Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Pucillo Field 105 Pucillo Drive Millersville, PA 17551 Millersville Marauders website Pucillo Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 700 Marauding In PA Millersville University of Pennsylvania (commonly known as Millersville University or MU) was founded in 1855 as one of Pennsylvania's normal/teaching schools. One of its biggest programs is meteorology. Malik B and Black Thought of The Roots are two of the university's most well-known alumni. The Roots are best known by many people as the house band of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. The soccer field is named in honor of Dr. John A. Pucillo, who served with distinction as coach, athletic director, and administrator at Millersville from 1925 to 1957. The Pucillo Field complex includes a competition soccer stadium and an 80-yard practice football field for use by intercollegiate athletics and campus recreation. In early 2014, Millersville University Student Senate approved $2.5 million for the project from funds remaining from the Student Memorial Center renovations. Groundbreaking took place in April of 2014, and the facility was completed in time for the 2014 fall season. When the soccer teams took to the newly-built Pucillo Fields in the fall of 2014, it was a return to the site as the programs played on a grass surface at the site until the early 2000s. But for a decade, the soccer teams played at Biemesderfer Stadium . Millersville participates in varsity sports as part of NCAA Division II. Their sports teams are known as the Marauders. The Marauders compete as members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). In lacrosse, the school was the 1982 AIAW Division III national champion. Food & Beverage 0 There is a nice concession stand in the gymnasium's lobby, but it was closed on a busy weekend where there were multiple sports events going on in the same area. There are no permanent food options outside at the stadium itself. Atmosphere 3 The stadium is very nice, but it is a simple setup. As you enter the stadium, you will find two grandstands sitting along the pitch and some hill seating on one end. Neighborhood 3 Millersville is a nice little town located just to the west of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There are a few food and drink options in the immediate vicinity. Although it is not the most exciting place, I tend to go to the Sugar Bowl just down the street. They have simple pizza slices and sub sandwiches at a good value. Wayback Burger is another local option. Some great food options exist in the nearby Lancaster area. A very nice hotel, the Lancaster Arts Hotel 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 3 The fans are about what you expect for a small college venue. The students can make it better at the games they attend. The PSAC conference offers some great local rivalries with schools such as Bloomsburg, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock, and Shippensburg. Expect to see a decent number of rival fans in attendance. Access 4 Lancaster and Millersville are easy areas to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are well-known, large roads that any tourist visitor to the area will be more than familiar with. The university is located about half an hour from the state capital, Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. Parking is fairly plentiful around the university and the stadium. Parking is also free, but watch for any regulations during weekday games. Return on Investment 5 Parking and admission are free. Extras 2 The nearby gymnasium lobby cases also hold information about the members of the Lancaster County Sports Hall of Fame. Following extensive renovations to the lobby in 2017, it was renamed the Anttonen Lobby in honor of Dr. and Mrs. Ralph (Doc) and Judith Anttonen. Final Thoughts Millersville University plays a good level of soccer, and the opponents of the PSAC do offer some skilled opponents, which makes a game here a good value for the sports fan.

With the European and South African club rugby seasons officially over, it is now time to look ahead to next season’s Investec Champions Cup. The Investec Champions Cup is an in-season tournament in which clubs from the Gallagher Premiership (England), TOP 14 (France), and United Rugby Championship (Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Italy, and South Africa), compete. Round 1 is slated for the first weekend of December with the knockout stages starting in April. Last season saw Stade Toulouse of the TOP 14 defeat Leinster Rugby of the URC 31-22 in front of 61,531 fans at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. This season’s final will be played at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on 24 May. The top 8 teams at the end of the regular season for each respective union qualify for the following season’s Champions Cup. The champions of each union head up three of the four pools for the following season and the winner of the Champions Cup heads up the fourth. In the event that the Champions Cup Winner is also the champion if its respective union, the runner up of that season’s Investec Champions Cup is awarded the top spot in its respective pool. The pool draw took place on 2 July, so here’s what we’re looking at for next season’s Investec Champions Cup: Pool 1 Pool 2 Stade Toulousain (TOP 14) Leinster Rugby (URC – Ireland) Union Bordeaux-Bègles (TOP 14) ASM Clermont Auvergne (TOP 14) Hollywoodbets Sharks (URC – South Africa) Stade Rochelias (TOP 14) Exeter Chiefs (Gallagher Premiership) Bristol Bears (Gallagher Premiership) Leicester Tigers (Gallagher Premiership) Benetton Rugby (URC – Italy) Ulster Rugby (URC - Ireland) Bath Rugby (Gallagher Premiership) Pool 3 Pool 4 Northampton Saints (Gallagher Premiership) Glasgow Warriors (URC - Scotland) Munster Rugby (URC – Ireland) Racing 92 (TOP 14) Vodacom Bulls (URC – South Africa) Sale Sharks (Gallagher Premiership) Stade Francais Paris (TOP 14) DHL Stormers (URC – South Africa) Saracens (Gallagher Premiership) RC Toulon (TOP 14) Castres Olympique (TOP 14) Harlequins (Gallagher Premiership)

This week's episode takes a look at the world of rebranding from the low levels of baseball all the way to the NBA!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio   wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page . Join us live as we record every other Monday on our social media streaming channels.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Thompson Gymnasium One Alpha Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Elizabethtown Blue Jays website Thompson Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 1,000 Fun In E-Town Elizabethtown College (usually referred to as just E-Town) is a private college in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Elizabethtown is in Lancaster County, 21 miles southeast of Harrisburg and 20 miles south of Hershey. The college was founded in 1899 by the Church of the Brethren and offers 53 majors and over 90 minors and concentrations focusing on arts, humanities, and sciences. The Elizabethtown College Blue Jays have been a member of NCAA Division III and the Landmark Conference since 2014. The most famous athletic alumni may be Gene Garber, who is the former all-time saves leader for the Atlanta Braves (currently third behind John Smoltz and Craig Kimbrel). Thompson Gymnasium opened in 1970, but it underwent a forced renovation in 2015. During construction on the gymnasium’s pitched roof, a vapor barrier was blown open by a thunderstorm, resulting in water damage to the court. Food & Beverage 0 There are no normally scheduled food offerings at E-Town games. I would suspect that student organizations occasionally offer bake sales or simple concession offerings in the lobby for certain games. There was an organization selling bracelets when we attended. Atmosphere 3 The arena is very nice, but it has a basic high school-type setup. As you enter the arena, you will find bleacher-filled grandstands sitting along two sides of a volleyball court. Outside the gym and down a hallway are the E-Town Hall of Fame and trophy cases. There are also some sports-specific display cases located in the gym itself and the adjacent lobby. Neighborhood 4 The town of Elizabethtown is quite quaint and also offers a nice variety of food options. Our top choices would be Good Burrito Co. and PizzAtown. Hershey is just a short drive north. There just happens to be a major amusement park located there, as well as other Hershey attractions. The Troegs Brewery on Hersheypark Drive offers guided and self tours, as well as a great tasting and food room. If you’re looking for more standard dining options, then you will find a Red Robin and Fuddruckers all in the area. I might suggest checking out a lesser-known option, the Parkside Bar and Grill (3 E Derry Rd, Hershey, PA 17033), as they have some great burgers and other bar food options. Fans 4 As with most small college gyms, the bulk of the fans tends to be family or friends of both teams. There will be some local fans who just happen to stop by for the game as well. It was a decent crowd, but the student turnout seemed light. Access 5 Elizabethtown is located right off the PA-283 freeway that runs between Harrisburg and Lancaster. Access to the town itself is quite easy. The college itself is located a few blocks from Market Street, which is the main street in E-Town. The town itself is fairly walkable, but driving and finding parking are not much of an issue. Return on Investment 5 There are no charges to attend games, and parking is free, so the value is fairly high. You also won’t be spending money on any food offerings, so there’s that. Extras 2 There is a nice Hall of Fame and other athletic displays down a hallway attached to the gymnasium. It is always cool to see national championship trophies, no matter the level. E-Town is a great little extra on its own as this quaint Pennsylvania town is always a favorite stop of ours. Final Thoughts E-Town’s Thompson Gymnasium is a pleasant small college gym in an exactly pleasant small town. If traveling in central Pennsylvania, attending a game here is a nice choice.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Fortera Stadium Henry St Clarksville, TN 37044 Austin Peay Governors website Fortera Stadium website Year Opened: 1946 Capacity: 10,000 Welcome to the Fort Named after a former governor of the state of Tennessee, Austin Peay University first took to the gridiron in the city of Clarksville as an independent team in 1930. They joined their first conference in 1947 as a part of the Volunteer State Athletic Conference before moving into the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) in 1963, where they spent the better part of the next half century. During that time the Governors played first as a part of the NCAA College Division and then NCAA Division II until 1973, when they transitioned to the then I-AA level in 1978, long before it became the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) in 2006. After a short run in the Pioneer Football League in the early 2000s, the program returned to the OVC. Austin Peay captured the conference title in 2019 and made a run to the FCS tournament semi-finals. That success helped lead the Governors into their best stretch of success in school history, which included back-to-back championships in the ASUN (2022) and United Athletic Conference (2023), the first time the Governors have ever pulled off consecutive conference titles. With that rise in performance, football Saturdays in Clarksville now bring a renewed sense of excitement that surrounds the game day experience at Fortera Stadium.   Food & Beverage   3 There are two traditional concession stands, one on each side of the stadium, offering a straightforward lineup of burgers, hot dogs, and nachos with cheese sauce. The home side adds a slightly wider selection with BBQ sandwiches, chili dogs, and fries, perfect for making chili cheese fries or other topped-up variations. Typical snacks like candy, chips, popcorn, as well as the always popular stadium pickle, round out the snack menu. Beverages come from the Coca-Cola family, including Powerade, BodyArmor, and Dasani water. Around the concourse, smaller vendors help break up the routine with sno cones, gourmet popcorn, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Beer sales are limited to a single location on the home side of the stadium, but it is a highlight of local flavor; alongside standard domestics, Star Spangled Brewing’s Austin Peay-branded Governors Golden Ale and The Struggle Bus Southern IPA add a selection of Clarksville’s local brewing.   Atmosphere   3 Game day at Fortera Stadium begins when Tailgate Alley coming to life three hours before kickoff. Just west of the stadium in Lot 6, tents rise, the smell of grills fills the air, and you can hear music from a DJ. Food trucks line the lot, offering an alternative to home-cooked tailgate spreads, while two and a half hours before kickoff, fans gather along the route for the Gov Walk, cheering as the team makes its way into Fortera Stadium. Inside the gates, Fortera’s split-bleacher design creates a larger, shaded west-side grandstand topped with suites and club seating, while the east side holds visiting fans and the press box. Though the field is surrounded by an eight-lane track, the stands sit close enough to maintain intimacy, avoiding the detached feel common in multi-use venues. The home side rises about ten feet above the playing surface, combining aluminum bleachers, temporary seatbacks between the 40s, and molded chairbacks on the second tier. The north end zone features converted shipping containers turned into field-level suites, while the south end hosts a beer garden and Buffalo Wild Wings tents. The west side’s shade and amenities make it the clear choice for comfort and atmosphere. Tradition anchors the experience. A hand-crank siren signals the start of pregame, and on third downs, fans are implored to “Stomp the Fort,” the echoing of aluminum bleachers reverberating throughout the stadium. The Governors Marching Band performs during pregame and at halftime, while during breaks in the action, a mix of pop music and in-game hosting keeps the energy up. The lone scoreboard at the south end provides a video feed of the game with basic game stats of time and score, along with down and distance information.   Neighborhood   4 Fortera Stadium sits on the northern edge of Austin Peay’s campus, just over a half mile from downtown Clarksville. The surrounding area has seen significant growth, blending the small-town Tennessee charm with modern development. One of downtown’s newest spots is Shelby’s Trio, a three-level building featuring the motor-themed Joe’s Garage, upscale Italian at Trattoria Di Cat’s, and the rooftop Skyline 500 Bar overlooking the Cumberland River. A few blocks away, local favorites such as Strawberry Alley Ale Works, Blackhorse Pub & Brewery, and the Taproom keep downtown lively well into the evening. For a look at Clarksville’s history, the Custom House Museum and Cultural Center, less than a mile from the stadium, highlights Clarksville’s heritage, while Liberty Park along the riverbank features a statue honoring Olympic legend Wilma Rudolph, who grew up in the city. For those looking to get into nature around town, Dunbar Cave State Park, just outside town, offers scenic trails and guided cave tours. Visitors coming to Clarksville for the weekend will find the DoubleTree by Hilton conveniently located behind F&M Bank Arena, home to Austin Peay basketball . The hotel is within walking distance of the area’s shops, restaurants, and cafes. Travelers preferring easy highway access can find a range of options near the I-24 / US-79 interchange, though that area sits several miles from Clarksville’s downtown energy.   Fans   4 Average attendance at Fortera Stadium sits around 6,500 fans per game, a strong showing for the university's size. The home stands are typically more than three-quarters full, creating a lively atmosphere, especially during competitive matchups. While there does not seem to be a clearly defined student section, a cluster of fans along the field-level fence line brings energy and personality, often giving the venue a rowdy edge. Given the wide dispersion of teams in the United Athletic Conference, visiting fan turnout can be light.   Access   3 Interstate 24 runs locally from Clarksville to Nashville, making the trip to Austin Peay’s campus rather simple. From the interstate it’s roughly a 15-minute drive to Fortera Stadium. Parking is available in campus lots and streets, in accordance with typical university parking regulations. Inside the gates, the facility’s split-stand layout can make it slightly tricky to move between the home and visiting sides. For most home fans this is not much of an issue, as that side of the stadium includes the majority of concessions and amenities. Visiting fans, however, may find that the limited food and beverage options on their side requires a bit of extra navigation around the south end, to reach the main concourse.   Return on Investment   5 Ticket prices start at $15 for general bleacher seating, plus a $1.50 service fee. Reserved midfield seats are priced at $20, offering one of the best views in the stadium at a very reasonable rate. Concession prices are equally affordable, making it easy for fans to enjoy the full game-day experience without overspending. Parking is also free throughout campus, adding even more value to the outing. All told, attending a Governors game remains one of the better bargains at the FCS level; a family of four can enjoy tickets, food, and drinks for under $100.   Extras   4 The exterior of Fortera Stadium recognizes Austin Peay’s conference championships, including titles from the Volunteer State Athletic Conference (1948), the Ohio Valley Conference (1977, 2019), and back-to-back crowns in the ASUN (2022) and inaugural United Athletic Conference (2023) season. Inside, the facings of both the press box and suites honor the program’s nine retired numbers, while the concourse offers a deeper look into Governors football history. Large displays feature biographies of retired players, photos of championship teams, and a tribute to College Football Hall of Fame coach James “Boots” Donnelly. In addition, at the southwest end of the facility, within Blake Jenkins Plaza, stands the Fox Walk of History, a series of concrete obelisks recognizing each of the more than 1,700 players who have represented Austin Peay football. Game days are brought to life by “The Gov,” Austin Peay’s energetic mascot. He begins the day weaving through the tailgate lots, posing for photos and hyping up fans before kickoff. During the game, he’s a constant presence on the sideline, urging fans to get loud or taking aim with his t-shirt Gatling gun, sending shirts flying into the crowd in rapid-fire bursts.   Final Thoughts Even with a smaller enrollment, Austin Peay does an excellent job of not just filling seats, but creating a game day atmosphere many larger programs would be proud to call their own. From pregame tailgating to the energy inside the stadium, the Govs deliver an outstanding college football experience. Offering fun football experiences at reasonable ticket prices, Austin Peay provides an enjoyable environment. The Governors have built a college football experience that has grown into something special in Clarksville.der of the state of Tennessee. From the moment you enter campus until you place your backside in your Fortera Stadium seat with as good a vantage point of campus as the view of the field, you’ll be surrounded by college life and surroundings. College football is as much a part of the southern college experience, and college football lives on proudly in Clarksville, Tennessee.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Phil Simms Stadium 150 University Boulevard Morehead, KY 40351 Morehead State University website Jayne Stadium website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 10,000 Welcome to Phil Simms Stadium On October 18, 2025 Morehead State’s football stadium was renamed Phil Simms Stadium, in honor of the legendary Giants  quarterback. Simms led the Giants to victory against the John Elway-led Broncos  in Superbowl XXI, winning Superbowl MVP honors after throwing 3 touchdown passes in that game. Simms would lead the Giants to the Superbowl again 4 years later, but suffered a broken foot late in the season, leaving Jeff Hostetler to start in, and win, Superbowl XXV in the famous ‘wide right’ game against the Jim Kelly-led Buffalo Bills , the Bills 1st of 4 consecutive Superbowl appearances. Phil Simms Stadium, formerly Jayne Stadium, opened in 1964 and holds 10,000 fans. The facility boasts grandstands along both sidelines, as well as a running track around the field itself, and field-level club seating behind the south end zone, under the scoreboard. The press box can accommodate 20 media/game day staff, while the President’s box can accommodate up to 50 guests. The Morehead State Eagles compete in the NCAA’s Football Championship Subdivision, as part of the Pioneer League.   Food & Beverage   4 Morehead State offer basics concessions at its stands under the home seats, although they do sell alcohol, which is not always the case at college football stadiums. The lines for alcohol tend to be a little long, but lines at the regular stands are much shorter. Food options at the main stands include hot dogs, brats, pizza, nachos, pretzels, chips, candy, and popcorn, along with fountain sodas, bottled water, and Gatorade. With nothing costing over $4, prices are very reasonable – you can easily get a main dish, side, and a drink for under $10. Phil Simms Stadium also has a few food trucks on the concourse, in the Southwest corner along Playforth Place.   Atmosphere   3 The bright blue and yellow colors at Phil Simms Stadium really pop, and the scoreboard behind the south end zone is easy to read. The Eagles also offer the traditional marching band, along with a great mascot, and the cheer squad throws out t-shirts to fans in the stands. The highlight of the day, however, is the howitzer pulled by an army truck, sitting over in the Northeast corner all game long. The gun is operated by the school’s Army ROTC cadets, and is very loud – it goes off every time the home team scores.   Neighborhood    2 There is not a lot in Morehead, Kentucky beyond the university. The town is nestled in a long valley at the foot of the Appalachians to the north and south, with only a few restaurants and places of interest. There is a gift center, and some flea markets/antique malls nearby, but most of the restaurants near Phil Simms Stadium are the fast food or pizza place type. Morehead is about an hour west of Huntington, West Virginia, which is near the border between the two states. If you are coming from the east, your GPS will likely tell you to take I-64 onto Highway 60 about 30 minutes past Huntington, but I think you are better off just staying on I-64 until you get to Highway 32, and backtracking to the university; that route will keep you off the smaller roads, and offer more shopping/lodging options when you get off I-64.   Fans   3 The visiting stands will probably be pretty empty when you attend a football game at Morehead State, but the home stands should be pretty full, with lots of Eagles gear to be seen, and a festive atmosphere. I didn’t notice an obvious student section during my most recent visit, but the fans were engaged and really seemed to enjoy themselves.   Access   4 Getting to Phil Simms Stadium is easy enough, with I-64 not that far away from the university. There is plenty of parking on the west side, though as you might expect some of the lots are reserved for those with passes. Lots of fans park for free a little further away, and just walk over. Once you get inside the stadium there is plenty of room to move around the concourse, and the concessions lines are short, expect for alcohol, as mentioned above. There are also plenty of restrooms, though they are not the nicest. Even if you are rooting for the visiting team, you are better off sitting on the home side, as that is where all the amenities are.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets to Morehead State football at Phil Simms Stadium run around $17 for adults, including taxes/fees, and can be purchased on the school’s athletic website. This is a real bargain for college football, and with reasonable concessions prices, you would be hard pressed to find much better value. The Eagles put on a good show, and the stadium is not too crowded, and will let you get really close to the action.   Extras   2 The facility has a small trophy room showcasing team uniforms, awards, and a special case dedicated to Phil Simms. There is also a small team store on the home side, which sometimes offers special items for certain games, so make sure to shop on your way in, so you don’t miss out.   Final Thoughts I would absolutely recommend a visit to Phil Simms Stadium in Morehead, KY. A great little football facility in a rural town, there is a nice scenery, and you will have a fun time.

