Images Courtesy of the Ultimate Frisbee Association The Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) is entering its most ambitious season yet. Combining high-flying athleticism with a fast-paced professional structure, the league has officially set its 2026 season opener for April 24, 2026. It is a high-intensity, organized, managed sport.  Whether you are a longtime "disc-head" or a newcomer catching a glimpse of a 70-yard hammer throw during an NFL halftime, here is everything you need to know about the state of the UFA. The league began in 2012 with just eight teams and a dream to professionalize a sport long associated with college campuses and beach weekends. Over the last 14 years, it has transformed into a polished media property, transitioning from the American Ultimate Disc League (AUDL) to the UFA to better align with its global brand. The Layout: 22 Teams, 4 Divisions The UFA currently operates with 22 teams across North America, organized into four geographic divisions. The Detroit Mechanix and the Los Angeles Aviators both ceased operations. This structure fuels intense regional rivalries and keeps travel sustainable for a growing league. Central Division:   Indianapolis Alley Cats , Madison Radicals,  Minnesota Wind Chill, Pittsburgh Thunderbirds, and Chicago Union. East Division:  Boston Glory, DC Breeze, Toronto Rush, Philadelphia Phoenix, New York Empire, and Montreal Royal. West Division: Oregon Steel, Seattle Cascades, Colorado Apex, Oakland Spiders, and Salt Lake Shred. South Division:  Vegas Bighorns, Houston Havoc, San Diego Growlers, Carolina Flyers, Austin Sol, and Atlanta Hustle . The NFL Connection: Ultimate on the Big Stage One of the UFA’s most successful marketing masterstrokes has been its partnership with the NFL. To showcase the sport's speed, many UFA teams perform halftime exhibitions during NFL games. Playing in front of 70,000 fans, these "Showcase Games" typically feature a 6-to-10-minute condensed scrimmage. They emphasize "big plays"—long-distance scores (hucks) and layout blocks—to prove to football fans that Ultimate players are some of the most elite "dual-threat" athletes in the world, often covering more ground per game than wide receivers. How the Game is Played While the casual park game uses "Spirit of the Game" (self-officiating), the UFA uses certified referees to ensure a fast, broadcast-friendly pace. The Field:  Played on a football-sized field (120 x 53.3 yards). The Clock:  Four 12-minute quarters. The Disc:  The official disc is the Aria Ultimate disc, designed for stability in stadium wind. No Contact:  While physical, it is a non-contact sport; however, the speed of the 175-gram disc means players must use incredible leaping ability and "bidding" (diving) to make plays. How to Watch the 2026 Season When the pulls (kickoffs) start on April 24, fans can catch the action via: WatchUFA.tv :  The league's primary streaming service for every regular-season game. YouTube :  The "Game of the Week" is often featured on their official channel. Local Stadiums:  From high school complexes to minor league soccer stadiums, the UFA prides itself on an accessible, family-friendly live atmosphere. The 2026 season promises to be the most competitive in the league's history.

Photos courtesy of Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium King George St Annapolis, MD 21402 Navy Midshipmen website Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 1,500 Anchors Aweigh All students at the Naval Academy receive a full college scholarship that is paid back with service in the Navy or Marines. These scholar-athletes are true amateur athletes and deserve the utmost respect. At Navy, the baseball players also get the opportunity to play at a very fine facility that is on par with many levels of professional baseball. Professional baseball did play here briefly in 1994. The Bowie Baysox played the 1993 season at Memorial Stadium in Baltimore while their home, Prince George’s Stadium, was being built. But weather delays caused the need to play a few home games in alternate locations at the start of the 1994 season. Max Bishop Stadium, as well as Shipley Field at the University of Maryland, served this temporary need as well. The stadium has been around since 1962, although Navy baseball has been played on the same spot with other fields for years before then, and is named after longtime coach Max Bishop. Bishop served as coach from 1937 to 1961 and earned over 300 wins coaching the Midshipmen. Bishop was also a former Major League player, nicknamed “Eagle Eye,” who, while with the Philadelphia Athletics, helped his team to three World Series, winning two of them in 1929 and 1930. After renovations in 2005, the brand new state-of-the-art field was named after brothers Ron, Bruce, and George Terwilliger, all of whom were players for Navy in the mid-1960s. Two of the brothers contributed to a significant upgrading of the facility during the renovation process. Navy competes in the Patriot League. Food & Beverage 2 There is a simple concession stand located directly behind home plate. It is actually in the stands, so you can keep a good view of the game action while buying food. Nothing exciting, but it is convenient and cheap. Atmosphere 4 Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium is a fantastic college baseball stadium. It was one of the first to add FieldTurf around the entire field (except for the pitcher’s mound and home plate area) when it was renovated in 2005. That renovation gutted the seating area of the stadium, as well. The old metal and wooden bleachers were replaced by chairs with seat backs and concrete concourses. Seating is now comfortable with excellent views. There is even a picnic table seating section on each side of the field, above the normal seats. The best views of the actions are not from the seats. Above the third base dugout is a standing room only area offering excellent views, although you may want to watch for foul balls that quickly enter this area. A similar standing room only area is located a bit further down the third baseline, atop a storage room. There are excellent views of the Naval Academy buildings, as well as College Creek, that make the park very scenic. Neighborhood 4 Annapolis is a fantastic and beautiful city. There are many options for food, and the activities in the area are varied. It is an area without limitations. What is limited is anything to do in the direct neighborhood of Bishop Stadium. It is located at the far end of the Naval Academy campus near where King George Street ends at Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard / Route 450. It is located outside of the security gates of the academy, so access will not be an issue. But being isolated from the main part of campus also means it is isolated from the central part of Annapolis. If one wants to visit downtown after a game, it could be a good idea to find a street parking space on King George Street near the St. John’s College campus, so that you are located halfway between the two places. There are many other historic sites to see around Annapolis. One of the first sites that should be seen is the Maryland State House. Located at State Circle, it is the oldest capital in continuous legislative use since 1772. From November 26, 1783, to August 13, 1784, this building also served as the capital of the United States. Be sure to check out the replica of the ship Federalist located in the rotunda. Food options are abundant in Annapolis. Be sure to try Buddy’s Crabs & Ribs for crabs, or at least a crab cake. It will be messy, but very rewarding. And you must try it with a beer, preferably a Natty Boh. If afraid of the crustacean, you can always fight for a table at Chick & Ruth’s Delly, where the local politicians have eaten for years. This quirky restaurant even recites the Pledge of Allegiance every morning at 8:30 (9:30 am on weekends). It is standard diner-type fare, but the creamed beef is a fine choice. Crabs and crab-type items are also found here. If you need something a bit more upscale, check out the Red Red Wine Bar at 189B Main Street. They have numerous wine choices, even wine flights. Try something accompanied by the Brie Toast. Fans 3 As with most northeast college baseball stadiums, the bulk of the fans tend to be family or friends of both teams. There did seem to be some local fans who just happened to stop by for the game. The fans are knowledgeable, but not necessarily loud. Access 3 The stadium’s location at the entrance to Annapolis, right over the US Naval Academy Bridge on Route 450, means that Bishop Stadium is easy to access. You do not have to enter far into the traffic madness that is Annapolis. It is not clearly marked, but there are many parking spaces available for weekend games. Wainwright Road is a small access road that wraps around Halligan Hall near the stadium. There are numerous spaces around this road, but they may not be available for weekday games, as Halligan Hall is an active facility for academy public works and other offices. Return on Investment 5 The games at Bishop Stadium are free to attend, and parking is free, as well. The seats are close to the action, and the view from the field is nice, so a fan is well-rewarded for attending a game here. Extras 3 Attending a game at the Naval Academy, even in a smaller college sport like baseball, makes one feel good because you are supporting the troops in some small way. The facility usually offers free posters and other items for kids and adults alike. They tend to be located at one of the official entrances to the grandstand, not from the open ends of the stands, so do not miss these. Game day contests may also be located here. Final Thoughts Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium is a field that is as good as many a minor league baseball stadium. And it is far better than many of the college baseball facilities seen in the northeast. If in the area, you should check the baseball schedules and try to see a game.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Delta Dental Arena 311 W. River Rd. Hooksett, NH 03106 New Hampshire Mountain Kings website Delta Dental Arena website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 1,500 Kings of the White Mountains   The New Hampshire Mountain Kings are members of the Tier II North American Hockey League, a premier developmental league for players looking to continue their careers and advance to higher levels of hockey, including collegiate and professional levels. The Mountain Kings were established in 2023 when their ownership group purchased the local arena and were granted an expansion team.   The Mountain Kings play their home games at Delta Dental Arena in Hookset, NH, a suburb of Manchester. Opened in 1998 as Tri-Town Ice Arena, the facility was the first twin-sheet facility in the state. Northeast Delta Dental entered into a multi-year naming rights deal with the facility in 2025.   In their first three seasons, the Mountain Kings have qualified for the playoffs once, losing in the play-in round in 2024-25.   Food & Beverage 5   We often say on these pages that community rinks have sneaky-good concession options. Delta Dental Arena certainly fits the bill. The arena’s snack bar, named “Rivalries” has different menus for whether you are there for a Mountain Kings game or another event.   For NAHL games, even though the menu is downsized, there are plenty of choices here. Pizzas, burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, fried chicken sandwiches, chicken Caesar wraps and chicken nuggets are all available. An assortment of sides, including fries, onion rings, pretzels, nachos, mozzarella sticks and popcorn fill out the menu. A small cooler offers some healthier choices, including fruit cups and more.   Pepsi products are featured at Delta Dental Arena. There is a full-service bar on the other side of the café area. A good selection of national and craft beers are available, highlighted by $3 Bud Lights at every Mountain King game. Fans looking for a craft beer will find Fiddlehead IPA, New Hampshire Lager by Deciduous Brewery, Cone Head IPA from Zero Gravity and Cloud Candy IPA from Mighty Squirrel Brewing. Center Ice Faceoff at Delta Dental Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Atmosphere 2   While we just finished singing the praises of the concessions of community rinks, the same often can’t be said of the game day presentation at these rinks. The resources are just not there for an elaborate show. At a rink like Delta Dental Arena, the game is the focus.   The sound system here is excellent, and is put to good use with music during play stoppages and a PA announcer who adds some energy to the proceedings. The inclusion of Brass Bonanza after Mountain King goals is a head scratcher, but always welcome. There are a few on-ice promotions during intermissions, but for the most part, the energy in the building is brought by the fans in attendance. Luckily for the Mountain Kings, the fans here are very enthusiastic. The amount of Mountain King jerseys you see in the stands here is most impressive.   Neighborhood 2   Delta Dental Arena is located in a mixed use residential/business neighborhood. Visiting fans will not find a whole lot of dining or lodging options in the immediate vicinity of the arena, but there are choices around for fans who are willing to take a drive.   The Pizza Man of Hooksett is located close to the arena, and seemed to be very busy during Stadium Journey’s visit. There are a few fast-food options close to the I-93 interchange, and Mr. Mac’s Macaroni and Cheese serves up a variety of gourmet mac and cheese dishes just a short drive from the arena. Of course, downtown Manchester is only a 15-minute drive away. Fans will find plenty of dining and lodging options there.   Fans visiting during the winter months will find plenty of winter tourist options in the White Mountains, located just to the north of Hookset up I-93. Several excellent ski resorts can be found in northern New Hampshire. For more information on attractions in the area, visit www.visitwhitemountains.com . Mountain King Jersey Display at Delta Dental Arena. Photo by Paul Baker.   Fans 2   Crowds at Mountain King games are what we here at Stadium Journey like to call “friends and family” type of crowds. The great majority of the people in the stands have a personal connection with the players on the ice, either as billet families, family members, friends or classmates. As you might imagine, they are very involved in the action, and very supportive of the home team. Since the bulk of the Mountain Kings’ schedule consists of games against other northeastern teams, you’ll be sure to see plenty of visiting fans in the stands. This is a place you can feel comfortable sporting the opposing team’s colors.   The Mountain Kings generally draw between 150-300 fans per game, a figure which has remained consistent over their first three seasons. Stadium Journey visited Delta Dental Arena on the team’s final weekend of the 2025-26 season, with an announced crowd of about 200 fans in attendance. This figure appears to be accurate.   Access 4   Delta Dental Arena is located in the town of Hookset, New Hampshire, a town of just under 15,000 residents located between Manchester and Concord. The arena is easily accessible, as it is located about two and a half miles off of Interstate 93, which runs north-south the length of the state from Boston to the Vermont border at St. Johnsbury. Exit 10 will put you on West River Road a short distance from the rink.   There is ample parking at Delta Dental Arena. Fans will enter into a small lobby, where a ticket table will be located. Upon entering the facility, fans will find the Ryan Frew Memorial Rink directly ahead of you. This is where the Mountain Kings play. The snack bar is located at the far end of the arena, as are the restrooms.   Seating consists of molded bleachers that run along one side of the rink and at one end of the ice. Some standing room is available at ice level at the other end of the rink, as well as some areas at the top of the seating area. Fans can also take in the action from the hallway/snack bar area, where several benches are set up. Many fans will choose to watch the game from the warmth of these areas. Delta Dental Arena Exterior. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Return on Investment 5   Admission to Mountain King games is sold as general admission for just five dollars. Parking is free in the arena’s lot. Concessions are reasonably priced as well, making a night at Delta Dental Arena an affordable entertainment option for southern New Hampshire sports fans.   Extras 2   The Mountain Kings have a nice display of all the specialty jerseys the team has worn in their brief history.   Delta Dental Arena has an actual functioning dentist’s office in the facility. Makes sense on a couple of levels, and worth a mention here.   Final Thoughts   What can you say about a hockey rink with an actual working dentist office on site? Ironic? Maybe. Awesome? Definitely! Delta Dental Arena is a solid, affordable place to catch some junior hockey action.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI. Faceoff at Delta Dental Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3. 29 Bowling Green Ballpark 300 E 8th Ave Bowling Green, KY 42101 Bowling Green Hot Rods website Bowling Green Ballpark website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 5,700 Things are Getting Better in Bowling Green The Hot Rods fans are supportive of the team, but are not among the leaders in the South Atlantic League. The concourse is busy and bustling with fans, but the seats are not filled for the opening night of the season. It appears that many at the ballpark are out for an enjoyable night out, which is what the minor leagues are all about. Bowling Green Ballpark has been home to the Bowling Green Hot Rods of the Midwest League since the 2009 season. The 4,559-seat stadium was designed by architectural firm DLR Group and features a concave right-center field wall due to the road behind the stadium and an embedded 6 by 68-foot LED display board in the left field wall. The price tag on the stadium was $28 million when it was completed in 2009. Bowling Green’s population is near 67,000 and is probably best known for being the home to Western Kentucky University and the manufacturing home of the Chevrolet Corvette, with the Corvette Museum located in town. The city is somewhat new to minor league baseball, and there is not a rich history that you might find in other cities, although the town was home to the Bowling Green Barons from 1939 to 1942. The Hot Rods ended the 67-year drought with the completion of ballpark construction in 2009, and looking at its front entrance, there is a nod to baseball past with retro paintings of step-by-step instructions on how to swing a bat in pink and black colors. The ball club is the High-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. Food & Beverage 4 The ballpark’s food and drink selection has improved over the years and now satisfies a wide range of tastes. Classic ballpark fare includes hot dogs, nachos, ice cream, and barbecue, alongside an extensive beverage lineup. State Fair Stand: jumbo hot dogs, chili cheese fries, chili dogs, chicken tenders, cheese curds, pretzel bites, curly fries, and Bavarian pretzels. Checker Flag: brats, burgers, and chicken fingers. Axle’s Eats: pizza, cheesesteaks, and cheesesteak nachos. Thurs–Sat special: build-your-own walking tacos and foot‑long hot dogs with assorted toppings. A decorated bar space with outdoor patio seating on the third base features draft beer, plus cocktails and hard seltzers. The domestic beers include Miller Lite, Coors Light, Busch Light, and Yuengling. The local options include West Sixth Brewing and White Claw seltzers. The Jim Beam Bullpen Bar close to the backstop on the first base line and the stand offers very reasonable cocktails along with draft beer options between the prices of $7 and $8. Lime Margaritas Strawberry Margaritas Bourbon Punch Beam and Coke White Squirel Kolsch Sierra Nevada Pale Ale Atmosphere 3 Before the 2019 season, Bowling Green Ballpark underwent $2 million in renovations that enhanced the experience for visitors of all ages. The upgrades include a full wraparound concourse, letting fans watch the game from multiple vantage points and use the facility during the day for walking or jogging. The most recognizable feature is the close to $800,000 high-definition video board that stands at 35 feet tall by 56 feet wide, almost triple the size of the old video board, and with a video quality that will put it on par with other ballparks in baseball. The 1,500 square foot Splash Zone also includes two new adjacent restrooms and two changing rooms behind the batter’s eye in center field. The 10-foot-tall baseball bat water fountain allows fans to cool off during the hot summer months and provides a new way to beat the heat at the baseball game. The ballpark features an impressive kids' area down the right field line that includes a covered playground, carousel, and radar pitch machine. The official team store is called The Body Shop and has a vast collection of team merchandise plus game-worn jerseys. Axle and Rascoe are the club’s official mascots and can be seen throwing out shirts, waving flags on the dugouts, signing autographs, and posing for photos throughout the concourse. The facility also features an outdoor patio set down the left field line, tier-lawn seating, and table tops on the concourse to enjoy food and drink while watching the game. The press box itself is not directly behind home plate but pushed down the third base side; this gives fans in the Reinhart Club seating a panoramic view of the diamond. Neighborhood 4 Bowling Green is a small college town, but it’s much more than that. Fountain Square Park is in the heart of downtown and offers various places to eat and drink after the game. The downtown area is less than a mile away and a nice spot to visit on the weekends. One place, 440 Main , offers Southern cuisine, including crab cakes, jambalaya, and bourbon pork chops. The Cliffs of Moher Irish Pub  is a casual spot for pints and grub, and The 30 Bird on the Square serves paleo, vegan, and vegetarian options. The Copper Bar and The Dusty Boot are options for drinks, while Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Shop will satisfy your sweet tooth. If your travels take you to Bowling Green during April and early May, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers play baseball less than 2 miles away at Rick Denes Field . There are times when the Hilltoppers play at 4 pm, and the Hot Rods play at 6:35. It is an ideal way to enjoy a doubleheader while in town. About 30 minutes north on I-65 is Mammoth Cave National Park, featuring numerous underground tours that will fascinate and keep you cool during the hot summer months. There is an adventure to be had when you take a two-hour cave tour and squeeze through narrow passages and tunnels. It is one of the great national parks of the United States. Fans 2 The Hot Rods fans are supportive of the team, but are not among the leaders in the South Atlantic League. The concourse is busy and bustling with fans, but the seats are not filled for the opening night of the season. It appears that many at the ballpark are out for an enjoyable night out, which is what the minor leagues are all about. Access 4 Bowling Green Ballpark is within a few miles of I-65, and there is free parking in the various lots on streets near the facility. Once inside, the small and cozy conditions make for a rather accessible stadium. There is even signage directing motorists to the ballpark, something that is not always common in smaller cities. The average fan should have no problems being able to watch the game away from their seat while waiting in line for food. