades, the sport has grown into a statewide institution, featuring 270 amateur teams across three classes. The Mudhens roots trace back to that same era, though like many early teams, they initially played in farmers’ fields. That changed in 1961, when 25 local families each contributed $100 to build what is now known as Jack Ruhr Field, still the centerpiece of baseball in Miesville today. The Mudhens have an impressive array of accolades: eight state championships, 35 state tournament appearances, and multiple opportunities to host the tournament itself. The town will welcome the state tournament again in 2028, sparking a new wave of improvements to the historic ballpark. Sponsorships line up the outfield fence at Jack Ruhr Field, Photo by Marc Viquez Built by the Community If there is one defining feature of the Mudhens organization, it is the overwhelming community support. From field maintenance to concessions to major construction projects, everything in Miesville is powered by volunteers and local partnerships. “We’ve usually got 15 to 20 people helping out regularly,” Meyers explained. “But when you include game day operations, events, and everything else, it’s well over 100 volunteers.” That number skyrocketed during the 2020 state tournament, when 318 volunteers came together to help host the event. Local businesses also play a vital role. The outfield fence is lined with sponsorship signs, and those same businesses are often called upon for construction, concessions, and other needs. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship that keeps both the team and the town thriving. Even skilled labor often comes from within the fanbase. “If we need an electrician or a plumber, someone will just say, ‘Give me a call,’” Meyers said. “They’re already at the game having a hot dog and a beer.” Fans pack the grandstands on a rainy afternoon at Jack Ruhr Field, Photo by Marc Viquez The Ballpark Experience Jack Ruhr Field offers a quintessential town ball atmosphere, a small ballpark, a church, and a tavern. With seating for roughly 250–300 in the grandstands and additional grassy areas lining the baselines, the ballpark encourages fans to spread out, bring lawn chairs, and enjoy the game at their own pace. Kids roam freely, playing catch, chasing foul balls, or simply running around with friends. “This is a place where families feel safe,” Meyers said. “You’ll see kids everywhere playing in the outfield, the parking lot, wherever. That’s part of the experience.” Attendance continues to grow, with Sunday afternoon games drawing close to 500 fans, an impressive number for a town of its size. Admission is just $5 for adults, while anyone 18 and under gets in free. A family of four can enjoy an entire afternoon of baseball, food, and community for less than the price of parking at a Minnesota Twins game at Target Field. A Taste of Miesville No visit to a game is complete without a stop at the concession stand, perhaps one of the best in all of town ball. The star of the menu is the bratwurst, made exclusively for the team by Greg’s Meats in nearby Hampton. These coarse-ground brats are a closely guarded secret—you won’t find them anywhere else. “We get so many compliments on them,” Meyers said. “You can’t buy them in the store. They’re made just for Miesville.” In addition to brats, the menu features burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, and a selection of affordable beverages, including local beer from Spiral Brewery in Hastings. At just $4 per beer, it’s another reminder that the Mudhens experience is built with fans in mind. The brats cook to perfection on the grill at Jack Ruhr Field. Photo by Marc Viquez More Than Just a Game While the on-field product is strong, the true appeal of Miesville lies in the atmosphere. The crack of the bat, the smell of grilled food, and the sound of local radio broadcasts create a setting that feels both timeless and uniquely Minnesotan. Games are broadcast on local radio station KDWA and livestreamed, extending the team's reach beyond the ballpark while keeping its small-town roots. For Meyers and the many volunteers who dedicate their time to the Mudhens, the reward comes in seeing. According to Meyes, fans walk through the gates and immediately feel at home. “You can see it on their faces. They walk in, hear the game, smell the food, and they just smile. That’s what makes it all worth it.” The Mudhens embody the spirit of Minnesota Town Ball, where community, tradition, and love of the game come together in their purest form. For fans seeking an authentic baseball experience far removed from the glitz of the major leagues, Jack Ruhr Field delivers something even better: a place where the game still belongs to the people. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter at @ballparkhunter and on his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Gainbridge Fieldhouse 125 S Pennsylvania St Indianapolis, IN 46204 Indiana Fever website Gainbridge Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 17,923 Fever-Paced Basketball The Indiana Fever celebrated 25 seasons in Indianapolis. Caitlin Clark's presence in 2024 created a spike in attendance. The team has seen an increase in media coverage, season ticket sales, and merchandise sales. The upper balcony seating has been opened for home games in recent memory. All of this excitement has created a new interest in the team that hopes to translate to packed fans at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The home of the Fever was built in 1999 and is also home to the NBA Indiana Pacers. The arena just completed a three-phase $360 renovation plan that has transformed it to today’s standards. The building seats 18,165, and all of these seats will be available for Fever games during the summer season. The Fever arrived in town in 2000 and has qualified for the playoffs 13 times in its first 17 seasons. It included a championship in 2012 during the Tamika Cathigs era. However, the team has fallen on hard times with seven straight losing seasons, including a 5-31 season in 2022. With the arrival of Clark, along with previous number-one pick Aliyah Boston, the Fever began a new era of basketball in Indiana and hung another championship banner in the Gainbridge rafters. Food & Beverage 4 The food and beverage options have been updated at the fieldhouse and include new and familiar options. The Warehouse District BBQ and Three Point Taqueria are two options that offer fans something different at the game. The Indiana Kitchen offers lemon-pepper and honey-glazed chicken wings, short rib poutine, and maple bourbon sticks. If you are looking for familiar options, then Fieldhouse Favorites has you covered. Hot dogs, nachos, chicken tenders, pizza, burgers, pretzels, and Pepsi products are available. A value menu offers $4 hot dogs, $3 popcorn, and $8 cans of PBR and Coors Banquet. A unique sweet treat is served at the Steak 'n Shake Milkshake Bar, which offers cotton candy, mega M&M, and crazy chocolate brownie flavors. Warehouse District BBQ options, Photo by Marc Viquez. The Fast Break Market sells grab-and-go beverages and snacks. A nacho cart offers an array of toppings, and Ben's Pretzels has long lines for freshly made baked pretzels. The Crossroads Eats sells gourmet hot dogs. The Yuengling Flight Deck and the Jim Beam Bar offer beers, wine, and cocktails. It also has various TV screens and views of the playing court. One of the more unique partnerships at the arena is with Cheez-It. Fans can find limited-edition Cheez-It boxes featuring the Fever logo in the team store, along with creative menu items at the concession stand. Options include a walking taco made with Cheez-It crackers and a barbecue mac and cheese dish topped with Cheez-It pieces at Warehouse District BBQ. For dessert, the Dough-Ver Load kiosk serves edible cookie dough bites in several flavors, including birthday cake, peanut butter, and chocolate chunk. Atmosphere 4 What a difference a season makes. A Fever game feels more aligned to an Indiana Pacers game. A variety of fans walk throughout the concourse and the seating bowl in support of their WNBA team. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse is ideal for accommodating the newfound fan base that has made their way downtown. Before the game, many fans gather in Bicentennial Unity Plaza, where kids can shoot hoops on the outdoor basketball court, while others take in the atmosphere around the plaza’s curved sculpture and video screen displaying graphics and team content. Inside, the main atrium feels bright and open thanks to the massive windows that let in plenty of natural light. Banners featuring current Fever players hang throughout the space, while a large round chandelier serves as the centerpiece above the sweeping staircase leading to the main concourse. The concourse has been revamped and features basketball-theme murals that are both popping with color and creativity, along with honoring past greats who have suited up for the Fever, Pacers, and high school teams of the state. The new art is a variety of murals, and the artwork varies in designs and colors. The fieldhouse includes a massive $4.3 million 20-foot by 52.5-foot video scoreboard, including underbelly panels for improving sightlines for fans sitting next to the court. It almost feels like it's floating when viewing it from the main concourse. There are also plenty of open views of the court from the concourse. Team banners of retired jerseys, league titles, and division championships hang from the rafters on each side. The Fever gift shop has an array of team merchandise, but it is a little cramped. However, a couple of stands and one station can personalize a jersey with your name on it on the main concourse. Neighborhood 5 The fieldhouse is in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and closer to retail and restaurants than Lucas Oil Stadium down the street. The only problem is choosing where to grab a drink or eat before or after the game. Located near the arena is the local favorite Kilroy’s Bar and Grill, which offers 40 flat-screen televisions, shuffleboard, video games, and their famous pepperoni-stuffed breadsticks. Another fan favorite, Brother’s Bar & Grill, is a short walk away and is another popular destination before or after the game. A few more favorite spots after the game include The District Tap, Mr. Tequila Street Cantina, and Pier 48 Fish House & Oyster Bar. There are many options for a drink before or after the game. Photo by Marc Viquez It is highly recommended to visit the neighborhoods of Mass Ave. and Fountain Square. The two areas offer live music, craft beer, fine dining, and a little shopping at local retail shops. Mass Ave. is also home to the Bottleworks District, the city's newest attraction. The Garage houses multiple food and drink vendors, offering an array of culinary treasures. Downtown Indy is also safe, clean, and easy to get around by car, foot, or mass transit. Local museums include The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the NCAA Hall of Champions, the Indiana State Museum, and the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. The Riverwalk Canal is a nice spot for a stroll on a warm spring day. Fans 4 The Fever attendance continues to rank near the top of the WNBA. The team averaged 4,000-plus fans two years ago, and so far this season, lead the league with an average of 16,560 per game. The Fever has opened up the balcony seats, which had been draped off in recent seasons. It has created a mixture of die-hard Fever fans along with new and bandwagon fans. The fanbase feels more like a Pacers game, and attendance is more of a priority than a curiosity. Access 4 The arena is easily accessible from the major interstates of 70, 65, and 465, with parking abundant downtown. After the game, exiting these facilities takes a little know-how of the one-way streets of Indianapolis, but signs and police help direct customers to their desired route back home. Traffic moves smoothly during this time as well. Return on Investment 5 Depending on the night and opponent, Fever tickets are as low as $10 on ticket sites such as TickPick. Imagine paying $2 for a professional sporting event these days. Tickets for games against the New York Liberty, Las Vegas Aces, and Chicago Sky will cost upwards of $45-$57. However, check out the dates and times because tickets sell for under $15. Prices inside the venue are typical of many NBA arenas, and craft beer will cost $10 a can, much less than what we saw in Seattle last year. The cost to park across the street is $25, but meter parking is available at $1.75 an hour until 11 PM (Sundays and Holidays are free), and there are cheaper parking lot options around the arena for as low as $10. Extras 4 Bicentennial Unity Plaza is outside the building. According to its website, it is the focal point for gatherings, offering a space where all residents and visitors will be greeted by captivating landscapes & art installations and, of course, a basketball court for some friendly competition. The team offers a Game Night Special that consists of a specialty-made t-shirt on sale for $18. They sell out fast, and the team store is usually packed with fans in line to purchase one. Bicentennial Unity Plaza, Photo by Marc Viquez The Caitlin Clark effect can be seen all over the concourse. Fans wear her number 22 with pride, and many others bring in banners and signs to show support for the league’s newest star. Not as strong as it has been in the past, the fieldhouse still boasts an impressive collection of memorabilia showcasing the game of basketball in the state. There is an array of items from former professional clubs from the city, local high schools, and the major universities and colleges in the state. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 CCBC Catonsville Baseball Field 800 S. Rolling Road Baltimore, MD 21228 CCBC Catonsville Cardinals website CCBC Catonsville Baseball Field website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 250 Cardinals Baseball One of the largest colleges in Maryland is largely unknown outside of the area. The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) has an annual enrollment of greater than 72,000 students. Created in the 1990s by a merger of Essex Community College, Dundalk Community College, and Catonsville Community, the new college kept each of those three main campuses, along with a bevy of extension campuses around the suburban Baltimore County area. The three colleges shared a common board of trustees for years but previously operated independently. Essex, Dundalk, and Catonsville have each kept their own distinct athletic identity. CCBC Catonsville began in 1957, operating out of nearby Catonsville High School. The college is located on the site of the historic Knapp Estate. There is still the manor house of the estate, as well as ruins of various historic buildings scattered around the hilltop campus. The school mascot is the Cardinals and they play ten sports. They are a member of Region XX of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. The baseball program runs out of the simply named "Baseball Field" which is next to the school's soccer and lacrosse field. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food options at or near the baseball field. You are free to bring your own food. Atmosphere 2 There is not much else in terms of atmosphere as it is a JUCO level baseball game. The team does have a PA announcer and plays walkup music for players. There are two simple metal bleachers around the main part of the field. They offer decent views of the game, although through chain link fencing. Neighborhood 3 CCBC Catonsville is a suburban community college with its main neighbor being the high school and nearby University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). You will have to venture a bit far from campus for any food or drinks. Downtown Baltimore is roughly a 15 to 20-minute drive down I-95. Catonsville's main street, Frederick Road, is filled with many food and drink options. Nearby Arbutus will also be a good source of options. We like Sorrentos in the downtown section of Arbutus for a good sub or cheesesteak before the game. Fans 3 The attendees at most games are family members or other athletes. There may be a few local residents who attend the games. The fans are knowledgeable and friendly to visitors. Access 4 The CCBC Catonsville campus is easy to access, as it is located off Route 166 / Exit 47B of I-95. There is plenty of free parking on the campus. If classes are in session you may expect to park a bit further away from the field. Return on Investment 5 The games are free to attend. That, along with the free parking, means that you can attend a good-level JUCO program at no cost. . Extras 2 Walk around campus and see the solar panels that have been added to many parking areas on campus. All of the CCBC campuses have added these and expect to get more than a quarter of their electricity from solar. This 5.1-megawatt project is expected to generate 6.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year and joins the 16.1-megawatt array at Mount St. Mary’s University in an effort by local colleges to expand solar usage. There are many banners and plaques scattered around inside the nearby Jack Manley Wellness and Athletic Center displaying the various personal and team accomplishments of Cardinals athletes. Final Thoughts The CCBC Catonsville Baseball Stadium is a basic pleasant baseball field located in nice park-like setting. Although nothing fancy, it is a nice little stop for a baseball fan traveling along the I-95 corridor.