Photo Courtesy of Kyle M. Keenan Seattle’s Memorial Stadium is coming down after nearly 80 years of high school football games and graduations, soccer matches, and community events. Demolition crews are dismantling the aging grandstands at Seattle Center to clear the way for a $150 million, state-of-the-art multipurpose venue. The new stadium will seat 6,500 people and have a capacity of 8,000. It will feature three covered seating areas and multiple courtyards on the east and west sides. New concession areas, restrooms, locker rooms, and space center shops will be added. The design will integrate the stadium into the Seattle Center campus. The new stadium will be designed by Kansas City firm Generator Studio, a specialist in sports venues, which is collaborating on the design with local firm GGLO. Funding the costs will be $66.5 million, along with nearly $4 million in state funding and $40 million from the city of Seattle. Built in 1947 to honor Seattle students who lost their lives in World War II, the stadium’s legacy will live on with a preserved and expanded memorial plaza. The new facility will keep its high school football and graduation traditions while adding a broader slate of sports, from professional rugby to Ultimate Frisbee, with events planned annually. Photo courtesy of Brendon Keelan The stadium is home to the Seattle Cascades (United Frisbee Association), Tempest (Western Ultimate League) has called the venue home since 2015 and 2021, respectively. Both teams will be sad to see the old stands razed, according to GM Xtehn Frame. “The stadium means a lot to our organization. I played on that field with the Cascades, coached the team, and can't count the number of home games we've hosted there - maybe more than any other pro team. It's sad to see those old concrete grandstands come down, but I'm looking forward to what's to come!” The stadium served as the first home of the Seattle Sounders when they were in the NASL and later the USL First Division. It also served as the home venue to the Seattle Reign of the National Women's Soccer League and FC Ballard in USL League Two. The Cascades and Tempest will play home games at temporary Interbay Stadium on the campus of Seattle Pacific University until construction is completed. However, Frame added that the team's home is at Seattle Center. “We really embraced Memorial Stadium in the heart of Seattle, and made our home games super fun & family friendly. Opening ceremonies with flags flying, a kid zone with a bouncy house, and Casey the Sasquatch roaming the stands. Of course, the on-field action was awesome to see from those steep grandstands. Opposing teams would tell us that we had the loudest and most passionate fans in the league!” The stadium hopes to be completed by the end of 2027 and operate as a sustainable not-for-profit venture, rather than a commercial enterprise. Seattle Public Schools will retain ownership and prioritize student athletics and events. Officials say the transformation will open the site to the community, create new sight lines to landmarks like the Space Needle , and make the venue a hub for Seattle sports for decades to come. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his   YouTube channel .   Email at   Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

For the first time in 37 years, Colorado Springs will not have professional baseball. Pioneer League President Michael Shapiro confirmed to the Denver Gazette  that the Rocky Mountain Vibes will not return in 2026.  Colorado Springs's KRDO-TV separately confirmed that the Vibes will shut down all operations. Professional baseball came to the Springs in 1988, when the Elmore Sports Group purchased and relocated the Hawaii Islanders to serve as the Cleveland Indians ' AAA affiliate, renaming the team the Colorado Springs Sky Sox . The Colorado Rockies joined Major League Baseball in 1993.  Located just 70 miles from Denver, he Sky Sox became the Rockies' AAA affiliate in 1993 -- and would remain so until 2014. The Sky Sox were then the Milwaukee Brewers ' AAA affiliate from 2015 until 2018. Owner D.G. Elmore announced in 2017 that the Sky Sox would relocate in 2019 to San Antonio and would play as the Missions ; the Pioneer League's Helena Brewers (A) then replaced the Sky Sox in Colorado Springs, leaving the city without a AAA affiliate for the first time in 31 years. Elmore also announced that the team would rebrand, debuting as the " Rocky Mountain Vibes " in 2019. When MLB converted the Pioneer League to an unaffiliated, independent league in 2021, Colorado Springs also lost its 33-year connection to an MLB parent club. The Sky Sox averaged more than 4,100 fans for a 72-home game season according to the Denver Gazette . Over the 48 home games in 2025, the Vibes had an average attendance that was approximately 40 percent lower (2,390). blocktickets Park, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey 2025 has been a tough year for professional baseball in Colorado, as none of the Centennial State's three Pioneer League teams will return. Owners of the Grand Junction Jackalopes recently announced an intention to relocate the franchise, and the Northern Colorado Owlz ceased operations during the 2025 season.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Rate Field 333 W 35th St Chicago, IL 60616 Chicago White Sox website Rate Field website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 40,615 Rate Field Review – White Sox Ballpark Experience Rate Field debuted as Comiskey Park II in 1991 and, for the past 30-plus years, has seen multiple names and plenty of changes to the White Sox ballpark. Often considered one of the least favorite baseball stadiums in the major leagues, team management has worked hard to ensure that fans will have an enjoyable experience at Rate Field during the baseball season. The facility was the last of its kind built before the opening of Camden Yards the next season. It stands as a symbol of a bygone era, but there have been extensive renovations at the stadium this century that have altered the exterior and interior to better the ambiance, keep up with modern technology, and keep up with current standards expected from today’s fans. The renovations have included the removal of 6,600 seats from the upper deck section of the ballpark, the repainting of every seat from blue to hunter green, the addition of party decks and restaurants, the inclusion of a kids' play area, the addition of bronze statues, and a 25-ton statue honoring the 2005 World Series team outside Gate 4 at the main entrance. If you haven’t been to a Sox game for some time, chances are that it looks a little bit different from your last visit. However, have the myriad of changes created a better ballpark? Food & Beverage 5 Rate Field offers a variety of food, from Chicago favorites to items made for the ballpark. There are numerous kiosks, eating areas, social spots, and the newly named Leinenkugel Craft Lodge and Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Cantina. It's advisable to walk around first before making a selection. The standards are still here, including Comiskey dogs and burgers, Cuban sandwiches, Italian beef, tavern-style pizza slices, street tacos, brats, tamales, and nachos. Sweet treats include ice cream, Italian ice, and churros. The best spot for a slice or two is at the Beggar’s Pizza area in the outfield, which features tables and views of the game. The new items for this season include the Fuku stands that sell Korean fried chicken sandwiches and waffle fries, and the Lucky's stand that offers bubble waffles with fried chicken and other fillings. Other new items include the Sonoran and the pineapple dogs, beef and spinach empanadas, and the specialty milkshakes. that are served in a specialty glass with marshmallows, chocolate bars, and graham cracker crumbles. The Polish & Colombian kiosk has salchipapas on the menu: french fries topped with kelbasi and slaw. The Miller Lite Landing in the right field includes premium seating, a repurposed CTA car with 12 taps, and cascading water down the concourse are still there. Up in the 500-level are new outdoor bars with premium seating that were added a few seasons ago. The viral milkshakes are available at the Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Cantina The Leinenkugel Craft Lodge is located on the ground level behind the visitor’s bullpen, offering a full-service wait staff and 75 beers from 46 different area breweries. Fans can pick them out of the refrigerators and enjoy them in the full-service restaurant. However, tables are packed with fans enjoying craft-made burgers and sandwiches. The Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Cantina (formerly the Vizzy Bar) has been scaled back a bit compared to other years. The area still provides patio views of the game, plus different food items inside the air-conditioned tap room. The Old No. 7 Bar, sponsored by Jack Daniel's, offers various drinks, hard liquor, and other libations with TVs and tabletop seating. Atmosphere 4 Two hours before the start of the game, fans line up in the parking lots next to the stadium to tailgate. The area includes bags tossed in the air, the smell of smoke from the barbecue, and a few drinks between Sox fans before the first pitch. Closer to the start of the game is Championship Plaza, featuring a life-sized white bronze and granite sculpture celebrating the 2005 World Series championship team and a historical timeline of the franchise along the diamond’s base paths. Legacy Bricks are inscribed with a personalized message on the plaza. Once inside, the main concourse from the first to third baseline is somewhat narrow, but the outfield concourse opens up to a wealth of excitement that makes it one of the best areas in baseball. The wide-open area houses an array of fun areas for fans of all ages. White Sox Legends Sculpture Plaza is the highlight of the center-field concourse, featuring life-size statues of all-time greats. There are nine statues featuring Frank Thomas, Harold Baines, Luis Aparicio, and Carlton Fisk, where fans can pose and take pictures during the game. A fan cools down underneath the shower, which has been a tradition since 1976. The CIBC Fan Deck is available at times for single-season ticket holders and offers a panoramic view of the playing field on the two-tiered deck atop the center-field concession stands. However, most of the time, it is rented out to large groups. Just below the deck is an ivy-covered batter's eye. The Xfinity Kidz Zone is above the left-center concourse, overlooking the playing field that provides instruction on the game. Kids 12 and under can utilize the plaza with a youth-sized Wiffle ball diamond, along with batting and pitching cages accessible from the 100, 300, and 500 levels. The best part about it is that it’s free of charge. Also located above the concourse is the center-field video board that’s slightly larger than 8,000 square feet, measuring 60 feet high and 134 feet wide. It shoots off fireworks after every Sox home run or victory, provides Sox Facts of the Day, displays the Buono Italian Beef race (where lucky fans have the opportunity to redeem a ticket for a free Italian beef the next day at one of its locations), and provides interactive activities in between innings. The 500 section of the ballpark features a nod to old Comiskey Park. The canopy is painted dark gray, and colorful murals of former White Sox players, All-Star programs, paintings, and yearbooks are on display on the brick walls. It should be noted that fans are limited to this area during games, but there are times when that rule is lax later in the game. An old CTA train is now a bar in the Miller Lite landing in right field. The Chicago Sports Depot is the team’s official two-story team shop offering much more than Chisox gear. Before the game, the ChiSox Bar & Grill offers a full-service bar with food and drink, with outside patio seating. If you arrive a little earlier and aren't tailgating, this might be the spot for you to get into the mood before the first pitch. Neighborhood 2 The ballpark is bordered by the Dan Ryan Expressway and the working-class residential Bridgeport neighborhood . The area is not littered with bars, comedy clubs, and restaurants, but it is safe to walk around after the game if you happen to frequent a few places nearby. The best bet would be to hop on the L and head towards the city if searching for better entertainment options. The Chisox Bar & Grill is located across the street from the main entrance and features 65 flat-screen TVs and a large open patio that opens three hours before the game. The menu highlights include chopped brisket tacos and smoked corn on the cob with sweet maple bourbon butter. A few blocks away from the stadium is Buffalo Wings and Rings, which offers free shuttle service to and from the stadium. All management asks is that you purchase a drink or other menu options. A few feet down is the Bridgeport Restaurant, which is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, featuring breakfast specials, three-tier sandwiches, and house specialties. Antique Taco is home to traditional tacos, plus fried chicken burritos and creamed elote (Mexican Street Corn). The Duck Inn offers its signature rotisserie duck but also the duck fat dog and duck wings. About a mile away from the stadium is Ricobene’s , which is a must-go after the game; the breaded steak sandwich, deep-dish pizza slices, and Italian beef are highly recommended. The atmosphere is lively, and there is plenty of free parking across the street from the restaurant’s covered lot. Chicago's Chinatown is a tad north of the ballpark offering a collection of restaurants and businesses catering to the Chinese population of the city. From barbecue, dumplings, noodles, and Sichuan, popular restaurants include B.B.Q. King House, Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings, Mala Temptations, and Slurp Slurp Noodles. Fans 4 The White Sox fan base is a dedicated group of people who enjoy watching baseball but, more importantly, want a consistent winner on the Southside. They are among the savviest in baseball and provided stories of the season’s past. At the game, they are focused on the field and hope that within the beginning of the next decade. Access 4 The stadium is easily accessible via public transit or car. If driving, the stadium is directly off the Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/94) at the exit for 36th and 37th Streets. There are six lots for cars that surround the stadium, purchasing a parking pass before the game will get you to your spot quicker. The CTA Red Line drops you off at the Sox/35th Station and the CTA Green Line at the 35th-Bronzeville station. The bus stops near the stadium include stops 24, 35, and 44. The ballpark’s main concourse wraps around the stadium and provides proper access to the various concession and merchandise areas of the stadium. The facility also features a series of ramps that take fans to the upper concourse and provides access to the Chicago Sports Depot and Craft Lodge. Return on Investment 4 The price of a single-game ticket for the 500 section averages around $10 for many games, but that will depend on the date, opponent, and second-site markets. The most affordable days are Coca-Cola Family Sundays, where tickets begin at $10, and parking is $20. Parking is $25 in advance, but $27 on the day of the game for every other day of the week. Other options include the Bleacher & Brews ticket, where fans can purchase a ticket and two beers starting at $27 for a bleacher ticket. Southside Mondays offer special tickets where fans receive up to $20 in concession credit added to their mobile ticket. Family 4 Packs include a ticket, hot dog, drink, and a bag of chips for $19 per person. If you are looking to save money on parking, Buffalo Wings and Rings offers free parking and shuttle service to and from the game from 7 blocks away--just purchase a menu item or a drink while you are at the restaurant. Tuesday night games are worth visiting if you are on a budget. Except for the Crosstown Classic with the Cubbies, select food items are $5. They include 16-ounce drafts of Modelo and Miller Lite, Vienna Beef hot dogs and Polish sausages, buckets of popcorn, Coca-Cola products, nachos, and Beggar's pizza slices. Check out Sunday Family Days, including $20 parking, tickets starting at $10 in the 500-level concourse, and kids running the bases after the game. Even if you are not with the kids at the game, a $10 ticket is a great price to enjoy a major league game. Extras 4 The White Sox earns a point for 75 varieties of craft beers located throughout the concourse, with a majority of them in the Kraft Cave. Around the Bend, Pipeworks, Pollyanna, Lagunitas, 18th Street, 3 Floyds, Half Acre, and 2 Brothers are among the local breweries featured by the can in the cooler. One of the many statues in the outfield of former Sox greats The Sox earn a fourth point for the statues of former team greats from Luis Aparicio to Frank Thomas; a total of 9 figures provide fans a chance to pose for pictures and learn about these all-time greats. The South Siders earn a final point for the Plumbers 911.com Shower, a carry-over from old Comiskey Park and a fan favorite that was originally installed by owner Bill Veeck in 1976. It is near Section 160 in the outfield concourse. The shower works, and on a hot day, might be the best way to cool off. Final Thoughts The White Sox continue to provide great value and entertainment at Rate Field. The ball club's recent struggles on the field have hindered a few, but there is plenty to do when attending a Sox game on the Southside. The inexpensive tickets, easy access, food selection, and various places to enjoy the game inside the ballpark make for a great time at the game. ------ 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: 2.86 Pucillo Gymnasium 105 Pucillo Drive Millersville, PA 17551 Millersville Marauders website Pucillo Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1910 Capacity: 3,000 Marauding In PA Millersville University of Pennsylvania (commonly known as Millersville University or MU) was founded in 1855 as one of Pennsylvania's normal/teaching schools. One of its biggest programs is meteorology. Malik B and Black Thought of The Roots are two of the university's most well-known alumni. The Roots are best known by many people as the house band of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Pucillo Gymnasium opened in 1970 for a cost of two million dollars. It also underwent renovations in 2008, and a new floor and locker rooms were installed in 2015. The gymnasium is named in honor of Dr. John A. Pucillo, who served with distinction as coach, athletic director, and administrator at Millersville from 1925 to 1957. Millersville participates in varsity sports as part of NCAA Division II. Their sports teams are known as the Marauders. The Marauders compete as members of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). In lacrosse, the school was the 1982 AIAW Division III national champion. Food & Beverage 0 There is a nice concession stand in the gymnasium's lobby, but it was closed on a busy weekend where there were multiple sports events going on in the same area. Atmosphere 3 The venue is a pretty basic small college gym with seats on both sides of the court and a few on the sides, especially at the second level, which also seems to serve as a running track. When students are in session, especially during weekday games, there will be much more of a student presence, which will make for a better atmosphere. Neighborhood 3 Millersville is a nice little town located just to the west of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There are a few food and drink options in the immediate vicinity. Although it is not the most exciting place, I tend to go to the Sugar Bowl just down the street. They have simple pizza slices and sub sandwiches at a good value. Wayback Burger is another local option. Some great food options exist in the nearby Lancaster area. A very nice hotel, the Lancaster Arts Hotel 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 3 The fans are about what you expect for a small college venue. The students can make it better at the games they attend. The PSAC conference offers some great local rivalries with schools such as Bloomsburg, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock, and Shippensburg. Expect to see a decent number of rival fans in attendance. Access 4 Lancaster and Millersville are easy areas to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are well-known, large roads that any tourist visitor to the area will be more than familiar with. The university is located about half an hour from the state capital, Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. Parking is fairly plentiful around the university and the stadium. Parking is also free, but watch for any regulations during weekday games. Return on Investment 5 Parking and admission are free. Extras 2 The lobby cases also hold information about the members of the Lancaster County Sports Hall of Fame. Following extensive renovations to the lobby in 2017, it was renamed the Anttonen Lobby in honor of Dr. and Mrs. Ralph (Doc) and Judith Anttonen. Final Thoughts Millersville University plays a good level of volleyball, and the opponents of the PSAC do offer some skilled opponents, which makes a game here a good value for the sports fan.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Bears Stadium 120 Monroe S. Boyertown, PA 19512 Boyertown Bears website Bears Stadium website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 4,500 The Mecca of Legion Baseball The year 1982 was a magical year for the town of Boyertown. The small town about an hour north of Philadelphia debuted a brand-new ballpark on August 17 that was unlike anything seen before in the area. Later on, that season, the stadium hosted the American Legion World Series, and wouldn’t you know it, the local team captured its first championship in front of a hometown crowd of 6,563, who packed the building for the 14-8 victory of Lafayette, California, in the decisive game. Bears Stadium was built as a joint effort between the school district and the American Legion program for $600,000, with minimal taxpayer contribution and maximum volunteer effort from the community. The finished product was nothing short of spectacular, a 4,500-seat venue featuring a covered grandstand, a large press box to accommodate at least a home and away radio broadcast team, and grandstand seating down both the first and third baselines. Boyertown Post 471 would be quite the dominant legion ball club during the 1980s, making a second World Series appearance in 1983 and winning another championship four years later in 1987. That 1987 team won the state championship by defeating a Montoursville team featuring future Hall of Famer Mike Mussina on the mound. The Bears chased him after a 9-1 lead after 5 innings. The three World Series held at the stadium attracted a total of close to 84,000 people, including the 34,023 in attendance for the 1982 series, which was the highest since the Legion went to its current 8-team double-elimination tournament format. The club would add another appearance in the final game in 1988. The stadium itself would be home to two more World Series in 1991 and 1994. The Bears have won 11 of the 24 tournaments in which they have hosted or participated. The stadium has also been home to high school state playoff tournaments beyond the county level in 30 seasons, which include 10 Mid-Atlantic tournaments. Currently, the stadium is home to both Post 471 and the Boyertown High School baseball program. It now features decorative bear statues that flank the entrance to the ballpark and can also be found throughout specific areas in town. Its design, features, and history led rival high school coach Kevin Manero to dub it the “Mecca of Legion Baseball.” Food & Beverage 3 There is a concession stand located behind the main grandstand and is open every game with a great variety of burgers, hot dogs, meatball sandwiches, soft pretzels, and plenty of soft drinks. The prices range from $2 to $5 and are quite impressive for this level of baseball, but then again, Bears Stadium is not your typical Legion stadium. Atmosphere 3 A very laid-back atmosphere for American Legion games, but during regional and tournament games, the vibe gets a much-needed boost of excitement. The ballpark itself would fit in nicely in some of the lower levels of Minor League Baseball–with a few additional touches–and is an impressive palace for both high school and Legion baseball. The exterior of the grandstand is colored in white and red, featuring the name of the stadium in a simple font and team logos of the Post 471 and the high school team. There are three areas of seats that include a main grandstand behind home plate that offers a roof that provides a nice shade during hot summer days. There is also a team store that offers souvenirs, from shirts and caps, next to the third base bleacher seats. The outfield walls are lined up with local advertisements and a simple scoreboard behind the left field wall. Neighborhood 2 Boyertown is a small town of 4,000 located in Berks County between the Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia. The town offers a few places of interest that include the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles, specializing in the state’s road transportation history. There are over 90 locally built vehicles, from horse-drawn carriages and wagons to motorcycles. The museum also includes a 1938 Reading Diner and a 1921 Sun Oil Gas Station. Another popular attraction in town is the Colebrookdale Railroad, which is not to be missed. Connecting Pottstown and Boyertown, this Civil War-era relic invites passengers to explore for themselves a mythical Secret Valley. Restaurant options include Carmelo’s Pizza & Boli’s, Firefly Cafe (vegan), The Bear’s Den, and Talarico’s Sandwich Shop. The Other Farm Brewing Company is the town’s own nano-brewery located on Main Street and also features wood-fired pizza. Fans 3 The crowd is made up of friends and families, along with a few locals who support the Bears various programs. A very ardent and knowledgeable group of people is in the grandstands; this is definitely a baseball-loving town. Access 2 Depending on where you are coming from, Bears Stadium can be a little journey. It is around 41 and 48 miles respectively from Philadelphia and Allentown, but only a short 20 miles from Reading on state roads. Once you find the ballpark, the open layout ensures you can get around without issues or concerns. Return on Investment 3 Admission is free, and a donation hat is passed through stands during the game–a nice little throwback. There is a lot of great baseball played at the ballpark, and its location is not too far away if you happen to be in the area watching games at nearby Pennsylvania ballparks: Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, Limeport Stadium in Limeport, and even Citizens Bank Ballpark in Philadelphia. Extras 4 Bears Stadium features a decorated statue of a bear that is decorated. The statue is part of Bear Fever project that decorates numerous bear statues around the town to tie the community together. Bears Stadium receives a second point for being in a cradle of impressive ballparks from the major leagues to the high school level. Boyertown is within an hour drive of seven different baseball stadiums that are in all shapes and sizes that including the major leagues, minor leagues, summer collegiate leagues, and amateur leagues. Final Thoughts A great-looking ballpark that is not far off the beaten path when visiting other baseball stadiums in nearby Allentown or Reading, Pennsylvania. A peculiar stadium that serves both high school and American Legion baseball might just be worth the trip for its impressive size and aesthetics. There are not too many of its kind in this part of the country.