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a reserved seat in advance or on game day is $12, an increase of $4 since our last visit a few years back. Premium seats are $14 in advance. Performance Club seating is $24 in advance and provides fans access to the recently renovated Reinhart Club up above the concourse behind home plate. A full-service bar, wait-staff, and custom menu items give the fan an upgraded ballpark experience for a few dollars more. The Hiller Corner is designed for group outings, reducing overall capacity to enhance the spectator experience. Parking is free in the main lot across the street and on the street. The price of a draft beer is $7 (including both domestic and locally crafted varieties), and from Tuesday to Wednesday evening, certain food and drink prices fall by anywhere from one to two dollars each. They include the following: Turbo’s Tailwaggin’ Tuesdays offers free admission for all dogs. Weiner and White Claw Wednesday: $4 White Claws and $3 hot dogs Bootleggers Thirsty Thursdays $1.50 Beers and $2.50 Drink Specials Fireworks Fridays after the game Extras 3 The ballpark earns a point for free parking, a splash pad for children behind the batter's eye in centerfield, and free admission for dogs on Tuesday nights. Final Thoughts Bowling Green Ballpark is a serviceable ballpark that offers all the amenities for fans. The wrap-around concourse offers fantastic food options, activities for children, drinks for adults, and gorgeous views from multiple vantage points. It is a great spot to check out a game when you are on your way between the Triple-A ballparks in Louisville and Nashville.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Nick Denes Field Avenue of Champions Bowling Green, KY 42101 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers website Nick Denes Field website Year Opened: 1969 Capacity: 1,500 Western Kentucky is the "Tops" in Baseball Nick Denes Field is the home of the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers baseball team. The ballpark sits 1,500 people and is tucked into a corner next to the Houchens Industries-LT Smith Stadium and the Tim and Sarah Ford Fieldhouse. The stadium has undergone many changes over the past few years to not only improve the atmosphere for fans, but also for its athletes. The ballpark features a grandstand with all chair-back seating and a three-level press box. There is additional seating down each foul line, offering additional points of sale for drinks, food, and merchandise. A video scoreboard is situated in right field, concession stands are underneath the grandstand, and a peanut-free zone is down the left field line. The stadium opened in 1969 and is named after former Hilltoppers football and baseball head coach Nicholas Denes. He coached the baseball team from 1958 to 1962 and the football team from 1957 to 1967.  The stadium features synthetic turf with deep red baselines. There is also a 25-foot wall in centerfield. WKU began playing baseball in 1910 and has made five NCAA tournament appearances, most recently in 2025. There have also been 59 players selected in the MLB Draft since its inception in 1965. Food & Beverage 3 The main concession stand is at the main entrance of the ballpark and features the usual ballpark items. They include cheeseburgers, nachos, hot dogs, popcorn, and peanuts. There is also beer, seltzers, and Coca-Cola products. There is a grill and a tent on the right foul line area that cooks up burgers and hot dogs, while a small kiosk on the opposite side offers beer specials and chips. Atmosphere 4 A Hilltoppers game may seem ordinary at first, but it’s actually lively and engaging. The crowd is energetic, not just family and friends, and there are plenty of between-inning promotions for younger fans. Attendees can choose from various food and drink options, enjoy music between innings, and follow player stats and updates on the videoboard. The left field concourse features an area along the left field line with synthetic turf. The area is peanut and seed-free, and fans can bring in lawn chairs to watch the game. Fans are provided with a protective netting on this side, along with the opposite side.  The grandstand is easily accessible and features comfortable chair-back seats. There are also great views from the picnic table area down the right field line. The quirky little ballpark also offers nice backdrops of campus buildings and a water tower.  What is not seen by fans is the inside of the Tim and Sarah Ford Fieldhouse. It offers indoor batter cages and a gym, saunas, ice baths, and mud rooms. There are also coaches' and trainers' rooms and an area of seating for season-ticket holders. The main focal point is the indoor football field that can be used by the baseball team for indoor practice and a baseball locker room that is modern, comfortable, and state-of-the-art. Neighborhood 4 Western Kentucky is a small college town, but it’s much more than that. Fountain Square Park is in the heart of downtown and offers various places to eat and drink after the game. The downtown area is less than a mile from campus and is a nice spot to visit on the weekends. 440 Main  offers Southern cuisine, including crab cakes, jambalaya, and bourbon pork chops.  The Cliffs of Moher Irish Pub is a casual spot for pints and grub, and The 30 Bird on the Square  serves paleo, vegan, and vegetarian options. The Copper Bar and The Dusty Boot are options for drinks, while Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Shop  will satisfy your sweet tooth. About 30 minutes north of Bowling Green, I-65 passes Mammoth Cave National Park, featuring numerous underground tours that will fascinate and keep you cool during the hot summer months. There is an adventure to be had when you take a two-hour cave tour and squeeze through narrow passages and tunnels. It is one of the great national parks of the United States. Fans 4 A vast array of fans supports the Toppers baseball program. The grandstand was filled, along with the additional seating down each foul line. The crowd erupted for runs, scores, strikeouts, and putouts on the bases. For a 4 PM start on a Friday afternoon on a holiday weekend, the turnout was impressive. Access 4 The stadium has two entrances and a large concourse down the left field line that allows for easy access for fans. The concourse on the right field side is much narrower and borders the busy main street-don’t try to chase foul balls in this area.  The stadium is on campus and offers a parking lot across the street. There are two levels of options for fans, along with additional street parking outside of the football stadium and left field fence; however, availability might differ depending on days of the week and other events taking place on campus. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for children, an incredible value for Division-I baseball. The beer and food prices are not as low, but reasonable, and online with other venues of its kind around the conference. An all-beef hot dog is very reasonable for $4, while nachos are $6, and beer and seltzers are $7. Fans can enjoy two cans of Bush Light for $10 during the game. A merchandise table offers caps, t-shirts, and sweaters with the school’s logos in various colors. Caps sell for $40. Except for the caps, the prices are lower than those at the Bowling Green Ballpark , home of the Bowling Green Hot Rods, a few miles down the road.  Extras 3 The ballpark earns a point for the new fieldhouse that offers season ticket holders seats on the balcony overlooking the left side of the ballpark. A second point is awarded to the peanut and seed-free zone on the same side of the venue. The final point is for the $5 adult ticket prices. Final Thoughts Nick Denes Field is a comfortable and relaxing spot for a college baseball game. The prices are low, the fans are enthusiastic, and the vibe is right for a nice day to spend an afternoon in the springtime. ——— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his   YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Lloyd Brown and Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Little Caesars Arena 2645 Woodward Ave Detroit, MI 48201 Detroit Red Wings website Little Caesars Arena website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 19,515 Pizza, Pistons, and Pucks The Detroit Red Wings are one of the earliest teams in the NHL, founded in 1926. Originally known as the Detroit Cougars, they changed their name to the Red Wings in time for the 1932 season. The team has won 11 Stanley Cups over the years, with hockey icons such as Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay, and Alex Delvecchio leading the way. Over those years, the team has called three venues their home ice. Their original home was the Olympia (1927-1979), followed by the Joe Louis Arena (1979-2016) and their present home at the Little Caesars Arena. Little Caesars Arena is also the home of the Detroit Pistons of the NBA. The arena is also a very popular venue for concerts. Food & Beverage 3 Little Caesars Arena offers both sit-down service and the traditional concession stand service to fans. Sit-down options are featured in the District Detroit area of the arena. They include Mike’s Pizza Bar, which offers artisanal pizza ($18) and sandwiches ($16), along with craft beers ($14) or wine ($10). The UWM District Market is divided into multiple sections, including The Coffee House, The Garden, La Cocina, and the Patio Grill. The more traditional concession stands include Little Caesars Pizza (pizza), the 313 Grill Company (fries, burgers, sausages, chips, and sodas), Classics (nachos, pretzels, popcorn, and chips), the Coop (chicken tenders, chicken rollups, fries), and Taqueria (nacho grande, street tacos). The arena features Coca-Cola brand sodas. There are several drinking establishments at Little Caesars Arena. Before the game, you might want to check out the Budweiser Biergarten. This is located on a patio just outside the arena. It is glass-enclosed, so you can still visit during the colder winter months. Two other options are Mike’s Pizza Bar or Bell’s Tap House in the District Detroit section of the arena, which both offer a wide selection of craft beers. The drinking age in Michigan is 21. Atmosphere 4 Even though the Little Caesars Arena is shared with the Detroit Pistons, it is readily apparent that the Red Wings are the primary occupant of the building. Once inside the building, fans will see a wide variety of salutes to the history of the Red Wings, through displays, memorabilia, and statuary. Along the main concourse of the arena, you will find statues of Red Wings superstars Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay, and Alex Delvechio. One of the brick walls lining the concourse features a vintage graphic of the Hockeytown logo with the year the team was founded. The letters from the original home of the Red Wings, Olympia Stadium, can also be found along an interior wall of the facility. Other memorabilia include the team bench from the Joe Louis Arena and a mural featuring Gordie Howe. The team store is also located on the main concourse. As you make your way to your seat, you can’t help but notice the eleven Stanley Cup banners hanging from the rafters of the arena. They are accompanied by eight banners recognizing the retired numbers of Red Wing superstars. The show does not stop there. The pregame program also features action footage with hype music projected onto the ice to get the crowd fired up. Neighborhood 4 Little Caesars Arena is in the Midtown area of the Motor City. This is just across I-75 from downtown Detroit and the other major league sports venues, Ford Field and Comerica Park. The neighborhood around Little Caesars is primarily residential, but the presence of the arena is beginning to spur more businesses to relocate to the area. Little Caesars opens a portion of its building to serve the community during non-event days and hours in a section known as District Detroit. The district features several restaurants, including Mike’s Pizza Bar, the Mixing Board, and the UVM District Market. Downtown Detroit is within easy walking distance of the arena, or fans can take the free Q -Line light rail train to visit the sights in the downtown area, including the ballpark, the football stadium, and the elegant Fox Theatre. One of the most popular sites for pre- or postgame gatherings is the Hockeytown Café. It is located just across I-75 from the arena. The Hockeytown Café was founded by former Red Wings owner Mike Illich in 1999. It is considered one of the top sports bars in the country by ESPN. Fans 4 The Red Wings have developed a deep bond with their fanbase over the past 100 years. Many families have passed their season tickets from generation to generation, as well as shared their stories of multiple Stanley Cup Championships. They tend to wear the red hockey jerseys to show their loyalty to the team and follow the team very closely in the media. Like many of the other Detroit franchises, it has been a while since they have been to a championship game. Rather than complain, the Red Wing fans have developed some unique traditions to will the team back to the playoffs. One tradition is the singing of the Journey anthem “Don’t Stop Believin” after each home victory. When the team does make it to the playoffs, the fans are known to throw an octopus out on the ice. Theoretically, octopi have seven sets of tentacles, the same number of games in a Stanley Cup series. Supposedly, this brings good luck to the team, as it has won several Stanley Cups since the tradition began. Fans will be able to keep up with the action by getting their information from the huge 6,020 square foot center-hung videoboard. It constantly updates the game stats, as well as providing replays of key plays on one of its four video screens. The videoboard also gets the fans charged up during breaks in the action and during power play opportunities. Access 4 Getting to and around Little Caesars Arena is very easy. If you are driving to the arena, you would take the Fisher Service Drive exit off I-75 at the Fisher Service Drive exit. Stay on Fisher Service Drive to Woodward Avenue and turn left towards one of the six parking decks that surround the arena. The rideshare pick-up and delivery area is also located on Fisher Service Drive. If you are staying in downtown Detroit, the most economical way to get to the game is via the Q-Line light rail system. The Q-Line is free to ride and drops you off right in front of the arena. After the game, you would then return home via the stations at Adelaide or Sproat Street. Once at the arena, you can enter through one of the four entrances located on the four corners of the building. Doors open 90 minutes before the puck drop. You will find that the concourses are wide and easy to navigate. There are two levels of seating at Little Caesars Arena. You can take one of the ten elevators or four sets of escalators to your seats. The arena uses a portal system to easily guide you to your seats. The portal number is on your ticket, and you simply follow the signage to your seat location. Portals 1-20 service the lower seating areas, while Portals 21-72 are dedicated to the upper-level seats. Return on Investment 4 Attending a game at Little Caesars Arena is more affordable than at many other NHL arenas. Fans have several options when it comes to saving money when they attend a Red Wings game The average ticket price for a seat in the upper level of the arena averages $55-80, depending on the opposition. Parking can range from $20-30 in one of the arena parking garages, but other private lots in the area charge much less. You can also use the Q-Line light rail system to get to games for free if you are staying in the Downtown or Midtown areas of the city. Food concession prices vary greatly depending on what level of service you desire. The average prices at one of the traditional concession stands are hot dogs ($7), water ($5), pizza slices ($8-10), and a soda ($7). Prices at one of the District Detroit full-service restaurants tend to be much higher. Little Caesars Arena operates on a cashless basis. Extras 2 During the 2025-2026 season, the Red Wings will celebrate their Centennial Season. Numerous special events, unique uniforms, and merchandise items will be incorporated into the celebration. Little Caesars Arena has one of the most unique seating areas in the NHL in its Gondola seats. These seats are suspended from the ceiling and hang out over the ice for a one-of-a-kind view of the action below. Final Thoughts The Red Wings have a long and deep relationship with the Motor City. The Little Caesars Arena is a more than worthy successor to the team’s previous homes over the past century…. the Olympia and the Joe Louis Arena

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Lindsey Nelson Stadium 1511 Pat Head Summitt St Knoxville, TN 37996 Tennessee Volunteers website Lindsey Nelson Stadium website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 4,283 Welcome to Rocky Top Tennessee baseball has a rich history dating back over a century, with the Volunteers consistently competing at a high level in the Southeastern Conference. The program has produced numerous All-Americans, MLB draft picks, and standout seasons, culminating in the 2024 College World Series championship. That title solidified Tennessee’s place among the nation’s elite programs while building on a tradition of competitive excellence and passionate fan support. Lindsey Nelson Stadium, opened in 1993 and named for the legendary Tennessee broadcaster, has been the home of the Volunteers throughout this modern era. Perched along the bluffs above the Tennessee River, the stadium combines intimate sightlines with a uniquely scenic backdrop. Recent renovations, including a $105 million upgrade leading into the 2026 season, added revamped concourses, premium seating, and improved amenities, while maintaining the stadium’s classic charm.   Food & Beverage   4 Food options give fans a wide variety of choices, including nachos with cheese sauce, hot dogs, the UT Smokey Dog, curly fries, and chicken tenders in both regular and Knoxville Hot flavors. The most impressive offerings can be found at Volunteer State Concessions, featuring smoked gouda mac and cheese, a cherry wood smoked brisket sandwich, and brisket-loaded mac and cheese. Individual carts along the field-level concourse include Moe’s nachos and Petro’s Chili and Chips, served in their cup version of a walking taco. Soft drinks come from the Coca-Cola family of beverages. Beer options include typical domestic choices along with SweetWater Hazy IPA, NÜTRL, Twisted Tea, Truly, Mango Cart, the Volunteer-branded Yee-Haw Brewing Vol Lager, and the popular PB&J Mixtape from XUL Beer Company.   Atmosphere   5 Lindsey Nelson Stadium underwent $105 million in renovations leading into the 2026 season. These upgrades include a redesigned home plate entry and plaza area leading to a new Vol Shop, along with revamped concession stands and restrooms. The use of brick throughout, combined with the pine finish under the canopy, gives the stadium an elite feel. The bluffs along the Tennessee River also create a special backdrop that is unlike many in baseball at any level. Seating at Lindsey Nelson Stadium is comprised almost entirely of individual chairback seats at the field level, with clusters of tabletop seating tucked into the left field corner. A mezzanine seating level wraps above the field concourse between the dugouts and is topped by suites and the Rocky Top Club, while designated student seating is primarily made up of temporary bleachers down the right field line. While students are engaged in the game, that area leans more toward a social atmosphere. For example, the Uber Eats Porch along the left field fence consists of group seating areas that include stocked coolers, grills, and televisions. The stadium’s dimensions play a touch small, measuring 320 feet down each line and 390 feet to straightaway center. The left-center power alley sits at 385 feet, while right-center measures 365 feet. Most of the wall stands 10 1/2 feet high, though a small section in right field drops to a thigh-high 4 feet. The scoreboard in right-center is the only location to find game stats in the stadium, displaying inning-by-inning totals, runs-hits-errors, ball-strike-out counts, batter statistics, both game and season totals, and pitch speeds. There is limited use of sound effects and audio drops throughout the game, but nothing overly distracting. Mid-inning breaks are typically filled with ad reads and the occasional in-stand contest shown on the video board.   Neighborhood   5 Knoxville, Tennessee, is a city of nearly 200,000 people, providing visitors with plenty of entertainment options to accompany a Tennessee baseball trip. Lindsey Nelson Stadium sits within the athletics cluster on the southern edge of campus, with the campus’s fraternity houses just outside the first base side of the stadium. The college baseball season overlaps with the end of basketball season at nearby Thompson-Boling Arena , as well as softball season at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium. Knoxville also has several professional teams with seasons that overlap with Tennessee baseball. The Knoxville Ice Bears of the Southern Professional Hockey League play at Knoxville Civic Coliseum and are typically in the homestretch of their schedule during college baseball season. Meanwhile, the Knoxville Smokies of the Double-A Southern League and One Knoxville SC  of USL League One begin their seasons in April at Covenant Health Park in the Old City district. For general points of interest, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the Knoxville Sunsphere, sits about a one-mile walk from campus. The orange-tinted globe rises 266 feet over Knoxville and, as a relic of the 1982 World’s Fair, is open to visitors for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Basketball fans may also enjoy visiting the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, located about a five-minute drive from campus. Those looking for a college-town experience can head to “The Strip” along Cumberland Avenue, just a short walk from campus. Or, for a more dining-focused experience, Gay Street offers a higher concentration of restaurants, breweries, and nightlife. Market Square and Knoxville’s Old City neighborhood, both a short distance away, provide even more options for shops, dining, and entertainment.   