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Louisville Slugger Field 401 E Main St Louisville, KY 40202 Louisville Bats website Louisville Slugger Field website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 13,131 Where Louisville Swings for the Fences Louisville Slugger Field is the home of the Louisville Bats of the International League. The 13,131-seat Louisville Slugger Field debuted along the Ohio River. It would be one of the top drawing facilities in minor league baseball for the next decade. The Triple-A franchise is a farm team of the Cincinnati Reds, who are about an hour from the city. Slugger Field is not our ordinary minor league ballpark. A key design feature of the $40 million ballpark is the integration of a historic rail freight depot at the main entrance. The restoration of the late 19th-century depot station is a vital component that houses everything from weddings and meetings to a children's play area. During the 2021 season, the ballpark received $7 million in renovations that transformed the outfield concourse, removed the bleacher seating, and transformed the area into a social area for fans during the game. The additions included new outfield bars, an expanded kids' area, and tiered lawn seating. There were other improvements in other areas of the ballpark, including premier seating behind home plate, net extensions, and three new LED video boards. Organized baseball in Louisville dates back to 1776. The Louisville Eclipse were members of the American Association in 1882 before changing their name to the Colonels three years later. The club then joined the National League in 1892 and played until contracted by the league after the 1899 campaign. The Colonels would join the Western Association in 1901, but relocated to Grand Rapids in late June. A new version of the club arrived the next year in the American Association, and they would remain until 1962. The Colonels returned in 1968 as a Boston Red Sox affiliate, but ceased operations after the 1972 season. The current franchise arrived in 1982 as the Louisville Redbirds and became the first minor league franchise to attract over a million fans. The club changed its name to the RiverBats in 1998 and moved into Slugger Field in 2000. Two years later, the franchise became the Louisville Bats. Food and Beverages 4 Louisville Slugger Field has a lot to offer in terms of food and beverages. The ballpark features classic staples but offers regional items that include top-shelf cocktails, craft beer, and homemade cookies and water ice. The main concession areas behind the first and third baseball dugouts on the concourse offer items such as hot dogs, cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, footlong corn dogs, pretzels, and popcorn. There are a couple of Grab and Go areas for beer and Pepsi products, and several kiosks that include fried bologna sandwiches, spicy Italian sausages, brats, and cheesesteaks. Kizito Cookies is a city bakery that sells homemade cookies in 12 different varieties. Philly’s Best Frozen Custard is also local and sells custard, water ice, and frozen treats, and a few team-inspired stands feature pizza, tacos, walking tacos, and rice bowls. Fans with a sweet tooth will find plenty of dessert options throughout the ballpark, including funnel cakes, cotton candy, ice cream, candy, sno-cones, and flavored ice. Many of these treats can be found in the right field corner near the children’s play area and the grass-tiered seating section. The Bats also feature an impressive beverage lineup with premium cocktails, craft brews, and popular domestic beers. Guests can choose from a wide variety of hard seltzers and canned cocktails, including selections from Surfside, High Noon, Sun Cruiser, and Twisted Tea, while wine is also available at several concession stands. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark stands out among its contemporaries in the league with an expansive brick exterior. The main entrance of the stadium was once a train shed and home to the Brinly-Hardy warehouse. The historic building structure was preserved and incorporated into the ballpark’s design. Guests entering through the main entrance will walk through the old train shed. This creates an indoor space for inflatable rides for kids and window cases with memorabilia that includes jerseys, photos, accolades, and championship banners. It almost feels like a mini museum of Louisville baseball history. Once inside the stadium, fans will take notice of the views of Louisville’s skyline, which includes the various bridges crossing the Ohio River into Indiana. The outfield concourse includes the Miller Time Tap House that houses cushioned lounge chairs and tables, an outdoor bar, curved railing for views of the game, and a variety of beers on tap. The right field corner has tiered grass seating, where seating once stood, that includes trees and a neighborhood park atmosphere at the game. The kids’ zone right behind the grass seating has been updated with modern playground equipment that includes slides, swings, and other fun for the children. The main concourse behind the infield features legacy banners of former players hanging from the ceiling, large concessions and kiosks, and the Bats Team Store that features a variety of caps, shirts, and other team spirit. Seating in this area also provides a great view of the stadium and the skyline behind the outfield walls. Buddy Bat, the official mascot, roams the ballpark offering hugs, high fives, and photo opportunities. Neighborhood 4 Louisville Slugger Field is located within steps of the Louisville Waterfront Park and a 15-minute walk to the KFC Yum! Center. The Troll Pub serves typical pub fare, but in a dungeon-like atmosphere where you can also take a picture with a ceramic troll. Adjacent to the Troll Bar is the Sidebar, where bourbon and bourbon-inspired cocktails are in fashion. A few blocks away is the popular 4th Street Live, a one-stop destination for retail, dining, and entertainment, with local restaurants abundant in two levels of fantastic nightlife. Louisville is a foodie town and local restaurants are abundant, attracting not only fans of visitors, but that of the local populace. Many spots are a short walk from the stadium. Royals Hot Chicken and Feast BBQ are both located in the East Market District of the city and offer affordable and delicious cuisine. Feast is known for its barbecue, but it also has excellent desserts (s’mores, chocolate chess pie, sides (vinegar slaw), and drinks (bourbon shakes). Another favorite is the Garage Bar, housed in a former auto service garage, serving up ice-cold beer, bourbons, wood-fired pizzas, and Southern menu items. Also, a great spot for a few rounds of cornhole or table tennis. If you are still looking for more options in the neighborhood, check out Grind Burger Kitchen and La Bodeguita De Mima, a Cuban restaurant inside a decorative building in the NuLu neighborhood. Holy Grale is a unique gastropub featuring a long, rotating beer list & locavore fare in a 1905 former church. The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Churchill Downs (racing after dark during June and July), the University of Louisville, and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience are not your typical bourbon trail tour. You will be able to keep yourself busy in town before or after a baseball game. Make a weekend out of the visit and enjoy this great city. There is also the possibility of being in town when other sports are taking place. Surprisingly, Louisville has a bit to offer, including Lynn Family Stadium within walking distance. Louisville City FC (USL Championship), Racing Louisville (NWSL), and the Louisville Kings (UFL) all play at the 12,000-seat stadium. The Louisville Cardinals play their college baseball games at Jim Patterson Stadium, about 5 miles from the University of Louisville campus. Fans 3 The Bats attracted over 600,000 fans for each of their first 12 seasons at the ballpark. Those numbers have dipped down a bit in the past few seasons, but the team has averaged a very respectable 7,000-plus per game during that time. A Louisville fan enjoys a good night out, but maybe even baseball a little bit more. The crowd is old-fashioned gear, both new (blue and red) and old (purple and black), and can be heard talking with good old-fashioned baseball lingo. Everyone in attendance is there for a great night out of baseball, food, and drink. Access 4 Whether you are crossing into Kentucky over the Ohio River from Indiana on either I-64 or I-65, Louisville Slugger Field is visible from the interstate. A quick distance from Exit 136C, you can find either parking on the streets (meters expire at 6 p.m.) or in lots across the street from the stadium for $6. The choice is yours, but I have been lucky enough to find free parking at the meters for evening games a few blocks away from the stadium. It is well worth saving some money for a short walk. Return on Investment 3 Single game tickets start at $12 for lawn seats and top out at around $36 for club seats. Baseline reserved seating tickets are $17, and infield seats are between $22 and $26. There are a few nights where tickets in the L&GE Power Alley sell for $4 with the code: THRIFTY and other special codes listed on the team website. It should be no more than $10 to park in a public or private lot for a Bats game, and there are multiple areas of free parking east of the stadium along East Witherspoon Street. Meter parking is available and free after 6 pm Monday through Saturday, and free on Sundays. However, there is an official lot located at the left center field wall. For discounts on public parking, look at SpotHero for options and pricing. Extras 3 The historic freight rail train depot is an enclosed section of the building that is draped with the various championship pennants won by the club since 1901 and is used for various events all year long. There is a long list of baseball memorabilia behind the glass cases. The renovations have made it a relaxing spot to view the game and take in views of the city skyline. Thursday night features live music before the game in this area of the stadium. The organization does an incredible job of providing a link to its predecessors and the rich history of baseball in the city with pictures, banners, trophies, and artifacts all on display inside the main entrances. A glorious statue of Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and Louisville native Pee Wee Reese adorns the main entrance. There are photos of the city’s former ballparks that include bricks from Parkway Field creating a frame for the black-and-white photo and a larger-than-life picture of Honus Wagner, who began his career in town in 1897. Final Thoughts Louisville Slugger Field is an often overlooked Triple-A ballpark. The stadium is situated in a part of town that is walkable to restaurants, bars, and distilleries, along with other sporting venues. It offers beautiful views of the city skyscrapers, bridges, and neighborhood buildings, and is packed with plenty of history behind its enclosed walls. However, it seems as if fans have not been making their way to the stadium in recent years, and that is a shame. It is a fabulous way to spend an evening at the yard. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

Image Courtesy of DE Turf For years, DE Turf has been Delaware’s largest all-turf sports complex. Nestled in the heart of the state, its fields have hosted countless local games, youth leagues, and regional showcases. It has always been a premier destination for sports like soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey, but the vision for this premier facility was always bound to grow. Now, the complex is preparing for a monumental transformation. The centerpiece of this ambitious expansion is the addition of a massive, climate-controlled dome, a game-changer that will completely weather-proof the facility. Alongside the dome, DE Turf is constructing professional grade locker rooms designed to provide a top-tier experience for visiting teams and officials. To accommodate the expected surge in spectators, the complex is also dramatically expanding its footprint, increasing stadium capacity to 2,000 fans. These physical upgrades are meticulously designed to elevate the complex from a bustling regional hub to a world-class arena. With these cutting-edge facilities in place, DE Turf is no longer just a seasonal venue; it is unlocking the ability to host high-level events year-round, regardless of the unpredictable Delaware weather. The expanded 2,000-seat capacity and upgraded amenities are specifically tailored to attract high-stakes competitions, including prestigious NCAA championships, professional-level matches, and major national tournaments. This evolution means drawing larger, more lucrative events to the First State, which will significantly boost the local economy. As the vision becomes reality, the excitement surrounding DE Turf is increasing among locals and sports insiders alike. Athletes will soon have the opportunity to compete on a national stage right in their own backyard. Fans can look forward to experiencing top-tier sporting events without crossing state lines. By stepping into this new era, DE Turf isn't just expanding its physical footprint; it's elevating Delaware’s sporting legacy for generations to come.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Joe Cannon Stadium 7611 Ridge Chapel Rd Hanover, MD 21076 Coppin State Eagles website Joe Cannon Stadium website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 1,500 Fly Like An Eagle Coppin State University plays baseball nearly 25 miles away from its Northwest Baltimore campus, as an on-campus facility does not exist. They use Joe Cannon Stadium, located at Harmans Park in suburban Hanover, MD. The stadium was designed for the use of amateur baseball teams in the region and is named after the man who pushed very hard to get such a field developed. Coppin has not really been one of the more successful schools in baseball, but it did have the late Baltimore Orioles great Paul Blair serve as their Manager from 1998 to 2002. Recent years have seen some better success with the team. The team competes as a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC). Through the 2022 season, the Eagles had competed in the school's full-time home of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), but after that season, the MEAC merged its baseball league into that of the NEC. Coppin State and the three other MEAC members that sponsored baseball became NEC associate members in that sport. When Joe Cannon Stadium was opened in 1990, the area was not very developed. Since then, this area has been the center of rapid growth and development. The large Arundel Mills Mall and Maryland Live Casino are nearly across the street from the stadium. BWI Airport is also located nearby, and the sight of airplanes taking off is not uncommon. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food options available for a Coppin State baseball game. A concession stand exists at Joe Cannon Stadium but is not used during Coppin games. No soda nor snack machines are located here either. Atmosphere 2 The seating section sits pretty high off of the field, which limits fan participation. And that is if there are fans at the game. The atmosphere is almost non-existent, although a PA announcer does keep you into the game with announcements and music played between players. The seats are metal bleachers with no backing. It may be worth it to go all the way to the top of the stands so that you will have a back to your seat, but you will be a bit further from the action. Many of the fans do not even sit in the stands, but bring their own chair to sit along the chain link fence along the foul lines. This may offer a bit more interesting view than in the main grandstand. The stadium did have a recent renovation that added an artificial turf field and other player amenities. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is located back in the woods but is across from a thriving development. Arundel Mills Mall is very popular, so much so that parking can be difficult at times. The addition of the Maryland Live Casino adds to the popularity of the area. Luckily, the casino has added a large parking garage to alleviate some parking problems. Food options are varied. The closest options are within walking distance across parking lots. Subway and The Greene Turtle are close and offer options for both carry-out and eat-in. The Greene Turtle has a diverse menu, offering more intriguing options, including everything from Raspberry Turkey Flatbread down to a more usual bar food menu. They also offer many happy hour foods and drink specials at the bar. There are so many other food options in the area, from standard fast food fare to upscale restaurants at the casino. There are a few hotels also in the area, with ALoft and Element located within walking distance of Joe Cannon Stadium. Fans 2 The fans at the stadium are clearly family and friends only. I would doubt there are ever many student fans in attendance unless they know someone playing. The stadium is too far removed from their campus. The stadium did seem to draw a large group of fans from the opposing team. Once again, it was mostly family members and other friends, but the location near Arundel Mills may be a draw for these games. Access 3 Joe Cannon Stadium is near most of the large highways in the area, such as I-295, I-95, and Maryland Route 100. So access is technically very good. The abundance of highways does not tell the whole story. The traffic around Arundel Mills Mall can be stifling. You can expect to sit through many lights just to make simple and small turns. Weekend games will be worse than weekday games. Plan your trips accordingly, as you may need to be patient for the most simple of rides. Parking at the stadium is plentiful and free. Return on Investment 4 Games are free to attend, and there are no other costs associated with the stadium, so the value for the fans is very good. If a good local team is in town, or one of the powerhouse programs is playing, fans will be rewarded with some good baseball skills with very little investment. Extras 1 The large water tower located beyond the left field wall is an interesting sight to see at a baseball game. It may not be the Green Monster or the Camden Yards Warehouse, but it gives fans at Joe Cannon Stadium an interesting view. Final Thoughts The stadium is an enjoyable place to watch a game, especially for being free. You will not be wowed by the field, nor probably the talent level, but it can offer a good option away from the crowded shopping environment located nearby. A good option for many fans is to drop those of their party who wish to shop at the mall while others take in a game.