Imagine if Lord Stanley presented the Stanley Cup to the winners of the top amateur hockey team in Canada, only to have it sent back to him not once, but on two occasions. Could you have imagined his bewilderment at seeing his contribution to the sport returned to him on multiple occasions? Well, that happened to a man who donated a similar trophy in a similar league, one that has been lost to time. The Horlick Cup was a $300 silver trophy presented to the winning team in the Western Polo League. It wasn’t the type of polo on horses, but the kind played on roller skates like ice hockey. The sport changed its name in the 1920s to roller hockey and is still played today in many parts of the world. The cup was created in 1904 when the sport was widely popular in the Midwest, where the Western League had most of its teams. The cup was two feet high with two polo stickers crossed on the front with a ball at the bottom. The tulip-shaped trophy had two handles and was supported with a base. The trophy would be kept permanently if a polo club won it in three consecutive seasons. William Horlick, a businessman and philanthropist, donated the trophy. He made a fortune through the invention of malted milk and lived in Racine, Wisconsin, where he owned a polo team in the league the season before. He later donated land for Horlick Athletic Field, which hosted the Racine Legion of the National Football League and the Racine Belles in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. The trophy was awarded to the Elwood Grays, who finished the 1902-03 season with a 50-30 record, five games ahead of the Richmond Quakers. The cup arrived by train and stopped in Richmond for folks to admire before heading to Anderson to be engraved. It was on display at the Opera House drug store before being awarded to the Grays before their last game of the season. The inscription read, “Winners of the Pennant, Western Roller Polo Association, 1902-03.” It also listed all six players’ names. The cup was displayed in the window of the Nasbaum and Mashmeyer store. The following season, the Richmond Quakers captured the cup with a 52-36 record, one game ahead of the second-place Marion Foxy Five. The trophy was presented to the Quakers before their last game against Elwood. The Coliseum was decorated for the occasion, and small flags were provided to the fans. The cup was placed on a stand in front of the net that was draped with an American flag.  Both teams lined up on opposite sides, and members of the Elwood teams handed silver horseshoes to the Quakers in a sign of good luck while holding the cup. A speech was given in front of a raucous 2,000 faithful in the building.  The Quakers held the cup and skated off the floor while an orchestra played in the background. After the season, the Horlick Cup was put on display in the club room of the Elk’s Club since most of the roster were members.  Before the start of the season, Richmond released a statement that it would remain in the Western League for the season but leave for the proposed National Polo League the following season due to salary limits on players. They also intended to keep the Horlick Cup, a clear violation since they had not won it in three consecutive seasons.  The Western League began its third season but lost two members, Indianapolis and Elwood, early in the season. After 40 games, the league was down to four clubs and announced that it was folding for the year. Marion was in first place with a record of 23-16, just ahead of Richmond in second place with a 22-18 record.  Marion felt that the cup was rightfully theirs and that the league managers awarded them the pennant when the league shut down operations. Based on this decision, it qualified them to hoist the cup regardless of whether the season ended prematurely.  On the other hand, Richmond said since the season ended early, Marion was not the rightful owner of the cup. It should be kept with them until the league is reorganized, or Mr. Horlick should be consulted on the issue. Marion president Ben Larrimer said that if M.C. Henley, president of the Richmond Athletic Association, did send it to his team, representatives would travel to Richmond to take it. Henley then replied that it would be sent to Marion once the engraving was completed on the trophy. To make things confusing, Marion joined the Central League after the Western Loop folded and became eligible for that league's championship trophy, the Hennings Cup, which was created that season. However, as they were still playing regular season games, the club was still setting its eyes on Richmond, which was holding "their" trophy. On March 16, Marion challenged Richmond to a series of games plus 70 percent of the receipts. Richmond, thinking that they were the true cup champions, decided to challenge Danville, the champions of the Hennings Cup in the Central Polo League, to a post-season series. However, none of these challenges occurred, and the cup was sent back to Horlick in Racine until the Western League was revised again.  That would occur two years later with a smaller schedule of games. The new loop consisted of Anderson, Marion, Logansport, and Kokomo. They would play an 18-game schedule, with the pennant winner awarded the Horlick Cup. For the third time, Marion had a chance to rightfully claim the championship. The cup was sent back to Indiana and put on display at the four different rinks. Newspaper articles once again talked about the silver cup; most folks thought Marion would be the clear favorite to capture it. After a two-year hiatus, roller polo appeared to be back in favor with fans in all four cities. Opening night games in Anderson and Logansport attracted 1,200 and 1,000, respectively, and Kokomo played in front of 2,000 howling fans the next night. However, the average crowd at games could be as low as 300 fans per game in some cities. Paid attendance figures were lower than what league management had expected. After just 10 games and one week left in the season, Anderson called it quits due to low gate receipts and a lack of available players. With only three teams left, the league attempted to add Lafayette as a fourth team to finish the season, but that fell through. Kokomo then decided to throw in the towel a few days later due to a disagreement with scheduling. In the end, Marion and Kokomo were tied atop the standings with 6-4 records, and no decision was made on who would win the cup. Since Kokomo had quit the league, Marion might have had a claim to it, which ironically was on display in town. In the end, Marion felt that they did not rightfully earn the cup and sent it back to Mr. Horlick in Wisconsin.  The local paper had this to say. "It is some satisfaction to know that they had to break up the league to keep Marion from taking the cup." For the second time, the trophy was sent back to its creator. What happened to it remains a mystery since there were never any other attempts to revise the Western League. There would be other roller polo leagues, but it appears that Horlick never bothered again to donate it to crown its champion. After two fiascos, he probably found a better use for it.  William Horlick’s name — and his contributions to sports in Racine — are still remembered, but the game he loved has largely faded into history. The once-prized cup may still exist somewhere in a family archive, though it’s just as likely lost to time. Had the league managed its affairs more effectively, the Horlick Cup might still hold a place of recognition today. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Beaty-Richmond Field at Carl Smith Stadium Wise, VA 24293 UVA-Wise Highland Cavaliers website Beaty-Richmond Field at Carl Smith Stadium Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 3,086 Highland Cavaliers The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is located in Wise, Virginia. Their football team competes in the NCAA’s Division II. Unlike their counterparts at Scott Stadium in Charlottesville (UVA’s main campus), the football squad in Wise refers to itself as the Highland Cavaliers. Originally an NAIA program, the Highland Cavs began the transition to D2 in 2012, where they currently play as members of the South Atlantic Conference. They play their home football games at Beaty-Richmond Field at Carl Smith Stadium, which opened in 1999 and has a seating capacity of 3,086.   Food & Beverage   4 The selection at Carl Smith Stadium is not huge, but the prices are great – nothing costs more than $3.50, except for the BBQ sandwich/nachos, which are $4.50 and $5.50, respectively. Where else in college sports can you find a cheeseburger for $3.50, or a bottle of water/soda for $2.50? Other options include pizza, pretzels, nachos, chips, popcorn, candy, Gatorade, coffee, and hot cocoa. The smallest of these items goes for $2, such as the candy and chips, while a hot dog without chili runs only $2.50.   Atmosphere   3 Despite its small size and lack of fans during certain games, Carl Smith Stadium is a modern-looking venue, with plenty of signage showing off the Cavs. They have most of the accouterments a college football stadium should have, except for a videoboard, a team tunnel, and maybe a mascot – though compared to similarly-sized venues, UVA-Wise is better than most. There is a band, although it is small, and the team celebrates touchdowns by the cheer squad running flags up and down the sideline. There is also a team gear stand under the main stands.   Neighborhood   2 Wise, VA, is located about half an hour north of I-81 in Virginia, near the town of Abingdon. In terms of attractions, there is a lot of Civil War history all over Virginia, and on my way through Abingdon, I saw a cemetery with a large sign over one section marked, Unknown Confederate Dead. Closer to Wise, there aren’t any standout restaurants I noticed, although there are several pizza places, and some local fast food joints which you won’t find elsewhere – those are actually the best kind, the non-chains.   Fans   2 During my last visit, the stadium wasn’t very full, especially on the visitors’ side, though there was a row of red tents set up on top of the hill above the home stands, where fans tailgated during the game, in full view of the field. I thought this was a great setup – why not tailgate during the game, and be able to watch it, instead of tailgating in the parking lot where the party has to end when the game begins? This way, you have the best of both worlds.   Access   4 Once you get to Wise, the stadium is pretty easy to find, being right on campus – when you are driving on 646, be sure to turn onto Thomas Jefferson Dr. If you are coming from the east you will see the school’s main entrance at Cavalier Dr. first; if you turn there, take an immediate left onto Smiddy/Clinch Vly Dr, then turn right onto Thomas Jefferson. If you miss Smiddy, the loop you end up on will dead-end before you get to the football field, so you’ll have to turn around. Once inside the stadium, there is plenty of room to move around, short to no lines at the concessions and team gear stand, and plenty of room to sit on the hillside if you would rather do that instead of sitting on metal bleachers. There are no chair-back seats in Carl Smith Stadium.   Return on Investment   4 There is no cost to attend football games at UVA-Wise, and no cost for parking either, so you can’t go wrong taking in a Highland Cavaliers game on a Saturday afternoon. You won’t see anything over the top here, just football in a pleasant setting. Then again, what more does a person need?   Extras   3 The signage on the building behind the visitors’ side is a nice touch, and the colors really pop on the turf field. You can also get really close to the action here, given the small size of the venue, and being able to tailgate during the game is a major plus.   Final Thoughts If you like college football, I would definitely recommend a game at UVA-Wise. Sure, you can find more energetic atmospheres at nearby FBS venues, but you will also pay a lot more. If you want to take a family or group of friends to a game, a trip to Carl Smith Stadium is a great way to do it.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Central Recreation Centre 519 Drury Ln Burlington, ON L7R 2X3 Burlington Cougars website Central Recreation Centre website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 1,300 Cougarland The Burlington Mohawks were founded in 1952 as a Junior B franchise on the shores of Lake Ontario.  They were known as the Mohawks until 1976, when they were rebranded as the Burlington Cougars.  The Mohawks won the Central Jr B Hockey League title in 1957 and 1958, and they were transferred to the Niagara District Junior B Hockey League in 1962.  Burlington won another league title in 1964 and eventually dropped to Junior C for a couple of years in 1967.  The return to the Junior B level brought with it a return to the Central League, where they won four more league titles and a Sutherland Cup in 1981 as the best Junior B team in Ontario. In 1993, the Junior B Cougars left the Central League and joined what would become the OJHL, graduating to the Junior A level, where they have remained ever since.  Cougars alumni include Hockey Night in Canada’s Kevin Bieska, Pat Quinn, Steve Valiquette, Paul Henderson, and current owner, Ron Sedlbauer. Home for the Cougars is the Central Recreation Centre, commonly referred to as Central Arena.  Built in 1968, Central Arena is nicknamed The Oven during the summer when it is home to the Burlington Blaze of the OJLL, but is more apt to be called the Freezer during Cougar season. Food & Beverage 2 A small snack bar window is found just outside the entrance to the arena.  The menu is simple and includes soda, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, Gatorade, candy, popcorn, chocolate, chips, and hot dogs.  Many teams in the OJHL have a Blueline Club that sells alcoholic beverages.  It seems that Burlington does not have such a club. Atmosphere 2 Central Arena is part of a larger community centre in Burlington.  The Central Recreation Centre building is a simple combination of light stucco and siding on the exterior. A colourful mural at the southwest corner of the building is the exterior highlight.  Fans can enter the building at the main entrance on the west side.  The main entrance leads fans into a small lobby where they will need to traverse a staircase to the spectator level of Central Arena.  In the hallway, just before entering the main arena, there are a pair of trophy cases with awards and some older team pictures. It’s not nothing, however, the trophy cases are not terribly interesting and do not hold much in the way of artifacts.  At the top of the stairs, fans will find the ticket sales table as well as a merchandise table and concessions just down the hall. Inside the main arena, fans are met with a very plain area with few markings or banners. The Cougars do have a significant history and have enjoyed success, including a Sutherland Cup; however, there is no acknowledgment of the Cougars before they moved to Junior A, and little history is on display.  The ice runs from west to east with ten rows of step benches on the south side.    An enclosed operations/press box is at the top of the south side, dividing the seating area.  The simple scoreboard is found on the west wall.  The centre ice logo is perfect for a picture from the seating area.  The ceiling is slanted from south to north and has silver insulation covering it.  Huge, diagonal, structural I-beams also run from south to north, originating from the middle of the seating area can obstruct the view of the ice from some spots in the viewing gallery.  There is some standing room behind the benches at the top; however, to find a view unobstructed by the support beams is nearly impossible.  The arena is extremely cold.  There are gas heaters above the seating area, so fans may consider choosing a seat underneath a heater that is working. The gameday production at a Cougars game is very simple.  The PA announcer is decent, and the sound system is okay, allowing fans to understand the announcements as they are happening. Neighbourhood 3 Central Arena is located in the Central Park area of Burlington.  There are several other recreation facilities in the immediate Central Park area including the curling club, lawn bowling, tennis club, library, baseball diamonds, and theatre.  The practice facility for the famous Burlington Teen Tour Band is in this area also.  Other than the park facilities, it is a fairly residential area with little in the way of pre and post-game culinary facilities.  Fans should consider heading south towards Lakeshore Road to find bars and restaurants.  Some options worth considering are The Carriage House, The North Coal Kitchen & Bar, Joe Dog’s, La Creme de la Creme, and Pepperwood Bistro Brewery. There is not much in the way of other sports options in Burlington and fans would probably need to head southwest to Hamilton for those options.  Central Arena is also the home of the Burlington Blaze  of the OJLL during the summer months.  For other entertainment options fans should consider checking out the Burlington Performing Arts Centre, Drury Lane Theatrical Productions, and Spencer Smith Park.  Fans wishing to stay in Burlington should consider the Waterfront Hotel or The Pearle Hotel. Fans 3 For the 2025-2026 season, the Burlington Cougars are drawing an average of 225 fans per game.  This ranks them in the middle of the pack of the OJHL at 11th, not among the elite franchises but far from the basement.  In the previous season, the Cougars averaged just over 200 fans per game.  At the game that was reviewed, there were just over 100 fans in attendance, however, it was a mid-week game, not the traditional Friday night that the Cougars enjoy.  Fans in attendance were fairly quiet and reserved.   Access 3 Central Arena is located in the Central Park area of Burlington, east of the Queen Elizabeth Way south of Highway 403, and north of Lakeshore Road.  Fans coming to Burlington from out of town will be required to drive a bit through the city, however, the travel is not difficult. There is plenty of parking in the area at no cost, however, it is a busy area with many other recreation facilities where parking will also be utilized.  Fans who wish to take public transit to Central Arena have several options on Drury Lane, New Street, and Central Park.  Fans should consult the Burlington Transit  website for fares, maps, and schedules.  Traversing the arena can be difficult as there are plenty of stairs throughout the arena.  As mentioned above, there are plenty of obstructed views due to the diagonal structural beams and railings.  The washroom facilities are adequate. Return on Investment 4 OJHL hockey provides tremendous value for the sporting dollar.  Tickets to the Cougars are $15 with discounts for students and seniors.  Children 12 and under are free as are Burlington Eagles minor hockey players.  Although the facility is not the greatest, and the gameday production is simple, the on ice product is fast-paced and solid.  Parking is free and concession prices are decent.  In the end, the Burlington Cougars provide a solid return on investment for the fans’ sporting dollar. Extras 2 An extra mark for Central Recreation Centre as a community hub. An extra mark for the Cougars having a consistently competitive team on the ice. Final Thoughts A trip to see the Burlington Cougars will not blow fans away with bells and whistles and Central Recreation Centre has some issues, however, there is great value in OJHL hockey and the Cougars are consistently competitive.  Fans will leave a Cougars game having enjoyed themselves and seen some solid hockey. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Paycor Stadium One Paul Brown Stadium Cincinnati, OH 45202 Cincinnati Bengals website Paycor Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 65,515 The Rumble In The Jungle The Cincinnati Bengals were founded in 1965 and began play in the NFL in 1968. The originally played in Riverfront Stadium along with the Cincinnati Reds of the MLB. They then played two seasons at Nippert Stadium at the University of Cincinnati while their new home stadium was being built along the Ohio River. The Bengals then moved into what was originally known as Paul Brown Stadium, which was named for the team’s founder and first head coach in 2000. The stadium was renamed Paycor Stadium in 2022 as part of a branding agreement with the team. Food & Beverage 3 Paycor Stadium offers a mix of stadium favorites, along with several Cincinnati specialties. Among the hometown favorites are Skyline Chili (coneys, hot dogs, chili bowls), Donato’s Pizza (pizza, nachos, pretzels), Gameday Faves (Glier’s brats, Glier’s mettwurst), and Cincy Burger and Fries (cheeseburgers, hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, fries). Alcohol is sold at the Canopy Cantina and the Garage Beer Cave. The concession areas are grouped in pods around the stadium, which get quite congested during quarter breaks and halftime. Wait time to be served is extensive. All concession stands operate on a cashless basis. Atmosphere 5 The gameday activities get off to an early start with the opening of the Pregame at the Banks area three hours before the kickoff. This area is also known as the Jungle Zone. It features entertainment, a pregame pep rally, food stalls, appearances from Bengals stars of the past, boardwalk-style games, and team merchandise stands. This area is located along Freedom Way. Once inside Paycor Stadium, you’ll have no doubt you are in “The Jungle.” The stadium is outfitted with the orange and black striped tiger motif of the Bengals throughout the facility. Shortly before the kickoff, the Guns and Roses version of “Welcome to the Jungle” is played, which sends the crowd into a frenzy. You will also see the tiger stripe theme carried out at Stripe the Jungle games, where sections of the stadium alternate between wearing black or orange colored clothing, giving the visual effect of tiger stripes. The Bengals fans are among the most passionate in the NFL. They regularly disrupt the visiting team’s attempts to communicate with the sheer volume of their cheers. The Bengals also have their own unique cheers called “Who Dey”. The full version of this cheer is “Who Dey think gonna beat Dem Bengals?”, followed be the refrain of “Nobody!”