Fans   4 Tennessee ranks in the middle of the pack in the SEC in average attendance, drawing just over 5,500 fans per game. At first glance, that figure may not stand out, but the SEC leads all conferences in college baseball attendance. Even a middle-of-the-pack ranking still places the Volunteers among the national leaders, creating a strong and well-supported atmosphere on most nights at Lindsey Nelson Stadium. While certainly passionate, Tennessee fans are not necessarily the most ravenous in the conference when it comes to creating the hostile environments the SEC is known for. Much of the rowdiness tends to surface when Tennessee’s biggest rivals come to town, and those matchups bring a noticeably elevated level of energy. The crowd is engaged and supportive throughout, but the intensity can be a bit more situational than relentless from first pitch to final out, especially for teams that are not big rivals of the Vols. The peak of Tennessee baseball fandom came in the seasons leading up to the Vols’ 2024 national championship. Then-head coach Tony Vitello helped fuel that rise by embracing a “Vols against the world” mentality that stoked the flames of Tennessee baseball fandom, giving the crowd an added edge. While Vitello’s departure has led to a slight dip in the overall atmosphere, the crowd at Lindsey Nelson Stadium remains highly engaged, keeping Tennessee among the sport’s top game-day experiences just outside the most elite environments. Fans here are in tune with pivotal moments and elevate their energy at the right times, helping build tension throughout the game. It is also refreshing to see many Vols fans understand the etiquette of waiting to take their seats between batters, something not very common at the college level.   Access   4 Getting to the University of Tennessee campus can be challenging, particularly with traffic on I-40 running through Knoxville. Construction, road closures, and limited parking around the stadium can create some difficulties, though nothing beyond what would be expected for a sporting event at a school the size of Tennessee. The stadium itself has enough points of entry that getting inside is as easy as expected, and wide concourses help fans move around comfortably. There will naturally be congestion around the concourse during popular games, but the improvements made to Lindsey Nelson Stadium help make getting in, around, and out of the stadium as smooth as possible.   Return on Investment   5 Midweek tickets start at $7.50, while SEC weekend series standing-room-only tickets begin at just under $17; this makes getting into the stadium relatively affordable. Ticket prices for reserved seating can be higher; however, the cost to simply get into the stadium is very reasonable. Free parking is available in parking decks just north of the stadium, which further improves the overall value. Concessions and souvenirs carry typical stadium markups, but nothing unexpected.   Extras   5 “Rocky Top” remains one of college athletics’ classic fight songs and is used frequently to enhance the baseball experience. It plays following home runs and scoring plays, as well as after “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh-inning stretch. It would not be a University of Tennessee sporting event without beloved mascot, Smokey. The Bluetick hound makes his way through the stands, interacting with fans, encouraging cheers, and occasionally trying to start the wave. Down the right-field concourse sits the Volunteer Wall of Fame, recognizing All-Americans, Tennessee Baseball Hall of Fame members, Team USA alumni, MLB draft picks, and more. The outfield wall doubles as a history lesson of Tennessee baseball, highlighting postseason appearances and program accomplishments. Retired numbers for Matt Holliday (1), R.A. Dickey (18), and National Baseball Hall of Famer Todd Helton (3) are displayed in left field. Also chronicled are the program’s All-Americans, SEC championships, NCAA Regional appearances, College World Series trips, and the 2024 national title. Attention to detail is evident throughout the stadium, from the pine finish under the canopy to the Tennessee “T” on each seat back. The tailgating-style Uber Eats Porch adds another distinctive touch that enhances the overall experience.   Final Thoughts Tennessee baseball has built not only one of the nation’s premier programs on the field, but also one of the top overall game-day experiences in college baseball. Lindsey Nelson Stadium blends the backdrop of the riverfront bluffs with modern renovations and detailed design elements to create a ballpark that rivals what might be found at the minor league level. The combination of strong fan support, quality amenities, and an energetic college-town setting makes a trip to Rocky Top a destination for college baseball fans. Lindsey Nelson Stadium delivers a quality, engaging experience that comfortably ranks among the top in college baseball and is a venue many professional organizations would be proud to call home.

Courtesy of Estadios FC Estadio Akron , located in Jalisco, Mexico, stands as a significant landmark in Mexican sports architecture. This multipurpose stadium, primarily used for football, serves as the home of the Liga MX team C.D. Guadalajara . Its journey, from inception to completion, and the subsequent reactions to its design and features, tell a compelling tale of ambition and community. Built inside a manmade hill, can this be the newest ancient stadium in the world? Courtesy of Estadios FC Why the Stadium Was Built The primary objective behind building Estadio Akron was to create a modern facility that could accommodate the needs of C.D. Guadalajara. Before its construction, the club played in the aging Estadio Jalisco .  Groundbreaking took place in February 2004. The initial construction was backed by significant investment, estimated at $200 million, with contributions from various stakeholders, including owner Amaury Vergara. However, financial difficulties and construction challenges led to multiple delays, stretching the completion timeline well beyond the anticipated schedule. After years of setbacks, the stadium finally opened on July 30, 2010. The inaugural event was the first leg of the 2010 Copa Libertadores final, marking a triumphant debut. Additionally, the stadium played a pivotal role in the 2011 Pan American Games, hosting both opening and closing ceremonies, which showcased its capacity of 49,813 to cater to large-scale events. Courtesy of Estadio Akron The reaction to Estadio Akron has been mixed and multifaceted. While fans celebrated the architectural design, which was crafted by notable architects, the stadium's artificial turf became a controversial topic. Many revered players criticized the choice of surface, voicing concerns about injury risks and playability. This discourse came to a head when, in May 2012, the decision was made to replace the artificial turf with natural grass, an action widely welcomed by players and fans alike. It was ironic for the outside walls to be grass, but the field was artificial. The design of the stadium drew praise for its modern aesthetics and functionality. However, it also sparked discussions about its integration into the surrounding landscape. Nestled amid lush green hills, the stadium evokes a sense of harmony with nature, despite the high-tech artificial field that once dominated its pitch. Surrounded by grassy hills, the stadium integrates into its environment while presenting a stark contrast with its artificial playing surface. This juxtaposition has led to ongoing discussions about sustainability and modern practices in sports facilities. The decision to later switch to natural grass reflects a sensitivity to both player safety and ecological considerations, aiming to provide a more inviting and healthy environment for athletes. Ancient stadiums were vital communal spaces where people engaged in social and athletic activities, celebrating competition and honoring the divine. These structures often leveraged natural landscapes, being carved into hillsides or enhanced with terracing to create seating that maximized visibility for spectators. For instance, Panathinaiko Stadium , initially built in 330 BC and later renovated in 140 BC, stands out as the only stadium entirely constructed from white marble, accommodating 50,000 people. It served as a testament to ancient Greek athleticism and culture. Courtesy of Panathenaic Stadium The Panathenaic Stadium is the world's first modern Olympic Stadium, serving as a remarkable archaeological site that links ancient and contemporary sports. Crafted from white Attic marble, it symbolizes the legacy of ancient athletics and the revival of the modern Olympic Games in 1896, making it a monument of international significance in Greece's sporting history. Visitors can experience a unique opportunity to reconnect with their historical heritage at this iconic venue. Similarly, the Delphi Stadium was strategically built at a high elevation, showcasing a "protocol grandstand" for elite spectators, capable of hosting 80,000 individuals for various events, including races and theatrical performances.  Courtesy of Estadio Akron Looking ahead, Estadio Akron is poised to take on even greater significance. It will host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further cementing its status as a premier venue in international football. The stadium not only serves local fans but has become part of a broader narrative regarding the evolution of football in Mexico. Match Schedule at Estadio Akron June 11, 2026, 10 PM, South Korea vs. UEFA Playoff June 18, 2026, 9 PM, Mexico vs. South Korea June 23, 2026, 10 PM, Columbia vs. FIFA Playoff Winner 1 June 26, 2026, 8 PM, Uruguay vs. Spain Estadio Akro, owned by Amaury Vergara, is more than just a stadium; it symbolizes ambition, resilience, and community pride. It has transitioned from a vision to a celebrated landmark, despite its challenges during construction and the controversies surrounding its surface. As it evolves, the stadium is likely to remain a central figure in the hearts of fans and the landscape of Mexican football. Through both its architectural beauty and its commitment to the sport, Estadio Akron will continue to inspire future generations in the realm of athletics and beyond.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Elliot Ballpark Jim Calhoun Way Storrs, CT 06269 Connecticut Huskies website Elliot Ballpark website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 1,500 Husky Hardball Home   Baseball has been played at the University of Connecticut since 1896. The school has been a major regional power in New England over the years, reaching the NCAA Tournament 25 times and the College World Series five times. Their most recent appearance in the CWS was in 1979. 23 UConn alumni have played in the Major Leagues.   Elliot Ballpark is named for Doug Elliot and family, who provided a major gift towards the completion of the facility. Both Doug and Sheila Elliot graduated from UConn in 1982. Their children, Doug Jr. and Jaclyn, also attended UConn. Both Doug and Doug Jr. played baseball for the Huskies and were named team MVP during their senior seasons.   Elliot Ballpark replaced the Huskies’ longtime home, J.O. Christian Field , which served as home to the Huskies from 1968-2019. The new ballpark stands across the street from the old park, which has been repurposed as a practice field for the soccer and lacrosse teams. Elliot Ballpark was scheduled to open for the 2020 season, but the COVID-19 shutdown ended the Huskies’ season before they were able to play any home games.   Food & Beverage 3   There is a snack bar built into the Rizza Performance Center on the left field patio. A decent menu of snack items is available here for Husky baseball fans, including hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, assorted candy and chips. You can combine a hot dog with chips and a drink to save a couple of dollars.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Elliot Ballpark. Fans can also purchase beer or wine here at the concession stand. Domestic brews, including Miller Lite and Corona, are sold here, as well as several specialty beers made especially for UConn athletics. These craft beers include Husky Hops by Kinsman Brewing, TwoConn Easy Ale by Two Roads and UConn Territory by Urban Lodge.   Atmosphere 3   The new ballpark contains many features missing at Christian Field, including artificial turf (a must for playing early-season games in fickle New England springs), lights, turf and dirt mounds in the bullpens. The Rizza Performance Center contains large locker rooms with players’ lounges and showers, coaches’ offices, strength and conditioning areas, film rooms and a cafeteria. It is hoped that these amenities will help the Huskies in recruiting players from beyond Connecticut’s borders.   The centerpiece of the game day experience at Elliot Ballpark has got to be the video board in right field. It’s a rare feature in a New England college ballpark. The UConn staff put the board to good use with graphics, videos and sponsor ads. The ballpark has a good sound system, and music plays throughout the game in typical fashion. The PA announcer goes about his work in a professional manner, giving fans information and adding some energy to the proceedings. There’s a table set up on the concourse filled with UConn swag for fans to take home. Speaking of swag, the UConn Bookstore sets up shop near the entrance to the ballpark with Husky gear for sale. College World Series Appearances and More at Elliot Ballpark. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 3   The University of Connecticut is located in the village of Storrs, part of the town of Mansfield. Downtown Storrs is located just outside the entrance to campus. Storrs has a population of just over 15,000 residents, which pales in comparison to UConn’s enrollment of 32,000. It’s no surprise that the 4,000-acre UConn campus dominates this small town.   Visitors to Storrs can find some solid dining options in town. After the game, head to Mansfield Town Square, where Blaze Pizza, Dog Lane Café and Huskies Restaurant and Cafe are located. Visitors looking for lodging options in town may want to look at the Graduate by Hilton or Spring Hill Inn. If you want more information about things to do in Storrs, check out DowntownStorrs.com .   A must for visiting fans is the UConn Dairy Bar. The Dairy Bar, operated entirely by students, has been in operation since 1953. All products sold here are made fresh on site. While enjoying your ice cream you can watch the cows grazing in the adjacent fields.     Since there aren’t a ton of options near UConn, many fans coming to the area will move on to Hartford, located about a 30-minute drive to the west, or the twin casinos of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, located about 45 minutes to the southeast.    Fans 3   Crowds at Elliot Ballpark can vary in size depending on the time of year, day of week, time of day, opponent, weather, and more. This is the northeast, and it’s best to make your plans in pencil if you’re planning a ballpark road trip in this part of the country. The Huskies draw anywhere from 250-1,000 fans for baseball games. As you would expect, the crowds grow in size as the season wears on and the weather warms up. Stadium Journey visited Storrs on a warm early April Saturday morning (yes, morning) with a crowd of about 500 in attendance. This is a very large crowd for college baseball in this part of the country, but there was plenty of room around the ballpark for an even bigger crowd.   The fans who come to Elliot ballpark are knowledgeable about the team and enthusiastic in rooting on the Huskies. This is a livelier atmosphere than you usually see at a college game in the northeast. Game Action at Elliot Ballpark. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   Elliot Ballpark is located on the southwest edge of campus alongside many of UConn’s other athletic facilities. Fans who haven’t visited the UConn campus in a while may be surprised by how the area looks now, as the hockey, baseball, softball, lacrosse and soccer teams all have new homes. Parking is available in the lot next to the Tuscano Family Ice Forum  and at South Garage across the street from Gampel Pavilion .   The seating bowl at Elliot Ballpark stretches from first base around to third base. Individual blue stadium seats make up the lower sections, while aluminum bleachers without backs make up the upper sections. A walkway separates the upper and lower seating sections. There are accessible seating areas for those fans who require such accommodations. A large berm down the right field line contains plenty of room for fans who wish to bring their own blankets or lawn chairs and set up shop. Several Adirondack chairs are lined up atop the berms for fans wanting a higher vantage point.   There is standing room available down both foul lines. Views from these areas feature unobstructed field level views in right field and picnic tables in left field. Rest rooms are located underneath the stands at Morrone Stadium on the left field patio.     Return on Investment 2   This is the area where the UConn baseball experience falls short of other ballparks in the northeast, and where the FANFARE score for Elliot ballpark is negatively affected. UConn charges for admission to Husky baseball games, which is a rarity in this part of the country. Tickets are sold at $12 for chairback (lower grandstand) seats, $10 for bleacher (upper grandstand) seats, and $7 for general admission (standing room) tickets.   And even more egregiously, UConn charges fans to park at Husky baseball games. According to several fans this writer spoke to, this is a new policy for the 2026 season. Parking in the lot adjacent to the Tuscano Family Ice Forum costs an additional ten dollars. This gives UConn the distinction of being the only one of the 20 Division One baseball teams in New England to charge fans for parking at baseball games.   Fans will find concessions priced similarly to other area venues. Overall, going to a Husky baseball game is more affordable than a minor league ballgame in the area, but when compared to other area college games, it comes up short in terms of value. UConn Alumni display at Elliot Ballpark. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 2                                                                                                 Retired numbers, Husky World Series appearances and conference championships are memorialized on the façade of the Rizza Performance Center beyond the left field wall. NCAA Tournament and Super Regional Appearances are posted up on the right field wall.   Photos of all 22 Husky alumni to make it to the Major League are posted on the wind screen on the back side of the seating bowl. Some recognizable names include Walt Dropo, Charles Nagy, Matt Barnes and George Springer.   Final Thoughts   To be able to compete for recruits on more than just a regional scale, it was clear that UConn needed an upgrade in their facilities. With Elliot Ballpark, this is a mission accomplished. The Huskies now have a home field packed with amenities as good as any ballpark in the northeast. From a fan perspective, the upgrade is just as impressive. Storrs may be off the beaten path, but it’s now a path worth traveling.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photo by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey As the expiration of their lease at the American Airlines Center approaches in 2031, the Dallas Mavericks  are making bold moves to secure their future in the city. Team CEO Rick Welts recently emphasized the franchise's commitment to remaining in Dallas during a sports economic panel discussion, dispelling rumors of a possible relocation. "Dallas is what's really important. Take away anything from today, our commitment is to do  everything in our power to build this in Dallas." This declaration underscores the team's dedication to not only staying put but also enhancing the community through an ambitious new arena and entertainment district. The envisioned facility goes beyond a simple arena; Welts described a mixed-use development that will cater to a wide array of community needs. The plans include a hotel adjacent to the arena, downtown coproate headquaters, a new pratice facility, residential units and retail spaces, and year-round entertainment offerings. .The Mavericks are currently focusing on two prime locations for the new arena, one of which is the Dallas City Hall  site. Another area under consideration is the former Valley View Mall in North Dallas. Discussions with city leadership, including Dallas City Manager Kimberly Tolbert, have been ongoing for over a year as the team evaluates potential sites. Welts noted, "We would like to have 50 continuous acres that allow a real environment where you feel like you're in a space that's well thought out." Photo by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey The estimated costs for repairing the City Hall building are around $329 million, while a complete modernization could exceed $1 billion. Mayor Johnson remarked on the responsibility city leaders have to their taxpayers, indicating that a decision will be made during a council discussion expected in late May. The Mavericks aim to announce the location of their new arena and entertainment district by July. With a construction timeline of approximately 30 months, the goal is to open the new facility before the lease at the current arena expires, ensuring that the Mavericks remain a central part of the Dallas community. Welts added, "So the city is aware of our timetable for any particular site; that puts a lot of pressure, but also puts a lot of motivation to try to get something done in the next few months." The Dallas Mavericks are not just focused on their next chapter but are committed to enriching the city they call home, making significant strides to ensure their legacy in Dallas for years to come.