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey What started as a postgame conversation between longtime town ball players has evolved into a new ballpark and amateur baseball in Minnesota. “We were sitting around after a game talking about why there wasn’t a town ball team in Lakeville,” Hathaway said. “Almost everybody on our team had ties to Lakeville baseball, and we realized this community was missing something.” A new era in Minnesota town ball begins this May. The Lakeville Loonatics, a Class A amateur baseball club in the Minnesota Baseball Association, are preparing for their inaugural season at the brand-new Belzer Stadium, to provide a small-community experience unlike anything else in the state. Lakeville has a population of approximately 75,000 residents, about 30 minutes south of Minneapolis-St. Paul has had town ball baseball teams, dating back to the 1930s. However, it has been so long since one played that it feels like the Loonatics are the first time the town has ever had a town ball club. Technically, this is the town's fourth team. Tobias and Hathaway wanted to build something that would last. “Success for us is coming back 15 years from now and seeing 400 people sitting in the stands watching baseball,” Hathaway explained. “That’s what this is about, longevity and community.” The project has been almost a decade in the making. The Lakeview Baseball Association was formed and raised $1.6 million for the construction of the ballpark with enhanced amenities and lighting. The city had not had lighting at any of its baseball fields, and the hope is that the stadium will also house high school, youth, and 35 and 50-and-over leagues. The new stadium, part of the Grand Prairie Park complex, will seat approximately 350 to 375 fans, with additional standing-room areas, a beer garden, and a grassy hill beyond the fence where spectators can watch games. Tickets will cost just $5, while children under 12 will be admitted free. Belzer Stadium, named after local dealership Jeff Belzer's Auto Group, will feature a large video board capable of instant replay, digital advertising, floodlights, and interactive entertainment during games. There will also be cameras set up in multiple production views for the web, a beer garden, and state-of-the-art locker rooms. “We’re competing with a lot of other entertainment options in the suburbs," added Hathaway. "We wanted to create a true game-day experience. However, you still need the hot dogs, the burgers, and the cold beer." The team also plans to offer expanded concession options through a partnership with Midwest grocery chain Hy-Vee, which will provide fresh food products for the stadium. Team officials are even working on signature menu items and specialty drinks to further distinguish themselves, but still make it affordable to the members of the Lakeview community. "We wanted this to be affordable for families," explained Tobias. "Nobody’s getting rich doing this. Everything goes back into the ballpark and the program.” The Loonatics colors are based on the city of Lakeville’s official colors, while the logo was designed by Hathaway’s daughter, Sierra; it blends the Minnesota loon with playful baseball imagery and elements inspired by the city logo. The name “Loonatics” was chosen after careful consideration. Hathaway looked for a name tied to the town but did not find anything that stood out. The attention shifted to Minnesota’s state bird, the common loon. The pun could provoke mixed reactions from the public. Hathaway explains. “This is really about the loon and having fun. It’s meant to capture excitement and community spirit." The team has already received strong support from local sponsors and baseball fans eager to see the project come to life. Tobias noted that much of the excitement comes from the idea of creating a permanent baseball stadium in one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing communities. Lakeville’s roster is expected to feature many players with ties to local high schools and college baseball programs. Despite the modern touches, the Loonatics still see themselves as part of Minnesota’s rich town ball history when they take the field. They will play against the likes of the Cannon Falls Bears, Hastings Hawks, and the Red Wing Aces. The Loonatics will begin play today at Belzer Stadium, but it will be a soft opening. The official dedication celebration is planned for early July during Lakeville’s annual Pan-O-Prog community festival. Hathaway and Tobias want to create a place where families gather, baseball thrives, and a new tradition takes root. The team plays its first game today against the Northfield Knights. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and on his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Coca-Cola Coliseum Exhibition Place 19 Nunavut Road Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3 Toronto Tempo website Coca-Cola Coliseum website Year Opened: 1921 Capacity: 8,500 Turn Up the Tempo The explosion of the WNBA has brought expansion to the cities of Portland and Toronto for 2026. Toronto’s entry to the league, the Toronto Tempo, has been met in the city with excitement and optimism. Even better than that has been the reaction on the ticket sites, where Tempo tickets are increasingly difficult to come by. The team was founded by Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment minority owner Larry Tanenbaum and a number of other investors including Serena Williams, former Raptors executive Masai Ujiri and Montreal Canadiens owner Geoff Molson. Tanenbaum reportedly attempted to get the Tempo to be part of the MLSE portfolio, but was blocked by some members of the board. In their inaugural season, the Tempo made a calculated free agent signing, bringing in Canadian Olympian and TSN analyst Kia Nurse to be part of the roster. The inaugural home for the Tempo is Coca-Cola Coliseum. Located on the grounds of Exhibition Place, it is most well-known for being the home of the Toronto Marlies of the AHL. The building was originally built for livestock shows as part of the Royal Winter Agricultural Fair in 1921. A massive renovation took place in the early 2000’s to convert the building into a hockey arena in an attempt to attract a professional hockey team. At a capacity of 8,500 for basketball, Coca-Cola Coliseum is the fourth smallest venue in the WNBA behind Atlanta, Washington and Dallas, and the Wings are moving to a larger venue in 2027. The Tempo are hedging their bets on the popularity of the new team with a few games at Scotiabank Arena as well as games in the big venues in Montréal and Vancouver. Food & Beverage 5 A number of recognizable brands are found throughout the Coliseum including Pizza Pizza, Smoke’s Poutinerie, Tim Horton’s and St. Patties. Traditional arena fare is found at the Food Junction stand, however some of the most unique items are also found here including Buffalo Chicken tenders, Korean Fried Chicken sandwiches, Beef Taco Loco Fries, Bacon Mac & Cheese eggrolls and Jerk Chicken Patty Sandwiches. Molson Canadian, Coors, Heineken and Steam Whistle are available beers. There are also a number of concession stands on the upper level. With the crowd size at the maximum, all concession stands were open. The Crown Royal bar has a number of spirits available as well as wine. Atmosphere 4 In the massive renovation that became Coca-Cola Coliseum, the exterior of the building was maintained. Although it is tightly wedged between the Enercare Centre and Horse Palace, there are still some exterior spots visible with very attractive yellow brick and curved architecture. It is one of the most unique looking arenas out there. Most fans will enter at the southwest corner of the building, however, entry for the CIBC Club is found at the north side near the public transit. Upon entering the concourses fans will find that the Tempo have made a strong effort to make the Coliseum look like their home. Many of the markings for the Toronto Marlies are covered with temporary banners for the Tempo. Framed historic photos remain uncovered including some throwback prints to some agricultural shows. The massive wooden doors at the south entrance are also a throwback to the agricultural days. The seating bowl is a single, split-level design with the court oriented from south to north. The best spot for a centre court logo photo is from the east. A four-sided video board with upper ring and lower rectangle screens hangs above centre court. Unfortunately, there are no videoboards dedicated to individual statistics, leaving the statistical side of the experience below some Canadian universities. Suites hang above the east and west sides. There are a number of permanent markings for the Marlies visible from the seating bowl including the Leaf crests for players who have played for the Marlies and moved up to the Leafs. The end result in the seating bowl is a feeling that the Tempo are still tenants in Coca-Cola Coliseum as opposed to residents. The gameday production at a Tempo game is not too complicated. A DJ booth is in the upper northwest corner, right beside the TSN crew who bring the pregame and halftime shows for television. The Rhythm Section, the Tempo dance team, performs during some pauses in the action. The Tempo also employ a pair of in-game hosts who help with the promotions. The more simplistic approach is a bit of a refreshing change compared to the NBA, which can be sensory overload. Neighbourhood 5 Coca-Cola Coliseum is located on the grounds of Exhibition Place in the Niagara neighbourhood of Toronto. It is immediately south of Liberty Village, which is the closest neighbourhood for fans to get some pre- or post- game food. It is easily walkable. Some options in Liberty Village include Liberty Village Market & Cafe, Local Public Eatery, Brazen Head, Chiang Mai, NODO, and Fox And John’s. Coca-Cola Coliseum is shared with the Toronto Marlies and Toronto Sceptres. BMO Field is across the parking lot and is home to the Toronto Argonauts and Toronto FC. A few minutes east, and fans could take in the Toronto Blue Jays, Maple Leafs or Raptors. Toronto Metropolitan University is northeast and fields Bold hockey and basketball teams in the former Maple Leaf Gardens. The University of Toronto also fields a full complement of Varsity Blues athletic teams, including football, basketball and hockey. There are also a ton of other tourist options in Toronto. Medieval Times and RBC Amphitheatre are close. However, hockey fans must take in the Hockey Hall of Fame. Fans wishing to stay near Exhibition Place can choose Hotel X, Radisson Blu, The Neptune or a host of other options nearby. Fans 4 It is difficult to assess fans of the Tempo at this point. At the time of writing, the Tempo played only their second home game. As expected, the first home game brought in over 8,200 fans. As compared to the previous WNBA season, the Tempo would have had the 11th best attendance in the league. The venue is a bit restrictive, but offers the opportunity for the team to possibly grow into a larger venue. Ticket sales have been very strong thus far so a favorable mark is given for fans with some room to grow with longevity. Fans in attendance are louder than the typical Ontario fans, who tend to be more reserved. Access 4 Coca-Cola Coliseum is located on the grounds of Exhibition Place in the Niagara neighbourhood of Toronto. It is on the south side of Manitoba Drive, and immediately south of the Gardiner Expressway. Although it has a very close proximity to the expressway and is easier to get to from the west than the rest of Downtown Toronto, it can still be a challenge, as Toronto traffic can be a significant issue. There is plenty of parking on site, which will require payment at a kiosk or on a parking app. Fans should be cognizant of what other activities are taking place at Exhibition Place, as this can drastically affect parking. At the time of writing, parking was limited due to the upcoming World Cup which has lots blocked off for fan fests and construction. For fans wishing to take public transit to the Tempo games, they have a couple of options. A GO Transit station is at the north end of Exhibition Place. There are also buses and streetcars that can be found at Exhibition Place. Fans should consult the GO Transit and TTC websites for fares, schedules, and maps. Getting around the Coca-Cola Coliseum is not too difficult; however, initially, the concourses can get congested during pregame. Once people start to utilize the upper concourse, it thins out a bit. The washrooms are adequate for the facility. Stadium Journey strongly suggests fans consult the Toronto Tempo and Coca-Cola Coliseum websites for the most up-to-date security information, including prohibited items and bag policy. Coca-Cola Coliseum is a cashless facility. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for the Toronto Tempo start at $30 for limited games. Most games start at $56 for standing room. Seats for most games start at $137. Dynamic pricing makes face value difficult to determine, but the initial popularity of the Tempo have driven ticket prices up. Parking at the Ex can go for $18. Concession prices are about what one would expect. The gameday experience in Toronto is good, but the outlay seems to be high for an expansion experience. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Toronto Tempo ownership investing in the team right off the bat. Before their first game, the ownership group announced that the building of a multi-million-dollar practice facility was in the works at Exhibition Place, reportedly the cream of the crop in the WNBA. An extra mark for Brittney Sykes scoring the first points in Toronto Tempo history. An extra mark for the Tempo Impact outreach program with focus on not only developing players but coaches as well. Final Thoughts Right out of the gates the Toronto Tempo have acquired a solid following making tickets difficult to come by. The gameday atmosphere at Coca-Cola Coliseum is solid for the first season. It will be interesting to see if the Tempo can maintain their following and force themselves into a larger venue. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Major upgrades are officially underway at Prince George's Stadium in Bowie. The Maryland Stadium Authority has partnered with Gilbane Building Company and WarrenBuilds to oversee a massive design-and-construction project for the venue. This $50 million renovation will modernize the facility for the Chesapeake Baysox and ensure the ballpark meets the new Professional Development League standards adopted by Minor League Baseball. For fans tracking the development of future Baltimore Orioles prospects, these improvements represent a major investment in the regional sports landscape. The renovation prioritizes modern athletic training needs and player development. The updated blueprints include expanded weight room areas and dedicated training spaces to keep players in peak physical condition. Both the home and visiting clubhouses will see significant upgrades, featuring larger locker rooms designed to accommodate up to 32 players comfortably. Additionally, the construction plans introduce new team commissaries to improve nutrition and daily meal prep for both squads. Beyond the main clubhouses, the modernization efforts address important operational upgrades. The new design incorporates dedicated female changing rooms, providing proper and private facilities for female umpires and coaching staff members. On the baseball operations side, the project will increase the number of indoor and outdoor hitting tunnels. These new batting areas will give players continuous opportunities to refine their mechanics throughout the season. To keep the improvements moving swiftly, the construction team is utilizing a fast-track design approach. This method allows for the early release of bid packages and speeds up the procurement of construction materials that require extended lead times. The venue is well on its way to becoming a premier destination for avid groundhoppers and everyday baseball fans.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 BMO Field Exhibition Place 170 Princes’ Blvd. Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Toronto FC website BMO Field website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 28,180 Preparing for the World Stage In June of 2026, Toronto will be one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup. The smallest venue for the entire tournament is what is now known as BMO Field. Due to sponsorship restrictions it will be renamed Toronto Stadium for the tournament, but when it is home to the Toronto Football Club of Major League Soccer, it is BMO Field. At a paltry capacity of 28,180, BMO Field required a significant expansion for the big tournament; massive grandstands on each end of the pitch have been installed to bring the capacity up and over 45,000 and brings BMO Field to its fullest potential as the National Soccer Stadium. BMO Field opened in 2007 and has already undertaken a few significant renovations to increase capacity from its original seated capacity of over 21,000. Toronto FC joined Major League Soccer in 2007 as an expansion team and was a bit of a trail blazing franchise. Pushing the limits of capacity while fielding a pretty horrible product on the field, TFC grew to where expansion of BMO Field became necessary. TFC fostered a relationship with supporter groups which is now standard in MLS and continued to grow. The signings of Sebastian Giovinco, Jozy Altidore and Michael Bradley signaled a new era which culminated in three MLS Cup appearances in four years and the Championship in 2017. Food & Beverage 5 The food selection at BMO Field is top notch. The main concession stands are the Food Junction stands and serve all of the expected stadium items including hot dogs, popcorn, burgers, chicken tenders and nachos. There are a number of specialty locations that serve more unique items that are worth checking out. Panini serves porchetta, smoked meat, and turkey club sandwiches along with Braised Beef Grilled Cheese. Frites serves a variety of fires and poutine including Jerk Chicken Poutine and Steak & Ale Pie Chips. Pizza Pizza is the purveyor of slices at BMO as well. The King Club bar has a massive selection of alcoholic beverages including a number of craft beer selections. For those who like to plan their culinary journey, the BMO Field website has a decent rundown of the concession options. Atmosphere 3 BMO Field has found itself in a number of different forms since originally being built in 2007. One of the early soccer specific stadiums in MLS, BMO Field’s design is a bit dated and more modern facilities have trended toward the fully enclosed “soccer arena” style. BMO Field is located at Exhibition Place. The exterior is fairly non-descript with clearly separated grandstands on the east and west sides of the pitch with grey and silver accents to the simple structure. Around the outside of the stadium are a number of marble benches which smartly depict various highlights of the Ex. Fans will definitely want to head to the northeast corner of BMO Field before entering to check out the TFC Wall of Honour. A number of TFC accomplishments, both