. Touchdowns or field goals by the Bengals are followed by the Bengal Growl fight song. The crowd joins in with great gusto on these cheers and songs. Neighborhood 4 The neighborhood immediately outside of Paycor Stadium is known as “The Banks” as it is along the banks of the Ohio River. Several restaurants along Second Street parallel the Ohio River. These include Yard House, O’Malley on the Alley, the Cincinnati Smokehouse, and E&O Kitchen-The Banks. The National Underground Railroad Museum is also located in the Banks neighborhood. The Reds stadium, the Great American Ball Park, is also just up the street. There are several hotels located in Fountain Square, which is just one block inland from the Banks. These brands include the Hyatt Regency, the Hilton Cincinnati, and the Westin Cincinnati. Fans 5 The Bengals Nation is loud and proud. They are extremely loyal to the team, filling the stadium even in December when the weather along the Ohio River is icy. They sing the Fight Song and take part in the “Who Dey” cheer with great passion. For the most part, they are very welcoming of visitors, unless they are wearing the colors of the rival Cleveland Browns. We are amazed at the orange and black outfits that the locals put together, and their loyalty to the team, despite their nearly annual falling just short of the Super Bowl. Even though Cincinnati is one of the smallest markets in the NFL, you would never know it after experiencing the crowds and the enthusiasm at a Bengals home game. Access 2 There are several ways to get to Paycor Stadium on Sundays. The typical way to reach the stadium is via car, and Paycor is easily accessible via I-75 or I-71. The rideshare area for pickup/delivery is on Second Street between Vine and Walnut Streets. This is only a few blocks from the stadium. Queen City Riverboats deliver fans from the Covington/Newport, Kentucky side of the Ohio River to Paycor Stadium. The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK) runs shuttle buses from Kentucky on game days. There are numerous parking lots/decks along Second Street and in the Fountain Square area. These lots typically open four hours before kickoff. Two free ways to get to Paycor Stadium on game days are to ride the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar to the stadium. It makes frequent trips throughout the downtown area, with a drop-off at the Second Street Station. Fans from Kentucky can walk across the Ohio River via the Roebling Suspension Bridge. While Paycor Stadium is easy to get to via multiple transportation routes and options, the stadium’s design often fails in several ways as far as access. Once at the stadium, the gates open 90 minutes before the kickoff. While there are seven entry gates into Paycor Stadium, most fans enter at the gate on the west side of the stadium, which is closest to the parking, public transportation, and tailgate areas. This results in a massive backup getting into the stadium. The other gates are not visible from this high-traffic area. The concourses within the stadium are dark and cave-like like with few areas of natural light allowed in. For the most part, the concourses are bare concrete walls with little or no graphics to break up the starkness of the passageways. The exceptions to this are the Ring of Honor displays featuring the team’s elite players over the years and colorful tiger graphics on the walls in the concessions pods. Once in the seating bowl, there are additional issues with access. The 300-level seating on the east side of the stadium can only be accessed via the escalator. This can result in long delays in getting to and from your seats. The second issue is that if you are seated in one of the upper levels of the stadium, you must know ahead of time which side of the field your seats are on. The seating areas behind the end zones are purposely left low to provide wonderful views of the Ohio River from the south end and the downtown Cincinnati skyline from the north end. This means the upper-level seating at Paycor Stadium does not provide 360-degree access to other areas of the stadium. Return on Investment 3 The Cincinnati Bengals have a very large season ticket base, which results in an average cost of $140-$180 for single-game tickets. Tickets for games against close rivals like the Browns, the Ravens or the Steelers can be much higher. Travel costs to a Bengals game vary greatly due to the method of transportation. Walking over the Roebling Bridge from Kentucky or riding the Cincinnati Bell Connector is free of charge. Riding on a TANK shuttle bus from Kentucky is $1 each way. Riding the Queen City Riverboat from Kentucky is $10 round-trip. Parking lots/decks near Paycor Stadium run from $25-$40 on gamedays. Many of these lots operate on a season ticket-only basis, so check ahead when plotting out your trip. Concessions at Paycor Stadium vary greatly in price. Many of the stands represent Cincinnati-based food chains that charge the normal price for goods sold at their neighborhood stores, while other stands charge a premium in stadium prices. On average, you can expect to pay $10 for brats, a mettwurst or french fries, $8 for a hot dog and popcorn, and $9 for a pretzel. Drink prices run $7.50 for a soda, $14.50 for a craft beer, and $6.50 for a bottle of water. Cocktails are priced at $14, and wine is $12. Extras 2 Paycor earns an extra for the tremendous views of the Ohio River and the downtown Cincinnati skyline behind each end zone. Another plus must go to the unique “Who Dey” marketing of the team, which includes cheers, songs and other imagery throughout the stadium. Final Thoughts The gameday experience at Paycor Stadium offers wonderful views of both the downtown Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River. The fans' enthusiasm is contagious, and the energy level is high. Unfortunately, the stadium design has many drawbacks in accessibility that bring down its overall score.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Johnny Unitas Stadium 7500 Osler Dr Towson, MD 21252 Towson Tigers website Johnny Unitas Stadium website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 11,198 Johnny U Stadium at Towson U Johnny Unitas Stadium was known as both Towson Stadium and Minnegan Stadium from its opening in 1983 until a 2002 remodel, when it added 6,000 seats and was rebranded in honor of Baltimore Colts legend and Towson supporter Johnny Unitas. The field itself still honors the late Donald “Doc” Minnegan, former coach and athletic director at Towson. Towson University is the second-largest public university in Maryland. Located just north of Baltimore, it is home to approximately 21,000 college students, of whom 18,000 are undergraduates. The university began as the Maryland State Normal School in 1866. The university has 60+ undergraduate majors, 30+ master’s degree programs, and a handful of doctoral programs. The Towson football team played for the Football Championship Subdivision National Championship in 2013, falling short against North Dakota State. Towson is also known for their impressive gymnastics program. They have been the 1968 AIAW Division II National Champions, the 1995 and 1998 USA Gymnastics NIT Champions, the 3-time Calloway Invitational Champions, the 15-time ECAC Champions, and the 2007 USA Gymnastics National Champions. The lacrosse team also reached the finals of the 1991 NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship and reached the semifinals of the 2001 NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship. Towson has used the Tigers as its sports team name since 1961, replacing the Golden Knights, Indians, and Teachers as names used by various sports. There are four tiger statues around campus, one across the street in front of TU Arena (where Towson gymnastics, basketball, and volleyball compete). All of the major athletic teams at Towson compete in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). Technically, CAA Football is a legally distinct conference from the central CAA, but its offices are the same as those of CAA proper. Since joining the CAA in 2001-02, the Tigers have won 16 league championships. Food & Beverage 2 The stadium has basic food offerings. Four main concession stands offer the usual variety. The concourse is open and has plenty of space for additional offerings if they wish. Prices are okay, but not great. Beer is available around the stadium. Atmosphere 3 The stadium is split into two distinct sections. The main side is on the same side as the old Minnegan Stadium grandstands used to sit. That side also has a press box. A walkway around the top of the horseshoe hill takes fans to the opposite side grandstand, where the students, band, and most of the opposing fans sit. When popular CAA teams are the opponents, expect to see many of their fans throughout the complex. A track separates the grandstands from being too close to the action. The Towson Marching Band, Towson Dance Team, Pop Squad, and cheerleaders all do a good job entertaining the crowd. A tiger mascot, named Doc, roams the stadium. Neighborhood 3 Besides TU Arena and the old Towson Center Arena, there is nothing right by the stadium. Even though you may have to drive to other places, Towson is a semi-urban area with a vast shopping mall and numerous restaurants. Some options are The Crease and Sushi Hana. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Fans 3 This is a work in progress. For many years, Towson was known as a commuter school. But over the last couple of decades, the number of residential students has increased. Students are starting to attend games in larger numbers, helped by a free, convenient shuttle service. Unitas Stadium, as well as the neighboring TU Arena, are located at the far end of the campus, not near any of the residence halls, so they will not always be destinations for many students. It has improved over time in this regard. Access 4 Towson is located just off the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn locations of the sports complexes. Parking is plentiful. But the best bet is to park in the central part of campus and walk over to beat the crowds. Return on Investment 4 Adult ticket prices start at around $25. For the high level of football, the prices are acceptable. Extras 3 The team store is located in the grandstands underneath the press box. There are usually a few bits of merchandise on sale on game days. The Towson Dance Team is nationally recognized and provides excellent entertainment during games. In addition, Doc the Tiger is a good mascot, providing entertainment for all ages. The Towson University Wall of Excellence displays the school’s accomplishments in a variety of sports. Final Thoughts Johnny Unitas Stadium is a well-designed stadium with many fan amenities. The significant separation between the sections of the stadium, along with the track, is the only thing keeping the facility from being a more intimate, louder stadium.

Photos by Richard Smith Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Beldon Field 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd. Towson, MD 21286 Goucher Gophers website Beldon Field website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 1,000 Home Of The Gophers Goucher College is a former all-women’s college located in Towson, Maryland, a northern suburb of Baltimore. The college opened in 1885 as the Women’s College of Baltimore City, changed its name to its current name in 1910, and went coed in 1986. Goucher relocated to its present suburban location, northeast of the county seat of Towson in Baltimore County, in 1953. The college is named in honor of its founding member, John Goucher, and his wife, Mary Fisher Goucher. Goucher College is a private co-educational liberal arts college. It was initially affiliated with the Baltimore Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but currently has no real church affiliation. The college has approximately 1,480 undergraduate students enrolled in 33 majors and 1,200 graduate students. Notable alumni include Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps Margaret G. Kibben, Maryland State Delegate John A. Olszewski, Jr., and frequent John Waters actress Mary Vivian Pearce. Goucher athletic teams are known as the Gophers. The college competes in NCAA Division III as part of the Landmark Conference. Beldon Field opened in 2009. It is the home of men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s lacrosse, and field hockey. This review is for both the men's and women's soccer teams, which generally run as a doubleheader event. Food & Beverage 0 There is no permanent food stand at Beldon Field. Fans should make sure to eat before or after the game. Atmosphere 4 There is a pleasant, simple grandstand at Beldon Field. Additional seating is along the hills surrounding the venue. You will find a variety of seating options. The field is in a little bowl or meadow, and sound travels extremely well within the area. This creates a lovely little atmosphere so that even small crowds sound rather lively. Neighborhood 4 The Goucher College campus has been used for a few scenes in the Netflix series House of Cards, so expect to recognize the stone buildings. Towson is a semi-urban area with a large shopping mall and numerous restaurants. Try the Charles Village Pub in the heart of downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Some other great options are The Crease, Glory Days Grill, Sushi Hana, and Zia’s. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Abbey Burger Bistro is one great choice. The beer selection is good, and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, which are all likely to satisfy. Fans 3 Most of the fans are the players' friends and family, with a few scattered students in attendance. Access 4 Goucher is located just off the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). The only negative is that Towson is a busy area, and traffic can be bad at times. The college itself is pretty and quite suburban. You will find plenty of parking close to the arena, though a night game may make parking tight at times. Return on Investment 5 The games are free to attend. So, although the level of play is relatively low, the free parking and admission make this a fantastic value for sports fans. Extras 2 Goucher College has a little athletics hall of fame located in the Decker Sports & Recreation Center Arena lobby. The pretty little campus is a nice extra in itself. Final Thoughts Beldon Field is a pretty basic, low-level sports field located in a lovely suburban setting near Baltimore. It is not worth making a trip just for a Goucher Gophers game, but if you are in the area, you will enjoy the game for its low level of investment.

Photos by Richard Smith, Emmy Smith, and Jennifer Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 M&T Bank Stadium 1101 Russell St Baltimore, MD 21230 Baltimore Ravens website M&T Bank Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 70,745 Home of the Ravens The Baltimore Ravens gave the fans of “Charm City” a new beginning in 1996 when they started operations after the Cleveland Browns moved to the Maryland city. As part of a settlement between the league and the city of Cleveland, Art Modell was required to leave the Browns’ history and records in Cleveland for a replacement team. Since their “new beginning,” the Ravens have won two Super Bowl titles. The city of Baltimore has a history of winning teams. The Baltimore Colts won the NFL Championship game before the Super Bowl even existed, in 1958 and 1959, as well as the Super Bowl in 1971. The Baltimore Stars of the USFL were led by coach Jim Mora to that league’s championship in 1985, the final year of the league and team. And of course, the well-loved Canadian Football franchise, the Baltimore CFL Colts/Stallions, won in 1995, before the Ravens came to town and prompted their move to Montreal, where they became the Alouettes. Those seven championships show that Baltimore is a hard-nosed football town with a history of success. After playing their first two years at the venerable old Memorial Stadium, the team has made what is now known as M&T Bank Stadium home. The 70,745-seat stadium has undergone numerous renovations over the years. The team continually updates the stadium in many ways each year, and it always feels fresh and new. The Ravens announced a multi-year project (2024-2026) to enhance the Stadium with significant projects. The Ravens are using a projected $430 million of the $600 million of state funds allotted for stadium improvements. The funds came with the renewal of the Ravens' lease, which will keep them in M&T Bank Stadium through at least the 2037 season. As of the 2025 season, many of the projects are halfway done, with the following seasons seeing new, enhanced entrances and clubs. Food & Beverage 5 The Ravens have good-quality concession stands around the stadium. Many stands offer options such as beer, chili bowls, pizza, and hot dogs. Stands have generic names, such as Goal Line Grill, Kickoff Classics, and the Chesapeake Market. There are also outposts of local favorites, as well as Shake Shack. There are also a few full-service bars scattered around offering top-shelf spirits and premium drinks. Several kiosks also sell a variety of domestic and craft beers. The stadium has followed Atlanta's  lead and begun offering many lower-priced, value options. This has made an already good food experience even better. Atmosphere 5 From the Ravenswalk area outside the stadium to the purple seats and concourse lighting, the Ravens have set a fine stage for enjoying NFL football. Expect the games to be loud inside the stadium. Every play, whether on defense or offense, will have fans screaming at every detail. Even memorable team plays are carefully reviewed. The fans are knowledgeable about all aspects of the game. Ravenswalk leads the fans from downtown and Oriole Park towards M&T Bank Stadium. It has always been a good place for fans to enjoy pre-game activities. The team has increased the entertainment and food offerings in this area, making it an even more enjoyable place to spend some time. Make sure to be in this area when the Baltimore Ravens Marching Band makes its way towards the game. One favorite here is the cocktail bar, which offers decent-priced drinks and a pretty impressive Bloody Mary bar. One should also stop by to see the text of the former facade from Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium, which is on display between the two stadiums. The text was a memorial to those killed in the two World Wars. The main words of “TIME WILL NOT DIM THE GLORY OF THEIR DEEDS” remind visitors of those this nation lost in the past. The line is a quote from Gen. John J. Pershing, commander of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. The large video boards, known as RavensVision, past both end zones, are amazing visual spectacles. The vertical screens in each corner enhance the game viewing options. The Ravens cheerleading squad and mascot Poe offer traditional cheering options. Note that the cheerleading squad has a male stunt squad, as well. The Poe mascot has now seen his brothers, Edgar and Allen, re-added to the mascot mix. In 2022, the brothers stood in for Poe when he went down with a devastating wing injury. The fans are happy to see all three at the game in 2023. The "MO" in Baltimore is colored differently in the end zones from the rest of the city name. This is to honor the late Mo Gaba, who passed in 2020 at the age of 14. Mo was a Baltimore super-fan who, despite battling cancer for most of his life and later losing his sight, became a favorite of all Baltimore athletes. Gaba was inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in July 2020 and, in 2019, became the first person to announce an NFL draft pick written in Braille. The Ravens continue to honor Mo 3 years after his passing. The stadium signage is consistent, modern, and appropriate. Purple lighting effects are seen everywhere. The team is constantly adding new ways to enhance the purple-ness of the stadium. Signage, flashing LED lights, and screens make you see purple everywhere, just as they want. One major complaint of M&T Bank Stadium had been the lack of escalators to the upper deck. But a few years back, they added escalators to this area, so fans no longer have to hoof it up and down stairs or long ramps. Neighborhood 4 The neighborhood is generally the same as Oriole Park at Camden Yards, but it does suffer a bit because it is farther from downtown Baltimore. The newly opened Horseshoe Casino, located south of the stadium, has the potential to make this “other” side of the stadium more and more critical to the Ravens’ social scene. Close to the stadium, and right across from Oriole Park, are Pickles Pub and Sliders Bar & Grille. The Federal Hill neighborhood is also close by. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Abbey Burger Bistro (1041 Marshall Street) is one great choice. The beer selection is good, and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, which are all likely to satisfy. Mother’s (1113 S Charles Street) and Magerks (1061 S Charles Street) are also good places for a pre- or postgame meal. The Inner Harbor is a popular tourist destination and is a short walk from M&T Bank Stadium. There is a movement by a local developer to redevelop the already famous Harborplace into a state-of-the-art living and working area. Currently, the existing pavilions are underused. Baltimore is home to many touristy attractions, such as Fells Point and Fort McHenry. The American Visionary Art Museum on Key Highway is on the way to Fort McHenry and should not be missed, though its unique collection may not be for everyone. Baltimore is, and has always been, an urban environment where you should stay aware of your surroundings. Use common sense, and everything will be fine —you will have a great time. Fans 5 Baltimore is a football town. They love smash-mouth football and have no problem if the defense wins the game by smothering their opponents. Even when there was no NFL team in the city, they embraced football variations offered by the USFL and the CFL in ways other cities may struggle to match. Fans will still respect fans who wear the opposing team’s colors, but they should not expect too much love. The fans are serious about the Ravens and defensive football. Just like at Oriole Park, the Ravens’ fans commemorate the local creation of the Star-Spangled Banner, and the love of the other big league team in town, by shouting a loud “O!!!!!!” during the appropriate spot in the anthem. In other places, this would seem disrespectful, but in Baltimore, it shows the love for the country and the team. If you hear that yell at different parks throughout the country, rest assured that there is a Baltimore fan in the house. Fans also love to chant along to “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes. Access 5 M&T Bank Stadium is right off I-95, with only a couple of turns putting you on the highway home. Parking garages are located in all directions from the stadium. Street parking is not a great option. Parking near the Inner Harbor is a good option. Check the parking link on the Ravens’ website to find bargains that are a pretty close walk away. If you’re not driving to the game, the other primary mode of access is the MTA Light Rail. From points north and south of downtown Baltimore, you can take the train to the ballpark. The Light Rail is slow, so make sure you know that beforehand. The crowds will be overwhelming after the game. Return on Investment 4 An NFL game is expensive. There is no way around it. You do get a good deal because of the high entertainment value and the extremely high level of competition. Parking costs, if done correctly and cheaply, can help alleviate some expenses. The Ravens make sure the fans know they are valued for spending their money on the team. Free programs are available for all games, and the pregame ritual of walking the Ravenswalk (located between the two Camden Yards stadiums) is a treat for all fans. Extras 5 The Johnny Unitas statue is usually located at the end of Ravenswalk. In front of the stadium, it is a gathering spot for pregame meetings and a place to honor the Baltimore Colts legend. A Ray Lewis statue was later added to celebrate one of the other most important Baltimore football players. Ravenswalk is the place to be and watch the excitement of the game day grow to a fever pitch. Both statues are temporarily located on the south side of the stadium while the north plaza is renovated into a new experience. One of the few marching bands in professional football, the Marching Ravens plays at Ravenswalk and at various points during the game. This is the same band that was known as the Baltimore Colts’ Marching Band and was started in 1947. The newly spent renovations and additions have made the purple colors and signage seem consistent and scream out RAVENS at every turn. Final Thoughts M&T Bank Stadium shows that the Ravens have done an outstanding job with their franchise. The fans who attend will always have a memorable game day experience and get good value.