Photo Courtesy of Zach Beeson In a small, unincorporated mill town in South Carolina, a long-forgotten ballpark is getting a second life—and with it, a community is finding renewed purpose. The Joanna Project, led by Michael Reef Snyder, is restoring a historic textile-era stadium in Joanna, SC, with plans to bring baseball back by May 2026. What was once an abandoned field with overgrown bleachers is quickly transforming into a nostalgic yet functional ballpark that blends history, community pride, and the modern collegiate summer game. From Textile Town to Baseball Revival Joanna, a town of roughly 1,200 residents, was built entirely around a textile mill in the early 20th century. Like many mill towns across the Carolinas, baseball played a central role in daily life. Workers didn’t just clock in—they competed. “In the 1920s, a mill worker might make $50 a week,” Snyder explained. “But if they played baseball, they could make $250. It was a serious competition.” That competitive spirit led to the creation of powerhouse textile teams, including the Joanna Hornets, who reportedly won more than a dozen championships over several decades. The ballpark itself dates back to at least 1950 in its current concrete form, replacing an earlier wooden grandstand that hosted games as far back as the 1910s. Among the notable figures to take the field? Hall of Fame manager Tommy Lasorda, who pitched in Joanna during the 1947 season. Photo Courtesy of Zach Beeson A Ballpark Hidden in Plain Sight For years, the stadium sat quietly behind a local school—its 1,500-seat concrete grandstand slowly being reclaimed by nature. Bushes grew through the bleachers, and the field was reduced to little more than a patch of grass. But the structure itself remained sound. “That was everything,” Snyder said. “If those bleachers weren’t in good shape, this project probably wouldn't happen.” After years of research, community meetings, and inspections, Snyder and his team secured the site and launched a nonprofit effort to restore it—not just as a ballpark, but as a catalyst for local revitalization. Building for the Future, Honoring the Past The renovation is being completed in phases, with an emphasis on preserving the park’s historic character. Phase I includes: A rebuilt playing field New above-ground dugouts designed with a vintage aesthetic Updated fencing, netting, and lighting Fresh paint and structural improvements Capacity will settle around 1,300 fans after modifications to improve sightlines. Future plans (Phase II) aim to add: Permanent concession stands and restrooms Locker rooms A textile baseball museum highlighting the region’s unique history The museum will feature archival photos, uniforms, and even recorded interviews with former players—some of whom are now in their 90s. Photo Courtesy of Zach Beeson The Return of the Joanna Hornets Baseball is officially coming back to Joanna with the revival of the Joanna Hornets, a collegiate summer team that carries the historic name of the original textile-era club. The Hornets will compete in the newly formed Blue Ridge League , joining creatively branded teams like the Carolina Disco Turkeys, Greenwood Flying Monkeys, and Marion Hungry Mothers. The league emphasizes fan experience just as much as player development—something Snyder sees as essential. “We didn’t want games at 10 a.m. on a Tuesday at a high school field,” he said. “We want a true ballpark atmosphere—night games, promotions, and a place where the community can gather.” Despite the town’s small size, the location draws from a regional population of over 100,000 within a 30-mile radius, making it a viable destination for fans and ballpark chasers alike. More Than Baseball What makes the Joanna Project especially unique is its long-term mission. Once the stadium is fully operational, all proceeds will go back into the community through the nonprofit. Plans include funding home improvement projects, local initiatives, and community grants—turning the ballpark into an engine for broader revitalization. “This isn’t just about rebuilding a stadium,” Snyder said. “It’s about rebuilding a community.” Photo Courtesy of the Joanna Project A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering For ballpark enthusiasts, the Joanna Project represents something increasingly rare: an authentic restoration of a historic venue with deep local roots. From its textile league origins to its modern revival, the stadium offers a glimpse into a forgotten chapter of baseball history—one where small towns, mill workers, and semi-pro stars created a vibrant, competitive scene across the South. The season play begins this year on May 22 to kick off Memorial Day Weekend and runs through July 26. The Hornets schedule has not been released as of this writing.  With its preserved concrete grandstand, deep historical roots, and commitment to community impact, Joanna is poised to become a compelling destination for fans seeking unique baseball experiences. For more information on the project or to contribute, visit thejoannaproject.org or follow the Joanna Project and Joanna Hornets on social media. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Abbotsford Centre 33800 King Rd. Abbotsford, BC V2S 7M8 5 Abbotsford Canuck s website Rogers Forum website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 7,000 Home of Johnny Canuck Johnny Canuck is a fictional cartoon character that dates back to 1869.  He gained prominence as a World War II comic strip hero akin to Uncle Sam.  Johnny Canuck was adopted by the original Vancouver Canucks of the Pacific Coast Hockey league as part of their logo.  In 1999 the new Canucks brought the logo back to the NHL team.  Vancouver treated Johnny as a secondary logo, behind the current orca logo.  In 2021, the Canucks moved their AHL affiliate from Utica, New York to Abbotsford, British Columbia and Johnny was made the primary logo.  The lineage of the Abbotsford Canucks dates back to the 1932 Quebec Beavers.  In 1935 they moved to Springfield which were followed by moves to Syracuse, back to Springfield, Worcester, Peoria and Utica.  The team was purchased by Canucks Sports and Entertainment in 2013 when they were the Peoria Rivermen.  The desire was to move the team to Abbotsford, however, the farm team of the Calgary Flames, the Abbotsford Heat, was already there.  The Heat moved to Glens Falls, New York the following season. Home for the Canucks is Rogers Forum.  Built in 2009 as the Abbotsford Centre, the city-owned arena signed a naming rights deal with Rogers Communications in 2025 and renamed Rogers Forum.  At the time of the Heat, Abbotsford was fairly isolated from the rest of the AHL.  However, with the increasing importance of the farm team’s proximity to the NHL team and a few AHL franchises a bit closer, Abbotsford is now a solid location for an AHL affiliate. Food & Beverage 4 Rogers Forum is operated by Canucks Sports & Entertainment, so many of the concession options found at Rogers Arena in Vancouver are also found in Abbotsford.  The selection of concession items is great and of high quality.  Some highlights include premium sandwiches from Crave including the Lumberjack, Prime Rib, Smoked Meat and Pulled Pork as well as premium hot dogs from Dirty Dog. Pepsi products are the soft drink of choice at Rogers Forum and Molson products comprise the main beer options. Atmosphere 3 The main entry for the Rogers Forum is on the east side.  The exterior features brown siding with a glass entry way with plenty of Abbotsford Canucks markings.  A giant goalie mask welcomes fans and is perfect for pictures and a DJ spins tunes in the back of an Abbotsford Canucks pickup truck as fans enter. Inside Rogers Forum, fans are led into the main concourse, which is fairly non-descript and does not feature too much that is interesting.  The Canucks have a smallish team store which also features a number of items for the Vancouver parent club. Inside the seating bowl, the ice is south-north oriented.  A picture of the centre ice logo should be taken from the east side.  The seating bowl is a simple design with a single seating level and suites above the east and west sides.  The concourse opens at the south end to create a large social area.  This is the most interesting part of the arena as large murals for the 2025 Calder Cup winning team can be found here, below the banners for the Calder Cup and Western Conference.  A four-sided video board hangs above centre ice and LED ribbons are found above the east and west suites.  Abbotsford does have a dedicated board with live 50/50 tracking and makes use of LED lights. The gameday production at a Canucks game is very simple.  The in-game host keeps the program moving.  Youth hockey players welcome the Canucks as they enter the ice and stand with them for the National Anthems.  Neighbourhood 3 Rogers Forum is located in the Abbotsford Central neighbourhood of Abbotsford, 70 km southeast of Vancouver. There are some spots for pre and post-game food and drink.  Some options include Field House Brewing, Restaurant 62, Bavaria Restaurant, Anne Marie’s Cafe, Paliotti’s, Lou’s Grill and Old Yale Brewing. There is not much in the way of other sporting options.  University of Fraser Valley is found in Abbotsford and the UFV Cascades compete in USports.  Other tourist options in the area include The Reach Gallery, Mennonite Heritage Museum as well as a number of parks and wineries.  The proximity to Vancouver and Whistler is also advantageous. For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Best Western and Ramada are close options. Fans 3 At the time of writing, in the 2025-26 season, the Abbotsford Canucks averaged over 3,800 fans per game.  This ranked them 25th out of 32 teams in the AHL.  This is also coming off of a championship season which saw the team average over 4,100 fans and ranked them 23rd in the league.  This is an improvement from where the Abbotsford Heat were, however in a building that holds 7,000, there is plenty of room for improvement.  The fans in attendance are fairly reserved and quiet.   Access 4 Rogers Forum is located in the Abbotsford Central neighbourhood on the south side of King Road, between College and University.  The arena is just ¼ km from the Trans-Canada Highway, so getting to the arena is very easy.  It is adjacent to the university and parking is conveniently shared between the school and arena.  Fans who drive to the game will need to pay for parking at a kiosk.  For fans who wish to take public transit to the game, there are buses that run on King Road.  Fans should consult the BC Transit, Central Fraser Valley  website for fares, maps schedules. Getting in and around Rogers Forum is not very difficult and the washroom facilities are good for the venue.  A curious aspect of the seating in Rogers Forum is that not all of the seats are the same size.  There does not seem to be any rhyme or reason to this and seats of one size are not organized in a particular section.  Seats in the same row may actually be different sizes. Although security protocols for Rogers Forum are not complicated, Stadium Journey strongly encourages consulting the Rogers Forum and Abbotsford Canucks  for the most up to date information regarding security procedures including bag policy and prohibited items. Rogers Forum is a cashless facility. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for the Abbotsford Canucks start at $31 for the No Alcohol section.  The next price level up is $45 and tickets go up to $100.  Considering the average attendance, it may be that the Canucks have missed their price point.  Parking will go for $15 and concession prices are on the high side.  Fans will have a good time at a Canucks game, but the experience is fairly simple and a bit on the expensive side. Extras 3 An extra mark for the revival of Johnny Canuck as the logo for Abbotsford, one of the best in the entire AHL. An extra mark for Abbotsford’s close proximity to the parent Vancouver Canucks. An extra mark for the smart green and blue colour scheme enjoyed by the Abbotsford Canucks. Final Thoughts The Abbotsford Canucks are now providing the parent Vancouver Canucks with an ideal affiliate location.  The AHL club has brought historic Canadian character, Johnny Canuck to the forefront of the league and present a good AHL experience for fans. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photo Courtesy of the NFL The NFL officially announced that Super Bowl LXIII will return to Allegiant Stadium  in Las Vegas in February 2029. The league then turned its attention immediately toward Nashville, where the New Nissan Stadium  currently under construction, is being positioned as the primary frontrunner to host Super Bowl LXIV in 2030. During the annual NFL owners' meetings in Phoenix, the league voted unanimously to award the 2029 uper Bowl to Las Vegas. This marks the second time Allegiant Stadium  will host the gamefollowing the massive success of Super Bowl LVIII in 2024. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised the city's hospitality and scale, noting that the 2024 event "set a high bar" that the league is eager to revisit. Las Vegas, along with Los Angeles, has quickly become a favored "hub" city for the NFL's premier events. Image Courtesy of Tennessee Titans Immediately following the Las Vegas announcement, NFL executive vice president Peter O’Reilly confirmed that the league is now turning its full attention to the 2030 selection process, with Nashville as a top contender. Tennessee Titans leadership, including owner Amy Adams Strunk, delivered a major presentation at the owners' meetings regarding the under-construction New Nissan Stadium , which is scheduled to open in 2027. The 2030 date fits the NFL’s preferred "three-year window," allowing a new stadium to operate for three full seasons before hosting a Super Bowl. The NFL remains high on Nashville following the record-breaking success of the 2019 NFL Draft held in the city. The following is a list of future sites for the Super Bowl Super Bowl LXI SoFi Stadium Inglewood, California February 14, 2027 Super Bowl LXII   Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta, Georgia February 13, 2028 Super Bowl LXIII Allegiant Stadium Las Vegas, Nevada February 2029 While 2030 is not yet official, the "exclusive negotiations" style that led to the Las Vegas 2029 announcement suggests Nashville is in a prime position to secure its first-ever Super Bowl hosting duty very soon.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Cushing Field Complex 261 Riverside St. Lowell, MA 01854 UMass Lowell Riverhawks men's lacrosse website Cushing Field website Year Opened : 2001 Capacity : 1,000 Lowell Lax   The University of Massachusetts Lowell, more commonly known as UMass Lowell, got its start in the 1890s as two separate institutions, the Lowell Normal School (later renamed Lowell State College) and the Lowell Textile School (later renamed Lowell Textile Institute). These two schools merged in 1975 to become the University of Lowell. In 1991 UL joined the University of Massachusetts system. Today UMass Lowell is the second largest campus in Massachusetts, with an enrollment of over 18,000 students in almost 200 Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral programs. Total enrollment has increased 50 percent since 2007.   The Cushing Athletic Complex is named for Lester H. Cushing, former athletic director and chair of the Department of Languages at Lowell Technical Institute for 49 years. The complex features two fields; Wicked Blue Field - home to the Field Hockey team, and Riverhawk Field - home to the school’s soccer and lacrosse teams. In 2013 both fields underwent renovations, which included the installation of artificial turf, in preparation for the addition of men’s and women’s lacrosse to the school’s roster.   Lacrosse is a fairly new varsity sport at UMass Lowell. The school began sponsoring the sport in 2015. In their 11 seasons of Division One play, the men’s team has yet to enjoy a winning season, although they did finish with an 8-8 record in 2018. The women’s team, after experiencing losing seasons for their first nine campaigns, reached the America East Conference championship game in 2024 and 2025, losing to Albany both times. Neither squad has qualified for an NCAA Tournament yet.   Food & Beverage 2   There is a small table hidden near the entrance to Cushing Field that serves as the concession stand for Riverhawk lacrosse games. Only snack items are sold here, with hot dogs, candy bars and chips making up the menu. Cans of Coca-Cola products and hot beverages are sold here. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks into Cushing Field to enjoy during the game. On cold February and March afternoons you’ll be sure to see lots of coffees and hot chocolates from the snack bar and the local Dunkin’ in the stands. You will also see some fans setting up tailgates before and after the games at UMass Lowell.   Atmosphere 2   There’s not a whole lot of room for a team’s staff to insert themselves into the game day presentation at a lacrosse game. That’s not to say there’s nothing going on at a Riverhawks game, it’s just that the action down on the field is the focus here. While fans will enjoy some tailgating before a Riverhawks game (and sometimes during halftime), everyone is here to watch some lacrosse, not to make fools of themselves.   Music plays over a decent sound system during play stoppages, and the PA announcer goes about his job providing game information without being too intrusive. If you’re sitting right in front of the press box the sound may be turned up a bit too loud, but you’ll appreciate this if you’re in the far reaches of the facility. Otherwise, whatever noise there is at Cushing Field is provided by the fans themselves. And the fans here do a pretty good job creating that noise. UMass Lowell Celebrates a Goal at Cushing Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 3   The University of Massachusetts-Lowell is located in the north-central part of the city of Lowell, right near the city line of adjoining Dracut. The campus straddles the Merrimack River along the rapids that fueled the mills that made this area a magnet for industry back in the day. The Cushing Complex is located on the North Campus, adjacent to the Costello Athletic Center .   Lowell has long been saddled with a reputation as a city with low employment, high poverty and crime rates which was best to avoid. Statistics show that Lowell is as safe or safer than other similarly sized cities in the area, but the reputation continues.   Lowell is a working-class city. There isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of the Cushing Athletic Complex to draw visiting fans, but visitors to the city may be interested in exploring the Lowell National Historic Park, which has preserved several old textile mills to tell the story of the industrial revolution. On the grounds of the park is a memorial to native son Jack Kerouac, who was one of the icons of the “Beat Generation.”   Most out-of-towners will likely make their way to nearby Boston, 25 miles to the southeast, but for those looking to stay in town, most lodging options are located out by Interstate 495. There are many excellent smaller restaurants scattered throughout Lowell. The Worthen House Café, located by the Tsongas Center, was established in 1898. Some of its notable patrons through the years were Edgar Allen Poe, Jack Keroac and Jimmy Breslin.   Fans 2   The crowd at a UMass Lowell lacrosse game is what we at Stadium Journey like to call a “friends and family” type of crowd, meaning that most of the people in the stands have a personal connection with the players on the field. Attendance is reported to be in the 150-300 range for most games, which is similar to many schools in the area.   Like many lacrosse crowds, what a Riverhawk crowd lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality. Lacrosse crowds are generally louder and more into the action than those you’ll come across in other sports. That being said, you can feel comfortable at Cushing Field, even if you’re wearing the opposing colors. With the compact geographic footprint of the America East Conference, you’ll be sure to see fans of both teams in the stands. River Hawk Field with the Wicked Blue Field in the Background. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   The Cushing Athletic Complex is located on the north bank of the Merrimack River along with several of the university’s other athletic facilities, including the Costello Athletic Center . The school’s more noteworthy sports facilities, Tsongas Center  and LeLacheur Park , are located on the other side of the river. Interstate 495 travels several miles to the south of Lowell, meaning that to reach the UMass Lowell campus one has to drive through the city. There is ample free parking near the complex in North Garage and the Riverside Lots.   Seating runs the length of one side of the field in the form of metal bleachers. There is plenty of standing room along the back side of the bleachers. There is also a small overlook on one corner of the field, where a few Adirondack chairs and a small set of bleachers are set up. This is a great spot to set up shop if you come to the game with kids, as there is some room for them to move around here.   Rest rooms are located on the ground floor of the parking garage adjacent to the field. There is ample parking all around the complex, and lines are not an issue.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge for admission or parking at a Riverhawk lacrosse game. If you hit up the snack bar, no item is priced over four dollars. Game Action at Cushing Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 0   Free roster sheets are available for fans who want them, but there is little going on here at Cushing Field that can really be considered extra. This is a pretty basic game day experience. Not that there is anything wrong with that.   