individual and team, are memorialized on the exterior wall in smart looking silver and grey badges on the red siding backdrop. The most recent update has been a badge signifying 400 TFC matches for Canadian National, Jonathan Osorio. Inside BMO Field fans will be welcomed by the “TFC Legends” banners which can be found throughout the stadium. The new addition to the atmosphere shows portraits of such Toronto FC legends as Dwayne De Rosario, Danny Dichio and Michael Bradley, to name just a few. The pitch runs from north to south with the videoboard found on the north side. At the south end, no doubt blowing in the wind, are flags commemorating the 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2020 Voyageurs Cups as Canadian Champions, the 2017 Supporters’ Shield and 2017 MLS Cup. The seating area features two tiered seating decks on the east and west sides with some seating and standing room in the north and south ends. A field level general admission standing area is found in the north end and the supporters sections are found in the south. The grandstands are covered from the elements with large canopies, courtesy of one of the more recent renovations. The seats themselves are very simple, in most cases molded plastic buckets that do not move. Although they are physically not the greatest seats, there is enough legroom provided. The most obvious changes for the 2026 season are the massive grandstands at the north and south ends in preparation for the World Cup. They were given a test run when TFC hosted Inter Miami CF and Lionel Messi in their final home match before the World Cup. Fans will also want to check out the Winterdome area on the second floor of the west grandstand. A social area complete with DJ, Christmas decor, photo ops and blowing snow. Considering the MLS calendar changing and winter soccer being more of a reality in Toronto, this may be a way of preparing the fans. The gameday experience in Toronto is akin to most other MLS experiences. Soccer usually provides an experience that is not over-produced and generally more organic than other sports. Local youth groups hold banners on the pitch for the player entrances. The TFC anthem “The Legend TFC” is played with video before the kickoff. Toronto FC’s mascot, Bitchy, a live Harris Hawk originally employed by the team to keep seagulls away from BMO Field, proudly takes a perch on the pitch and is part of the opening festivities. A large metal hawk statue is found in the southeast corner in honour of the mascot. From that point, the supporters sections take over and provide the atmosphere by singing and chanting and waving flags throughout. Neighbourhood 5 BMO Field is located on the grounds of Exhibition Place in the Niagara neighbourhood of Toronto. It is immediately south of Liberty Village, which is the closest neighbourhood for fans to get some pre- or post- game food. It is easily walkable. Some options in Liberty Village include Liberty Village Market & Cafe, Local Public Eatery, Brazen Head, Chiang Mai, NODO, and Fox And John’s. BMO Field is shared with the Toronto Argonauts. Coca-Cola Coliseum is across the parking lot and is the home of the Toronto Sceptres, Toronto Marlies and the future home of the Toronto Tempo. A few minutes east, and fans could take in the Toronto Blue Jays, Maple Leafs or Raptors. Toronto Metropolitan University is northeast and fields Bold hockey and basketball teams in the former Maple Leaf Gardens. The University of Toronto also fields a full complement of Varsity Blues athletic teams, including football, basketball and hockey. There are also a ton of other tourist options in Toronto. Medieval Times and RBC Amphitheatre are close. However, sports fans should really try to take in the Hockey Hall of Fame. Fans wishing to stay near Exhibition Place can choose Hotel X, Radisson Blu, The Neptune or a host of other options nearby. Fans 4 The fan support that Toronto FC has enjoyed over the years is pretty remarkable. The majority of Toronto FC’s existence has been marred with horrible squads on the pitch and very little in the way of winning. For a short period, this changed, culminating in the 2016, 2017 and 2019 MLS Cup appearances. A return to rebuilding has seen a bit of a dip in attendance, but the support over the years has been terrific. With a few years of substandard play on the pitch, attendance has fallen off a bit. As of this writing, Toronto FC are averaging over 17,300 fans per match for the 2026 season. This is also very early in the season and the warmer weather has not hit Toronto just yet. In the previous season, TFC averaged over 21,300 fans per match, ranking them 15th in MLS; pretty much average. The fanbase is very diverse as Toronto is a very International city and they are very passionate and knowledgeable about soccer. The Toronto FC Supporter Groups are among the best and most passionate in MLS and have pushed the team to have among the most consistent support in the league. Access 4 BMO Field is located on the grounds of Exhibition Place. Getting to Exhibition Place can be a challenge, as anything in Toronto can be. The Ex is immediately south of the Gardiner Expressway. Although fans may think this is the quickest way to drive to the Ex, often a longer route on Lakeshore Blvd is the way to go, especially for those coming from the west. There are a number of parking spots available for fans at Exhibition Place. It is important for fans to do some research before heading out to see the Reds. At times there are other events taking place at the Ex and parking is a real challenge. Even at the best of times, parking is not cheap and other options may be the best plan. This is exemplified by the temporary stands and construction zones in place to prepare for the World Cup, making parking options even more scarce. For fans who prefer the public transit route, Exhibition Place has some decent public transit options. There is a Go Transit station right by the Ex and this is probably the easiest form of public transit. A walk north of the Ex will bring fans through Liberty Village and eventually to some TTC options. Check out the Go Transit and TTC websites for fares, maps and schedules. The ticketing window is at gate 1, at the north end of BMO Field. Lineups are not usually an issue. Security is what you would expect now in this day and age of sports security, including walk through metal detectors. With security protocols and procedures in constant flux, Stadium Journey strongly suggests visiting the Toronto FC and BMO Field websites for the most up-to-date security information before heading to the stadium, including bag policy and prohibited items. Getting around BMO Field is not too difficult and concourses are fairly spacious. Washroom facilities are also adequate for this venue. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for Toronto FC seem to have become more affordable, with tickets starting around $30 and some resale seats available for less than that. Tickets can go above the $200 mark for the lower bowl. These prices have come back down a bit, but upper deck seats can still go for $100 and above. Parking can be pretty expensive at over $30 and fans must use the self-park “Green P” app to purchase parking. Concession prices are about what one would expect for a major league team. According to the 2022 Fan Cost Index, Toronto FC are the seventh most expensive experience, above league average. That being said, a Toronto FC match is a whole lot of fun and is one of the best experiences in MLS, but you will pay for it. Extras 4 An extra mark for the Danny Dichio song. Every match at the 23:14 mark, the supporters belt out the Danny Dichio song, in honor of Toronto FC’s first ever goal scored by Danny Dichio. An extra mark for the investments made by MLSE to field the best possible team in Toronto. A reward to the fans, who greatly suffered in the early years of TFC. An extra mark for Exhibition Place and the former location of Exhibition Stadium, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. Base markers can be found in the parking lot south of BMO Field. An extra mark for BMO Field as the home of some of the matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Final Thoughts With the World Cup coming to Toronto in 2026, the expansion of BMO Field is a reality. How this affects Toronto FC in the latter part of the season as well as what the future holds for the stadium remains to be seen. That being said, a trip to TFC is a great way to take in the (2nd) highest level of soccer the city has to offer. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos Courtesy of Lisa Farrington This weekend, the Savannah Bananas took their roadshow to Yankee Stadium, bringing two nights where sport and spectacle collide. Everyone there knew to expect far more than a typical minor-league-style exhibition. The Bananas with the Party Animals turned the Bronx into a stage with fast-paced baseball, comedic stunts, and interactive moments designed to make every fan feel like part of the performance. With a wink from Mother Nature and a magician’s touch of scheduling, two back-to-back game washouts turned into days of sunshine. The Bananas were supposed to play against the Party Animals Saturday and Sunday, but when rain threatened, the team shuffled Saturday’s game to Friday, and fans showed up early, beaming and louder than a brass band. Photos Courtesy of Lisa Farrington The party started outside Yankee Stadium at Pregame Plaza in Macombs Dam Park with small concert stages, fan activities, and entertainment (e.g., the Peel Show, player appearances, pictures, etc.) The Bananas reported that both games were sold out. The Bananas theatrical style offers an entertaining counterpoint to Yankee Stadium’s storied, tradition-rich vibe. For locals and visiting fans alike, it was an opportunity to see an alternative baseball experience inside an iconic ballpark. The contrast — comedic, fast-paced play against the Yankees’ historic backdrop- makes for memorable visuals and stories. Photos Courtesy of Lisa Farrington The stars were not just in the sky, but out on the field to play “Banana Ball” as well. Former Yankee Tino Martinez and NFL QB Russell Wilson suited up as Savannah Bananas for Sunday’s game. However, Banana Ball brings along its own local celebrities. Performers like Princess Potassia, a character who greets the crowd and leads them in singing "Yellow" at Savannah Bananas games, showed up. Not to be outdone, mascots Split of the Bananas and Party of the Party Animals were also there, up to their usual antics as well. Expected was the standard Yankee Stadium concessions and amenities; however, the Bananas’ presence brought themed food like the Banana Cream Pie Nachos, vanilla Mister Softee, banana cream filling, Nilla Wafers, whip cream and rainbow sprinkles served in a Yankee souvenir helmet for $11.99 plus tax and the Banana Foster Milkshake, vanilla shake, caramelized banana compote, caramel sauce, whip cream and banana chips served in a Yankee souvenir cup for $18.39 plus tax. Photos Courtesy of Lisa Farrington The Savannah Bananas make sure you get a full experience and your money's worth. After the game, the fun continued with a post-game Plaza Party at Heritage Field, South of Yankee Stadium, featuring cast and characters, but no players. This visit is a reminder that ballparks are more than stat lines and standings. Experiential teams like the Savannah Bananas extend baseball’s appeal by emphasizing fun, inclusion, and theatrics. Whether you’re a traditional-first fan or a seeker of quirky sports experiences, this game is worth attending for the memory alone. Photos Courtesy of Lisa Farrington

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Jane B. Moore Field 798 Biggio Drive Auburn, AL 36849 Auburn Tigers website Plainsman Park website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 2,316 Welcome to the Plains The popularity of softball across the Southeastern Conference is hard to match anywhere else in the country. Around the SEC, many programs fill their stadiums just as much, if not more, than their baseball counterparts. While Auburn softball might not quite reach the upper tier of attendance numbers seen elsewhere in the league, the Tigers still draw a strong and passionate following that helps create an enjoyable game day atmosphere on the Plains. Auburn softball’s on-campus home began taking shape in 1996, officially opening on April 24, 1998, with a matchup against Georgia that marked the program’s move from the city complex where it originally played. The stadium underwent multiple phases of development over the next several years, eventually becoming a full complex by 2003 with expanded seating, updated amenities, and a design that mirrors the look and feel of nearby Plainsman Park. The facility was renamed Jane B. Moore Field in 2002 and formally dedicated the following year, in honor of the pioneer of women’s athletics at Auburn. Food & Beverage 3 The menu here leans heavily into classic ballpark fare. The Conecuh sausage is the clear standout, but most of the options stick to the expected lineup of cheeseburgers, pretzels, popcorn, and chips. It is familiar, built for convenience, and easy to navigate for fans looking for something quick. The snack selection also leans into tradition with peanuts, Cracker Jack, and sunflower seeds, offering more of the classic ballpark feel than anything especially memorable. Beyond the standard options, lighter bites like wraps, salsa, guacamole, and hummus are available, though they feel more like secondary add-ons than true menu highlights. Bottled Coke products dominate the drink selection, while the beer options are serviceable but far from inspiring. Atmosphere 3 Jane B. Moore Field features individual fold-down chairback seating throughout the lower concrete bowl, with aluminum bench seating making up the upper sections. The setup gives the stadium a spacious feel, but still keeps fans close enough to the field to stay engaged with the action. As would be expected at Auburn, tradition plays a big role in the game day atmosphere. Before first pitch, the Tigers’ reserves lead fans in a loud “War Eagle” chant before heading to the dugout. Throughout the game, regulars in the crowd are quick to rally the rest of the stadium into cheers as well. The experience does not rely heavily on sound effects or over-the-top production elements, but musical drops and prompts to get fans clapping help keep the energy moving between pitches. On-field promotions and between-inning activities are sprinkled in throughout the night, helping keep younger fans entertained. Neighborhood 5 Auburn is the definition of a college town, with nearly all its energy centered around the university. Jane B. Moore Field sits on the outer edge of campus near Auburn Soccer Complex and Hutsell-Rosen Track, but it is still only a short drive from the heart of everything Auburn has to offer. The classic Auburn experience can be found around Toomer’s Corner along College Street, home to the legendary Toomer’s Drugs and its famous lemonade. Nearby staples like Mama Goldberg’s Deli and Byron’s Smokehouse offer excellent pregame or postgame dining options as well. With spring schedules often overlapping, it is easy to pair a softball game with baseball at Plainsman Park or basketball at Neville Arena. Fans 4 Typical attendance generally falls between 1,800 and 2,300 fans, with in-state rival Alabama drawing some of the largest crowds of the season. Within the SEC, those numbers land somewhere in the middle of the pack, but compared to most of the country, Auburn still draws extremely well. The Tiger fans are passionate and engaged, particularly once conference play begins. If there is one series to experience Jane B. Moore Field at its liveliest, it is Alabama. The crowd’s intensity noticeably rises, and the Auburn traditions become even more prominent. Fans are not simply there to cheer on the Tigers; they fully embrace the culture that defines Auburn athletics. It would not feel like a true Auburn sporting event without hearing a loud “War Damn Eagle” ring out from somewhere in the stands. Access 4 Auburn is conveniently located just off Interstate 85 between Atlanta and Montgomery, making it a relatively easy trip from either direction. Once off the interstate campus is typically only 10 to 15 minutes away, making access fairly direct. Parking near Jane B. Moore Field can come at a bit of a premium. Many fans opt to park along Wire Road on the western edge of campus. While free, this option does require a short walk and some minor navigating around fencing and drainage areas to reach the front entrance. There are two primary gates for entry; the home plate entrance opens directly into a plaza filled with concessions, merchandise, and promotional tents. The concourse wraps around both sides of the field and extends slightly beyond the infield cutouts, offering excellent views from multiple vantage points. A secondary gate enters from the lower level, with stairs leading up to the main concourse and activity areas geared toward younger fans. Return on Investment 4 Standing-room tickets begin at $12, which feels slightly higher than expected considering reserved seats are only $15. Still, neither price point is unreasonable, and with free parking available, the overall cost remains very manageable. Concessions are also priced in line with what would be expected at most Division 1 venues, keeping the overall value solid for a full evening at the ballpark. Extras 4 Upon entering, younger fans are greeted by an impressive kids’ activity area featuring photo opportunities, cornhole, inflatables, and other family-friendly attractions. A display on the exterior of the press box tells the story of Dr. Jane B. Moore, who is credited as perhaps the most influential woman in Auburn Athletics history. The scoreboard recognizes Auburn’s 2015 and 2016 teams, both of which captured SEC Tournament championships and advanced to the Women’s College World Series. Aubie, the school’s mascot, is also a frequent presence at Jane B. Moore Field, roaming the stadium to greet fans, pose for photos, and keep the Auburn spirit alive throughout the game. Final Thoughts Jane B. Moore Field may not quite reach the electric heights of some of the nation’s premier collegiate softball venues, but Auburn’s traditions run deep enough to create a fun and distinctly Auburn game day experience here. The ballpark is spacious, comfortable, and well designed, while the passion of the fan base helps give the experience its own identity on the Plains.