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Nippert Stadium 2700 Bearcats Way Cincinnati, OH 45221 Cincinnati Bearcats website Nippert Stadium website Year Opened: 1915 Capacity: 38,088 The Bearcat's Lair The University of Cincinnati was founded in 1819 and today is a thriving urban university of more than 53,000 students. The athletic teams at the University of Cincinnati are known as the Bearcats, and they play their games on campus in an area known as Varsity Village. This section of the campus is also home to the basketball, baseball, and track facilities for the University. The home of the Bearcats is Nippert Memorial Stadium. Football has been played on the site of the stadium since 1901. However, the stadium structure was not built until 1915. This makes it the fourth-oldest playing site and the third-oldest college football stadium in the country, trailing only Bobby Dodd Stadium at Georgia Tech and Davis-Wade Stadium at Mississippi State University. It has been a tough place for visitors to win at, as the Bearcats have a .640 winning percentage in home games. The stadium is named in memory of James Nippert, a Bearcat football player who died after a football injury was complicated by blood poisoning. His grandfather, James N Gamble of Cincinnati-based Procter and Gamble, donated the funds to build the stadium in his memory. There is a memorial monument for Nippert atop the student section behind the south end zone. The stadium has gone through numerous renovations over the years, but still retains much of its character, with lots of the brick structure and wrought iron gates intact. The field at the stadium is named Carson Field for Arch Carson, who played a huge role in bringing football to the university in 1885 and in the creation of its first playing location in 1901. The stadium has made more than $86 million in improvements to the stadium in recent years. More than 1000 feet of ribbon boards have been installed on the facing surfaces to provide information throughout the game. A large videoboard is located atop the north end zone. It is a very busy setup, as it features sponsor names, game statistics, and out-of-town scores… leaving very little room for the replay screen. Food & Beverage 4 There are 75 points of sale locations within Nippert Stadium. The concession stands are primarily located along the east and west sides of the stadium, with a lesser number located behind the end zones. The east concourse (visitor’s side of the stadium) is served under the heading of the Nippert Market title. These stands include food from popular local vendors, including Donato’s Pizza, Skyline Chili, Bibibop, Milton’s Donuts, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Rhinegeist Brewing. The west stands (home side of the stadium) offer the same vendors, plus the Rhine Room and Garage Brewing. The south end zone serves as the student seating area (known as the Ruckus) for the stadium and features some of these same vendors. The premium seating areas are serviced separately from the general concession stands. Alcohol is served in Nippert Stadium. The legal drinking age is twenty-one in Ohio. There is a two-drink limit per purchase. All purchases inside Nippert Stadium are cashless. Atmosphere 4 There are several areas on the University of Cincinnati campus for fans to enjoy pregame activities. The Bearcat Family Zone is located on the Sheakley Lawn and opens three hours before the kickoff. It offers games, entertainment, food trucks, and a large screen TV. A beer hall will be located nearby for the adults to enjoy. The Grid Tailgate is located on the Campus Green and features food trucks, musical entertainment, and team merchandise. The Bearcat team does its pregame Catwalk through this area 2.5 hours before kickoff. One of the unique activities at Bearcats games is the entry of the Bearcat Band for their pregame show. The band descends from the top of the end zone stands to the field to begin its pregame performance. Neighborhood 3 The University of Cincinnati is in an area of Cincinnati known as the Heights. The Heights neighborhood is located two miles north of downtown Cincinnati. Nippert Stadium is in the center of the University campus in an area known as Varsity Village, due to all the athletic facilities surrounding it, including Fifth Third Arena , UC Baseball Stadium , Tangeman University Center, and the Lindner Center. In fact, the exterior of the stadium is barely visible due to the proximity of these other buildings. The neighborhood surrounding the university is an urban mix of commercial and residential properties. Hotels within walking distance of the campus include the Fairfield Inn and Suites Cincinnati Uptown and the Hampton Inn and Suites Cincinnati Uptown. Restaurants in the area include Adriaco’s, Mio’s Pizzeria, the Good Plates Eatery, and Murphy’s Pub. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens is about 1.5 miles away from campus. Fans 4 Fans arrive early on gameday Saturdays to begin setting up in one of the multiple tailgating areas on the University of Cincinnati campus. The tailgates feature food trucks, performances by the Bearcat Band, cheerleading squad, and dance team. The West Stands form the backbone of supporters of the Bearcat athletics. The stands are heavily populated by alumni and major supporters. The stands feature red and black seating, the school’s colors. Seating features seatbacks as well as bench seating. Premium seating is located inside a spectacular glassed-in seating area atop the West Stands. Cincinnati Bearcats Band and Student Section, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey The fanbase at the University of Cincinnati is very supportive of the program, and games sell out frequently. In recent years, the Bearcats have been very successful on the field and in the Big XII Conference. The 2021 season was especially memorable, as the Bearcats went undefeated during the regular season and participated in the four-team national college playoffs. Access 4 Getting to Bearcats home games is relatively easy via either I-71 or I-75. Take the Martin Luther King Drive exit off the expressway onto Eden Avenue. Gameday parking is available at the Eden Parking Garage located at 3223 Eden Avenue. The parking garage is a 20-minute walk from the stadium, but there are free shuttles running constantly between the two before and after the game. Stadium gates open two hours before kickoff. Fans can use their digital tickets to get early access to Nippert Stadium. They can scan their tickets at the Fifth Third Arena ticket office, the Tangeman Ticket office, or at the Grid and receive a wristband for fast entry via the special Fast Pass gates of the stadium. Return on Investment 3 Single-game parking is available at the Eden Garage for $25 on the day of the game (credit/debit card only). Other parking garages surrounding the stadium are for season ticket holders only. Concession, prices vary by vendor. Skyline Chili offers its menu at everyday prices, including Coneys ($7), nachos ($8), loaded fries ($15), sodas ($5.50), and draft beers ($17). Fan Favorites offers the popular Hemplers brand hot dogs ($7) and double-smoked sausages ($10) as well as Grippo’s Chips ($5). There are several 513 concession stands along the concourses. They offer a value menu of items priced at $5, $1, and $3.00. Selections include $5 hot dogs, candy and chips, $3.00 sodas, pretzels, nachos and popcorn, and $1.00 candy. Tickets range from $25-$50 for non-premium seating. Expect to pay higher prices for games against Big XII Conference opponents. Extras 3 Nippert Stadium has also served as the home of the Cincinnati Bengals (1968-1969) and FC Cincinnati (2016-2020) while those teams were building their own stadiums. Nippert Stadium has hosted several concerts over the years. Performers have included Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, N'SYNC and The Roots. A great place to take a pregame photo is the Bearcat Bench statue located near the Campus Green. Final Thoughts Nippert Stadium is one of the oldest and most unique college football stadiums in the country. Its location in the middle of the University of Cincinnati campus is encircled by academic buildings, making its exterior nearly invisible. Recent renovations have ensured that it will be the home den of the Bearcats for years to come.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 The St. James 6805 Industrial Road Springfield, VA 22151 George Washington Revolutionaries hockey website The St. James website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 900 Revolutionary Hockey in Springfield The St. James is a 450,000 square foot sports complex and gym in Springfield, Virginia. It contains facilities for just about every sport you can imagine, including batting cages, a football field, a swimming pool, an ice hockey rink, and much more. For members, it also offers workout facilities, fitness classes, and even a water park. Many amateur teams call The St. James home, from youth to high school to collegiate. George Washington University's club ice hockey team plays its home games at the ice rink at The St. James and competes in Division II of the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA), which sponsors the sport at a club level and is considered a step below the NCAA. The St. James contains two ice rinks, the North Rink and the South Rink, but as they are nearly identical, share a concourse, and are both located within one ice house, the details in this review accurately describe both. If you arrive early, just be sure to check which rink GW is playing on. Food & Beverage 3 Although there is no place to buy food in the ice house itself, Vim & Victor offers grab-and-go food options and is located directly to your left as you enter The St. James through the front doors. It offers snacks and drinks such as bottled water, as well as hot options such as burgers, fries, and flatbread pizzas. You can also buy a grilled chicken parmesan sandwich, chicken tenders, a steak burrito wrap, associated salads, and healthy bowls. Prices for the food can be fairly high, with a burger costing $15.25, although if you're just getting a bottle of water, you should be fine. There are tables to eat at in Vim & Victor if you arrive early, or you can take your food with you to the rink. Although the selection here is above average, we are only assigning The St. James an average rating in this category because Vim & Victor closes at 8 PM, and most GW games will run well past then. In fact, many of them don't even start until after 8 PM due to rink availability, so you will be out of luck on those nights. Atmosphere 2 The St. James is a huge complex but getting to the ice house is very simple. Once you enter through the front doors, walk back, and the ice rink will be on your right once you get past the football field that's on your left. You will walk through the glass doors, and the South Rink will be on your left, while the North Rink will be on your right. If you do not know which rink GW is playing on, you can check their website, try to figure it out from what's happening on the rinks when you get there, or just wait for warmups. The rink itself is actually located on the lower level - these directions will take you to the mezzanine seating that fans watch the game from, which is located in a balcony above the rink. On the mezzanine, you will find a few rows of blue, plastic, bleacher-style seating. Although you are very close to the rink in terms of horizontal distance, you will be fairly high up in vertical distance, which makes for some unusual viewing angles. There is no way to be right up against the glass; unfortunately, you will be above the boards and behind protective netting. Still, you should have a good view of the action. Unfortunately, that's just about all there is to say about this place. Music is sometimes, but not always, played during breaks in the action, and there is no PA announcer or anything like that. The good news is you will be able to hear a lot of the shouting that's happening on the ice. Hockey purists may love this, but everyone else will be bored. A scoreboard is located above the goal furthest from the entrance. It shows the score, time, and time remaining on penalties. Whether it is on your right or left will depend on whether GW is playing on the North or South Rink that day. Each rink has its own scoreboard, but they are all the same. Neighborhood 3 The street name Industrial Road makes it abundantly clear where The St. James is. This is an industrial area, and in the immediate vicinity, you will find warehouses, an auto body shop, and other similar businesses, but not many places you'd want to go to before or after the game. If you head south along Backlick Road, you will soon come to a shopping center with a pizza place as well as several places serving cuisine that fans may not be as familiar with - Colombian, Salvadoran, and Yemeni, just to name a few. Unfortunately, the location nestled around a massive freeway interchange and some railroad tracks means you are better off going elsewhere before or after the game. Fans 1 For the game Stadium Journey attended, there were only about a dozen fans in attendance, and half of them were cheering for the Revolutionaries' opponents that night, having made the trip down to see a family member on that team. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be much interest in watching GW hockey, and the long distance from the campus in Foggy Bottom, combined with the lack of transportation, means that pretty much no students attend. Access 4 Although The St. James's location near a massive freeway interchange hurts the neighborhood rating, it helps it here. The Springfield Interchange connects Interstates 95, 395, and 495 and is known locally as the Mixing Bowl due to the weaving traffic is required to get from one road to another. All of those roads provide easy access to The St. James from nearby exits, so you may not even have to go through the Mixing Bowl itself. Once you arrive at The St. James, you will find a massive parking lot, although spaces closest to the building are reserved for members. Although the lot can get crowded, you should have no trouble parking as people are coming and going at all times. As mentioned above, you will walk through the main doors and go straight back to the ice house. If you are unsure where to go, the helpful staff at the front desk will give you directions. Just make sure they know you are watching the hockey game, not playing in it, as people who are actually using the rink will need to enter through different doors on a different level. One thing to keep in mind is that due to rink availability, many GW games start well into the evening and end after The St. James closes. If you are attending one of these games, you will be allowed to stay until the end, but you must arrive before they lock the front doors, or you will not be able to get in. Return on Investment 3 There is no cost to attend a GW ice hockey game at The St. James, and parking is likewise free. Food at Vim & Victor can get expensive, but this is an easily avoidable expense - eat before or after. Besides, if the game starts after 8 PM, as many do, you will not even have a choice. That being said, there isn't enough here to earn more than an average value. Extras 1 The St. James itself is worthy of an extra star here, as it is a massive sports venue that houses just about every sport you can think of. Final Thoughts A George Washington Revolutionaries ice hockey game at The St. James is a basic experience. Unfortunately, there is not much interest in this program, and most people don't even know it exists.

For almost two decades, Fort Lee, New Jersey's Leslie Monteiro has been writing about sports. It’s a true labor of love, and he’s covered every level, from high school to professional. Highly opinionated, Leslie doesn’t pull punches. You can find his work at his substack , which is below, or at thesportscol.com . Leslie took a few moments to discuss.    STADIUM JOURNEY: So, you're in Fort Lee, New Jersey, which is right next to the George Washington Bridge and is well-known for traffic jams. What else is it known for? And what are the bucket list spots to hit in Fort Lee and nearby? LESLIE MONTEIRO: Fort Lee is the birthplace of the motion picture industry in America. There are plenty of great Korean BBQ restaurants on Main Street. Gopchang Story particularly stands out. You won't be disappointed.   STADIUM JOURNEY: How'd a Fort Lee guy become a Vikings fan? Are there a lot of Viking fans in the New York City area? LESLIE MONTEIRO: I became a Vikings fan in '98 during Randy Moss' rookie season - what a season he had - and that team went 15-1, putting teams to oblivion. Of course, they would lose to the Falcons in the NFC Title Game. Of course, it had to end that way. Being a Vikings fan is nothing more than a miserable experience. Yes, there are plenty of Vikings fans in the metro area. In fact, we have a Vikings watch party at Jack Doyle's during football season in NYC.   STADIUM JOURNEY: What New York sports teams are most important to you? Why? LESLIE MONTEIRO: The Mets. The Mets fans are smart fans who truly love their team. They eat, drink and breathe them 24/7/365. It's an overlooked fanbase in the country, This is a fanbase that deserves a championship. The Mets rally around the tri-state area like no other. STADIUM JOURNEY: Are there any New York sports teams that you don't care about?  LESLIE MONTEIRO: The Knicks, Giants and Yankees. Arrogant fanbases. Arrogant teams. The media in town cheerleads them like no other. STADIUM JOURNEY: What's your take on the Jets this season? Did you see this fiasco coming? How do they fix this? How did you feel about how they handled the Aaron Rodgers situation? LESLIE MONTEIRO: This is brutal. There's no doubt about it. Aaron Glenn is over his head as head coach. He thought this was going to be easy, but it turned out this is harder than he had thought. If he is going to consult former head coaches about what quarterback to play on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals, then he's even worse than I ever thought. This should be a no-brainer. Either he is putting us on, or he really doesn't know. The scary part is I don't think he knows. I knew the Jets would struggle since they had no playmakers on offense. I did not think the offensive line would be this bad. They've allowed 31 sacks this season, including 15 in the last two games. They should have won at least three games by now. To be 0-7 is something no Jets fan had in mind in Aaron Glenn's first season. 0-17 is definitely not out of the question this year. They need to draft a quarterback, and they need a playmaker to play alongside Garrett Wilson. They’re probably going to need a new head coach who has an offensive mind that can work with a rookie quarterback. There's no way they can have a young quarterback working with a defensive-minded head coach. That has not worked here with the Jets. It's easy for any Jets fan, such as WFAN's Joe Benigno to play revisionist history now. I have no issues with how the Jets handled Aaron Rodgers. He had to go for Aaron Glenn to establish himself as a head coach. He provided bad vibes all of last season. He was supposed to lead through adversity. He never did. He wasn't exactly a favorite in the locker room. Even if Aaron got the Jets to 2 or 3 wins, would it be that much better when you think of the big picture? The team would stink with or without him. STADIUM JOURNEY: Will the Knicks win it all this season? LESLIE MONTEIRO: No. The Thunder are just too good. Their first two wins in double overtime against the Rockets and Pacers should tell you everything right there. The Knicks should be in the NBA Finals this year, with the Pacers not having Tyrese Haliburton and the Celtics not having Jayson Tatum. This is their best shot. If they can't get in the Finals this year, they never will. STADIUM JOURNEY: What's your prediction for St. John's basketball and Rick Pitino? How far will they go this season? LESLIE MONTEIRO: St. John's will be runner-up in the Big East to UConn. They will make the tournament, and be done on the first Sunday of the tournament. There will be no Sweet 16 for the Red Storm. They don't have a point guard. STADIUM JOURNEY: What's happening with Seton Hall basketball? Do you have any inside insight on their NIL situation? LESLIE MONTEIRO: Seton Hall built a new practice facility, so the school has that going, but their NIL situation is a mess. If the Hall can't figure it out, it's going to be hard for Shaheen Halloway to do well. It's about the players, and the school has to pay them. I am not even sure if the Hall has money.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Was Rutgers joining the Big Ten a smart move? Will they be able to make it work? LESLIE MONTEIRO: It wasn't. The results speak for themselves. Rutgers is still in financial debt that it may never recover from. I don't think the school can make it work. It's been 11 years, and the program has not had success in college hoops and college football. Sure, the school has had success in other sports, but college hoops and college football bring in the revenue, and that's where Rutgers falls short. STADIUM JOURNEY: St. Peter's recently made it the Elite Eight in March Madness, which you covered. How magical was that run? I think most take it for granted. LESLIE MONTEIRO: It was fun writing about it. I enjoyed writing the stories that came with it. Just them finding a way to win made it fun. They never were intimidated. There's a day that doesn't go by that I don't forget, and people in Jersey City will remember that team forever. I wish I could enjoy the victories, but I was so focused on the story that I didn't really think about the moments to savor. It was just preparing for another story after another story. I will always appreciate the moxie of Darryl Banks III, Doug Edert and KC Ndefo and the brilliant coaching of Shaheen Halloway. STADIUM JOURNEY: Describe the beauty of covering high school sports. LESLIE MONTEIRO: Just seeing the community enjoy what the high school athletes do. At Ridgefield Park High School, it was fun seeing the village really embrace the boys basketball team. It was a home-court advantage. Not just the faculty and student body supporting the Scarlets basketball program, but the citizens who live in the Village along with Little Ferry. It felt like an event. I really enjoyed covering the players. STADIUM JOURNEY:What's your favorite New York sports venue? Why? LESLIE MONTEIRO: Citi Field. It's a beautiful, underrated place to watch a ballgame. You feel like you are in heaven as soon as you get off Willets Point when you take the 7 train or LIRR. Just so clean.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Where do you stand on hockey? LESLIE MONTEIRO: I love it. It's exciting. Who would've thought Gary Bettman would be the best commissioner in sports? The league is in its best shape since 1993. Plenty of exciting players. Beautiful sparkling arenas, including one on Long Island, the four-year old UBS Arena. Small-market Canadian teams have a shot to do well. Expansion is coming. If we can only get rid of the shootout to determine wins, it would be perfect. STADIUM JOURNEY: When did you start covering sports? Which sportswriters inspired you? LESLIE MONTEIRO: I started covering sports in 2006 when I covered high school sports for Ridgefield Park High School in Bergen County, New Jersey. I never was interested in doing this, but my former boss, Maryann Sena, urged me to write. In fact, she campaigned for me to write about high school sports in her town's newspaper, so I just did it out of respect for her. I never thought I would enjoy it, but I have. I had a good time covering Ridgefield Park High when the boys basketball team won a state championship and the football team competed in the state playoffs, which was often. Former Minneapolis Star-Tribune columnist Dan Barreiro, who now hosts a successful drive-time show on KFAN, and the venerable, 80-years young Patrick Reusse inspired me to write about sports. They can bust a vein like no one. Reusse continues to do this three times a week for the Minnesota Star Tribune . Great reporters, too, if I can say. STADIUM JOURNEY: Do ever have any days off from sports or is it sports 24/7, 365? If you have any time away, how do you spend it? LESLIE MONTEIRO: Sports are 24/7/365 for me. It's my passion. It has always been ingrained in me as a kid growing up. I literally think about sports almost every minute when I get up. I go travel around the country if I am on vacation. I have gone to places such as Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston and Denver. I plan on going to Seattle next year to see the Seattle Mariners.   Jon Hart is @manversusball