Final Thoughts   As a facility, there’s not a whole lot going on at Cushing Field to set it apart from other lacrosse fields in the area. That being said, it’s a solid, if basic, place to catch some lacrosse action on a nice spring afternoon.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Fenway Park 4 Jersey Street Boston, MA 02215 Boston Red Sox website Fenway Park website Year Opened: 1912 Capacity: 37,305 (day) 37,755 (night) The Lyric Little Bandbox   The Boston Red Sox bill Fenway Park as “America’s Most Beloved Ball Park”. Still going strong after over a century of use, no ballpark has been more honored in film, literature, and song than Fenway Park. Fenway’s old-school charms consistently rank it near the top of any ballpark chaser’s list, and it has become one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city of Boston in its own right. Fenway Park is such an iconic venue that even casual baseball fans can recognize its unique design.   Fenway Park takes its name from its neighborhood. The term “fens” is an Old English term for a marshy area. If you walk a few blocks southeast of the ballpark you will find yourself in the Back Bay Fens, one of these marshy areas.   Established in 1901 as the Boston Americans, The Red Sox are one of Major League Baseball’s oldest and most successful teams, winning 9 World Series on top of 14 American League Pennants, 10 AL East Division titles and 8 more Wild Card berths. 42 Baseball Hall of Famers spent at least part of their career with the Red Sox.   Food & Beverage 4   Even though Fenway Park has taken great strides in recent years to keep up with the trends of establishing gourmet options with their concession offerings, most longtime Red Sox fans still insist that the best food at Fenway Park is found at the numerous sausage carts all around the ballpark. If it’s your first trip to Boston, this is where you should stop for that authentic Fenway experience. The prices are cheaper than inside the ballpark, and the quality is excellent.   That’s not to say there are no good options within Fenway Park. The team takes over Jersey Street starting ninety minutes before first pitch. Here fans will find several stands offering some of Fenway Park’s more unique offerings, including El Tiante’s Grille, The Fenway Fish Shack and A Taste of Boston, which features a rotation of local vendors.   Concession stands are seemingly crammed into every nook and cranny of the ballpark, including the Big Concourse in right field, Fenway’s version of a food court. In addition to classic ballpark fare, hungry Sox fans will find plenty of locally-sourced food, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan offerings. A complete Fenway Park concessions guide can be found here.  For visiting fans looking for some distinctly Boston items, lobster rolls, clam chowder and Boston crème pies dot the menus around the ballpark.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Fenway Park. As you might imagine, the beer game is strong at Fenway Park. Sam Adams is the official beer of the Red Sox, so you can find all of their outstanding brews served here alongside other popular national brands. Visiting fans looking for local microbrews will be more than satisfied with the available choices, which include Mighty Squirrel, Wachusett, Lord Hobo, Ipswich Ale, Jack’s Abby, Harpoon, Fiddlehead and Dogfish, among others.   Atmosphere 5   It’s hard to top the game day atmosphere at Fenway Park, which has become one of Boston’s top tourist destinations regardless of whether or not the Sox are in town. Fans flock from all corners of New England and beyond to spend a day at the ballpark. Taking in a game at Fenway has become a must for anyone traveling to Massachusetts.   Fenway Park is loaded with features designed to entertain both the casual and the die-hard fan. Outside the ballpark are statues of Red Sox greats Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski and “The Teammates.” Retired number banners, World Series banners and American League pennants line the exterior of the ballpark along Van Ness and Jersey Streets. Both Lansdowne Street and Jersey Street are mobbed with fans hours before first pitch.   Jersey Street is closed off to traffic before games, and is loaded with concession stands, live bands and the Red Sox Team Store. The old ticket booths here have been transformed to exhibits featuring memorabilia from each of the Red Sox’ World Series championship teams. Also located here is the old bullpen buggy, a popular spot for photos. Concessions, souvenirs, displays and activities for young and old alike are packed into virtually every corner of Fenway Park.   With families in mind, the team has created an exclusive entrance just for kids (Gate K, located in center field). From the third through seventh inning, Wally’s Clubhouse offers kid-friendly entertainment and activities. Virtual reality booths, speed pitch booths and a life-size replica of David Ortiz made out of Legos are just a few of the attractions here.   Balancing the old-school mentality of the long-time Red Sox fan with the need of younger fans for constant stimulation is a tricky act, but the Red Sox do a good job of working out these disparate goals. Video boards throughout the park keep fans engaged and entertained between innings while respecting Fenway traditions.   Neighborhood 5   Old-timers like yours truly may bemoan the fact that the neighborhood around Fenway Park has become more upscale and many of the legendary dive bars and holes in the wall have disappeared, but Fenway-area favorites such as the Cask ‘N Flagon, Sweet Cheeks Q, The Bleacher Bar and The Landsdowne Pub still draw big crowds before and after Red Sox games. You’ll find excellent dining choices around Fenway no matter which direction you travel.   Boston’s small geographic footprint and expansive public transportation system means that even if you do not stay right near the ballpark, it is still easy to get to. Visitors who would rather stay nearby will find Hotel Commonwealth, Residence Inn by Marriot and The Verb excellent choices in the shadows of Fenway Park.   Visiting fans interested in seeing more than just a ballgame will find much to do in Boston. Explore the Freedom Trail, a walking trail through the city that links several historical locations. Tours of Boston Harbor are well worth a look, as is Faneuil Hall, a colonial meetinghouse that has been converted into a shopping and tourist destination. Museums, galleries, and tours of all kinds are located throughout the city, making Boston one of the top tourist destinations in the country.     Fans 5   The Red Sox have returned to playoff contention in 2025, and the buzz is back after a few years of (relatively) smallish crowds at the old ballpark. At the time of this review (the beginning of September), the Red Sox are in the top ten in the majors in terms of attendance, drawing over 34,000 fans per game. Even in their down years, the Red Sox draw crowds many teams would die for. Red Sox fans are simply some of the most dedicated in the big leagues.   One downside to Fenway Park’s status as an attraction in itself means that a portion of every crowd is there to be seen as much as to take in the action. A Fenway crowd is in constant motion, roaming the aisles and concourses throughout the game, which can be very aggravating to the hardcore fan. Despite the less than stellar reputation of some Boston fans, you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family to Fenway. A strong turnout from visiting fans is a common sight, given Fenway’s status as a destination spot.   Some Fenway traditions have taken on a life of their own, such as the singing of Sweet Caroline in the middle of the 8th inning. This has been happening on-and-off since the mid-90’s, and at every game since 2002. Make no mistake, Boston fans are into the game to a greater degree than just about any other fan base. Fenway Park can be as loud in April as it is in August.    Access 3   Let’s be frank here. Boston is a tough city to get around, Fenway can be tough to get to if you’re not familiar with the city, and once you’re there, Fenway can be tough to navigate on the inside as well. Every Bostonian has their own “secret” way to get to Fenway Park, and no two are alike. Every one of the 4.9 million citizens of greater Boston believes their route is the quickest. Simply put, they are all wrong. And no, I am not going to tell you my secret route to Fenway.   The best method for getting to Fenway Park is to take public transportation. The MBTA, or “T”,  as it is known locally, provides several different methods for baseball fans to get to the game. Most fans will take the subway, as the B, C, and D versions of the Green Line stop at Kenmore Station, a short five-minute walk from Fenway Park.   If traveling from the western suburbs of Boston, take the commuter rail, which stops right across the street from Fenway Park at Yawkey Station. There are similar trains which travel into the city from the northern or southern suburbs, but which will require a transfer or two on the subway system to arrive at the aforementioned Kenmore station.   If taking a bus is more your speed, several city routes stop within a short walk of Fenway Park. Routes 8, 9, 19, 60 and 65 stop at the corner of Jersey Street and Brookline Avenue. In addition, route 55 stops on the back side of Fenway, at the corner of Ipswich and Boylston streets.   Over recent decades Red Sox ownership has continually updated and restored this historic park, adding new seating and social gathering areas in previously unimagined places. It makes Fenway Park an interesting mix of old and new features, cramped quarters and spacious sections, obstructed view seats and some of the best sightlines in the Major Leagues.   Return on Investment 3   Going to Fenway Park has always been an expensive proposition. Given the park’s small capacity and the team’s incredible popularity, it’s a supply vs. demand graph come to life.   The Fan Cost Index annually ranks Fenway Park among the most expensive ballparks to visit in all of Major League Baseball. In 2023, the FCI estimated a family of four will spend almost $400 at a Red Sox game. Driving this ranking are Fenway’s high ticket prices, parking charges and concession prices.   That being said, there are ways to make a trip to Fenway more affordable.   -Check out various ticket-resale websites for cheaper tickets. -Avoid the expensive neighborhood parking by taking the T to Fenway Park. -A souvenir soda cup features unlimited refills throughout the game. -Grabbing a bite to eat at one of the sausage carts that line the streets around Fenway Park enhances the Fenway experience and saves a few dollars.   Fenway Park is a cashless facility. Even the ever-present Fenway hawkers are equipped with cashless point of sale devices. Fenway Park’s bag policy is less restrictive than other major league facilities but check the ballpark website  for particulars.   Extras 5   Any ballpark that has been in use for over a century is bound to have had a memorable moment or two on its resume. The Red Sox proudly display their best moments throughout the ballpark, in methods both obvious and subtle. New visitors to Fenway should schedule some extra time to take in as much of the ballpark as possible.   Banners and plaques commemorating Red Sox pennants and World Series championships are present both inside and outside the ballpark. Flags honoring every Hall of Famer to play in Boston line the outside of the park along Van Ness Street. Red Sox retired numbers are hung along the right field façade and again along the outside of the ballpark.   Located by Gate B on Van Ness Street are statues honoring Red Sox legends Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and “The Teammates” (Johnny Pesky, Bobby Doerr, Dom DiMaggio and Ted Williams).   Historical touches abound throughout Fenway Park, starting with the lone red seat in right field commemorating the longest home run ever hit at the ballpark to the plaques located throughout the park highlighting milestones and important features of the park. Even long-time visitors to Fenway can find something new if they explore the grounds long enough. The Red Sox do a great job of creating new content year after year.   The Green Monster, Pesky’s Pole, Wally and Tessie, Sweet Caroline, Fenway Franks, the Big Concourse, Patriots Day, Dirty Water, Fenway Farms, the Citgo Sign, Kenmore Square, Lego Papi, Lansdowne Street, the triangle, the bullpen buggy, the street vendors; the list of things to see and do at Fenway Park goes on and on…   Final Thoughts   A lot of times people use the word “historic” interchangeably with the word “old.” At least in the baseball world, Fenway manages to be both. How old is Fenway Park? It opened the same week that the Titanic sank. While other cities are building billion-dollar complexes to replace ballparks that are only 20 years old, in Boston they are simply finding new ways to put modern touches on this classic diamond.   Fenway Park is not perfect. It’s cramped, it’s crowded, and it’s expensive. Yes, some seats sit right behind poles and some seats face the wrong way. Still, ask any ballpark aficionado where they would like to see a game, and Fenway Park will likely be among their top choices. Fenway Park’s mix of historical touches, quirky features, and modern comforts is unmatched anywhere. Other cities try again and again to find the magic formula that has existed in Boston for over a century.   Simply put, Fenway Park is the standard against which all other ballparks are measured.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Eric Taylor and Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium 1605 Avenue Of The Champions Bowling Green, KY 42101 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers website Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 22,113 Topping The Hill As you leave the interstate and head toward campus, it’s impossible to miss that Western Kentucky University  crowns a hill above Bowling Green. The tops of campus buildings punctuate the horizon for nearly three miles until you arrive. WKU has long embodied a classic collegiate look, and renovations over the last decade have only reinforced that timeless character. Unlike many schools whose updates feel dated or bland, WKU consistently preserves the charm and atmosphere of the traditional college experience. President Gary Ransdell once jumped from a plane and did a drop-in for the 2014 game versus Army. At that game, WKU announced that they became the first university to have a chair reserved for a POW/MIA/KIA. The chair remains empty at both L.T. Smith Field and Diddle Arena for every game. Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium holds 22,113 and opened in 1968. The most major renovations in its history were completed in 2008, the most recognizable of which was adding stands to the west sideline. The renovations put the Hilltoppers’ football home at its current capacity, which qualified the school for a move to FBS in 2009. The field moved from natural grass to AstroPlay in 2002, and WKU installed FieldTurf in 2009. Houchens Industries — a huge grocery chain headquartered in Bowling Green– made a $5 million donation/gift to get the renovation rolling. Because of the gift, the Houchens Industries name was added to the name of the renovated stadium. L.T. Smith spent 49 years coaching the Hilltoppers football team (1920-1968). The stadium was originally named for him in 1968 when it opened. Photo courtesy of Lee Arnold Food & Beverage 4 For some of you, all you need to read is the first item on the list, and you will vote this stadium the best in the NCAA. Beer is sold on campus at WKU. The food prices are fair, considering you have a somewhat upgraded list of options compared to stadiums of similar stature. And with a product named the SUPER Nachos, you can’t lose. The options are also realistic to enjoy from your seat and practical for a football game. Sometimes you can offer too much, and it becomes impractical. L.T. Smith Stadium gets it right. Atmosphere 4 The quality of the sound system inside the stadium is apparent, as the booming voice and blaring music can be heard on the stroll from your car to the entry gate. Once inside, you will be given a healthy dose of that audio that sounded so good from outside the stadium. It may hit some ears with a little more zest than others. The video/scoreboard is a relatively good size by today’s standards. It’s utilized well for game presentation between plays, but there are times when you just want to hear the bands play and not be bothered with a random, uncomfortably screaming for the fans to get up and get loud on third down. My generation’s parents probably thought a scoreboard that showed replays and ads was over-the-top and unnecessary, so I get that and I get “it.” At the end of the day, the college football game is still recognizable in sight and sound. Marching bands are still visible and audible. Cheerleaders and yell leaders remain visible and audible. The “it” remains visible and audible. The west side of the stadium was added during the 2008 renovations. Club level and skyboxes line the west side, while the east side still holds the press box and the largest section of seating. Photo courtesy of Sara Jo Jones Big Red is one of the premier mascots in all of college athletics. It’s not hyperbole to say Big Red has put WKU in the national conscience. They’ve always had a history with NCAA basketball diehards, but he’s put the school on the national and international map — literally. A perennial nominee for the Capital One Mascot Challenge each year, Big Red gives the school a great identity, although his is still debated across the Ohio Valley. He supposedly embodies the spirit of all the fans in one large red “blot” and does a great job of it. The Grass Berm (Sonic Zone) is great in the north end zone. The fan zone is great in the south end zone. These two features tie the east and west side stands together nicely, so there are fans around the entire stadium, although seating is pretty much limited to the east and west stands. The train behind the north end zone reminds you that the outside world still exists and will be there waiting for you when you exit Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Neighborhood 4 There are many places in Bowling Green to eat, but Mariah’s in the historic downtown district delivers a great dining experience that is not white-tablecloth, but not a sports bar dive. The dishes are delicious, and the salads even have black-eyed peas in them. Sounds crazy, but you have to try it. This restaurant has been serving Bowling Green residents since 1980, and should be doing so for generations to come. WKU is a true college town. So many pieces of the city cater to the university. Bowling Green is not too big to swallow the campus whole, but not so small that the campus is the only civilization around. There aren’t many cities better in the Western Kentucky/Middle Tennessee area when looking for a great area to take in a college football game, where options for entertainment are available prior to or following the game. Fans 5 WKU’s alumni base is strong, and the fans are very knowledgeable. There are schools within an hour’s drive that would kill for the alumni pride and support that WKU possesses. There’s nothing else to say other than this school’s fans, for the most part, cheer for their school over the big state school in Lexington. The previous sentence will make a ton of sense if you’ve ever visited or know anyone who has any connection to the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Access 4 The walk to the stadium is beautiful. There’s a reason this team is called the Hilltoppers. If you park near Cherry Hall, you will have the pleasure of walking down a very steep hill toward L.T. Smith Stadium. The walk back will be one you can tell your grandchildren about. It’s a walk that every student and alumnus talks about with the passion and emotion of a soldier telling war stories or a grandparent telling kids about walking to school uphill both ways in the snow. It’s steep. I don’t think there’s a t-shirt at the top that you get for saying you climbed it, but it’s not a bad idea to see if that business model would have legs. Even if you attended college 10 states away and this is your first trip to campus, you will always be a Hilltopper once you’ve hiked the hill. The stadium’s flow is similar to that of a larger venue, without the long hikes to the bathroom or concessions. You may have a rather lengthy and steep walk to the top of the east side stands if you decide to sit that high in the sky, but otherwise, access to everything is rather simple inside or outside the stadium. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are $35 for seats on the west side, $25 on the east side, and $15 for youth tickets and student guests. Western Kentucky students get free entry with their student ID. With the above prices, you can really take part in a fantastic experience, though tickets can be pricey if you sit on the newly-renovated west side stands (much smaller section than the sprawling stands on the east sideline, and every seat is close to the action). Although the ROI may not be a tangible one — unless you gamble, is any return from sports tangible? — The product on the field and game presentation goes so nicely with the entire atmosphere surrounding the campus. Extras 1 The east side of the stadium carries atmosphere with it 365 days of the year. When facing the east stands, you can read the school’s nickname spelled out in large script letters across every section of the upper deck — H I L L T O P P E R S. Final Thoughts Go see a game in this stadium if you are in the area. The fans are fun, the seats are good and the view is great. The charm of campus rolls right downhill into the historic areas of downtown. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant like Mariah’s after the game. There’s no rush to get out of town, so sit down and relax. Work will be waiting for you when you get back on Monday. It’s Saturday. Let Bowling Green take care of you for the weekend.