Created by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey The Continental Football League (CoFL) is poised for a resurgence in Summer 2026, bringing back a unique brand of professional football that caters to smaller markets across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Originally launched in August 1965 (history highlights below), the CoFL made waves by featuring notable Hall of Famers like Bill Walsh, Steve Van Buren, and Doak Walker during its five-season run before folding in 1969. With a fresh structure and innovative approach, the league aims to capture the hearts of fans once again. 2026 CoFL Structure The upcoming iteration of the CoFL will emphasize community and localized interest. Mike Kelly has been appointed as the league commissioner, and operations will be based in Wheeling, West Virginia. The league plans to adopt a business model akin to minor league baseball and hockey, ensuring accessibility for fans and communities. The renewed CoFL will feature eight teams divided into two divisions: North Division: Ohio Valley Ironmen, *Michigan Arrows, Cincinnati Dukes, and Indianapolis Capitols South Division: Texas Syndicate, San Antonio Toros, Tall City Black Gold, and a fourth team to be announced The playoff structure will see the top two teams from each division compete for the championship, with regular-season matchups being North vs. North and South vs. South, ensuring more focused regional competition. Courtesy of the COFL Innovative Gameplay Rules One of the most exciting features of the revamped CoFL is its hybrid rule system. For the first three quarters, the league will follow NFL rules, while the fourth quarter will introduce the innovative "Continental Shift." This unique adjustment will incorporate modified CFL rules, adapted to American football fields, allowing for a dynamic playstyle that reflects both traditions. This shift not only enhances game excitement but also offers CFL scouts a platform to evaluate players in a familiar context. Rising Talent and Coaching Staff With rosters starting to take shape, anticipation is growing for the CoFL. The league has made significant strides in recruiting notable coaches, with figures like Stan Bedwell, Raheem Blackshear, Jerry Glanville, and Steve Kazor leading the charge. Their involvement not only elevates the league’s credibility but also entices fans eager for competitive play. Teams are expected to target players with experience from the NFL, CFL, UFL, and overseas outdoor leagues to build strong rosters. A Community Connection The CoFL is uniquely positioned to offer fans not only affordable, competitive football but also the rare opportunity to own a professional sports team. With initiatives like fan ownership already being deployed through its flagship team, the Ohio Valley Ironmen, the league demonstrates its commitment to fostering strong community ties. By enabling fans to invest in their teams, the CoFL acknowledges that success in professional sports often hinges on community support and engagement. History of the Continental Football League in the 1960s The Continental Football League (CoFL) was established in 1965 as a response to the growing popularity of professional football in the United States, aiming to provide a competitive alternative to the NFL. The league was initially formed by several teams from minor leagues and independent organizations. By the end of the 1960s, the Continental Football League struggled with financial sustainability and competition, leading to its eventual dissolution. However, it laid the groundwork for the eventual emergence of other leagues and the broader landscape of professional football in the U.S. What’s Old is New Again Whether you're a longtime football aficionado or a newcomer excited about alternative leagues, the return of the Continental Football League represents a thrilling chapter in the evolution of professional sports. The league combines innovative gameplay, notable talent, and community involvement to create a truly inclusive experience. *Editor's Note: The Norfolk Neptunes will replace the Michigan Arrows as a travel team

The Miracle Ice Arena is hoping that a miracle will get an ice arena for central Delaware. The initiative aims to construct a new ice rink. This project seeks to replace the Centre Ice Rink, which was closed by the Delaware State Fair in May 2025. The Centre Ice Rink was the former home of the Delaware Thunder of the Federal Prospects Hockey League and was located in Harrington, DE, on the grounds of the fair. On June 19, 2023, the Delaware Thunder announced they would be electing to go dormant for the 2023 to 2024 season, while plans for a new arena in Dover could be finalized. As of this writing, that dormancy is ongoing. The Miracle Ice project is making progress, according to the volunteer group behind the project. A total of $5 million is the bare minimum needed to start construction. The volunteers state that once that goal is met, construction of the arena is predicted to take between 12 and 18 months to complete. However, the effort to bring an ice venue back to the region faces complications from competing plans. The Dover Civic Arena Group, which formed shortly after the Thunder lost its lease, expressed concerns over a separate public proposal backed by State Senator Dave Lawson. The private group claims they have completed a feasibility study for an arena that would cost between $6 million and $8 million to build. Their proposed facility would feature a restaurant, pub, fitness center, and pro shop, while also accommodating professional usage to potentially bring back the Thunder or another pro hockey team. Meanwhile, Senator Lawson has been exploring state funding options for another independent public project. Representatives from the private Dover Civic Arena Group warn that building separate venues would not be cost-effective, arguing that there is currently not enough demand in Kent and Sussex County to support multiple ice facilities. As these competing plans continue through the funding and development stages, local skaters are facing significant commutes. With the Centre Ice Rink permanently closed, the next closest ice rinks for anyone in the Southern Delaware community are the University of Delaware rinks located an hour away north in Newark, or facilities even further away in Maryland.

Photos by Meg Minard , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Sloan Park 2330 W Rio Salado Pkwy Mesa, AZ 85201 Map It! ACL Cubs website Sloan Park website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 15,000 Baby Cubs Before minor league (the common single-A, double-A, triple-A leagues), there’s the rookie league, called a complex league. MLB operates two complex leagues: the Florida Complex League (FCL) in Florida and the Arizona Complex League (ACL) in Arizona. MLB uses the leagues as its lowest‑level, development‑first proving ground. It's a controlled environment where newly drafted players and recent international signees can train, be evaluated, and transitioned into professional baseball. The Chicago Cubs use Sloan Park for their player development and Complex League games. Sloan Park is mostly known as the spring training facility for the Cubs and the Mesa Solar Sox (Arizona Fall League). Live concerts, cultural festivities, and college and high school tournaments have also been hosted at the park. Before Sloan Park, the Chicago Cubs used Fitch Park for rookie ball, extended spring training, and minor league workouts. When Sloan Park opened in 2014, the Cubs shifted all rookie level games to the new complex. The Complex League isn’t here for the fans; it’s for player development. Food & Beverage 0 While Sloan Park offers plenty of concessions during spring training, none of the stands are open during a Complex League game, and rightfully so. Fans are encouraged to bring their own food and drink (no alcohol). We recommend bringing several bottles of water, as it gets hot during the season. Atmosphere 2 When attending an ACL game, some fans like the games being played in the ball team’s spring training back fields as they are closer to the game action, to the players and scouts, it’s more intimate, and it doesn’t feel as ‘empty.’ This isn’t the case for the ACL Cubs, as most games are played in the main stadium, which feels cavernous with fewer than 50 people scattered across a 10,800‑seat venue. What the ballpark does offer is comfort. The seats are the classic green fold‑down stadium chairs rather than bleachers, and most of them sit in the shade. The section behind home plate on the concourse even catches a bit of a breeze, albeit a warm breeze. It’s also easy to wander to different seating areas throughout the game for a different perspective. The video board only displays the line score, not any video graphics. The only music played comes from the ACL Cubs dugout, played pregame and between innings. I, personally, find that refreshing. Sloan Park Video Board for an ACL Cubs Game, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Similar to all ACL matchups, the starting line-up and rosters are not available at the stadium. For the ACL Cubs 2026 roster, check here. Again, the focus isn’t the fan experience; it’s preparing players for the next level. Neighborhood 4 About a mile northeast of Sloan Park is the Mesa Riverview Shopping Center. This center includes several places to eat, a movie theater, and many stores, including a Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. Restaurants include Cracker Barrel, Famous Dave’s BBQ, Henhouse Café (good for breakfast), Copper State Taphouse, and plenty more. A little over a mile west of Sloan Park (make a right on Rio Salado Parkway out of the ballpark) is the Tempe Marketplace, an even larger shopping area. It contains 26 restaurants/places to eat, including the Thirsty Lion and King's Fish House, a multitude of shops, and another movie theater. If shopping is your thing, this might be the place to go. One of Stadium Journey’s favorites for pre or post-game is Hundred Mile Brewery, a little over three miles from the park. For places to stay near the ballpark, the Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West and a Courtyard by Marriott are just beyond right field. The Hyatt Place Phoenix/Mesa is adjacent to the Mesa Riverview Shopping Center (about 1.2 miles from the ballpark). A Hilton Garden Inn and a Homewood Suites are a mile the other way (west) of the ballpark. Adjacent to the ballpark is Riverview Park, which offers a fishing lake, playground, picnic area, and water fountains to enjoy pre or post-game. For fans looking to explore more baseball in the area, check out some of the other East Valley Complex League Stadiums, including Papago Park (Giants), Fitch Park (Athletics), and the others at Salt River Fields and Tempe. Or visit Chase Field for an MLB Arizona Diamondbacks game or the Mortgage Matchup Center for a WNBA Phoenix Mercury game. Fans 1 In a crowd of maybe 20 - 30 spectators, the majority are scouts. Some backup players spend the game charting pitches and logging data with a radar gun. A few local baseball fans trickle in, but that’s about the extent of it; this is standard for the Arizona Complex League. The most enthusiastic cheering comes from the dugouts. Small Crowds at an ACL Cubs Game, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Access 4 If flying in for an ACL Cubs game, the closest airport (about seven miles from Sloan Park) is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Public transportation is somewhat available – from the airport, it’s a combination of using the Valley Metro light rail, transferring to a bus, and taking a short walk. Since under 50 individuals attend a game, traffic access is not the nightmare it is for a Cubs spring training game. Plenty of parking is available for no charge. Only the home plate gate is open for Complex League games. Bags aren’t checked at entry. Restrooms on the first base side concourse are open for the ACL games. Return on Investment 5 Every ACL game is completely free. You just show up; your only costs are transportation and any food or beverages you decide to bring. Parking is free, admission is free, and the experience is pure baseball. For a relaxed afternoon or evening at the park, that’s a pretty great deal. Extras 0 You won’t find any extras worth calling out during an ACL Cubs game; it’s a simple, baseball‑only experience. Final Thoughts A visit to an ACL matchup at Sloan Park offers an intimate, no‑frills way to watch future Cubs prospects in action.

Rendering Courtesy of Michigan State University Spartan Stadium, the iconic home of Michigan State football since its opening in 1923, is poised for the most ambitious renovation in its century‑long history. Athletic Director J. Batt told the Detroit Economic Club on May 5 that, if fundraising and approvals stay on schedule, the stadium will be “freshly renovated” by fall 2029. The overhaul, estimated at $500 million, will focus on the aging east side, upgrade fan amenities, and explore new revenue streams such as naming rights, hotels, and premium seating. Why the Upgrade is Needed Aging Infrastructure – After nearly 100 years, structural components on the east side show significant wear. Attendance Challenges – The Spartans have posted four consecutive losing seasons, leaving the 74,866‑seat venue partially empty late in the fall. Competitive Landscape – Peer institutions such as Penn State and Ohio State are continuously modernizing to attract recruits and donors. “It's not more seats, it’s better seats,” Batt emphasized, highlighting a shift toward premium experiences that can command higher ticket prices and corporate partnerships. Funding and Timeline December 2023: Greg and Dawn Williams pledged $401 million, with $290 million earmarked for the university’s broader FOR SPARTA $1 billion capital campaign. Projected Cost: Roughly $500 million for the stadium portion, including demolition, structural upgrades, and new hospitality spaces. Construction Window: Groundbreaking slated for fall 2027; completion targeted for summer 2029. Season Continuity: The Spartans will continue to play at Spartan Stadium during construction, employing temporary seating and phased work similar to Penn State's recent stadium remodel. Planned Features: Premium Seating - New club level suites, loge boxes, and reconfigured general‑admission sections with wider seats and better sightlines. Technology Upgrades - Enhanced Wi‑Fi, LED lighting, and an expanded high‑definition video board (the current board was installed before the 2022 season). Hospitality & Entertainment - Up to four new restaurants, a hotel adjacent to the stadium, and expanded concessions featuring local cuisine. Student Housing - New on‑campus residences near the stadium to boost student engagement on game days. Naming Rights - Exploration of a stadium naming partner, a move that could add tens of millions in long‑term revenue. IM West Demolition - The aging IM West building will be removed, freeing a sizable parcel for the new mixed‑use development. Beyond Football: A Campus Magnet University President Kevin Guskiewicz framed the project as more than a sports renovation. “We want to create something really special, a magnet where people want to just come to campus,” he said, noting that the current Kellogg Center looks “tired.” The envisioned campus hub would integrate dining, lodging, and entertainment, extending revenue generation well beyond the football season. Photo courtesy of Michigan State University athletics Market Context College athletics revenue has surged in the past decade, driven by media rights, donor gifts, and commercial partnerships. According to the NCAA’s 2023 revenue report, the top 25 football programs collectively generated over $10 billion in total revenue, with stadium naming deals accounting for an average of $25 million to $40 million annually. Michigan State’s pursuit of naming rights aligns with this trend and could help offset construction costs while enhancing brand visibility. Challenges Ahead Fundraising Gap – Even with the Williams donation, an additional $100 million, and $150 million will be needed to fund the stadium portion fully. Board Approval – The university’s Board of Trustees must sign off on the master plan, demolition of IM West, and any naming‑rights agreement. Construction Logistics – Phasing work to avoid disrupting home games will require meticulous scheduling and may limit certain upgrades in 2028. Batt remains confident: “We’re open for business,” he said, emphasizing a careful vetting process for any corporate partner to preserve the “hallowed ground” of Spartan Stadium. What It Means for Fans Short‑Term: Expect limited seating adjustments during the 2028 season as construction ramps up. Long‑Term: A modernized arena with premium lounges, improved connectivity, and an on-site hotel that could host tailgate parties, concerts, and other events year‑round. Spartan Stadium’s transformation promises not only to revitalize a historic venue but also to position Michigan State as a leader in the evolving economics of college sports. If the project stays on track, fans will experience a markedly upgraded game‑day atmosphere by the 2029 fall season, while the university taps new revenue streams to sustain its athletics and academic missions for decades to come.