Photos by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Estadio Jalisco C. Siete Colinas 1772 Independencia, 44290 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico Map It Atlas F.C. website Estadio Jalisco website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 53,961 Guadalajara Fútbol When you think of Mexican fútbol (soccer), for many, the name Chivas de Guadalajara immediately pops to mind. But what if we told you there was another option to watch top-flight Liga MX fútbol in Mexico’s second city, closer to town and at fan-friendly prices? While Chivas plies its trade at the gleaming Estadio Akron on Guadalajara’s outskirts, its former home Estadio Jalisco – in the northeasterly Independencia neighborhood – hosts both Atlas F.C. as well as second-division Leones Negros . Opened in 1960 and maintaining a retro feel, Estadio Jalisco is unlikely to win any beauty contests, but it is Mexico’s third-largest stadium and hosted matches in the 1970 and 1986 World Cups. It’s also featured some pretty good club fútbol in recent years; Atlas ended a 70-year title drought in December 2021, and then repeated the feat six months later to become only the third team in Liga MX history to win back-to-back titles (the league plays two mini-seasons per year). Combine the quality on-field product with a spirited, grassroots scene both inside and outside the stadium, and you’ve got yourself one fine sports fan experience. Food & Beverage 4 Mexico is synonymous with sensational street food, and you’d be wise to arrive at Estadio Jalisco at least an hour before kickoff to scope out the offerings on the four streets bordering the venue. It’s built right into the neighborhood, so you’ll find tacos al pastor, tortas ahogadas (the signature “drunken” sandwich of Guadalajara), elotes (corn), churros, and more wafting from both brick-and-mortar establishments and temporary carts. For a DIY drinking experience, grab a cerveza or canned cocktail from the Oxxo mini-market on Calle Monte Carlo and stroll until finding your meal of choice, beverage in hand. Inside the gates, concessions are simple but satisfying; think crispy tacos dorados, popcorn and chips (drenched in chile and lime, the Mexican way), hot dogs, and the usual beverage selections. There are also offerings from local fast food outlets, including mini-pizzas and chicken fingers. Service lines can get congested close to kickoff, so it’s best to grab your food early or flag down one of the many vendors roaming the aisles. If you’re a stadium concession connoisseur, Estadio Jalisco has an incredible option for you: A ticket in the San Matías Premier section, starting at around $50, includes four beers, two hot dogs or sandwiches, and unlimited snacks and soft drinks, brought directly to your seat by attentive stadium employees constantly asking if you’d like anything else. I opted for this package – mainly to guarantee a seat in the lower level near center pitch – and left stuffed to the gills. Atmosphere 3 As alluded to above, Estadio Jalisco is at one with its community, not buffered by an endless parking lot like a modern-day fortress. The pregame hub of activity is along the stadium’s east side, in Plaza Brazil. There you’ll find brand activations, inflatable test-your-skill stations, and pumping music. Interspersed with the street food vendors are merchandise tents, where you can outfit yourself in red and black Atlas gear at a fraction of official team store prices. Inside, the gameday fervor will depend on Los Rojinegros’ fortunes and the caliber of opponent. For the early season match I attended vs. Santos Laguna, not a traditional rival, the stadium was at roughly 40% capacity. Expect greater fervor for the annual Clásico Tapatío  vs. Chivas, when Mexico City giants Clúb América come to town, or the biannual Liga MX Playoffs. As with most Mexican sporting events, there are spirited PA announcements and numerous in-game advertisements. An investment in new, 4K video boards would go a long way, as the two current monitors high above each goal are small and outdated by modern standards. And speaking of retro: There is a ring of “luxury boxes” circling the lower level of seats. Only a fraction were in use, and those that weren’t had a simple piece of plywood keeping them closed. Estadio Jalisco Video Board, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 The working-class Colonia Independencia, around three miles or a 15-minute drive from the historical center of Guadalajara, is not overly polished, but it is authentic. Expect to mix with families, lifelong fans, and street performers drumming up excitement before the gates open. Although a rideshare driver warned me about the neighborhood, safety is generally fine on matchdays when exhibiting typical urban awareness. With “strength in numbers,” I felt completely at ease walking several blocks west of Estadio Jalisco post-match to hail a DiDi (Mexico’s local, cheaper alternative to Uber). If you prefer to linger after the final whistle, options abound for a late-night bite or celebratory drink, especially along Calzada Independencia and nearby avenues. Fans 3 Atlas supporters are collectively nicknamed La Fiel (“The Faithful”), apropos because they endured seven decades between enjoying the fruits of a championship. The most fervent among La Fiel call themselves La Barra 51 and set up in the lower level behind the north touchline. While this is a passionate group with the requisite standing, chanting, and flag-waving throughout the match, I have observed larger and more frenetic supporters’ groups at other stadiums across Latin America. The scene was predictably more subdued in my high-priced, food-focused section. Access 3 Getting to Jalisco is straightforward but can be hectic. The Macrobus rapid transit line runs directly along Calzada Independencia, just steps from the stadium, while several local bus routes also serve the area.If coming from the city center, Colonia America, or Zapopan – the areas you’ll likely be staying in as a visitor – it’s best to rely on Uber or Didi. Fares are cheap, and available drivers are plentiful. If you’re driving, be warned: parking is limited and informal, often relying on small private lots or curbside attendants. Arriving early is strongly advised. I found stadium ingress and egress to be easy. There are numerous entry gates, and once inside, you can circle the concourse until you find your seating section. Note that fans are required to upload personal info and a selfie to a Mexican Football Federation app before entry, an effort to curb hooliganism. You can scan a QR code outside the gate and complete the process in minutes, mobile reception permitting. Return on Investment 5 There are ticket prices to match every budget at Estadio Jalisco. The least expensive way through the gates is an upper-level seat starting at 175 pesos (around $10). If you’d like to sit closer to the action, lower-tier tickets can be had for roughly $17. Atlas adjusts its ticket pricing based on the caliber of the match. It will cost more to attend the crosstown showdown vs. Chivas, and with both fanbases vying for tickets, you may need to purchase an official Atlas club membership card to guarantee ticket access. StubHub operates in Mexico, so that is always an option. If your goal is to just check Estadio Jalisco off your bucket list, then look at attending a Leones Negros match, which will be even more wallet-friendly than seeing Atlas. Extras 3 Guadalajara is known as the City of Eternal Spring and definitely warrants a few days of exploration. Most visitors make the “pilgrimage” to the town of Tequila, about an hour away, where legendary names like Jose Cuervo and Sauza were born. There are countless tour options, so you don’t need to worry about driving. The Centro Historico is rich with colonial architecture and the hustle and bustle one expects in a large Latin American city. It’s Mercado Libertad is one of the largest indoor markets in the world and sells just about anything you can imagine under one roof, from food to crafts to home goods to clothing. You can pick up an “authentic” Atlas or Chivas jersey for well under $10. Southeast of the city center is Tlaqueplaque, known as the home of mariachi music and an array of traditional restaurants. Final Thoughts Estadio Jalisco isn’t perfect, but rather it's imperfect in the most endearing ways. The aging concrete, the echoing chants, the scent of grilled meat in the air coalesce to create something few modern sports venues can replicate. You truly feel at one with the proud residents of Guadalajara while sitting in its creaking seats.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Fred Rust Arena 605 S College Ave Newark, DE 19716 Delaware Blue Hens website Fred Rust Arena website Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 2,500 Blue Hen Pride The University of Delaware (UD) is the largest university in Delaware and is located in the city of Newark (that's new-ARK, not NEW-urk like the one in New Jersey.) The Delaware athletic teams are known as the Blue Hens, after the official state bird of Delaware, and compete at the Division I level. For many years, Delaware's men's and women's ice hockey teams competed at the club level, playing their home games in Fred Rust Arena, which opened in 1971. However, in 2025, the Blue Hens' football program made the jump from FCS to FBS, and to compensate for the additional men's scholarships, the university was required under Title IX to add an equivalent number of women's scholarships. As a result, the women's ice hockey program was upgraded from club to NCAA level, and now competes in Atlantic Hockey America, a hockey-only conference formed in 2023 by the merger of the men-only Atlantic Hockey and the women-only College Hockey America. The men's ice hockey team still competes at a club level in the ACHA and plays its home games in Fred Rust Arena as well. Stadium Journey has a review of that experience , although the information there is not as current as it is in this review. Food & Beverage 4 The concession experience was vastly improved at Fred Rust Arena this season, coinciding with the move to the NCAA level. There is now an alcove next to the rink that has both a concessions window and grab-and-go snacks, sandwiches, drinks, and other items, which you can pay for either at the concessions window or at a self-checkout. However, if you are using cash, you must pay at the window. Grab-and-go snacks include cotton candy, chocolate-covered pretzels, assorted candy, drinks, and protein bars, crackers, and other miscellaneous items, as well as a refrigerator with pre-made sandwiches and other light meal options. The concession window offers hot food such as hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, and soft pretzels. There is also a machine that dispenses hot chocolate, coffee, and tea. Prices are reasonable, with nothing costing more than $5. Atmosphere 4 Walking into Fred Rust Arena will put you in a lobby filled with Blue Hens' logos, trophies, and memorabilia, decked out almost floor to ceiling in Delaware blue and gold. The ticketing table is straight ahead - either show them your ticket or buy one if you haven't yet. Then turn right and walk through the doors to the rink. There are two sets of bleachers, one on each side, which are plastic and do not have backs but do have molded seats that are somewhat more comfortable than the usual metal ones. Before the game, they will dim the lights and light up the rink in blue while the Zamboni surfaces the ice, then the lights will come on, only to be dimmed again as a spotlight shines for the player introductions. The Blue Hens have two mascots - YouDee and their child, Baby Blue, who roam the rink and the stands throughout the game, entertaining and interacting with fans. (The Delaware mascots do not have canonical genders - fans tend to use whatever pronouns they want to refer to them) Neighborhood 3 Newark is a typical East Coast college town. Your best option is to head downtown to Main Street, which offers numerous options, including Grotto Pizza and the Deer Park Tavern. You can also head towards Christiana Mall or check out The Border Café, known for its Tex-Mex food and large “EAT” sign. Fans will also want to check out the UDairy Creamery, which makes ice cream right on campus and is conveniently located right next door to Fred Rust Arena. Although their ice cream is not sold at hockey games like it is at Delaware basketball games at the Bob Carpenter Center , it is incredibly easy to visit before or after a game, and you do not even need to move your car. Fans 3 Delaware draws a few hundred fans to a typical women's hockey game at Fred Rust Arena. The crowd is a good mix of friends and family, and locals. This is the Blue Hens' first season as an NCAA program, but they have built up a following over the years at the club level. With the low ceilings, it can get quite loud in here at times, and as excitement grows in future years, the experience should only get better in this regard. Access 4 The University of Delaware campus is conveniently located right off Interstate 95. If coming from the north, take the last exit in Delaware, and the campus will be only a few blocks away. If coming from the south, you are better off getting off at the last exit in Maryland and driving a couple of miles on local roads to avoid the tolls - this will only add about a minute to the drive and will save you $5 each way. Once on campus, there is a large lot next to Fred Rust Arena, and you pay for parking through the Passport Parking app. It will cost between $5 and $12 or so, depending on how early you arrive and how long you stay. Just keep in mind that a few spots are reserved for Creamery patrons. These are free to park in, but are short-term spaces, so unless you are just popping in to the game for a few minutes and leaving, you should not park there. Restrooms are located through a door just to the right of the entrance to the main rink area after you come in. They are more than spacious enough for the typical crowds, though there may be a short line at intermissions. Return on Investment 4 Single-game tickets are just $10 for adults and $5 for children 3-12. Concessions are also quite affordable. However, the cost to park, which is really unnecessary given the size of the lot relative to demand, brings this score down a notch. Extras 3 Check out the banners and memorabilia for the various UD hockey and ice skating teams. The teams have shown great success over the years, including winning the 2012 ACHA national championship. The UD figure skating team has also enjoyed much success with some athletes, such as Tara Lipinski, who have gone on to the Olympics. Also check out the marketing table by the entrance, with giveaways at each game, such as posters, as well as special promotional items like hockey socks at select contests. A third and final star for the fact that kids have a chance to skate on the ice after select home games. Final Thoughts Although Delaware women's ice hockey is only in its first year at the NCAA level, it calls a great rink home and has already built a loyal following through their decades as a club team. If you're a hockey fan in Delaware, or in nearby Maryland or Pennsylvania, you will want to make the trip out here to check out a game.

Photos by Sean MacDonald and Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Crisler Center 333 E Stadium Blvd Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Michigan Wolverines website Crisler Center website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 13,751 Michigan's House of Hoops The University of Michigan Wolverines are known for their football program, which holds the most wins of any in the country. But that doesn't mean that basketball is given short shrift. Although the Crisler Center, home of the Wolverines' hoops squad, sits in the shadows of The Big House, the program itself has much to be proud of, including a beautiful venue that should not be missed by stadium visitors. Named after former football head coach and athletic director Herbert “Fritz” Crisler, Crisler Arena was built in 1967 as the existing facility at Yost Field House (now Yost Ice Arena, home of Michigan hockey) was not large enough for the crowds. Those fans wanted to see star player Cazzie Russell, so Crisler is nicknamed The House that Cazzie Built. Russell went on to be the New York Knicks first overall pick in the 1966 draft and won the 1970 title with the team. A massive renovation led to the venue being renamed to Crisler Center, giving the Wolverines an arena that is competitive with any in the conference. Keeping that traditional college basketball feel and balancing it with modern amenities and decor. There is a lot of history here, too, both good and bad. In 1989, Steve Fisher took over the program before the NCAA Tournament, and the Wolverines ran off six straight wins to become National Champions for the first and only time. A few years later, the Fab Five era kept the Wolverines in the national news, though a scandal destroyed the reputation of the program, costing them conference championships, appearances in the 1992 and 1993 Final Fours, and the 1997 NIT championship. Rebuilding after the probation was long and arduous, but the school is back where it belongs, with 12 tournament appearances since 2009, including two trips to the Final Four, where they were the runners-up (ironically, their opponent in 2013 was Louisville, which had to vacate their title due to yet another scandal). These days, the Crisler Center is a lively place to see some quality college basketball. How does it measure up in other ways? Read on to find out.   Food & Beverage 4 All of the athletic venues at the University of Michigan have the same concession provider with similar offerings at similar prices. Crisler Center has a single concourse with 15 major stands. The most common is Wolverine Classics, which offers hot dogs and stadium sausages that are provided by Dearborn Sausage Company, and they are very good. Snacks include a soft pretzel for $6.5 (add $2 for the cheese cup) and popped maize instead of popcorn, a shoutout to the school colors of Maize and Gold. A frozen Icee is $7.25, and you can also get a box of Champions Cookies for $9. Buddy's Pizza, famous for Detroit-style pizza, offers a four-square pepperoni or cheese pizza going for $16.  Big House BBQ has loaded BBQ Nachos for $15, the same price as a BBQ Chicken Sammie, which is the most appealing option. Another common option is Flock, where a chicken tender basket is $13.24; add just 75 cents for the Hot Honey variety. Chips and Cheese are $7, while an order of fries is $7.50. Coca-Cola products are on offer in various sizes. A souvenir beverage mug is $12.25, a 32-ounce souvenir cup soda is $9.50, and a 20-ounce bottle of pop is $6.5. Bottled water will cost $5.50, while hot chocolate or coffee is $5. Alcohol is now available here, with a 16-oz. can of beer ranging between $12.25 and $13.50, while a canned cocktail goes for $16.25. Overall, although food and beverages are rather expensive, it is of higher quality than fare found in similar stadiums. If you’re staying in Ann Arbor, though, better to save your appetite for the large selection of excellent restaurants found downtown. Atmosphere 4 Originally opened in 1967, Crisler Arena was once like many of the other facilities built in that era: a round structure lacking windows and natural light. It has undergone three renovations over the years to bring the facility up to modern standards, with the most recent leading to the renaming of the venue. The exterior of Crisler Center is smart-looking with brown brick and the famous block M markings.  Entering from the east will probably give fans the grandest entrance, ascending an escalator to the main concourse, where you will be greeted by the cheerleaders. Around the concourses, the details are obvious with simple yet effective touches like high-quality flooring with verses of the fight song etched in. Around the walls, there are displays for each of the varsity teams that Michigan sponsors. There is little to no exposed concrete. The feeling is inviting and warm, which is a far cry from where it once was. The large display on Cazzie Russell entitled “The House that Cazzie Built” enlightens fans to some of the Wolverine basketball history. Inside the seating bowl, fans are greeted with two levels of navy blue, modern, comfortable stadium seats. The court runs from north to south, and a large video board hangs above center court. The rafters are littered with banners for Big Ten Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances.  Proudly hanging in the south end is the 1989 NCAA National Championship banner. Directly across from the championship banner are the honored numbers of Bill Buntin, Cazzie Russell, Phil Hubbard, Glen Rice, and Rudy Tomjanovich.   Sight lines at Crisler are excellent, also, and the east side of the building is the spot to be for fans hoping for that perfect picture of the center logo. The student section, known as 'The Maize Rage', sits in Sections 18-28, with overflow going to Section 30. Some seats in Section 28 are sold to the general public, so if you sit there, you are right in between the students. Game day at Michigan is a real college experience.  Most of the music is provided by the band. The cheerleaders and pep team add to the atmosphere on the court.  The game is not overproduced, and there is not a ton of advertising. Overall, there is a great feeling to Michigan basketball. Neighborhood 5 Downtown Ann Arbor is within walking distance, and you will find a great variety of excellent restaurants, bars, shopping, and breweries around. Zingerman’s Delicatessen is a favorite spot and is featured on ESPN as the local place to go, and would be a perfect early morning stop if you want to get supplies for a gourmet tailgating party. Places like Ashley's and Arbor Brewing Company's Corner Brewery provide excellent full-service options as well. If you like Italian food, then Mani Osteria and Bar comes highly recommended, especially if you want something a little more upscale. Frita Batidos serves up tasty Cuban-inspired food. The Blue Nile serves up Ethiopian food, which is both unique and delicious. If you want to enjoy a cheaper option, the New York Pizza Depot offers a few specials throughout the week. Kids will love the Ann Arbor Children’s Museum, while adults might prefer the university's Museum of Art. Both should be inspired by the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology or the Museum of Natural History. All are within walking distance of each other and the sports complex. Hotel accommodations can be found clustered near I-94 just to the south of the stadium, but expect to pay a hefty sum to stay here. If you’re flying in, the Detroit airport is about 20 miles to the east along I-94, and there are plenty of hotels there for a much better rate. Another alternative is to stay in the northeast corner of the city along Plymouth Road.   Fans 5 Michigan basketball fans are passionate, and that showed as over 10,000 showed up for an exhibition contest that we attended. Even more impressive were the students, who filled their sections and were raucous from start to finish. The crowd was into the game and cheered loudly when things were going their way. They also showed remarkable patience during a game that dragged on far too long due to some heavy-handed officiating. Access 4 The Crisler Center is in central Ann Arbor, equidistant from I-94 and Highway 23, the main expressways around the city.  Getting to Crisler Center, as with all Michigan athletic facilities, will require some travel through the city. Considering that this town welcomes over 110,000 fans for Wolverine football games, getting 10,000 in and out of Crisler Center is not too difficult. There are some parking options, with the Pioneer High School lot being the cheapest at $20. However, you should be able to find free parking on a neighborhood street not too far away, or leave the car downtown where meters are not enforced after 6 p.m. Even then, expect traffic on Main Street, which is a single lane in each direction, with lights and crosswalks all the way. Remember that no bags are allowed at any Michigan sporting event, which makes entry quick and painless. Getting around Crisler Center is not too difficult, as the single concourse is more than wide enough and the washroom facilities are spotless.   Return on Investment 4 Michigan Wolverines basketball offers a solid return on investment. Ticket prices vary depending on the opponent, ranging from $13 for non-conference foes to $28 for those in the Big Ten. However, in many cases, the secondary market will offer better value. SeatGeek is the official reseller and has the most inventory, as well as an excellent seating map, so you can see exactly where you will be sitting. The atmosphere is terrific at Crisler, and fans will not be disappointed with the experience. Extras 4 A point for the historic displays in the east concourse. Take a moment to examine all of them, including the Hall of Honor on the glass. A point for the history lesson about Cazzie Russell, a name that more basketball fans should learn. Another point for the incredible display around the entire concourse dedicated to each varsity squad that wears the Maize and Gold. A final point for the hardwood photographs depicting Great Michigan Moments. Final Thoughts Basketball may not be the first thought when it comes to Michigan athletics. However, the Wolverines have been a great team recently, with appearances in the National Championship final to prove it.  Crisler Center has seen some significant improvement, and fans will not be disappointed in their experience at the House that Cazzie Built.  It may not be a basketball bucket list item, but the Michigan Wolverines will provide a pleasant surprise for the stadium traveler.