Courtesy of the Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District (LSED) The New Orleans Pelicans  are facing significant developments regarding their home arena as they move closer to the 2029 lease expiration with the state of Louisiana. Discussions around renovations or potential new constructions have become increasingly vital in maintaining the Pelicans in New Orleans, especially considering the current condition of the Smoothie King Center , which is showing signs of age. Photo Courtesy of Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Current State of the Arena The Smoothie King Center , which has served as the Pelicans' home since 2002, is described as "antiquated." A recent assessment highlighted urgent needs such as: New seating arrangements to enhance capacity and comfort. Upgraded lighting and technology systems, including a modern scoreboard. Enhanced concession stands to improve attendee experience. Expanding limited lower bowl seating, which is the lowest of any NBA arena.  These issues are critical, considering that the Pelicans operate in a small market with limited corporate sponsorship and television revenues. Courtesy of the Gensler and Eskew Dumez and Ripple Lease and Future Considerations With the lease set to expire in 2029, the management of the Pelicans is in a precarious position. Governor Jeff Landry of Louisiana  has remained non-committal and has expressed caution about state funding for either renovations or a new arena, which raises concerns among fans and stakeholders. However, Governor Landry remains committed to raising revenue for the state of Louisiana and the city of New Orleans. Plans for a new arena for the Pelicans could cost between $800 million and $1 billion, while a major renovation of the Smoothie King Center would be considerably less expensive. Courtesy of the Gensler and Eskew Dumez and Ripple A Case for Improvements  Since its opening in 1999, the Smoothie King Center Arena has weathered Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and underwent a state-funded renovation of $54 million before the 2014-15 season. This marks over a decade since its last major update, with further upgrades needed to keep up with the modern standards seen in other NBA venues. New Orleans can draw lessons from successful arena upgrades and new constructions in Oklahoma City and Houston, where significant investments have rejuvenated fan engagement and improved financial viability. Over the years, various lease agreements with the Hornets-Pelicans franchise owners have seen the state of Louisiana occasionally subsidize the franchise to keep it in the area. An assessment conducted by Louisiana officials identified several high and medium-priority issues requiring attention. The report highlighted the need for new seating, improved lighting, a modern center-hung scoreboard, updated video screens, and enhanced concession stands. Operating in a small market with limited corporate backing and a tiny TV audience, the Pelicans’ owners face pressure, as their lease agreement in New Orleans is set to expire soon. Financial Implications The Pelicans are currently grappling with financial constraints, which impact their ability to attract top talent and improve their roster. Fans have expressed concerns that without a serious investment in their home venue, the team may struggle not only in performance but also in its long-term presence in the city. Looking Ahead to the 2026 Offseason As the Pelicans approach the 2026 offseason, discussions among management will need to focus on both roster improvements and the arena situation. While there may be limits to their immediate flexibility in the market, the potential need for infrastructure investment remains a priority. The future of the New Orleans Pelicans and the Smoothie King Center is intertwined, and bold action will be essential. Whether through renovation or a complete rebuild, the franchise's survival in New Orleans may depend on the decisions made in the coming years.

Photos by Chris Green and Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Chase Field 401 E Jefferson St Phoenix, AZ 85004 Map It Arizona Diamondbacks website Chase Field website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 48,519 State Forty Eight Baseball The MLB Arizona Diamondbacks (D-Backs) claimed their one and only World Series Championship 25 seasons ago.  The team made it to the postseason several times over the years, including the 2023 National League Championship, and fans are looking for that to happen again soon.    The D-Backs play their home games at Chase Field, formerly known as Bank One Ballpark.    It is one of eight major league baseball stadiums with a dome or retractable roof needed for the extremely hot summers in Phoenix, AZ.  Chase Field hosted WBC (World Baseball Classic) games in 2006, 2013, and 2023.  It serves as a concert hall several times throughout the year, and Arizonans have enjoyed soccer matches, bull riding contests, Supercross and Monster Jams, and more. Taxes collected at Chase Field are recaptured and redirected to a fund for stadium repairs and upgrades. The D-Backs use the funds wisely, as several new, noticeable items are being enjoyed by fans attending a game this 2026 season:  A new scoreboard, 52% bigger than the previous one (it’s one of the top 10 in MLB). Three ribbon boards over 3 .5 feet tall between the infield seats areas and the press box.  New concert-grade sound system. The fixed roof can now open when fans are in the stands without safety concerns. A tactile, audio‑supported broadcast system that lets blind and low‑vision fans feel the game in real time. Powered by a partnership with OneCourt , it’s the first setup of its kind in Major League Baseball. New Scoreboard at Chase Field, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey  The D-Backs provide an enjoyable game day experience.  To me, seeing a game with the roof open vs. when the roof is closed is a vast difference, so if possible, try attending a game in April when the weather isn’t so hot, and the roof is open. Food & Beverage 4 Like most MLB facilities, a wide variety of food stands, concessions, bars, snacks, and drink offerings are widely available at Chase Field at traditional high-priced stadium amounts.  More choices are available on the first level than on the third level.  Outside food is permitted in the stadium as long as it’s in a clear plastic bag.  Fans are allowed to bring sealed bottles of water or empty water bottles. Some offerings include:  Hungry Hill Sangwiches – yes, spelled with a g (sausage, bratwurst, meatball, etc.) $10 - $11, Rey Gloria’s Tamales, Cold Stone Creamery, Streets of New York Pizza ($14 - $16).  Vegan burgers and wraps are available at some concessions. Jefferson Street Deli (hot pastrami, Italian Mortadella, half pastrami and half chicken parmesana), Gonzo’s Grill (chicken), Back Flip Burgers (vegan and smash burgers), Someburros, several grab-and-go stands, are some of the other options.  Chase Field provides value items at its Double Header concession stands, where a Pepsi, a hot dog, a corn dog, and popcorn are each just $2.99.  That’s quite a deal when all ll you want is a snack. A Four Peaks Brewery (a local brewery owned by Anheuser-Busch) is on the first level down the first base side.  Big League Drafts (near section 120) features 16 taps with eight craft and local beers.  Plenty of other beer and cocktail stands line the entire concourses.  Beers generally cost $17 - $18.  Chase Field is a Pepsi venue with sodas priced between $8.50 - $11. Four restaurants (open to all) are at Chase Field: Caesars Sportsbook DTPHX - sports betting and dining (across the main entrance) Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers  (left field – open 7 days a week) Estrella Jalisco Cantina (upstairs in right field – open to the public) Bourbon & Bones Cocktail Lounge (next to Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers (open on game days) Atmosphere 4 The Diamondbacks deliver an enjoyable game day experience where, for the most part, the actual game still seems like the focus of attention.  The stadium is a bit dark inside when the roof and panels are closed. It’s much brighter and cheerier when it’s open.  That said, it is a relief to have a roof and air conditioning during the hot summer months. The stadium provides three levels of seating, with the middle level being the club level.  Most seats are the comfortable standard green fold-down stadium seats offering cup holders and ample legroom.  The upper third level is rather steep.  The lower left and right field seating areas have metal bleachers with backs and cup holders.  Nets protect the first level seating areas.  If sitting in the lower level, a distracting cable-mounted camera runs along the third base side, so those wanting to avoid it may prefer sitting closer to the field or the first base side.  The new scoreboard delivers outstanding video clarity and crisp replays, and it’s far easier to read than the previous one. Out‑of‑town scores appear on a dedicated board in the outfield, and boards display closed captioning for some pre‑recorded announcements. The organization runs promotions throughout the season that include bobbleheads, t-shirts, jersey giveaways, fireworks, ethnic heritage days, select public service member appreciation days, and more.  This 2026 season, the organization will honor and celebrate the 2021 World Series players and moments.   The music volume is acceptable.  Fans can have conversations with their neighbors without having to yell over the music. A unique feature at Chase Field is the swimming pool in right-center field.  Other stadiums have that now, J acksonville Jaguars' EverBank Stadium to name one , but Chase Field was the first.  Chase Field Swimming Pool, Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Another worthwhile stop inside the ballpark is the Hall of Fame and History Museum, which showcases the Arizona Diamondbacks’ story through its origins, logos, championship moments, autographs, Gold Gloves, and more.  The museum is on the first level of the center field concourse. Neighborhood 5 Located in downtown Phoenix, many restaurants, bars, hotels, and other entertainment options are within a few blocks of Chase Field. The Arrogant Butcher, Pizzeria Bianco, The Kettle Black Kitchen, Ingo’s Tasty Food, and Majerles’ are just a few blocks away.  If you’re just looking for an affordable craft beer before the game, check out the Whining Pig.  A Huss Brewing Brewpub is a few blocks from the stadium. Recommended places to stay within walking distance of the stadium include the Hyatt Regency Phoenix, Renaissance Phoenix Downtown, Courtyard by Marriott Phoenix Downtown, or Springhill Suites.  Plenty more are in the neighborhood. Since these are right smack downtown, they are pricey.  Other hotels near the Valley Metro light rail stations may offer more affordable choices.  Attractions near Chase Field include the Arizona Science Center, Wells Fargo Museum, Heritage Square, and St Mary’s Basilica.  During baseball season, you may be able to catch an NBA Phoenix Suns game or a WNBA Phoenix Mercury game, both of which play a block away at the Mortgage Matchup Arena. Fans 3 Diamondback fans provide decent encouragement to the team, albeit in small numbers.  However, when popular teams like the Red Sox, Cubs, Dodgers, or Yankees come to town, the stadium generally gets sold out.  Fan attendance generally runs a tad over 50% full, and the Diamondbacks are about the middle of the pack in overall MLB attendance.  Most fans sport their Diamondback hats and jerseys to games, and they are quite welcoming to visiting fans. Access 5 Chase Field is very accessible via automobile as it has close and easy access to I-10 and I-17. Plenty of parking is available for $15 - $25 in nearby garages and lots. The Chase Field Garage at 401 S 4th St is the closest. Parking is cashless at most garages. Some lots are cash-only. Even better than driving, Phoenix’s Metro Light rail system has stops a half mile from Chase Field’s. For the A Line exit at the 3rd St/Washington; for the B Line exit at the Downtown Phx Hub/1st Ave stop. Light Rail Station at Chase Field, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey If travelling from out of town, Sky Harbor International Airport is the most popular airport in the area.  A fan can take the light rail right from the airport to Chase Field.  Located in the APS Solar Pavilion by the main entrance, the stadium offers lockers to store luggage or oversized items ($15 or $25). Gates open 1 ½ hours before the first pitch Sunday - Thursday and two hours on Friday and Saturday.  Chase Field allows fans to bring in clear stadium bags (12” x 6” x 12”) and small hand-sized clutches.   Inside the venue, the concourses are wide (even on the third level) though I expect during a sold-out game even those can get crowded.  Only one escalator is available near the main entrance at Jefferson and 4 th  St.   Elevators are on hand to get patrons to the higher seating levels.  The stadium is equipped with seven all-inclusive restrooms which have baby changing tables. Return on Investment 4 Single-game ticket prices range from $26 up to $167 (they are generally higher priced when the Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers, or Cubs come to town).  Prices vary based on the game day and the opponent.  Check third-party sites to see if there are less expensive tickets if attending just one game. The D-Backs have extremely affordable season ticket holder packages and deals (even mini plans), so if living in the area, that is a more affordable option.  Concession prices are high but not uncommon for MLB stadiums.  They do have the $2.99 deal, so that’s a fantastic bonus.  Inexpensive parking or a $4 day pass ($2 for seniors) on the light rail makes getting to the ballpark reasonable. All in all, attending a game at Chase Field is worth any fan’s sports entertainment budget. Extras 5 Chase Field has several additional items worth noting.  APS Solar Pavilion – An energy‑efficient canopy offering over 14,000 square feet of shaded entry, while producing supplemental solar power for the ballpark. Chase Bank Card Holders – The Taste of Chase concession stand next to the main merchandise shop offers 25% off your purchase when using your Chase credit or debit card. D-Backs Insider – The organization provides a printed program with team articles, a scorecard, the schedule, advertisements, and stadium features. Banners – Chase Field displays numerous players’ banners throughout the concourse, on the columns, the walls, and above the seating entrance ways. Red Seat – One red seat honors a long-time season ticket holder. Final Thoughts Chase Field offers a pleasurable game day experience and is easy to access and navigate.  The swimming pool, retractable roof, and panels offer unique elements to the ballpark.  The new scoreboard, ribbon boards, and sound system are a clear indication that the Diamondbacks will remain in Phoenix for many years to come. A recommendation is to visit early in the season (April) to enjoy a game with the roof open.  Phoenix is a vacation destination in early spring and late fall, so enjoy a D-Backs game when in town.

Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey - Camping World Stadium The Jacksonville Jaguars have officially announced that they will, temporarily, play their 2027 NFL season at Camping World Stadium  in Orlando, Florida, while EverBank Stadium  undergoes extensive renovations. This significant relocation, approved unanimously by NFL owners, reflects a strategic decision aimed at enhancing fan experience and operational logistics during the construction period. The Jaguars are in the midst of a massive $1.4 billion renovation project for EverBank Stadium , which includes adding a protective canopy, expanding communal spaces, and upgrading seating options. The renovation is expected to be completed by August 2028, meaning the team will need an alternative venue for the 2027 season. Camping World Stadium , which is currently undergoing its own renovation valued at $400 million, will temporarily accommodate the team. This upgrade aims to boost the stadium's capacity to 65,000 seats and include new facilities, making it a prime location for NFL games. City officials in Orlando believe this temporary move will bring significant economic benefits to the region. The relocation is expected to generate substantial revenue for local businesses, hotels, and tourism activities, bringing a vibrant NFL atmosphere to the City Beautiful. Orange County leaders have already invested $10 million to secure the Jaguars for the 2027 season, underscoring the city's commitment to hosting major sporting events. Local fan engagement initiatives, including watch parties for NFL votes, are further energizing community involvement. The prospect of hosting the Jaguars has prompted a warm response from Orlando residents and local officials. Factors contributing to this positive sentiment include the excitement for increased local business opportunities and the historic relationship Orlando has had with the NFL, having previously hosted the Pro Bowl multiple times. Fans expressed enthusiasm for the Jaguars' temporary relocation, viewing it as an opportunity to bolster the local sports culture. Local events, such as watch parties at City Hall Plaza, are being organized to celebrate the upcoming vote, indicating strong community support for the initiative. Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey - EverBank Stadium Renovations at EverBank Stadium  aim to enhance the fan experience significantly, including advanced technology and improved facilities designed to keep the Jaguars competitive in the long term. The temporary relocation is framed not as a loss but as a necessary step toward a more sustainable and exciting home for the Jaguars, who plan to return to Jacksonville in 2028 for what is being dubbed the Stadium of the Future. The Jacksonville Jaguars’ temporary move to Camping World Stadium  in Orlando represents not just a logistical necessity but an opportunity for community enrichment and engagement, setting the stage for a vibrant 2027 season of football in Central Florida.

Rendering Couresy of Pepperdine University Construction is nearing the finish line on one of the most ambitious athletic facility projects in Pepperdine University history. Known as “The Mountain at Mullin Park,” the new development is targeted to open in Fall 2026 and will serve as the future home of Pepperdine Waves basketball and volleyball.  The venue will feature a club space that offers dual vies of the arena floor and the sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique experience for all in attendance. It is designed to be one of the most scenic settings in college athletics. The arena will be set up against the stunning backdrop of Malibu. At the heart of The Mountain is a 3,600-seat arena designed to bring fans closer to the action. The arena will feature a full 360-degree seating bowl, enhanced sightlines, and a center-hung video board to elevate the in-game atmosphere. Rendering Couresy of Pepperdine University The main entrance lobby will feature food and beverage options along with a large video wall to welcome fans upon arrival. A café and patio space will serve multiple purposes—operating as a casual dining and study area on non-game days, while converting into a concession hub during events. The adjoining outdoor patio offers yet another opportunity to take in ocean views. Premium seating areas, including the Julie Cardwell Presidential Suite, will offer upscale amenities such as fixed seating, lounge areas, and even a fireplace—an uncommon but fitting touch for cooler Malibu evenings. Behind the scenes, The Mountain delivers significant upgrades for Pepperdine’s student-athletes. Modern locker rooms, lounge areas, and team spaces are being built with both performance and comfort in mind. Players will move seamlessly from locker rooms through dedicated corridors and into the arena, with the potential for interactive fan experiences along the way. These design elements not only improve functionality but also help foster a stronger connection between teams and supporters. Rendering Couresy of Pepperdine University As the project nears completion, excitement continues to build around what The Mountain will bring to Pepperdine and the West Coast Conference. The combination of cutting-edge design, premium amenities, and a breathtaking setting positions the venue as one of the most unique in college sports. When the Waves tip off in their new home in 2026, fans can expect an experience that is as memorable for its atmosphere as it is for its views. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Dodger Stadium , the iconic home of the Los Angeles Dodgers, officially changed its name to UNIQLO Field in March 2026. This transformative decision not only marks a new era for the Dodgers and their fans but also reflects broader trends in sports marketing and branding. It is the largest baseball stadium in the majors, and has witnessed numerous World Series games, historic home runs, and several All-Star games. The venue's unique location and picturesque views of the San Gabriel Mountains have made it a cultural landmark. To call it by any other name would be uncanny. The Decision to Partner With UNIQLO With the venue now being referred to as UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium, the decision for the Dodger organization to partner with UNIQLO. The rebranding effort is part of the Dodgers' strategy to embrace new technologies and marketing opportunities, particularly focusing on engaging a younger demographic. UNIQLO , known for its trendy and quality clothing, sees this partnership as an opportunity to connect with fans both on and off the field. As much as the name change seeks to amplify brand presence, it also represents a serious financial commitment toward renovations and community initiatives. The Dodgers have promised to allocate a portion of the funds to local charities and youth programs, enhancing their social responsibility profile. Courtesy of UNIQLO Co., Ltd. The announcement elicited mixed reactions from fans, players, and analysts alike. While some welcomed the innovation and potential improvements to the stadium, many long-time supporters expressed nostalgia and disappointment over the loss of the Dodger Stadium name. Positive Reactions Modern Approach:  Supporters of the name change argue it reflects a modernizing trend vital for sports teams to stay relevant in the age of social media and digital engagement. Economic Growth:  Some fans view the partnership with UNIQLO as a positive move to ensure financial growth and better facilities for players and attendees. Negative Reactions Nostalgia:  Many loyal fans are saddened by the name change, interpreting it as a detachment from the stadium's historical significance and emotional resonance. Tradition:  Critics highlight that the stadium’s name has become a pivotal part of its identity, suggesting that changing it undermines the heritage linked to the Dodgers. Historical Significance of Naming Rights in Sports The practice of selling naming rights for stadiums and arenas has been common place for decades. Teams across all major sports leagues are increasingly looking for revenue through corporate sponsorships. While the transformation of stadium names can benefit organizations financially. In the case of UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium , this naming shift serves as a litmus test for how teams can balance financial viability with preserving tradition. Hence, the name change raises critical questions — how far can commercialization go before it alienates the very fans that sustain teams? If Dodger Stadium can have a corporate name, what about Boston's Fenway Park or New York's Yankee Stadium , t wo names steeped in baseball tradition. The team's ability to engage its fanbase during this period of change will ultimately determine the success of this new chapter. Whether viewed as a bold step into modernization or a jarring departure from tradition, the evolution of this historic venue will be closely followed by fans, critics, and other teams alike. Do you think this would fly in New York with Yankee Stadium?

Stadium Journey has been chronicling the ever-growing list of schools that have dropped athletic programs due to the increased financial demands associated with running Division One sports. Unfortunately, another team has joined the list. Last week, Mercyhurst University, a school with a total enrollment of 2,600 students located in Erie, Pennsylvania, announced it was dropping its men’s hockey program. Athletic Director Joe Spano said the decision follows a month-long review of the university’s academic and athletic programs. The process began after University President Kathleen Getz notified staff that Mercyhurst was evaluating restructuring efforts to better align with student interests and workforce needs. For many years, the hockey program was the school’s only Division One program, as the Lakers debuted at the sport's top level in 1999. Mercyhurst moved the rest of its athletic program to Division One in 2024. The men’s hockey team is the only one being eliminated in this cost-cutting move. “These were thoughtful and consequential decisions,” University president Kathleen Getz said in a statement. “They reflect our responsibility to ensure Mercyhurst remains strong, responsive, and focused on providing students with the opportunities and experiences that will prepare them for success.” “We took a really hard look at everything, and this is what made sense strategically—how it fit into the big picture and how we will be able to support it in the future,” Spano said. Mercyhurst has had some success over its history in Division One, including three NCAA tournament appearances (2001, 2003, 2005), four regular season championships and three postseason conference championships between the MAAC and AHA. However, the last decade has seen a dearth of success. The Lakers’ last title of any kind came in 2018. This was also their last season with a winning record. During the 2025-26 season, the Lakers finished 6-28-3, finishing last in the NPI out of all 63 D-1 teams. The team hasn’t won more than 10 games since 2023, and their average attendance of 721 ranked 64 th  out of the 67 Division One teams. Rick Gotkin, who took over the program in its second year of existence in 1988-89 and was the coach ever since, recently announced his retirement after 37 years. Assistant coach Tom Peffal was set to take the reins. “Our focus is on supporting every student-athlete through this transition,” Spano said. “We are committed to providing the resources, guidance, and individual support needed as they determine their next steps." Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Courtesy of the Greenwood Flying Monkeys The Blue Ridge League , an exciting new collegiate summer league based in Virginia and the Carolinas, has recently unveiled the Greenwood Flying Monkeys. This team is not just a fresh addition; it embodies the spirit of the town of Greenwood, South Carolina, often referred to as the “Emerald City.” With a whimsical connection to The Wizard of Oz, the Flying Monkeys are set to take the field at the storied Legion Stadium. Courtesy of the Greenwood Flying Monkeys Team Identity and Branding The team's branding resonates with nostalgic elements, drawing inspiration from the iconic book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz  rather than the well-known film adaptation. Greg Sullivan, the league chairman, emphasized this distinction when he stated, “We’re reimagining the Flying Monkeys from the original book, not the movie.” The branding reflects a sense of history and whimsy, allowing creativity to flourish while rooting itself in the town's heritage. The design, created by Evan Johnson Designs, features a smiling, winged monkey holding a baseball bat, cleverly incorporating its tail and feet. The color palette—composed of rich dark green, mint, and vintage cream—gives off a classic yet playful vibe, echoing Greenwood’s reputation and the whimsical essence of its new mascot. Courtesy of the City of Wilmington, NC Historical Context of Legion Stadium Home games for the Flying Monkeys will be held at Legion Stadium, a venue steeped in baseball history. This stadium has been a vital part of Greenwood’s sports culture, previously hosting teams like the Greenwood Braves and Pirates. The return of summer baseball to this historic site is seen as a significant step in revitalizing community engagement with the sport. “Greenwood has always had a strong baseball tradition,” Sullivan remarked. The Flying Monkeys aim to strengthen this tradition further, offering an innovative and unforgettable team identity that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. The facility serves as a versatile venue for performances, exhibitions, athletic events, and various activities, accommodating about 6,000 seats in total, with the grandstand seating 3,500 (including 500 with seat backs, while the remainder consists of aluminum benches) and the visitor side offering an additional 2,500 seats on aluminum benches. There are 40 handicapped seating options available, along with approximately 4 acres of paved parking. It features fully equipped concessions in the grandstand, an artificial turf main field, home and visitor field houses, and a press box complete with a public address system. Courtesy of the Blue Ridge League Structure of the Blue Ridge League The Blue Ridge League consists of a mix of six established teams, which include the Carolina Disco Turkeys, Marion Hungry Mothers , Queen City Corndogs, Uwharrie Wampus Cats, Davie Crocketts, and Joanna Hornets. Anticipation builds as the league has introduced two additional teams, the Spartanburg County Peaches playing at Jim Everhart Field and the Greenwood Flying Monkeys.  With a collegiate focus, the league operates as a summer wood-bat league featuring players from college programs nationwide. The upcoming season promises to be a captivating event, with the Flying Monkeys scheduled to play more than 20 home games from early June through late July. Starting their inaugural season in May 2026, the League now features a total of eight teams. Season play will commence on May 22 this year, coinciding with Memorial Day Weekend, and will continue until July 26. The top two teams in the league standings will compete in a best-of-three championship series, which is set to conclude in late July. A complete release of team schedules is expected this spring. NOTE : Prior to the launch of the “Blue Ridge League” for the 2026 season, two predecessor leagues operated under the Blue Ridge League name. The first Blue Ridge League existed from 1915 to 1918 and then again from 1920 to 1930, functioning as a Class D level league. It featured teams located in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  A second incarnation of the Blue Ridge League emerged from 1946 to 1950, also as a Class D minor league. This version was based in North Carolina and Virginia, featuring teams in mountain towns, several of which fall within our current league footprint. Leadership and Future Developments The Flying Monkeys have also appointed Payton Dawkins as their first head coach. A Columbia-area native and former player at Columbia International University, Dawkins played a vital role in the program's 2021 NCCAA national championship victory. He brings a wealth of experience as he prepares to lead the new team into an exciting inaugural season. Fans can look forward to further announcements regarding player signings, detailed schedules, and merchandise availability in the coming months, adding to the anticipation surrounding this new chapter for Greenwood and the Blue Ridge League. Courtesy of the Greenwood Flying Monkeys The Greenwood Flying Monkeys are not just a baseball team; they symbolize a creative, community-oriented initiative that invokes the charm of a beloved childhood classic while embracing Greenwood’s rich history and future potential in the world of baseball.