Plans for a new multi-purpose arena to house the 76ers, Flyers, and a potential WNBA team are slated for the southeast corner of Broad Street and Pattison Avenue in South Philadelphia. The project, which would replace the current Xfinity Live! The site on the former Spectrum footprint is part of a larger $2.5 billion makeover for the sports complex, though no construction timeline has been released. The new South Philadelphia arena project is a collaboration between Comcast Spectacor and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE). For decades, the sports complex in South Philadelphia has been a cathedral of competition, but the landscape is about to undergo its most significant transformation since the opening of the Xfinity Mobile Arena. A new landmark is on the horizon—and it’s bringing a rare spirit of collaboration to the "City of Brotherly Love." A Unified Home for Three Teams In a move that surprised many fans in early 2025, the Philadelphia 76ers and the Philadelphia Flyers pivoted from separate paths to a shared vision. Abandoning plans for a Center City venue, the Sixers have partnered with the Flyers to build the New South Philadelphia Arena, which will also serve as the home court for a new WNBA expansion team. This powerhouse trio will anchor a facility designed to be the most technologically advanced and fan-focused venue in the world. Building the Future The heavy hitters of arena construction, Turner Construction and AECOM Hunt, are leading the project. With a combined portfolio that includes SoFi Stadium and the Intuit Dome, they are bringing 50 years of expertise to ensure the new arena sets a global standard. The design aims to integrate seamlessly into a broader entertainment district, creating a year-round destination that extends far beyond the final buzzer. While the project faced early hurdles and community concerns, the Philadelphia City Council’s approval in December 2024 paved the way for this 2030 opening. Design Vision and Local Expertise The architectural identity of the new arena is being shaped by Populous, the global firm behind iconic venues like the Las Vegas Sphere and London’s O2 Arena. In collaboration with Moody Nolan, the nation’s largest Black-owned architecture firm, the design team aims to create a world-class facility that is "authentically Philly". This vision is supported by the PACT+ joint venture, which integrates national construction giants with prominent local firms such as Perryman Construction, Hunter Roberts Construction Group, and Camfred Construction. This partnership ensures that the project not only meets global standards for technology and fan experience but also provides significant employment and contracting opportunities for the Philadelphia workforce. A Historic Commitment to Community Beyond the stadium's walls, the project is anchored by a record-breaking $50 million Community Benefits Agreement (CBA), the largest ever for a Philadelphia sports venue. This legally binding agreement is designed to mitigate neighborhood disruptions and fuel local growth, with funds earmarked for small business grants, street lighting, and a new neighborhood police substation. A significant portion of the investment will also focus on public transit, including $3 million to subsidize SEPTA and PATCO rides, aiming to ease traffic and encourage sustainable fan travel. While the proposal initially faced pushback, particularly from the Chinatown community concerned about gentrification, the city's approval in late 2024 has shifted the focus toward a "city-led" effort to ensure these historic investments translate into long-term vitality for the entire district. What to Watch For Cutting-Edge Amenities: Expect a "next-era" fan experience with amenities designed for athletes and performers alike. A Growing District: The arena will sit alongside the homes of the Eagles and Phillies, solidifying South Philly as a premier sports destination. Economic Impact: Beyond the games, the project focuses on community partnerships, including initiatives to support local small businesses. As the Xfinity Mobile Arena prepares for its eventual replacement, Philadelphia fans have a decade of anticipation ahead for a venue that promises to redefine the "Stadium Journey" in one of America's greatest sports towns.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Penn Medicine Park 650 North Prince Street Lancaster, PA 17603 Lancaster Stormers website Penn Medicine Park website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 6,000 A Storm In Lancaster Lancaster is a city located in South Central Pennsylvania, which serves as the seat of Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County and one of the oldest inland towns in the United States. It has a population of around 60,000 and is most commonly known as being the heart of Amish country. There are many tourist attractions in the area based on the Amish culture, as well as a slew of factory outlet stores. The Lancaster Red Roses were a minor league baseball team that played in the city from 1884 to 1961. They had a noted rivalry with York, PA, and their “White Roses” team. It was a re-imagination of the famous War of the Roses. The team played in the Piedmont League, Interstate League, Tri-State League, Pennsylvania State League, Atlantic League (1896-1899), Eastern Interstate League, Middle States League, Pennsylvania State Association, Keystone Association, and Eastern League. They had various names such as Lancaster Red Sox, Lancaster Lanks, Lancaster Maroons, Lancaster Chicks, Lancaster Ironsides, and Lancaster Red Stockings. The pro field at that point, Stumpf Field, is now home to high school baseball. In 2005, the city came back to professional baseball as part of the independent Atlantic League. The name “Barnstormers” was chosen in a team-sponsored fan ballot. The name served two purposes, first playing on the term “Barn,” as well as referring to the act of “barnstorming,” which is playing in exhibition games while travelling around in various areas. In 2024, they re-branded with the Stormers name and the bull as a main part of their logo, as well as using some storm and barn imagery. Originally, the stadium was named Clipper Magazine Stadium. The University of Pennsylvania Health System ("Penn Medicine") purchased the naming rights in 2025. Food & Beverage 4 The stadium has a plethora of basic, good food options around the stadium. Food is of good quality, and the prices are reasonable for this level of baseball. We recommend a walking taco. Beer starts at a reasonable price and goes higher if you choose a craft beer. A favorite spot is the pavilion on the right that offers a nice selection with a large craft beer menu. It is also a great spot to sit and enjoy some nice views of the game. Atmosphere 4 There is a walkway that extends around the entire field. Make sure to spend at least one inning watching the game from various viewpoints around the stadium. The seating bowl is a pretty standard setup for minor league baseball stadiums. There is no bad seat in the house. There is lawn seating in the left field area. Many fans also try to snag the single row of metal seating located at the bottom of the lawn and next to the outfield fence. The views here are great. A kids' area is located right near the lawn seats. The team has a mascot named Cylo, which is not a cow or a bull, although it looks just like such an animal. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is located just north of downtown. The stadium has been a part of the resurgence of the city. Make sure to walk around a bit before the game. There are many great food and drink options in downtown. Franklin and Marshall College is located just northwest of the stadium and is within walking distance. There are a good number of stores and restaurants near the college. A very nice hotel, the Lancaster Arts Hotel, is located pretty much across the street from the stadium and makes a nice place to stay and watch games. The hotel serves as an art gallery and lodging establishment while making use of former factory space. Fans 4 The Barnstormers have regularly been among the leaders in the Atlantic League for attendance, with an average of over 3,000 fans per game. The fans that sit right behind the plate are knowledgeable. Once you get out to the fringe parts of the park, you may see the more casual fan. The stadium seems to make both types of fans feel right at home. Given the Atlantic League's relatively small geographic area, fans of the visiting team, particularly those of the York Revolution, are often present in significant numbers. Access 4 Lancaster is an easy area to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are well-known, large roads that any tourist visitor to the area will be more than familiar with. Even though the stadium is located downtown, you will seldom find traffic to be too bad. Lancaster is located about half an hour from the state capital, Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore, and the same distance to Philadelphia. Their rival Atlantic League team, the York Revolution, is a short distance west on Route 30. There are many free parking lots around the stadium, as well as more expensive, slightly closer VIP lots. Return on Investment 5 The best bargain is lawn tickets for under $10. If you want a seat, look for ones under or around $20. These prices are great for the high quality of baseball seen in the Atlantic League. Also, be on the lookout for special deals and events. There is also a nice variety of season and package plans. Extras 4 The team store has a great variety of Stormers merchandise. The prices and quality are very good. Check out the clearance racks for some nice, cheap options. The kids' play area in the left field area, which includes a merry-go-round, is a great place for the uninterested kids to spend some time. The variety of options for them is pretty good. If you have kids, buy lawn seats and send them over to the kids' area while you enjoy the game. As you walk along the left field line outside the ballpark, coming from the parking lot, you'll find a mural dedicated to former players who have reached the major leagues. Finally, the 360-degree concourse and its many vantage points to watch a game are quite an extra. Final Thoughts Penn Medicine Park offers a great baseball environment while still giving casual fans a fun entertainment option.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 CarMax Park 3001 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard Richmond, VA 23230 Richmond Flying Squirrels website Car Max Park website Year Opened: 2026 Capacity: 10,000 Flying Squirrels are Taking It to the ‘Max As the 2026 baseball season gets underway, minor-league baseball in Richmond has a new home for the first time in 40 years. The Flying Squirrels have moved into the brand new $110 million CarMax Park, just across the street from their former home at the Diamond. The naming rights to the new park belong to the auto group with its corporate headquarters in Virginia’s capital city. The new stadium includes many firsts for Richmond baseball. CarMax Park features a 360-degree concourse, which also means it has seating beyond the outfield walls for the first time in the team’s existence. Catching a home run ball has finally become a reality. The seating bowl is also much closer to the field than at the Diamond, with the Dugout Suites at field level. The field dimensions are RF 325, CF 400, and LF 325. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions program at CarMax Park offers a much more diverse set of food choices than was available at the Diamond. There are four main concession stands along the concourse, with several more specialized stands mixed in between. In addition, there are several Grab N’ Go self-service stands, which can be a big timesaver. The main concession stands are known as the Fan Favorite stands. They feature Hot Chicken sandwiches ($12), fried chicken ($12), chicken tenders ($11), hot dogs ($4.50), ballpark nachos ($5.50), the team’s unique Squirrely fries ($5), cracker jacks ($4.50), pretzels ($6.75), peanuts ($4), and candy ($5.25). Other stands are more food-type specific. They include Squirrelly Bird (chicken), Capitol BBQ (barbeque), RVA Burger (hamburgers), Cho’s (nachos), and the 804 Mart (grab-and-go convenience store food). The quality of the food at these stands is above average for a minor league baseball park. CarMax Park features Pepsi brand sodas at its concession stands. Adult beverages are available at each concession stand. There is a minimum of eight taps per stand. Domestic beers are $8.75, with premium brands available for $10.75. There is also a beer garden located in the left field area of the stands There are TV monitors at each stand, so you will not miss any of the game action. Atmosphere 4 CarMax Park offers a very welcoming atmosphere, compared to the very cold and outdated atmosphere found at the Diamond. The stadium colors feature the red and blue team colors of the Flying Squirrels. There is a large sign featuring the CarMax Park sign, which is a nice background for selfies. The CarMax Park logo is embossed on the seats along the aisles throughout the park. CarMax Park has one of the largest videoboards in minor league baseball (3,648 square feet) in right-center field. It does a great job keeping fans updated on important plays on the field, as well as upcoming events at the ballpark. There are two Squirrel’s Nest team stores at CarMax Park, with one on the main concourse along the first baseline and a second location in center field. This cuts down dramatically on the lines to get into the store, which is a major improvement over the lone store at the Diamond. One of the popular new features of the new park is the use of Public Art. This includes a mural on the back of the Batter’s Eye in center field featuring baseball card-style images of some of the many great stars that played for the Richmond franchise over the years. Another installation is a “Flying Squirrels are Richmond, VA” wall in the Landing area that is a very popular backdrop for selfies. The children’s area along the outfield concourse features cutouts of team mascots Nutsy and Nutasha. Neighborhood 3 CarMax Park is in the Scott’s Addition Historic District neighborhood in northeast Richmond. The immediate area surrounding CarMax Park has been rechristened as the Diamond District. The City of Richmond’s Development Authority is partnering with the Flying Squirrels to create a vibrant live/work/play community surrounding the ballpark. CarMax Park will host numerous community-wide events outside of baseball as a part of this agreement. Apartments, affordable housing, restaurants, retail outlets, and public green spaces are all in the long-range plans for the Diamond District. The immediate area surrounding the stadium is somewhat of a work in progress, with construction equipment on site and some building materials still present. There are several restaurants within a few blocks of CarMax Park. These include ZZQ of Texas Craft BBQ, Remedy Burger, and the Veil Brewing Company. The Park RVA Entertainment complex is also adjacent to the ballpark. The area is also a hotbed for craft breweries. These include the Vasen Brewing Company, Ardent Craft Ales, and The Veil Brewing Company. Fans 4 Professional baseball has a long history in the Richmond area, dating back to 1884. The only break in this history came in the two years in between the Richmond Braves' departure to Gwinnett in 2008 and the relocation of the Connecticut Defenders franchise to Richmond in 2010 to become the Flying Squirrels. As a result of this long history and the traumatic loss of the Braves, Richmond fans are determined to never let that happen again. The Richmond Squirrels have led the Eastern League in average attendance for nine of the last fifteen seasons, and CarMax Park’s increased capacity seems certain to keep that streak intact. The first month has seen the ballpark sell out every home game so far, as interest in checking out the new facility is widespread throughout the Commonwealth. Access 3 The new home of the Flying Squirrels offers easy access from both I-95 and I-64. From I-95: Take exit 78 (Boulevard/Route 161), and the ballpark is two blocks south. Follow the signage to your appropriate parking lot. From I-64: I-64 merges with I-95 just north of the ballpark. Exit onto I-95 south and follow the directions above. CarMax Park is still using the parking lots from The Diamond, as the old ballpark is just across the street from the new park. General parking is available in the Red, Yellow, Green, and Pink lots, with the Black and Gold lots reserved for ADA parking only. Rideshares will pick up and deliver fans at the Red lot. Greater Richmond Transit (GRC) already offers numerous bus stops near the ballpark. Fans will be happy to see that the main entry gate into the park has only five steps, as opposed to the thirty steps they had to climb at the Diamond. There are ramps available at CarMax Park for ADA entry. Ballpark gates open 90 minutes before the first pitch. Return on Investment 4 CarMax Park offers a wide variety of seating plans at several price points. The cheapest seats in the ballpark are on the berm in the outfield at $10.00. Knothole/Youth seating is bleacher-style seating on either side of the Batter’s Eye in the outfield at $12. The most expensive seats are considered “Prime” seats, which means that they are within the three rows closest to the field. Baseline/Dugout Prime seats are $24, while Home Plate Prime seats are $30. The Yard Club area features Adirondack seats in the outfield and is priced at $60 per pair. Bullpen rail seats (overlooking the bullpens in the outfield) are $26. All other seating is $18-20, depending on which part of the field they overlook. Concession prices for the ballpark basics (drinks, hot dogs, candy) are very reasonable. The more specialized menu items come at a premium cost. Parking in the stadium lots is $10 per car. Extras 5 The Flying Squirrels are the AA affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. This means CarMax Park is the greatest distance from its parent club’s home park (Oracle Park) at 2,872 miles. Players will sign autographs up to 30 minutes before the first pitch. Fans should line up along the seats closest to the first baseline. The Bon Secours Base Camp is a children’s play area located in the area beyond the center field wall of the ballpark. One of the more entertaining between-innings contests at the Flying Squirrells games is the Mixed Nuts Race. It features competitors with names like the Almond Brothers, Johnny Cashew, Pablo Pistachio, and P. Nutt. CarMax Park offers several group seating areas with dining options in each area of the ballpark. The Patio is a picnic-style area along the third baseline. The Landing is in the left field corner and comes with a buffet. The Backstop is a covered indoor seating area above the concourse that comes with meal service. The City View Suites offer a wonderful overlook of the ballpark, as well as a view of the downtown Richmond skyline in the distance. The Power Alley Porch is in the outfield area and offers drink rail seating with a buffet. The Flying Squirrels offer free game programs, filled with the team history, player bios, info on special promotions, and lineup cards. Final Thoughts CarMax Park is the Richmond area's first new nest for baseball in 40 years, and the Flying Squirrel fans are going nuts over it.