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Kehoe Field 37th Street NW Washington, DC 20007 Georgetown Hoyas website Kehoe Field website Year Opened: 1956 Capacity: No permanent seating Hockey on the Hilltop Georgetown University's field hockey has called many different stadiums home over the years. Until 2007, they played their home games at Kehoe Field, a recreational turf field located on the roof of Yates Field House. In 2008, they moved to what was then known as Multi-Sport Field and is now known as Cooper Field , which is also home to the Hoyas' football and lacrosse teams. However, that stadium was far too big for field hockey, and the bladed turf was considered unsuitable for the sport, which still uses old-style AstroTurf, so from 2023 to 2025, they played off-campus at other colleges, either the University of Maryland in nearby College Park or Towson University over an hour away in the Baltimore suburbs. In 2025, the Hoyas moved back home to the turf of Kehoe Field. After playing a couple of "home" series at a neutral site in Towson, the Hoyas returned to Kehoe in mid-September. Food & Beverage 0 There is no concession stand at Kehoe Field, but fans are free to bring their own food and drink. The PA announcer read an announcement about a concession stand, but there was none to be found, and this seems to be just a way to advertise Coca-Cola, which is a sponsor of Georgetown athletics. Atmosphere 2 Kehoe Field is located on the roof of Yates Field House, a recreational gym used by Georgetown students. According to the Hoyas' athletic website, there is very limited seating available, and fans are encouraged to bring their own chairs. This is overly generous - there is in fact, no seating available at Kehoe Field whatsoever. There is one small bench near the track surrounding the field, but this is intended for people putting on or taking off equipment, or taking a break from running, and you will not be able to see any of the action from here once other fans arrive. So you will need to bring your own chair, or just stand for the whole game. The turf at Kehoe Field is significantly bigger than the dimensions of the field hockey field, so most of it is used as a seating area. You will either put your own chair along the turf or just stand there. The area of the field is clearly marked by black tubes, and as long as you do not cross the tubes, you will be fine wherever. There is a very small, temporary scoreboard behind one goal that shows only the score and clock, not time on penalty cards, penalty corners, shots, or anything like that. Even the American flag that fans face during the national anthem is temporary and is hung up along the fence before the game. Although it is great to see the Hoyas back on campus, Kehoe Field does not have the greatest atmosphere. However, this may be something they improve on in future years now that they have a home again. Neighborhood 5 Kehoe Field is located in the middle of the Georgetown campus, and you’ll probably have to head off campus to do anything. However, the Georgetown neighborhood (which lends its name to the school, not the other way around) is one of the best in D.C. There are numerous restaurants ranging from casual sandwich shop Booeymonger’s to luxurious upscale restaurants such as 1789, and everything in between. Georgetown Cupcake sells exactly what its name implies. Clyde's of Georgetown is a locally popular American pub and bar, and Chaia is known for its fancy vegetarian and vegan tacos. All of this is located just a short walk or drive away from the University. If you’re willing to head downtown to the National Mall area, the District has so much more to offer, and the best part is that most of it is free. Whether it’s taking in the sights and monuments on the Mall itself, or visiting one of the many museums such as the various Smithsonian, there’s something for everyone. All of the government-run attractions are free, but some of the private ones are not. Just keep in mind if you wish to tour the White House or Capitol, you will need to book in advance. Fans 3 Despite the lack of permanent seating, Georgetown draws a couple of hundred fans a game to Kehoe Field for field hockey. They are mainly friends and family of either the Hoyas or the visiting team, but you do get some alumni and locals. The fans are knowledgeable about the team and its players, and while the setup here isn't conducive to a good crowd, they still manage to make the most of it. Access 2 The Georgetown campus is located just across the Francis Scott Key Bridge from Virginia. Fans coming from that direction should turn left on Canal Road after crossing the river, and the campus is just up ahead after that. Coming from Maryland isn’t quite as easy, but still is pretty simple. Once you’re on campus, parking is available in the Southwest Garage. There is ample space available, but some of the spaces may be tight, especially for drivers of larger vehicles. Parking is free on Sundays but is $5 per hour, up to a total of $25, the rest of the week. If arriving after 3 PM, the max rate is $15, and if arriving after 7 PM, the max rate is $10. Once you park, you will exit the garage and walk up a hill along a road that runs parallel to the bleachers at Cooper Field. You will reach a staircase on your left that will take you to Yates Field House. Walk up the staircase, then up another staircase or ramp to the roof of the Field House, and you will find Kehoe Field. Note that there is a small lot next to the Field House, but this is reserved for Field House members. If you have a valid handicap permit, you may be able to park in a handicap space here if attending a game, but otherwise you will need to use the Southwest Garage and walk. There is no signage telling you where to go for a field hockey match until you are already right next to the entrance to Kehoe Field, at which point the signage is really unnecessary since it is obvious where you are. There are no restrooms available at Kehoe Field itself. However, there are port-a-potties at adjacent Shaw Field , home of Georgetown soccer, or you can walk down the staircase to Yates Field House and use the real restrooms in there. If you use the port-a-potties in Shaw, you should be able to see the game almost the entire time walking there and back (except while you are in the port-a-potty, obviously), but if you go to Yates, you will miss a bit of the action getting there and back. Return on Investment 3 Admission to Georgetown field hockey games is free of charge. However, between the cost of parking and the extremely basic nature of the stadium, the value here is still just average. We recommend visiting on Sunday when parking is free, as it is not worth it to pay the cost of parking just to visit this stadium. Extras 1 As Kehoe Field is located on the roof of a building on a hill, it offers gorgeous, sweeping views of the Georgetown campus below. That is about the only extra here. Final Thoughts It is great that Georgetown field hockey is back on campus after several years spent in College Park or Towson. Unfortunately, Kehoe Field is not the greatest experience yet, although we hope to see it improved in future years now that the Hoyas finally have a place of their own again.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Capital One Arena 601 F St NW Washington, DC 20004 Washington Capitals website Capital One Arena website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 18,506 Rocking The Red In DC Capital One Arena opened in 1997 as the home of the Washington Capitals, replacing the aging Capital Centre in Landover. Since then, the Caps have experienced a dramatic rise in popularity and success thanks to players like Alex Ovechkin, culminating in their victory in the 2018 Stanley Cup Final. In addition to hosting hockey, Capital One Arena serves several other functions as well, including playing host to the Washington Wizards and Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball. Although there was a time not so long ago when this wasn’t the case, a Washington Capitals game at Capital One Arena is a memorable experience for any sports or hockey fan. Owner Ted Leonsis has done a fantastic job at growing the team and improving the arena atmosphere since buying the team in 1999, and his efforts have shown, both on and off the ice. A new arena in Alexandria, Virginia was proposed in 2024, but fell through in the face of fierce local opposition. Instead, a renovation of Capital One Arena began in the summer of 2025, and the Caps will remain in the city until at least 2050. Food & Beverage 4 Capital One Arena has plenty of food and beverage offerings that are sure to satisfy any fan, and recently, they have added some unique options as well. Main course options include Papa John’s pizza, cheeseburgers, and chicken tenders, and the last two come with fries. Other options include Italian sausage, hot dogs, and Chick-fil-A. In the past few years, arena ownership has added even more options beyond the standard ones, including tacos and donuts. Rita's Italian ice and frozen custard are available for fans with a sweet tooth. Snacks include popcorn and hot pretzels. Thirsty fans can buy bottled water or soda, all Pepsi products. Beer and other alcoholic beverages are also available to fans of appropriate age. The one bad part is that prices are expensive, as a meal and non-alcoholic beverage will easily cost over $20, and alcohol is extremely pricey as well. Atmosphere 5 A Capitals game at Capital One Arena is a fantastic experience, starting before the puck is even dropped. A few minutes before the pregame, fog will descend from the rafters of the arena. While this may seem odd, it does serve a purpose. When the pregame starts, the lights will go out in the arena as spotlights shine through the fog, creating patterns on the ice and in the air. Meanwhile, graphics, including the Capitals' logo and video of Caps players, will be projected onto the ice itself. The team is introduced, the anthem plays as an American flag projects onto the ice, and the puck drops. A large scoreboard and videoboard overhangs center ice and shows player and team stats as well as live video of the game. Smaller boards in the corners show the players on the ice for the Capitals. The backs of these boards serve as video boards for fans sitting in the corner sections of the upper levels. Unless you are sitting in one of these sections, you will not be able to see the back of the board, but you will likely have a better viewing angle of the one at center ice. There will be content held off-ice during media timeouts and shown on the big screen. Between periods, youth teams come onto the ice and play a hockey match. The Capitals' mascot, Slapshot, is an eagle. He can be seen roaming the arena and interacting with fans. Each player has their personal goal song, which is played over the PA system after they score. Neighborhood 4 Capital One Arena is located in the Chinatown neighborhood of DC, though the area has gentrified significantly since the arena was built. The Greene Turtle is a popular sports bar located right around the corner, and there are many more options a few blocks away down 6th Street in Penn Quarter. Unfortunately, a lot of other businesses in the area have closed in recent years, between COVID and rising crime in the area. The neighborhood is still pretty safe despite public perception to the contrary, but you are in a major city, so be aware of your surroundings. Your best entertainment options will involve traveling a bit away from the arena, but not far. That’s because you’re in DC, the nation’s capital, and there’s a lot to do. The best part is that most of it’s free. Whether it’s checking out the many memorials and monuments on and around the National Mall, visiting one of the numerous museums, or simply taking in the historic sights, there’s something for everyone here. All government-run attractions are free to the public, though some private ones are not. Fans 5 The Washington Capitals draw excellent crowds to every home game - most are sold out, or nearly so. The team encourages fans to "Rock the Red," and they certainly do. They come decked out in Capitals gear and cheer their team from start to finish. Expect the place to erupt after Capitals goals. Cheers of "Let's Go Caps!" and "C-A-P-S Caps Caps Caps!" can be heard throughout the game. Air horns can be heard from the crowd as well - something that is allowed at Capitals games but not any other event in this arena. Access 4 Capital One Arena is located just steps from the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station on the Red, Green, and Yellow lines. Just be mindful of track work that may shut down stations or increase headways, especially on the weekends. Even people coming from outside the immediate DC area can take the Metro by parking at one of the suburban stations. Keep in mind that you will need to pay for parking with the same SmarTrip card you paid your fare with, or you will be subject to a much higher rate at certain stations. If you don’t want to take the Metro, you can drive to the game. Ample garage parking is available, but it is costly. The exact cost varies by the day and based on availability, but expect to pay at least $20 and probably much more. You can also take a rideshare such as Uber or Lyft. Once you’re in the arena, the concourses are wide enough to allow for easy navigation. There can be long lines at concessions or restrooms during intermission, but if you leave as soon as the period ends, you should be back in your seat by the time the game resumes. Keep in mind that Capital One Arena does not allow bags, clear or otherwise, into the arena. This is a frustrating policy that forces us to reduce the score in this category. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Capitals games will start at $50-$60 for upper-level seats and go up from there. Seats in the lower level will cost several times that. Concessions are expensive as well. This is all typical of NHL arenas nowadays, and the experience here is good enough to still make this an above-average value. Still, you can expect to pay quite a bit for a Capitals game. Extras 4 Look for the banners in the rafters honoring Capitals, history, including the 2018 Stanley Cup Championship. If the Capitals are losing or tied late in the game, expect the "Unleash the Fury" video to play on the jumbotron during one of the final media timeouts. This video consists of various clips from movies and people shouting "Unleash the Fury" to pump up the crowd and excite them and the team to rally to victory. The pregame show and the ability to project images onto the ice during this show and at other times, while related, are each worthy of their extra star here. Final Thoughts The experience at a Washington Capitals game is top-notch. The crowds here are excellent, the product on the ice is outstanding, and the atmosphere is one of the best in the league. While a Caps game can be pricey, hockey fans will definitely want to make the trip to D.C. to see a game.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 TD Garden 100 Legends Way Boston, MA 02114 Boston Bruins website TD Garden website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 17,850 The Gahden   Going to a game in an Original Six city is a sacred pilgrimage for hockey fans, and the buildings these teams once called home were true shrines of the game. While the Boston Garden, Montreal Forum, Olympia, Joe Louis Arena, Maple Leafs Garden and Chicago Stadium have faded into history, Original Six teams continue to hold a special place in NHL lore.   The Boston Bruins are the third-oldest team in the NHL and were the first team based in the United States to join the league. 60 individuals associated with the team have been enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame. The Bruins have won six Stanley Cups in their history, most recently in 2011.   The TD Garden is only the third venue that the Bruins have called home in over a century of competition, after the Boston Arena (now called Matthews Arena ) and the Boston Garden. Built just nine inches from its predecessor, it is named for its sponsor, TD Bank. In addition to serving as home to the Bruins and the NBA’s Boston Celtics , the Garden annually serves as host to the Beanpot Tournament  and Hockey East Tournament.   Food & Beverage 4   The concession experience at TD Garden has never been at the forefront of the Bruins game day routine. Over the years, the concessions have improved here in both variety and quality. But be warned that concession prices here are among the highest in the NHL.     Stands at the TD Garden are organized by their menus, so hungry fans may have to do some searching to find what they want. Vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free items are available throughout TD Garden. Some of the most popular items are the oversized pizza slices from Sal’s Pizza. For some of the more unique items on the menu, head to the Test Kitchen on Level 4. A more in-depth description of the menu, including a map of all concessions, can be  found here.  Coca-Cola products are featured at TD Garden.   Fans looking for an adult beverage will have no problem finding what they want at TD Garden. Brews from local favorites Sam Adams and Harpoon Brewery are featured among the national brands. For a great selection of local brews, head to the Sam Adams Brewzone on Level 4 or the Craft Beer Garden on Level 7.   Sam Adams Brewzone at TD Garden. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Atmosphere 5   There just seems to be something special about seeing a game in the home of one of the Original Six teams. The Boston area features some of the most rabid fans in the league, and when the black and gold get on a roll, this is one of the loudest venues in the entire National Hockey League.   An evening at a Bruins game will feel very familiar to veteran NHL travelers, as the staff here in Boston doesn’t really break any new ground in terms of gameday presentation. But what they do, they do well. The giant “Hub Vision” video board is the centerpiece of the game day experience, and its high-resolution screen is used consistently with graphics, fan cams, replays, and games during play stoppages. The PA announcer and in-game emcee do a great job keeping things moving and energy up. The Bruins anthem singer, Todd Angily, has picked up the baton from the legendary Rene Rancourt and has become a Boston legend in his own right. There’s no downtime here at the Garden. The Bruins make nice use of AI-generated bear graphics to pump up the crowd throughout the game.   There’s not a lot of spare room in this tiny arena, and recent renovations have added some much-needed space to the place. Concourses were widened, and restrooms have been added. New social areas, such as the Rafters Club on Level 9 and the Back Row Bar at the top of the Balcony seating area, have become favorite spots to mingle with fans and grab a drink while watching the game.   Neighborhood 5   The TD Garden is located adjacent to Boston’s historic North End, the city’s version of “Little Italy.” While visiting, hockey fans flock to Bruin legend Ray Bourque’s restaurant, Tresca. Be sure to grab a couple of cannoli from Mike’s Pastry while here, or head to Regina’s Pizzeria, one of the top places to get a slice of pizza in the country. Many visiting fans enjoy walking down Hanover Street, taking in the sights and smells.     While many legendary restaurants around TD Garden have closed their doors in recent years, there are still plenty of dining and lodging options just steps from the venue. The Harp, Hurricane’s at the Garden, and of course, Halftime King of Pizza are just a few of the many options from which to choose. Fans looking for convenient lodging will find a Courtyard by Marriott, citizenM Downtown, and Onyx Boston all in the immediate vicinity.   Walk a few blocks further south, and you will arrive at Faneuil Hall, a collection of restaurants, shops, and clubs that is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Be sure to check out the Union Oyster House, Boston’s oldest restaurant and home of the city’s best clam chowder. Statues of Celtics legends Red Auerbach and Bill Russell and be found here among all the historic sites.   Fans looking to explore Boston’s rich history can follow the Freedom Trail, which passes a few blocks from the Garden. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long brick-lined route that connects several of Boston’s most significant historic sites.  This walking tour winds throughout the city and is one of the best ways to explore Boston. TD Garden Entrance. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Fans 5   There is an adage in American hockey circles that the most knowledgeable, passionate fans in the United States live in the three “M’s” (Massachusetts, Minnesota,, and Michigan). Greater Boston is one of the most hockey-crazed areas you will find anywhere, with a dedicated fan base that can rival anything found in Canada. Even though the Bruins are going through a rebuilding period, you can expect the Garden to be packed and loud on game night.   The Garden becomes a sea of black and gold for every Bruins home game. Even the most casual Bruins’ fan seems to be louder than your typical fan. The Garden is filled with noise, particularly when the Bruins get on a roll.  It provides the team with a significant home-ice advantage and makes the Garden an intimidating arena for visitors. Visiting fans and families can still feel comfortable visiting Boston, though.   Access 3   Boston can be a difficult city to drive in, especially for a visitor who doesn’t know their way around. The best way to get to TD Garden is to take public transportation, known in Boston as the “T.” The arena is located directly on top of the North Station MBTA commuter rail station, bringing in fans from all parts of suburban Boston. For fans taking the subway, both the green and orange lines stop at North Station, right across the street from TD Garden. The $2.40 one-way fare makes the “T” Stadium Journey’s recommendation for avoiding the hassle of driving.   Although there are many options for parking in the area around the Garden it can be quite expensive to park here. The 5-level garage located directly underneath the Garden charges $65 for event parking. Several surface lots and garages in the immediate area charge $30-$50 on game night. Despite the Garden’s downtown location, there is little on-street parking around.   Over the years, the TD Garden has undergone a great deal of renovation designed to improve flow into and around the venue, as well as the creation of several new social gathering areas throughout the Garden. Some of these areas, such as the Rafters on Level 9, are among the most coveted tickets in the building.   All tickets for Boston Bruins games are now electronic. The arena’s bag policy prohibits all bags larger than 6” x 4” x 1.5”. The facility is cash-free and provides cash-to-card options for those without plastic. Complete details can be found here .   AI-Generated Bear Goal Graphic on the TD Garden Scoreboard. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Return on Investment 2   Going to a game at TD Garden is one of the most expensive in the National Hockey League. Even though the Bruins are going through a rebuilding period, tickets continue to be in high demand. So far this season, the least expensive tickets continue to be priced far north of $100 on the secondary market.   Adding to the high cost of attending a Bruins game is the cost of parking, which starts at $30 and has above-average concession prices. For example, purchasing a slice of pizza and a large soda will cost you close to twenty-five dollars.   Stadium Journey’s recommendation for significantly cutting the cost of attending a Bruins game: take the T and eat at one of the fine restaurants nearby before or after the game.   Extras 4                                                                                                 Statues  – A statue commemorating what is perhaps hockey’s most iconic photograph, Bobby Orr’s 1970 Stanley Cup-winning goal, stands at the entrance to TD Garden. The team also commissioned a giant roaring bear statue for their 100 th  season, which stands in a small park adjacent to the arena. Statues of Celtics legends Red Auerbach and Bill Russell are nearby in Faneuil Hall and City Hall Plaza, respectively.   Banners  – Banners honoring the Bruins Stanley Cup championships and other achievements hang from the Garden’s rafters. Twelve Bruins have had their numbers retired, with Zdeno Chara’s number 33 to join them in January. Also, there are banners commemorating the Beanpot Tournament and the Hockey East Tournament, both held here annually. Plus, there are also all those Celtics championship banners hanging around.   Museums  – Perhaps the greatest hidden sports gem in Boston is the Sports Museum. Located on levels 5 and 6 of the Garden, The Sports Museum features items celebrating the city of Boston’s long and storied sports history. Heritage Hall was opened to celebrate the Bruins’ 100 th anniversary, honoring the team’s history with memorabilia, technology, and interactive activities.   History  – As you may expect from one of the NHL’s Original Six teams, many sporting events of great importance have occurred here. Oversized murals depict iconic moments in the arena’s history on both concourses.   Bruins Centennial Legacy Monument next to TD Garden. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Final Thoughts   TD Garden is never mentioned among the elite venues of the National Hockey League. But a visit to Boston has to be considered on any hockey fan’s short list. The fans, the neighborhood, and the Garden will not disappoint any Stadium Journeyer. ------   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Phillip Beard Stadium 2440 Buford Highway Buford, GA 30518 Buford High School Wolves website Phillip Beard Stadium website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 10,000 Welcome to Gloryland The high school football stadium arms race has long been dominated by schools in Texas, but a new challenger has entered the ring. In the northeast suburbs of Atlanta, Buford High School has raised the stakes with the unveiling of its $62 million Phillip Beard Stadium, one of the most lavish high school football facilities in the nation. Buford is not just another strong program – it is one of the most established high school football dynasties in the state. The Wolves have captured 14 state championships while producing some of the top college football recruits in the country. To grasp the scale of this stadium project, consider that, even when adjusted for inflation, the new stadium cost more than three Georgia college stadiums built in the 2000s: Kennesaw State’s Fifth Third Bank Stadium , Mercer’s Five Star Stadium , and the University of West Georgia’s University Stadium . Before moving into Phillip Beard Stadium, Buford played just around the corner at Tom Riden Stadium on the former high school campus, now home to Buford Middle School. The new venue is named for longtime city commissioner and school board chair Philip Beard, who has overseen the rise of the City of Buford’s deep intertwining of civic pride and athletic ambition. Beard is also a former Buford High School athletics director, and many credit him with the upward trajectory of the City of Buford under his leadership since 1979.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions at Phillip Beard Stadium are what would be expected at most high school venues. The menu centers on the classics: burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and barbecue sandwiches, supported by a range of chips and candy at the main stand. A King of Pops cart adds a nice local touch, offering fans handcrafted popsicles that feel perfectly suited for those warm Georgia evenings. Also, as would be expected at just about any high school in Georgia, drinks come from the Coca-Cola family of beverages. This includes not just soft drinks, but also Powerade and Dasani bottled water are available.   Atmosphere   4 The stadium takes no shortcuts when it comes to grandeur, a consistent theme across all of Buford’s athletic facilities. The exterior grounds are almost entirely covered in field turf rather than natural grass, giving the complex a pristine, manicured look that’s complemented by a row of stately pillars bearing the Buford “B.” Fans are greeted by a massive, two-sided scoreboard spanning 3,600 square feet. The inward-facing screen commands attention on game nights, while the outward-facing side serves mostly as advertising space, a subtle reminder of how commercial high school sports have become. Additional ribbon boards around the stadium display scores, down-and-distance, and still more scrolling ads. Built into the hillside, the brick-finished structure mirrors the collegiate feel of the adjoining fieldhouse at the south end. The north end features a 30-yard mini field designed to mimic the game field, but is reserved solely for the marching band’s pre-halftime warmups. Much of what makes football at the high school level special is the role that the marching bands play. Buford’s marching band, “The Band of Wolves,” is a cornerstone of Buford’s game day atmosphere. Their performances before kickoff and at halftime elevate the game atmosphere, though the use of the “Notre Dame Victory March” instead of an original fight song feels disappointingly generic. Sticking with the theme of Buford’s mascot, scoring plays are celebrated with the howl of wolves being played over the stadium’s speakers. One element notably missing, however, is visible recognition of the Wolves’ historic success. Despite the program’s long tradition of excellence, the stadium lacks displays or tributes that highlight the elite players and championship teams that helped build Buford’s reputation. Seating is divided into a functional, yet basic, visiting section of aluminum bleachers on the east side and a two-level home grandstand opposite. The home side features standard bleachers below and a section of chair-back seats in the upper rows between the 30-yard lines. A walkway separates the general seating from the premium areas, the latter of which includes luxury boxes and a two-level press box, a setup rarely seen at the high school level.   Neighborhood   3 Phillip Beard Stadium sits directly off Buford Highway, across from Buford High School’s campus. Just over a mile away sits Buford’s Main Street with its small-town charm, including local favorites like Main Street Deli, Rico’s World Kitchen, and Meander Brewing Company, all of which are highly regarded. With Buford’s proximity to Lake Lanier, lakefront attractions like Buford Dam Park and Lake Lanier Resort are just a short trip away. For those looking to stretch the weekend, Friday night football can easily turn into a Saturday doubleheader, as Coolray Field , home of the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers, is just 20 minutes away in Lawrenceville. In the same area are the Mall of Georgia and Top Golf, adding to the mix of nearby entertainment options. Though Buford’s city center is on the smaller side, there is no shortage of places to eat or unwind within a short drive of the stadium.   Fans   4 High school football in Georgia is serious business, rivaling Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Ohio for the most passionate fan bases in the country. That passion is reflected at Buford, where the home side and luxury suites are typically packed. The student section also helps bring an extra level of excitement to the stadium,  often including organized theme nights. The only knock is that, even in competitive games, a noticeable portion of fans leave at halftime. It does not erase the excitement they bring early on, but it does take a little of the edge off what begins as one of the more charged atmospheres in Georgia high school football.   Access   3 Buford sits in the northeastern suburbs of Atlanta, where residential developments begin to blend into north Georgia’s lakes region. Interstate 985 feeds into Buford, leaving roughly a 10-minute drive from the highway to the stadium. Two other main arteries, Buford Highway and Peachtree Highway, provide access from Atlanta and southern Gwinnett County to the south. The most convenient parking lot sits on school grounds across Buford Highway from the stadium, with several officers stationed to help fans cross safely before and after the game. High school athletics can occasionally fall into the pitfalls of unruly student and fan behavior, creating the need for stadium designs that limit direct interaction between the two sides during games. When purchasing tickets, fans must choose either the home or visiting stands, as there is no access to the opposite side once inside. Tickets are not sold at the gate; instead, sandwich board signs with QR codes direct fans to purchase them online. Buying tickets in advance is the easiest option, especially since cell service around the stadium can be unreliable. Inside the venue, the main field concourses are wide enough for fans to move comfortably, though the exterior walkways behind the press box and luxury suites can become cramped. Much of that congestion comes from students congregating in those areas, which can temporarily block foot traffic.   Return on Investment   5 New facilities often bring higher prices for tickets, parking, and concessions, but that is not the case at Buford. General admission runs $10, which includes free parking in the school’s lot across the street and on the north side of the stadium. Concession prices are also kept reasonable, making the overall gameday experience a strong value for visitors.   Extras   4 A large wolf statue greets fans as they enter the stadium grounds, serving as a popular photo spot before kickoff. Other thoughtful details continue inside, such as monitors above the concession windows streaming a live feed of the game, ensuring fans do not miss any action while grabbing a snack. At the north end of the stadium stands the Buford victory bell, a piece of local history dating back to the 1800s, when it was used to signal the start and end of the school day at the original school building. Lastly, not only is the main scoreboard a centerpiece worth admiring, but the stadium’s LED lighting package is equally impressive. The ability to turn the entire stadium Buford green gives the atmosphere a big-time feel rarely seen at the high school level.   Final Thoughts There is no denying that Phillip Beard Stadium is a stunningly lavish high school football facility, one that honors the traditions of one of the top programs in the country. The question, however, is whether a facility of this scale and cost, at $62 million and dedicated to a single school, unmatched by nearly any other stadium in not just Georgia, but in the nation, is truly necessary. While some might argue these funds could have been better spent on classroom resources or other student programs, it is worth noting that Phillip Beard Stadium was financed and is owned by the City of Buford, then leased to the school district. Ultimately, Phillip Beard Stadium stands as a testament to Buford football – a program with a rich history of championships, elite talent, and passionate fans. Its necessity may be debatable, but there is no question that it elevates the high school football experience to a level rarely seen anywhere in the country.

Fort Wayne FC introduced a whole new look and identity on Thursday night. Gone are the colors of royal, light blue, and red in favor of black and autumn gold. The new crest is a monogram of Fort Wayne surrounded by a shield. The look harkens back to imagery of football clubs of the early 20th century. ​ This switch in branding comes as the team prepares to relocate to Fort Wayne FC Park and move up to USL League One next season. The 9,200-seat venue will feature 14 pitch-level suites, loge seating, a fan zone park, a fan shop, and a beer garden. It will also feature a 120 x 35-foot LED video board. ​ Further reinforcing the new visual identity, the colors of autumn gold represent “new beginnings, prosperity, success, and nurture,” while black stands for “strength, resilience, and control.” According to Mark Music, the majority owner of Fort Wayne FC, the logo modernizes our identity and pays homage to the city. ​ “We are, and will remain, passionate about our history – including the colors and logos we’ve worn – but our new, sleeker identity more accurately represents the city in which we play and will help pave the path to our exciting future in professional soccer.” ​ New York-based designer Christopher Payne created the new identity, including nods to Fort Wayne’s three rivers - the St. Mary’s, St. Joseph, and Maume and the city’s ties to nature and recreation, with more than 80 parks and over 150 miles of trails. ​ Fort Wayne Football Club was founded in 2019 and has played the past five seasons at the pre-professional level of USL League Two. They will be one of 21 clubs competing in the third-division USL League One in 2026. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his   YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Michigan Stadium 1201 S Main St Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Michigan Wolverines website Michigan Stadium website Year Opened: 1927 Capacity: 107,601 Welcome to The Big House  Ann Arbor is the quintessential college town, and this is most obvious on a sunny Saturday autumn afternoon when the Wolverines are home at Michigan Stadium, more commonly known as The Big House. This nickname is not an exaggeration, as the gridiron is the third-largest stadium in the world behind Narendra Modi Stadium in India (114,600) and Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in North Korea (113,281), which obviously makes it the largest in the United States, even with its capacity having been reduced to 107,601 a decade ago. Michigan Stadium was constructed in 1927 at the insistence of legendary Michigan coach Fielding Yost. It originally seated 72,000, but was quickly updated to hold over 85,000. Renovations over the years gradually boosted capacity until 2010, when it reached its pinnacle of 109,901, before some accessibility modifications in 2015 reduced that to the current number. Even then, attendance regularly exceeds capacity, likely due to students packing in their section; on September 7, 2013, the stadium hosted a record 115,109 in a night game against Notre Dame. Michigan is one of the most storied programs in the history of college football. Coaching legends such as Fielding Yost, Fritz Crisler, Lloyd Carr, and Bo Schembechler have walked the sidelines. Great players such as Tom Harmon, Desmond Howard, Tom Brady, and Charles Woodson have awed the massive crowds. The 38th President of the United States, Gerald Ford, wore number 48 for the maize and blue and was a star at center on teams that won back-to-back national championships in 1932 and 1933. The program has won more games than any other college football program in any division by a margin, making up several seasons' worth of games. As of this writing, they have 34 more wins than rival Ohio State. Meanwhile, “Hail to the Victors” is among the most recognizable fight songs in all of football, and the famous winged helmets are immediately recognizable to even the most casual sports fan. All of this is to say that the Big House and a Michigan football game should sit squarely on even the shortest list of must-see venues for any sports fan. The pageantry, history, and pure joy of a Saturday in Ann Arbor are a must for all avid stadium travelers. Food & Beverage 4 The quality of concessions at a Michigan Wolverines football game is better than what you may be used to at other stadiums, but you won’t be blown away by the variety of options. Given the size of the crowd, you might expect to wait in line for some time, but there are so many concession stands that queuing will not be a major hassle. The most common stand is Wolverine Classics, which offers hot dogs ($7.25) and stadium sausages ($8.25) that are provided by Dearborn Sausage Company, and they are very good. Vegetarians can opt for the Beyond Sausage at $8. Snacks include a soft pretzel for $7 (add $2 for the cheese cup) and popped maize ($6.5) instead of popcorn, a shoutout to the school colors of Maize and Gold. If you want something a little larger, Top Dog has a foot-long coney for $14 and a foot-long currywurst for $16. Big House Burgers has a smashburger for $16, while a Mitten Burger (named for the state's distinctive outline) is an olive burger that comes with cheddar cheese and olive spread for $18.Buddy's Pizza out of Detroit is the pizza provider, with a four-square pepperoni or cheese pizza going for $16.   Coca-Cola products are on offer in various sizes. A souvenir beverage mug is $12.25, a 32-ounce souvenir cup of soda is $9.50, and a 20-ounce bottle of pop is $6.50. Bottled water will cost $5.50, while hot chocolate or coffee is $5. Keep in mind that there are “hydration stations” located around the concourse where you can pick up a free cup of water or seven if you so desire. The Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company is for those who might need a caffeine injection, with a good variety of both hot and cold brews for between $8-11. A souvenir mug here is $12 for 24 ounces of coffee, while there is a Maize and Blue donut from Washtenaw Dairy (Ann Arbor is in Washtenaw County) is $5. Alcohol is now available at the Big House, with sales beginning in 2024. A 16-oz. A can of beer ranges between $12.25 and $13.50, while a canned cocktail goes for $16.25. Another common option is Flock, where a chicken tender basket is $13; add just 75 cents for the Hot Honey variety. This is a mere selection of what's on offer. There are food maps posted along the concourse and several news articles that detail specialty offerings such as a Cherry Bomb Meatball (chicken meatballs with curried apple and cherry gastrique). Overall, although food and beverages are rather expensive, it is of higher quality than fare found in similar stadiums. If you’re staying in Ann Arbor, though, try to save your appetite for the large selection of excellent restaurants found downtown. Atmosphere 5 Perhaps the most important thing about attending a game at the Big House is to take your time. Make a day of it and soak it all in. If you love to tailgate, then this is a great place to do it. You can shoot for the Ann Arbor Pioneer High School parking lot, the University of Michigan golf course, or in numerous driveways, church parking lots, or public parks surrounding the stadium.  This is an important part of the game day experience and really adds to the visit. Be aware that bags of any kind are not allowed inside the stadium, so only bring essentials with you, and what you can comfortably fit into your pockets.  Gates open two hours before kickoff, and I would recommend entering the stadium at least one hour before the start of the game. If you wait too long, you can experience a bottleneck and may miss some of the action while getting to your seat. As well, the Michigan marching band performs about 20 minutes before kickoff, and that is something you won’t want to miss. This goes for halftime as well; try to avoid a trip to the restrooms or concessions during intermission if you can. Despite the massive size of Michigan Stadium in terms of capacity, it actually feels rather intimate due to its single bowl design. There is only minimal space between the stands and the playing field, and a view from the back row hardly feels like a negative to your viewing experience. That said, something has to give when you factor in the number of people in the stands and the relative proximity to the game. The bench seats are small and uncomfortable, with very little room between rows. If you’re in the student section, this is somewhat alleviated by the fact that the young men and women stand throughout the contest, but in other sections, where you mostly sit, it can be quite uncomfortable. In fact, a back row seat may be the best seat in the house if you would like some back support and avoid having someone’s knees pressed against you. Note that the sections are split down the middle, so seat 1 is not necessarily an aisle seat. Use SeatGeek's very detailed map to find out exactly where you will be sitting. SeatGeek is also the official reseller for Michigan sports and generally has more inventory than you will find elsewhere. Sections 44, 1, and 2 have seats painted to show the iconic Michigan M inside a box. The large structures above both sidelines are mostly suites, and you can sometimes find seats there on the secondary market, though at quite a premium. There are two large scoreboards with HD video screens behind all of the seats at each end of the stadium. They measure 4,000 square feet and provide announcements, stats, replays, and scores from around college football for fans throughout the stadium. The pre-game hype video is narrated by the late James Earl Jones, a Michigan alumnus, and it really is quite spectacular. Fun fact: Michigan Stadium was the first sports stadium in the United States to utilize electronic scoreboards, back in 1930. Michigan Stadium Interior, Photo by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 5 Downtown Ann Arbor is within walking distance, and Main Street is the primary thoroughfare. Here you will find a great variety of excellent restaurants, bars, shopping, and breweries.  Zingerman’s Delicatessen is a favorite spot and is featured on ESPN as the local place to go, and would be a perfect early morning stop if you want to get supplies for a gourmet tailgating party. Places like Ashley's and Arbor Brewing Company's Corner Brewery provide excellent full-service options as well. If you like Italian food, then Mani Osteria and Bar comes highly recommended, especially if you want something a little more upscale. Frita Batidos serves up tasty Cuban-inspired food. The Blue Nile serves up Ethiopian food, which is both unique and delicious. If you want to enjoy a cheaper option, the New York Pizza Depot offers some specials throughout the week. Kids will love the Ann Arbor Children’s Museum, while adults might prefer the university's Museum of Art. Both should be inspired by the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology or the Museum of Natural History. All are within walking distance of each other and the sports complex. Hotel accommodations can be found clustered near I-94 just to the south of the stadium, but expect to pay a hefty sum to stay here. If you’re flying in, the Detroit airport is about 20 miles east along I-94, and there are plenty of hotels there for a much better rate. Another alternative is to stay in the northeast corner of the city along Plymouth Road, where there are several hotels and a shuttle bus that will take you to and from the game.  Fans 5 Michigan fans love their team, and it shows on game day. The stands are decked out in maize and blue with only slight flecks of green or red, depending on the visiting teams’ colors. The crowd is appreciative of the program’s rich history and will explode when a former great visits the stadium or a video of a recent standout graces the big screen. This crowd loves to cheer, and the playing of Hail to the Victors, one of the absolute best pep songs in the history of mankind, will bring students, young and old, to a fevered pitch. Fans are also very friendly to visitors, welcoming them to the Big House with a smile and a handshake. This is the way college sports should be: friendly rivalries over a shared enjoyment of the game itself. Access 3 This is the one area that hurts the stadium's ranking, but it can be mitigated with some patience and planning. If you must drive, get there very early and park a few minutes away from the stadium, perhaps in a lot with tailgating, or in nearby neighborhoods.  For night games, you can find free parking downtown, where meters are not enforced after 6 p.m. For day games, you will have to be more creative. After the game, let traffic subside for the first hour, either by finding a tailgate to join or heading downtown for dinner and a drink.  Parking can be quite expensive, with premium spots in the Ann Arbor Pioneer High School parking lot starting at $80. There are cheaper options farther away, with the Brown Lot near the Varsity Tennis Center going for $30. The U of M golf course is $55, while entrepreneurial neighbors charge $40 to park on their lawn. Regardless, expect a long wait afterward as the stadium is quite far from I-94. Local transit provides a football shuttle from five locations and is an option if you want to avoid the hassles of driving and parking. At $1.50 each way, it is a bargain, but it too will be stuck in traffic after the game.  The seating bowl is quite compact, and it can be tough to get to your seat, but the concourses are more than enough for the crowd, particularly as the outer plaza provides plenty of room to walk around. Lines for restrooms and concessions can certainly form at halftime or immediately following the game. Given the length of TV timeouts, you might be able to sneak out just before a commercial break and get back without missing too much of the action. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices vary based on the opponent, and it can be tough to find seats at the box office, so make use of the secondary market. SeatGeek is the official supplier and hence has more options (as well as several discount codes), but check the other sites too. For the game I attended, tickets dropped from $100 two weeks prior to $30 on the morning of the game. Note that the students sit in sections 26-33. Overall, if you go all out and tailgate in one of the nearby lots, purchase good seats, and eat at the stadium, you can spend $200-$300 per person, but there are certainly ways to save money and cut that price drastically, especially if you’re willing to walk a bit from your chosen parking location or use the shuttle bus. This is one of those stadiums that will be found on many bucket lists, and well it should be. Make the trip and you’ll feel like it is money well spent. Extras 5 There are historic touches around the stadium honoring past stars outside Sections 1-5 and championship teams near Sections 20-26. Get there early to see them all. The Circle of Champions,  also known as the Varsity Colonnade, is a circular structure with eight Doric columns inscribed with Michigan's conference and national titles. Located just inside the southeast gate, the first words of 'Hail to the Victors, ' the school fight song, are etched into the crown that sits atop the columns. There are so many other things to award points for here that it’s almost pointless to count. Whether it’s tailgating on the UM Golf Course, rising in chorus to “Hail to the Victors,” the Michigan Marching Band, or watching the team emerge from the tunnel and jump to touch the “Go Blue” banner, there’s something spectacular around every corner. Final Thoughts There is no doubt that Michigan Stadium belongs in any list of the best stadium experiences in college football, the United States, North America, or worldwide. Come to Ann Arbor and see what the Big House is all about.