Photos by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Bainton Field 25 Hospital Rd Piscataway, NJ 08854 Rutgers Scarlet Knights website Bainton Field website Year Opened: 2007 Capacity: 1,308 Afternoon Baseball in Jersey Bainton Field/Class of 1953 Gruinger Baseball Complex serves as the home to the Rutgers University Baseball program. Originally opened in 2007, the facility received major upgrades in the fall of 2020 through the generous support of Ron and Pat Bainton. Their $1.25 million donation was the largest single contribution ever made and helped provide a modern Fieldturf playing surface and paved the way for future improvements. Before the 2026 season, the stadium completed its major renovation project with upgrades by removing the bleachers and installing a new seating structure, which features 402 chairback seats with a total capacity of 1,308. Additional fan enhancements include a high-quality sound system, ADA accessible ramps, and a brand-new scoreboard and video board, which was installed in 2023. Food & Beverage 1 The recent renovations to Bainton Field did not include the park’s concessions. There is only one concession stand at Bainton Field. It is located behind home plate. The concession stand provides fans with typical basic ballpark food. These food and beverage items are hot dogs, nachos, and pretzels with a cost of around $7. Candy, chips, and peanuts will cost between $3.50 and $5.00. Bottled water costs $5.25, and soda costs $6.25. The concession stand, although being basic, does serve alcohol. You are able to purchase beer, which costs $15 for domestic beers and $16 for premium domestic beers. Atmosphere 2 Bainton Field gives you more of a college baseball atmosphere than it may have in the past with the recent renovations. In April of 2023, Rutgers installed lights at Bainton Field, which allows the team to not have to battle with darkness and allows them to schedule games and bring a better atmosphere for home games. Game Action at Bainton Field - Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 Bainton Field is located in Piscataway, New Jersey, on Rutgers’ Livingston campus across the river from New Brunswick. Piscataway and New Brunswick combine to bring out the charm of a campus and urban neighborhood with plenty of food options and hotels. If you just want a quick pregame slice, you can find them at Daniel’s Pizzeria or Biggie's Slice House. If you are looking for a good pub to have a pregame or postgame meal, there are Tavern on George or the Scarlet Pub. Some of the more convenient lodging options for those who may be staying for a weekend series near Bainton Field are the Hyatt Regency and the Heldrich Hotel & Conference Center. Fans 2 The Rutgers fan enhancements to the ballfield are great, but it doesn't seem to improve in bringing in more fans. Rutgers baseball attendance ranks among the lowest numbers in the Big Ten Conference. 247sports reports that the average attendance in 2025 for Rutgers baseball games was 351. Despite the small numbers, the fans that do show up for the program seem to be closely invested in the team. Batter Up at Bainton Field. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Getting to Bainton Field can be confusing for those who are not from the area. The ballfield sits just off the New Jersey Turnpike, about 30 miles south of Newark. Rutgers University currently has a total of three separate campuses in the local area, with Bainton Field being on the Busch campus. There is parking directly around the ballfield, or you are also able to park in the lots next to Jersey Mike’s Arena, the home of the Men's and Women's Basketball programs. All parking is free. Return on Investment 3 Admission and parking to Rutgers baseball at Bainton Field are free, as tickets are not sold for games here. The concession prices are a little high for this type of ballfield, even though it is on par with other sports venues. Overall, attending a game here can be worthwhile if you're looking for a casual outing with family or if your favorite college baseball team is the opponent. Grandstand at Bainton Field. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 Bainton Field has a list of its alumni who are in the MLB on a banner that is on one of the fences of the Rutgers bullpen. Notably, the top alum would be a local Little League World Series Champion, Todd Frasier. Todd was the Big East player of the year and an All-American in 2007 for the Scarlett Knights. He became the third Rutgers baseball player to be picked in the first Round of the Major League Baseball Draft when the Cincinnati Reds selected him as the 34th overall selection. Final Thoughts Bainton Field has received plenty of upgrades in the past few years, and it is an enjoyable place to watch a ballgame. Although it may be quiet and the ballfield may not be packed, you can never go wrong with free baseball.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Globe Life Field 734 Stadium Drive Arlington, TX 76011 Texas Rangers website Globe Life Field website Year Opened: 2020 Capacity: 40,300 Globe Life Field – Texas Rangers Globe Life Field is home to Major League Baseball’s American League Texas Rangers – the Rangers organization began in 1972 when the Washington Senators relocated to Arlington, Texas. Globe Life Field is a retractable roof stadium that opened in 2020 with a seating capacity of just over 40,000; the new ballpark is just across the street from the Rangers former home Globe Life Park, now Choctaw Stadium. Globe Life Field’s opening was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the first game being played without fans on July 24, 2020. However, although the pandemic pushed back the 2020 MLB season and cost the Rangers fan attendance in their new ballpark, there was a bright side, as Globe Life Field was selected to host the 2020 National League championship series and the 2020 World Series. Baseball Fans were allowed to attend those playoff games, and people finally got to see the Rangers new home firsthand. Globe Life Field has hosted many events – these include the National and American League Championships, the 2020 and 2023 World Series, and the MLB All-Star Game, as well as college football games and year-round concerts. Food & Beverage 5 One of the most basic food items at sporting events began in Arlington, as the Rangers were the first team to introduce nachos to fans. The same nachos company, Rico’s, has been supplying the chips to Rangers fans for decades. One of their most recent nacho offerings comes in the form of the Boomstick, a three-pound two-foot-long hot dog covered with chili, nacho cheese, jalapenos, and caramelized onions. In fact, year after year the Rangers have creative items on the menu; new this season the Rangers food service Levy introduced 13 new food items, the most popular being the 9th inning Rally Sombrero, a wearable, 26-inch-wide sombrero filled with nacho toppings, including chips, cheddar cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and jalapeños. Globe Life Field also has local vendors such as Hurtado Barbecue, Golden Chick, Pluckers, and a Texas favorite in Whataburger. The Rangers also connect with fans looking for vegan options, who can choose from a full menu including vegan burgers, sandwiches, nachos, and chicken nuggets, all available at the Visiting Vegan stand. Concession prices are a bit high here, but fans are getting plenty of food for what they are paying. Soft drinks include Coke products, along with PowerAde and Dasani as non-carbonated options. There are also plenty of alcohol choices as well inside the ballpark, including several full-service bars and beer carts around the stadium that serve seltzer, wine, mixed drinks, and beer from both national brands and local brewing companies Deep Ellum and Karbach. Overall, there are plenty of food and beverage choices for any fan that attends a Rangers game, and you get a lot for what you are paying. Atmosphere 3 Globe Life Field has been criticized and mocked for its outside structure; it’s not an attractive ballpark from the outside, especially when you compare it to the team’s old facility across the street. However, once you are inside the ballpark it transforms into one of the better retractable roof stadiums in the country, and the glass used around the stadium lets in enough light that you don’t feel like you’re inside a warehouse. Originally fans compared this venue to the other major league ballpark in the state, Daikin Park in Houston, but Globe Life Field has a lot more character than the home of the Astros. Globe Life Field has a large videoboard suspended high above right field, which is the main source of gameday information. There are also two other large videoboards showing information during the game – one is a vertically hung auxiliary scoreboard in centerfield showing the day’s lineup, while the other is situated high above the party porch in left field. As fans enter the ballpark they can walk around the different concourses and see Rangers history throughout, including a Texas-sized clock and Ranger Hall of Famer uniforms in centerfield. There is also not a better moment leading up to first pitch than when long-time public-address announcer Chuck Morgan makes his standard announcement, as the umpires and managers wrap up their pre-game meeting – “Ladies and Gentlemen, it is Baseball Time in Texas!”. Chuck Morgan has been the voice of the Texas Rangers for the past 43 years; he is in the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame, and one day Cooperstown should be calling on him to fill his place among the great baseball announcers. The Rangers game presentation is basic and simple – the team boasts the Rangers Six Shooters, the team’s spirit squad which cheers from an area in centerfield, along with mascot Rangers Captain, a palomino-style horse dressed in the team’s uniform wearing number 72, marking the first year of the Rangers organization. The staff also entertains by leading fans in singing throughout the game, including the fifth inning “Deep in the Heart of Texas” and the 7th inning stretch “Take Me out to the Ballgame”, plus bonus song “Cotton Eye Joe”. Another popular mid-inning activity is the Dot Race, which started at Arlington Stadium with Chuck Morgan stating “As a reminder, this is an exhibition. No wagering, please.” – this is now a Rangers tradition that helps set the experience here apart from what you will see anywhere else. Overall, the ballpark, Chuck Morgan, and the Rangers fans provide an above-average atmosphere compared to other ballparks around Major League Baseball. Neighborhood 3 Globe Life Field is in the center of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, just south of DFW Airport. The two large cities are both around 25 miles in opposite directions of the facility, but each has plenty of tourist attractions, lodging options, and restaurants. If you are new to the Arlington area, the neighborhood has improved over the years, and continues to become a little more attractive each year to hang out in before or after a game. The ballpark is next to Texas Live!, a place filled with various restaurants for fans to visit; the restaurants are Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint, Pudge’s Pizza owned by Rangers legend Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez, Lockhart Smokehouse, Arlington’s backyard BBQ, and Troy’s (owned by Hall of Famer Troy Aikman). There are also two hotels adjacent to the ballpark: Live by Loews and Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center. Just to the west of Globe Life Field is AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, while across the street is Choctaw Stadium. The Medal of Honor Museum and Arlington Museum of Art are also both within walking distance of the venue. There are also other places to spend time at while on your visit to Arlington – Six Flags over Texas and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark are both within a mile and a half of the ballpark, and the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame is also within that 1.5-mile radius. Fans 3 Last year the Texas Rangers attendance saw a slight decline from the prior year, with an average of 29,593 fans per game, and this season is showing to be around the same. The key to seeing larger attendance is solely based on the performance of the team on the field, however – this is not just a Rangers thing but is true around baseball; fans want to see good teams. Despite the numbers, Rangers fans are loud, knowledgeable, and respond accordingly in all game situations. Globe Life Field’s roof being enclosed adds to the loudness of the fans here, but overall, the fans themselves are a pleasure to watch a ball game with. Access 3 Globe Life Field is in the heart of Arlington’s entertainment district. Arlington is in the middle of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, making up the fourth-largest metropolitan population in the United States. Two airports support the DFW area, including Love Field near downtown Dallas, about twenty-one miles from Globe Life Field, for Southwest Airlines flights. However, most flights arrive at DFW International Airport, which is ten miles from the ballpark. The City of Arlington is the largest populated city in the United States that does not have public transit, so the only way to get to Globe Life Field from either airport is via rideshare or a rental car. For rideshare, the cost from either airport is about $40 one-way on average. Driving to Globe Life Field is easy, as it is located off Interstate 30. There are plenty of options for parking around the ballpark, with prices ranging from $20 to $60. Pre-paid parking is offered and is a fantastic way to minimize cost and time searching if you book ahead. Also, if you are staying in a hotel near the ballpark, many have a shuttle to the stadium. Once at the ballpark there are six entrances into Globe Life Field. The most common, the north entrance, is adjacent to Texas Live! Gates open about 2 hours before first pitch. When walking inside the ballpark, there is plenty of signage to help you navigate throughout the facility – the wide concourses provide plenty of space for fans to walk around and see the sights. Note that when buying tickets, however, the lower field-level seats are only accessible to those who have tickets in those sections. Disclaimer for fans purchasing tickets: Globe Life Field has numerous obstructions. Avoid purchasing the first 5 rows of each section as your sightline there will be impacted by the extended wire rails that have been installed in the ballpark. Return on Investment 3 Texas Rangers tickets truly depend on the night, opponent, and even specific popular promotional giveaways. Since MLB supply-and-demand flex pricing is a guessing game, the earlier you can lock in a price, the more protected you are against rising costs. For example, the Rangers website lists tickets as low as $14 and as high as $667 for one game, but on a different night, the low and high prices change to $23 and $425 – this doesn’t include service fees, which can add $5 to $15 to each ticket. For some games, it would be more economical to look at third-party sellers, as season ticket holders sell their seats for less desirable games. Despite all this, however, Major League Baseball is still the most affordable of the major league sports. The parking cost here is average compared to the rest of Major League Baseball, starting anywhere from $30 to $60 for lots around Globe Life Field. However, parking is also on a flex pricing schedule, so the more popular the game the higher the cost. Nevertheless, there is pre-sale parking available, which is a good option especially for out-of-town fans. One of the biggest downsides to this ballpark is the lack of public transportation for such a large metroplex. Globe Life Field’s concessions have the typically high costs commonly seen at sports venues. However, when the Rangers create new food items, or if you choose one of their already popular items like the Boomstick, the food and drink costs can easily go beyond your normal expectations. The days of baseball being low-cost entertainment are no longer here when it comes to Globe Life Field. However, Major League Baseball still provides the lowest cost among all the major sports. Extras 5 The obvious extra to Globe Life Field is that the ballpark has a retractable roof – although the venue is an eyesore to some looking in from the outside, the constant 72 degrees indoors keeps fans and players from enduring the Texas summer heat. Other things add to fans enjoyable time at Globe Life Field too, such as behind home plate on the main concourse there is a unique opportunity for fans to see and visit with the Texas Rangers longtime public address announcer Chuck Morgan, who welcomes baseball fans to Arlington with his announcement of “It’s Baseball Time in Texas!”. In addition, outside Chuck Morgan’s office are display cases full of Rangers memorabilia. Outside Globe Life Field there are also plaques of Texas Ranger Hall of Fame inductees on display outside the stadium's northeast entry point, adjacent to the statue of Benjie Molina and Neftali Feliz celebrating the Rangers 2010 American League Championship. There are also three bronze statues of Texas Rangers Baseball Hall of Famers Nolan Ryan, Ivan “Pudge” Rodriquez, and Adrian Beltre. Globe Life Field’s outfield wall also recognizes numbers of significance throughout Rangers history – the distance markers are the numbers worn by players that are in the Rangers Hall of Fame, namely 29 (Adrian Beltre), 34 (Nolan Ryan),10 (Michael Young), 7 (Ivan Rodriguez), and 26 (Johnny Oates). Lastly, Globe Life Field’s distance from home plate to backstop is 42 in recognition of Jackie Robinson’s retired number throughout baseball. Final Thoughts As I looked across the street at the old ballpark with bittersweet memories, I realized that this recent home of the Rangers has become more useful in the last few years since it opened. Globe Life Field, being a retractable ballpark, has provided a year-round place where DFW residents can come together. The ballpark was built for the Texas Rangers and fans as a relief from the Texas Summer heat, yet the ballpark has held numerous concerts, other sporting events, and high school graduations as well. As for baseball, Globe Life Field may not be high on baseball fans’ lists of favorite ballparks, as the ballpark doesn’t have the same charm as some of the others, but it is still a solid place to watch an MLB game, in one of the best metro areas in the US.

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Photo courtesy of Craig Smith and Marc Viquez Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Greer Field at Turchin Stadium 6400 S. Claiborne Ave New Orleans, LA 70125 Tulane Green Wave website Greer Field at Turchin Stadium website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 5,000 Catch the Wave at Greer Field at Tulane Greer Field at Turchin Stadium is located at Tulane University, offering one of the nicer college baseball experiences in the country. Located in New Orleans, the home of the Green Wave, blends modern amenities with a deep-rooted baseball tradition that dates back decades on this very site. Opened in 2008 for $10.5 million, the ballpark is named in honor of Philip Greer and Robert and Lillian Turchin, preserving the legacy of the original Turchin Stadium. The current facility replaced nearly every aspect of its predecessor while maintaining a connection to the program’s history, with only the lighting system, portions of the scoreboard, and the Theresa Sofio Hitting Facility remaining from the previous structure. The ballpark is named after Robert Turchin, a WW II vet and Tulane grad, who headed a drive with his wife in 1990 to build the ballpark. The field is named after Phil Greer, chair of the board of Tulane. From 1893 to 1989, the Green Wave played baseball games at Tulane Diamond, located approximately 100 feet from the current venue. Tulane baseball has enjoyed significant success at this location, posting a home winning percentage above .700 over the years. The program has also hosted numerous high-profile events, 23 conference tournaments, and 2 NCAA World Series appearances. Food & Beverage 4 Located on the concourse under the grandstand and a food truck on the third-base side (Flower Way Fan Zone). There are two main concession stands offering ballpark favorites, and the food truck features a few local favorites. Tulane athletics are cashless, so all sales are debit or credit only. Fans can purchase stadium dogs, cheeseburgers, nachos, pretzels, peanuts, popcorn, and Creole sausages. There is also candy, chips, soda pop, and domestic and premium beer (24 ounces). A sweet treat that is available is an Icee. The Dook’s Food Truck offers gameday specials such as boudin egg rolls, chicken tenders with fries, wings, and hot honey chicken fries. They are fries topped with chicken bites, hot honey sauce, and ranch. The boudin egg rolls are stuffed with Cajun sausage, which is a mixture of rice, onions, and spices. The Warning Track is a draft beer garden located on the LF line concourse. The area offers multiple beers on draft. They include Leinenkugel Summer Shandy, Southern Drawl Pilsner, Jockamo Juicy IPA, and Batture Blonde Ale. Coach’s Corner Market is above home plate and offers grab-and-pay areas of beer, wine, seltzers, and canned cocktails. Atmosphere 3 Greer Field at Turchin Stadium has a capacity of 5,000 and features a middle concourse between the upper and lower sections of chairback seating. The structural steel grandstand was expanded during the last renovations to provide more fan comfort at the game. The seating bowl includes a partially covered section for protection from the Louisiana heat, along with an open-air club suite that provides a more premium game-day atmosphere. Additional premium seating is available in four private suites located along the first baseline. These suites include air-conditioned interiors, kitchenette space, and private restrooms, and are accessible via elevator. The elevator also leads to an upgraded press box, which now features individual broadcast booths, expanded workspace for media members, and modern connectivity. The main entrance to the ballpark features the Goldring Plaza, a welcoming exterior space that is accented with commemorative bricks purchased by Tulane supporters. Just a tad on the first base side of the concourse is the Eric Lane Wall of Champions, honoring past accomplishments in Green Wave history: College World Series appearances, regional appearances, conference championships, and retired numbers. A decorative video board installed above the left-field videobaord provides the in-game atmosphere with replays, highlights, and updated statistics. The ballpark features an expanded concession area, a merchandise stand, a sythetic playing field with an oversized wordmark logo of the pelicans on bats. Neighborhood 3 Just across from Greer Field at Turchin Stadium, fans will find a couple of solid dining options. Ted’s Frostop Diner is a local favorite for classic burgers, fries, and its signature root beer served in frosty mugs, while Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria and Bayou’s Hot Wings are worth grabbing a bite to eat before or after the ballgame. The B Spot is burgers, shrimp n grits, gumbo, and chicken and waffles. The area around Tulane offers plenty to explore. Audubon Park, located right next to campus, is perfect for a relaxing walk and is also home to the popular Audubon Zoo. A bit farther out, City Park features family-friendly attractions like Storyland and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, complete with a scenic train ride. For those looking to experience Tulane’s nightlife, The Boot on Broadway is a longtime campus staple. Fans 3 The average attendance figures are not as strong as several other programs in the South. However, Tulane fans are known for their passion for their baseball team, as well as for creating a welcoming environment for everyone who enters the stadium. They are enthusiastic and supportive during the game, adding a great soundtrack to the game day experience. The Green Wave averaged 1,437 fans last season, above the average in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Access 3 Access requires tickets, with options for chairback seating in the grandstand, and adheres to a clear bag policy (12” x 12” x 6”). No re-entry is allowed once inside. Parking is available in the Rosen Lot behind Greer Field at Turchin Stadium, as well as at the Diboll Parking Garage on Ben Weiner Drive. Accessible seating is located above the 100-level seating on the concourse, reachable via a ramp on the first-base line. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices start at $9 for the left-field bleachers and public seating in right field. Box and reserved seats range from $16 to $32 per game. Day-of-game parking is available in the Claiborne Lot for $17 and the Diboll Garage for $10. Both parking areas open three hours before the first pitch for all games. Merchandise is available at The Flower Wave Way Fan Zone. Weekly promotions include Friday Night Bingo, Double Play Tuesdays (2-for-1 specials), and two Bark at the Park nights throughout the season. Extras 2 The ballpark earns a few extra points for its promotional nights, colorful uniforms worn by the Green Wave, and its local craft beer selection Final Thoughts Greer Field at Turchin Stadium successfully combines history, comfort, and fan-friendly features into one of the top environments in college baseball. Whether visiting for the atmosphere, the amenities, or the quality of play, fans will find a ballpark experience that reflects both the pride and tradition of Tulane University.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Gulfport Sportsplex 17200 16th St Gulfport, MS 39503 SWAC Softball website Gulfport Sportsplex website Year Opened: 2006 Postseason Softball Comes to the Gulf Coast Since its debut in 1997, the Southwestern Athletic Conference Softball Tournament has served as the annual post-season for one of HBCU’s most storied and competitive conferences, bringing together the top eight schools from the conference in a double-elimination battle for the SWAC crown and an automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament. In those early years the conference tournament rotated amongst various conference schools, but beginning in 2009 the event evolved into a more neutral site tournament, first landing in Hattiesburg (2009), before making stops in Decatur, AL (2010-15), Irondale, AL (2016), and Montgomery (2017-19). Since 2021, the tournament has found a home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast at Gulfport Sportsplex, a sprawling 250-acre complex that offers one of the premier rec sports facilities in Mississippi. Opened in 2006, Gulfport Sportsplex features 15 championship-level baseball and softball fields (9 turf and 6 grass), four large soccer fields, and Gulf Islands Water Park, which is also located on the property. Located just minutes from the Gulf Coast’s beaches, casinos, restaurants and nightlife, the venue provides the SWAC tournament with a vacation-like atmosphere on the Gulf Coast. Food & Beverage 3 For a youth sports facility, Gulfport Sportsplex offers a food and beverage setup that easily exceeds expectations during the SWAC Softball Tournament. The primary concession stand, located down the left field line of Field 15, serves as the tournament’s main dining hub, and provides a surprisingly wide selection. While the venue itself may carry the bones of a traditional rec league complex, the concessions area feels notably upgraded, anchored by a large covered pavilion complete with picnic tables and distinctive spiral-style bar chairs that offer a breezy, shaded place to relax between innings or games. Fans can choose from substantial items like BBQ chicken nachos, pizza, quesadillas, chicken tenders, hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, fries, and hot pretzels, while lighter or family-friendly options include yogurt, Uncrustables PB&J sandwiches, bananas, popcorn, and Slim Jims. The candy and snack selection is particularly broad, offering individual treats such as Reese’s Cups, M&M’s, Skittles, Starburst, Snickers, Sour Patch Kids, cotton candy, muffins, donuts, Italian ice, and more. Coca-Cola serves as the official soft drink provider of Gulfport Sportsplex, ensuring the usual lineup of sodas and refreshing beverages that fit naturally within the classic ballpark atmosphere. As expected for a family-oriented amateur sports facility, alcohol is not available for purchase. Atmosphere 4 The SWAC Softball Tournament takes place on the north side of Gulfport Sportsplex, centered around Field 15 among the complex’s six turf diamonds. On paper it may sound like a fairly standard youth sports facility setup, and in many ways, it still is. But during tournament week, this 20-year-old complex undergoes a remarkable transformation. Despite opening in 2006, Gulfport Sportsplex feels strikingly modern, with facilities so well maintained that visitors could easily mistake it for a venue 5 years old. What is ordinarily a regional sports complex transforms into a full-fledged collegiate championship environment, as the SWAC turns this familiar youth tournament setting into an energetic postseason stage. From the moment fans arrive, the conference branding is impossible to miss. SWAC signage and banners are displayed everywhere throughout the complex, creating the sense that this is no ordinary softball tournament. At the main entrance, flags representing all 12 SWAC member schools proudly wave, even though only eight teams earn the right to compete. In addition, a welcoming display near the front gate, complete with Gulfport Sportsplex signage, multiple flags, and a small decorative turf field built into the asphalt, offers an inviting first impression when you arrive at the complex. A small pop-up merch stand is set up at the main entrance as well. Field 15 itself may look kind of basic in structure, but this is elevated by SWAC branding and atmosphere. Two small sets of standard bleacher seating flank the field, enclosed by iron gates adorned with SWAC championship logos and signage. A large backstop, boldly displaying “SWAC Softball Tournament,” anchors the venue and reinforces the event’s postseason significance. Facing south, the field offers a straightforward layout with a simple scoreboard in left field. Beyond the fences lie stretches of parking lots and wooded surroundings, but in right field, visitors are treated to a unique glimpse of the towering water slides from nearby Gulf Islands Waterpark. For the SWAC Softball Tournament, Gulfport Sportsplex transforms from a traditional youth sports venue into a fitting home for one of HBCU softball’s most important championships. Neighborhood 3 While Gulfport may not immediately carry the flash or casino-heavy reputation of neighboring Biloxi, visitors who assume there is little to explore here will quickly discover that Mississippi’s third-largest city offers far more than meets the eye. Gulfport provides a mix of family attractions, shopping, coastal culture, and laid-back Gulf Coast charm, making it an ideal host city for an event like the SWAC Softball Tournament. Right on the sportsplex grounds, families will find Gulf Islands Waterpark, one of Coastal Mississippi’s top warm-weather attractions, with towering water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and kid-friendly splash zones. Even though the waterpark isn’t open yet during the tournament, the water slides still create a memorable view in right field. Gulfport Sportsplex also benefits from a highly accessible location near the major interchange of Highway 49 and Interstate 10, placing visitors directly in the heart of one of Gulfport’s busiest commercial corridors. In the immediate area, travelers will find virtually every convenience imaginable, from major chain restaurants and hotels to large retail hubs like Crossroads Shopping Center and Gulfport Premium Outlets. This stretch of Gulfport offers all the practical amenities visitors could need without venturing far from the action on the field. In addition, a few miles west on Menge Avenue, the newly opened Buc-ee's has quickly become a regional attraction of its own. However, the real heart of the city lies about seven miles south along Highway 49 in downtown Gulfport. Here, the atmosphere shifts to a more authentic coastal Mississippi experience. Visitors can enjoy standout local dining options such as Half Shell Oyster House, known for upscale Gulf seafood and New Orleans-inspired dishes; Patio 44, which offers Southern coastal cuisine in a polished setting; Sully’s Gulfport, a longtime local favorite for seafood and steaks; Murky Waters BBQ, which brings a lively blues-and-barbecue atmosphere; and Tony’s Brick Oven Pizza, a reliable stop for brick oven pizzas. Downtown also offers some of Gulfport’s best recreational and family attractions. Jones Park provides a scenic waterfront green space ideal for walking, relaxing, or enjoying ocean views before or after tournament action. Nearby, the Mississippi Aquarium has become one of the city’s standout modern attractions, while the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum, often known as Traintastic, offers one of the region’s most enjoyable family experiences for younger children and train enthusiasts. Ship Island Excursions also provides a unique opportunity to venture into the waters of the Gulf of America – departing from Gulfport Harbor, these ferry trips transport visitors to Ship Island, part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, with its pristine beaches and historic Fort Massachusetts, a Civil War-era fort. And, of course, Biloxi is just one town over, where you can find plenty more family attractions, hotels, casinos, and restaurants than you will find in Gulfport. The entire Mississippi Gulf Coast is one hidden gem and has something for everyone. Fans 4 One of Gulfport’s biggest advantages as host of the SWAC Softball Tournament is its ability to serve as a true neutral site, while remaining within reasonable driving distance for many of the conference’s schools. Its location along the Mississippi Gulf Coast makes it especially appealing, combining postseason softball with beaches, casinos, and family attractions that can turn a tournament trip into a full weekend getaway. This coastal setting gives Gulfport strong regional appeal. Attendance varies throughout the week, with early-round games typically drawing around 80 to 100 fans, as was the case during the Florida A&M versus Arkansas-Pine Bluff matchup I attended. While those crowds are modest, you have to remember this is a rec league softball field, so it only has bleacher seating for about that many fans. By the semifinals and championship rounds, attendance often grows into the hundreds as the stakes rise and fan bases travel in larger numbers. Jackson State, Florida A&M, and Southern consistently rank among the tournament’s best-traveled programs, bringing some of the strongest support each year, and creating a raucous environment. Access 3 Getting to Gulfport Sportsplex is relatively easy, whether you are driving in from across the Gulf Coast or flying in for the tournament. For air travelers, Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is the closest airport to the venue, located just minutes away and offering the most convenient option for out-of-town visitors. Gulfport’s location is also ideal regionally, sitting almost directly halfway between New Orleans and Mobile (75 miles from each) along the Interstate 10 corridor, making it a practical destination for SWAC schools and fans traveling from multiple directions. Getting to Gulfport Sportsplex is fairly straightforward, with Interstate 10 serving as the primary route whether you are traveling from the east or west along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. For most visitors, I-10 Exit 31 at Canal Road offers the easiest and most direct route to the complex. This exit provides a quick approach with minimal congestion and is often the best option for first-time visitors. Travelers can also use Exit 34 at Highway 49, which may add a bit more drive time, but offers the advantage of passing Gulfport’s larger shopping centers, restaurants, and hotel corridor before reaching the venue. Taking Highway 49 also brings you in through the back entrance of the sportsplex, placing you directly near the turf fields and closer to Field 15, where the SWAC Softball Tournament is held on the north end of the complex. Once on site, parking is one of the venue’s biggest conveniences, as it is completely free for all attendees. The easiest landmark to follow is the towering water slides of Gulf Islands Waterpark, which are visible from multiple points around the complex. Parking near the waterpark places you within easy walking distance of the softball fields, with Field 15 located toward the rear portion of the sportsplex. While access is generally smooth, foot traffic around the championship field can become crowded during marquee matchups, particularly when fan-heavy programs like Florida A&M, Jackson State, or Southern are playing. Bleacher seating can fill quickly, so arriving early is recommended for premium seating. Fortunately, once fans purchase their digital general admission ticket, they are free to enter and exit the complex throughout the day, allowing flexibility to explore Gulfport or take breaks between games. Return on Investment 4 At just $11 for general admission, with all tickets conveniently purchased online, the SWAC Softball Tournament offers one of the better postseason values in college athletics. Fans receive access to high-stakes championship softball in a well-maintained neutral-site setting. Gulfport Sportsplex’s intimate layout also offers excellent sightlines and close proximity to the action, allowing spectators to fully experience every key moment, from early-round elimination games to championship celebrations. When you combine affordable pricing with competitive HBCU softball, a polished tournament atmosphere, and the added bonus of Gulf Coast attractions nearby, the overall return on investment is strong for both dedicated fans and casual visitors alike. Extras 3 Mississippi Valley State University remains the tournament’s most successful program, holding the record with eight SWAC Softball Tournament championships since the tournament began in 1997, followed by Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern with 4 SWAC conference softball titles each. One of Gulfport Sportsplex’s most distinctive features is the presence of Gulf Islands Waterpark directly on site, which typically doesn’t open until late May, however, often after the SWAC Tournament has concluded. Its towering slides and colorful structures still provide a unique visual backdrop unlike any other college softball venue. Even when closed, the adjacent park reinforces the family-friendly, destination-oriented feel of the complex and gives visitors another reason to consider returning to Gulfport during the summer months. Gulfport’s location may be the tournament’s greatest extra value. Positioned almost perfectly between New Orleans and Mobile along Interstate 10, the city offers a highly accessible neutral site with beaches, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment all within close reach. This prime coastal setting helps elevate this tournament beyond a standard conference championship, making Gulfport Sportsplex a true regional destination.