Photo Courtesy of UBBulls.com Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Broadview Arena 175 Alumni Arena Buffalo, NY 14260 Buffalo Bulls website Broadview Arena website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 6,100 The Bulls of Buffalo Editor's Note: On March 11, 2026, the University of Buffalo announced that they had entered into an agreement with Broadview Federal Credit Union, which includes naming rights to UB Stadium and Alumni Arena. The deal is reportedly good for 15 years and is worth a total of $31.75 million. Alumni Arena, a key piece of the State University of New York at Buffalo’s recreation and athletic complex, is located on the north campus of the university in suburban Amherst, New York. Built in 1982, the facility is part of a vast and sprawling campus which, incredibly, is almost perfectly designed for car travel – and that’s within the campus itself! Alumni Arena is primarily home to the men’s and women’s basketball teams, wrestling team and men’s volleyball team. An extensive renovation was performed in 2012, adding new chairback seating to reduce capacity to 6100, as well as additions of new lighting, video scoreboard, improved training facilities and a renovated concourse. Food & Beverage 4 Upgrades to the concession fare boost this score to a respectable four stars. The team has added numerous hot food items, including a personal pan pizza (cheese $4.75, pepperoni $5.00), the UB BBQ pulled pork sandwich ($4.75), Italian or Polish Sausage topped with kraut or peppers/onions ($4.25), and Buffalo’s famed Beef on Weck sandwich ($5.50). Combos come with soda pop and chips. Pepsi products are sold here ($2.75) as well as Tim Hortons coffee, hot chocolate, and cappuccino. ($2.75). No alcohol is served in this facility. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere here is a hit or miss sort of thing. Go during winter break when the students are away and the place can feel like a mausoleum. Catch a big game when the arena is full and things will be rocking. Unfortunately, the team has never been to the NCAA tournament since its promotion to Division One. The Bulls’ closest call came back in 2005, when in the MAC tournament finals UB held an 18 point lead against Ohio in the second half, only to see it evaporate, and Ohio won on a buzzer beater. An elusive MAC title and a trip to The Dance would undoubtedly elevate the program and its fan support. Neighborhood 2 The massive campus was built on a swamp as part of the larger master plan to transform this suburb into a huge planned community. That population explosion never happened, nor did a long promised Metrorail extension to ferry people from this campus to downtown Buffalo. Arriving by car is the preferred method for getting to the UB campus. Restaurant choices are abundant, but all are located some distance from campus, as even getting off the campus and into civilization can be a chore. Zetti’s Pizza on Maple Road is a good campus hangout. Duff’s famous wings on Sheridan/Millersport is a Buffalo institution. Just north up Millersport is Elmo’s, offering terrific pub fare. Go west about a mile on Maple Road, and you will happen upon Boulevard Mall. Casual dining eateries and national chains abound there, so take your pick. Fans 3 Another score upgrade is in order for the fans, who are embracing the team and the program in greater numbers, with the team enjoying another competitive season, and an arena which is warmer and friendlier on the eyes and contains more amenities. It is still a work in progress, however. More student support, drawing on a base of over 20,000 who attend here at UB, would be a huge step. Access 3 Hopefully one day we can report that the Amherst extension of the Metrorail has been funded and built, but for now driving is the best way to get to Alumni Arena. Once you follow the signs up Millersport and onto the ring road surrounding the campus’ academic spine, things get a bit dicey. There are massive parking lots, many of which are full on game night evenings, as the campus is in continuous use. Find a spot and then hoof it up to the arena, as there are few spots actually close to the building itself. Additionally, the Slee concert hall is right next door, and when there is a performance going on at the same time it adds to the congestion. Departing after the game can also be difficult to navigate, but once off campus and on the ring road or Millersport, things move quickly. Return on Investment 3 A 300 level ticket is priced at $15, and 100 and 200 level seats run $25. The ushers are pretty laid back here so upgrading from the nosebleeds is not a problem. Parking is free, and concession prices, while not dirt cheap, aren’t eye poppingly expensive either. Extras 2 Place a star for the Bulls Team Shop on the main concourse, which is a nicely appointed merchandise store. A second star is awarded for an amenity which has yet to be finished but is now underway- an interactive museum and Hall of Fame. Located in the arena lobby and concourse, the Hall of Fame is advertised via a huge banner in the lobby. Once completed, fans will be able to search inductees via a touch screen and view exhibits. Final Thoughts The building is hardly an architectural marvel, but a brutalist box shaped structure sitting amidst a campus which does not inspire the senses. UB Athletics has, however, taken great steps to improve the venue, soften the look and feel of public spaces and add amenities to enhance the game day experience. Find a weekend game, preferably one being televised on one of the ESPN’s, with something at stake, and you’ll happen upon a game night atmosphere worth checking out.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Broadview Stadium 102 Alumni Arena Buffalo, NY 14260 Buffalo Bulls website Broadview Stadium website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 29,013 Bullish Improvement Editor's Note: On March 11, 2026, the University of Buffalo announced that they had entered into an agreement with Broadview Federal Credit Union, which includes naming rights to UB Stadium and Alumni Arena. The deal is reportedly good for 15 years and is worth a total of $31.75 million. Once they were ranked 119. At the time, it was the worst ranking possible in all of Division IA football. The Sports Illustrated annual preseason ranking didn’t leave much hope for the program, either that year or too far into the future. The Buffalo Bulls were perennial NCAA Mid-American Conference doormats and it didn’t look like that was going to change any time soon. However, UB was thankful to be back in the game. Football began at Buffalo back in 1894. However, the student body of the State University of New York at Buffalo voted to stop funding the football program and in 1970 and football disappeared. The Bulls would return to football in 1977 and play at the Division III level until 1992. A commitment was made to move the team up to the top division and that journey was completed in 1999 when Buffalo joined the Mid-America Conference. Coinciding with the move up to Division I was the opening of UB Stadium. nestled neatly on the North Campus in the town of Amherst, New York, UB Stadium has been the home to football as well as other UB programs including track and field and soccer. Still, the Bulls failed to put a strong product on the field and the bottom of the MAC was practically owned by Buffalo. Key recruits in the late 2000’s including Drew Willy and James Starks along with head coach Turner Gill would turn the Bulls fortunes around. The Bulls success would culminate in their 2008 MAC Championship and a birth in the International Bowl, their first bowl appearance. Since that season the Bulls have been up and down but are no longer synonymous with the basement. Food & Beverage 3 Concession selections at UB Stadium are fairly pedestrian. There is not too much to get fans overly excited about the culinary experience. UB Stadium is made up of the main concessions along with a few mobile stands. The main stands feature pizza, burgers, hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, sausages, and grilled chicken. Probably not the greatest selection for fans. However, for fans that require to get something at the game, a Buffalo staple, Beef on Weck is available at the Red Osier stand. Soda selections feature Pepsi selections. Other options include Gatorade, water, coffee, and hot chocolate. There is no alcohol available at regular concessions. For fans heading to UB Stadium a couple of things to keep in mind. First, only the main concession stands offer the ability to pay with debit or credit. Mobile stands, including the Red Osier stand, are cash only. Second, for fans that are not jazzed about the options inside the stadium, perhaps it is best to grab something outside the stadium. Food Truck Row is an option for fans before heading in and the selection is far better than inside the stadium. Atmosphere 3 UB Stadium is by no means the greatest football structure going. Fans will approach most likely from the southwest corner. Pre-game festivities can be found in the lot to the southwest of the stadium known as Stampede Square. A large inflatable gate welcomes fans and is about as close to a main entrance as there is at UB Stadium. The design of UB Stadium is rather disjointed. Built originally as two main grandstands along the east and west sides of the north-south oriented field, UB Stadium has been expanded with seating in the end zones. The extra seating in the end zone is unnecessary as there are nowhere near enough fans to warrant expansion. The east and west grandstands are large, concrete behemoths that seem to have more structure than seating. There is not too much to make UB stadium stand out and it is pretty plain even compared to other MAC venues. Metal Benches are throughout the stadium and the perfect picture of the logo at the fifty-yard line is going to come from the west grandstand. The field features a synthetic surface and an eight-lane track keeps the stands rather far from the field. The Football Centre entrance does feature large posters advertising the few historic moments in Bulls history. Those include their MAC Championship in 2008 and birth in the International Bowl. Their Bowl appearances are few but featured with the 2013 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl joining the International Bowl. Khalil Mack, the Bull taken highest in the NFL Draft also has a large display. A poster honouring UB legend Willie Evans and his dedication to the Bulls program during and after his tenure as a player is also exciting. Finally, Buffalo’s refusal to play in the 1958 Tangerine Bowl, a team that featured Evans, due to racial tensions is also featured outside the Football Centre. There are no featured or retired numbers within view from the grandstands save for the number 41 which is decorated on both sidelines. The number is immortalized on the field for former Bull Solomon Jackson who unexpectedly died in 2016. Buffalo does its best to offer a top-notch game day experience. The Stampede Square tailgate area is a good spot to be pregame and they even offer a concert series to bring in more fans. In the game that was reviewed, the feature act was Better Than Ezra. The Bulls mascot, Victor E. Bull makes his way around the field and throughout the stands. The Bulls’ cheerleaders do their part leading the crowd in cheers and performing gymnastic stunts. Finally, the Buffalo marching band, Thunder of the East is very good and cements that college feel to the GameDay festivities. They play throughout the game and are not forced to compete with the PA music. The Bulls enter the field through a community outreach high-five line and the highlight of defensive drives is the playing of Hell’s Bells on third downs. Neighborhood 3 UB Stadium is located on the southeast corner of the University at Buffalo North Campus in the town of Amherst. The campus is rather large and the location of the stadium itself precludes much in the way of neighborhood attractions within walking distance. As far as pre and post-game fare goes, heading just off campus is the best bet. Just west of campus, on Sweet Home Road is the Blue Bull Tavern. It features all sorts of UB paraphernalia. Other options in that immediate vicinity include Papi Grande’s Mexican Restaurant, Zetti’s Pizza and Pasta, and Santora’s Pizza Pub & Grill. Maple Street in Amherst features a ton of familiar franchise restaurants. For fans that are looking for something unique to the locale, perhaps the Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the Buffalo Wing, is the place to stop. There are not many attractions to satisfy fans in the Town of Amherst. The Boulevard Mall is not too far away and there are several nature trails close to campus. On the opposite side of Millersport Highway are the Audubon Town Park and Amherst Audubon Golf Course. As limiting as Amherst may seem, it is a very short drive into the City of Buffalo and major tourist centers in Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario. As for sporting options, there are a ton. Right on campus, UB offers other college options, the most prominent of which is basketball at Alumni Arena. Other closeby college basketball options include Canisius Golden Griffins and the Niagara Purple Eagles. Both schools also participate in Division I hockey. A short trip to Orchard Park will bring fans to New Era Field, home of the Buffalo Bills of the NFL. Downtown Buffalo houses KeyBank Center, home of the Buffalo Sabres of the NHL and the Buffalo Bandits of the NLL. A couple blocks away from KeyBank Center is Coca-Cola Field, home of the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons . Fans 3 Buffalo Bulls fans have shown a huge improvement to coincide with the improvement of the program over the last 15 years. UB Stadium usually averages over 17,000 fans for a home game. That ranks in the bottom portion of the NCAA when compared to massive Power 5 schools. However, the number of fans that turn out to support the Bulls is not out of character for the conference. UB Stadium is too huge for the number of fans supporting the team, but the fans that show up are a hearty group and are engaged in the game day festivities. Unlike many other programs, Bulls supporters are not over the top and are more on the relaxed side. A nice feature at Buffalo is the proximity of the student section to the field. The student section is on the 50-yard line on the east grandstand and close to the field. Fans interact with the players before and after the game and players make a point of heading over to the student section. Access 4 UB Stadium is located at the southeast corner of the university’s north campus. Getting to campus is pretty easy as it is just east of the I-990 and I-290 junction and just north of I-90. Getting a parking spot is also pretty easy as there is plenty of free parking on campus, just a short walk from the stadium. There are plenty of attendants around to help direct traffic to an appropriate spot. For fans who require public transportation, some buses travel on Augspurger Road and Millersport Highway with stops close to UB Stadium. Check out the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority website for fares, maps, and schedules. Getting around the stadium can be a little bit of a challenge. Entering the west side of the stadium requires patrons to climb a fair number of stairs. Getting through the concourses is no problem given the average number of fans that attend games. The washroom facilities are also adequate about the average crowd. Return on Investment 4 Bringing the family out to a Bulls football game results in a great return on your investment. Tickets for the Bulls will usually run around $30 or less. There are plenty of available options as far as different seating goes. Parking on campus is free and concession prices are pretty decent. The tailgate concert at Stampede Square can cost an extra ticket. The beauty of Bulls football is the MAC experience, which offers a terrifically underrated product on the field. The Bulls’ improvement in recent years is testament to that. The game that was reviewed ended after seven overtime sessions. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Buffalo Bulls improvement that they have shown on the field. There is no question that the improvement on the field is directly linked to the improvement in football experience. An extra mark for the improved gameday experience including the tailgate concert series. An extra mark for the 1958 Buffalo Bulls and their ability to do the right thing in refusing to play in the Tangerine Bowl. Final Thoughts The Buffalo Bulls experience has improved over time. Coinciding with their improvement on the field, it is easy to say that the Bulls are no longer the basement of the NCAA. Their improvement has breathed new life into the program and made the experience much more enjoyable. Checking out UB Stadium and the Buffalo Bulls for some MACtion is an experience fan won’t regret. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and Instagram .

On March 30 the Mohegan Tribe, owners of the Connecticut Sun of the WNBA, announced that they had reached an agreement with the Tilman J. Fertitta family, owners of the NBA's Houston Rockets, to sell the team for a reported $300 million. As part of the sale, the franchise will move to Houston, Texas after the completion of the 2026 season and will be rebranded as the Comets. This announcement was met with much criticism, both locally and nationally.  The criticism was two-fold and directed squarely at interference by the league offices in the sale of the Sun. The Mohegan Tribe had received a pair of offers, both from New England-based groups, both of which were for more money than the eventual sale price from the Houston group. These New England-based bids to buy the Sun came from former Boston Celtics owner Steven Pagliuca, who would have moved the team to the TD Garden in Boston, and Marc Lasry, former co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, who planned to move the team to Hartford and PeoplesBank Arena . Both bids were reported to be around $325 million, a full $25 million more than the winning bid from the Houston group. Game Action at Mohegan Sun Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Why did the Sun take the lesser bid? Basically, they had no other choice; the league forced them to. When the league announced their recent expansion plans (with Houston notably left off the list), WNBA commissioner Cathy Englebert made it crystal clear that “Houston would be next, for sure.” When the Sun received bids for their team that included relocation, the league released a statement that made it clear that “relocation decisions are made by the WNBA Board of Governors and not by individual teams.” At this time, the league also noted that when the expansion process started, nine cities submitted bids, with Boston not among them. The league stated, “no groups from Boston applied for a team” and that the other cities “currently have priority.” But they neglected to consider this: At the time the league was taking expansion bids, the Sun was not yet up for sale, nor were there relocation rumors. Why would a Boston group enter into an expansion competition when there was a team already right in their back yard? Opening Tap at Mohegan Sun Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. So, in the end, the league got what it wanted. A team in Houston. And it’s great to have the Comets back. They were the league's flagship franchise in the early years of the WNBA, after all, winning consecutive championships from 1997-2000. But, there are far more losers in this deal than winners. The Mohegan Tribe was forced to take less money. The League lost out on a relocation fee. One of the top women’s basketball markets in the country is without a team for the foreseeable future, as expansion teams are already lined up for the next several seasons. The Players’ Union lost out, as this windfall of money was announced AFTER the new contract was finalized. Connecticut sports fans, already reeling from the announcement that the AHL's Bridgeport Islanders are moving to Hamilton, Ontario after this season, are losing another team after supporting it through the lean years of the WNBA. This league, with its history of getting in its own way, has done it once again. And the Sun will soon set on professional women’s basketball in Connecticut. Wolf Statue Guards the Entrance to Mohegan Sun Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Yes, the team that brought us the “Sweet Teats” in 2021 is up to it again. This season, the Milwaukee Milkmen , an independent team in the American Association of Professional Baseball , will play one game as the Franklin Benjamins on Saturday, August 15, 2026. This rebranding is the result of a fan contest in which supporters submitted ideas for temporary identities. The winning entry, submitted by Lane Hacker, creatively plays on the name of the Milkmen’s home ballpark: Franklin Field . Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey About the Franklin Benjamins The primary logo centers around Benjamin Franklin, the 18th-century American statesman known for his bifocals, his experiments with electricity using kites, and his role in signing the Declaration of Independence.  In the logo, Franklin wears a baseball uniform and his recognizable bifocals while striking a batting stance. Given that Benjamin Franklin appears on the American $100 bill, the team’s branding and uniform design draw inspiration from U.S. currency, featuring a color palette and design elements that reflect this theme. Previous Two-Day Name Change In June 2021, the Milwaukee Milkmen, known for their playful rebranding, adopted the name Milwaukee Sweet TEATS for two games. This fun name, a blend of cow imagery and the candy SweetTARTS, highlighted Milwaukee's vibrant culture. The Sweet TEATS sported candy-colored uniforms, taking the field on June 20 and again during the final home stand of the season. Fans had the opportunity to participate in a jersey auction, with proceeds benefiting the ROC Foundation and its network of over 50 nonprofits. Mike Zimmerman, CEO of ROC Ventures, expressed excitement about the unique color schemes, noting the team's enthusiasm for their bright new look. Sweet TEATS memorabilia was also available for sale. Courtesy of the Milwaukee Milkmen Community Engagement The Franklin Benjamins initiative furthers the team’s commitment to community engagement, showcasing how fan input and local culture can shape a sports team's identity. Fans can look forward to themed promotions and special activities during the Franklin Benjamins' game, such as trivia centered around Benjamin Franklin’s contributions. As the Franklin Benjamins take the field, fans are eager to embrace this distinctive name while celebrating the team’s rich history and local spirit. Get ready for a memorable season filled with excitement and creativity!

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Herb Brooks Arena 2634 Main St  Lake Placid, NY 12946  ECAC Men's Hockey Tournment website Herb Brooks website Year Opened: 1979 Capacity: 7,700 Home of the Miracle on Ice   The Miracle on Ice needs no introduction to hockey fans. Those who were watching back in 1980 will never forget Al Michaels’ immortal words “Do you believe in miracles?!” as the amateur USA Olympic hockey team defeated the USSR 4-3. Two days later, the Americans beat Finland to clinch an improbable gold medal, a feat not duplicated until this year in Milan.  What many fans might not know is that the arena where this historic game took place still stands and can still be visited even though it does not host a professional or college team regularly. Every March, ECAC Hockey holds its women’s and men’s tournaments at Herb Brooks Arena, offering traveling fans a chance to witness meaningful games at American hockey’s most historic venue.   The arena opened in 1979 and was called the Olympic Center Ice Rink until 2002, when Verizon somehow got the naming rights. After coach Herb Brooks passed away in 2003, the venue was renamed in his honor in 2005. The conference first held its tournament here in 1993 and has left and returned on two occasions, the most recent being in 2022.  This year, Stadium Journey made a visit to the men’s championship game to experience the rink 45 years after The Miracle.   Food & Beverage 4  Above the main entrance to the building and before entering the rink proper, there is a large lobby with several tables available to all fans. Here is where you will find Roamers Cafe, a cashless concession with a good selection of eats. Most appealing might be the Mac & Cheese with Bacon for $13, the same price as chicken tenders with fries or a chef’s salad.   Families can avail themselves of a chicken tenders bucket with fries for $45, while a hot dog bucket with fries is $35. A single hot dog is $5, as is popcorn and king-sized candy. A pretzel with cheese is $7, and a veggie hummus wrap is surprisingly $15.  A variety of beer is available with 16-ounce cans of Labatt Blue and Blue Light going for $8, while local craft options are a dollar more. Most intriguing is that the soft drinks are neither Coke nor Pepsi, instead Adirondack supplies the soda, with cans of cola, diet, or zero sugar $3.  Inside the arena itself, a few smaller concessions can be found around the concourse, including Miracle Eats, where a sausage with peppers and onion is $12, the same as a cheese pizza. If you want pepperoni, add $2 to your bill.   Note that this pricing is specific to the ECAC tournaments, which are over for 2026. Next year, you can expect to pay a bit more and there is no guarantee that the offerings will be the same.  Atmosphere 5  The arena is inside the Olympic Center and you will use the Miracle Plaza entrance, where you go through security. To the right is an impressive museum that is worth the $15 admission price as it contains memorabilia from the two Olympiads here in Lake Placid. To the left are two displays that celebrate the 1980 win over the Soviets.   To get to the arena itself, go upstairs to the lobby, where you will have your ticket scanned (this means that anyone can enter the building and enjoy the concessions without a ticket).   Inside the arena is a single asymmetrical concourse between two levels of seating. On one side and behind the nets it is open and there are drink rails where many fans stand to watch the game, but along the other side, there are walls that prevent you from seeing the action as you walk around. Along the open side around center ice are a few restaurant-style tables (with tablecloths) that probably are not available to the public.   The lower bowl is typical for modern hockey rinks with red seats all around, except, of course, for the Zamboni entrance. For an older rink, there is a surprisingly large amount of leg room between the seats, which obviously have been replaced since 1980. In some photos, you will notice the space between the first row of seats and the boards; this is due to the larger ice surface used in international hockey. Avoid the lower rows if you can for this reason.   The upper deck consists of six rows of wooden benches; though most of these sections were closed. Each member of the 1980 gold medal team is commemorated with a banner above here. If all sections are open, capacity is 7,700.  There are also temporary features for the ECAC tournament, including sweaters for all 12 schools along with their tournament title years.   The ECAC consists of six Ivy League schools (all but Columbia and Penn), five other schools in New York (Clarkson, Colgate, RPI, St. Lawrence, Union), and Quinnipiac. The eight schools who did not make the trip to Lake Placid had banners atop the four-sided scoreboard.  It was cool to see the seamlessly integrated displays of the past and the present, a rather unique mix in the sporting world.  There was an in-game host who kept fans entertained during the rare breaks in the action and the intermissions. Even though this was a neutral site game, there were still messages encouraging fans to “Make Some Noise!”, which many did. Of course, it is really the aura of this rink that makes the atmosphere most enjoyable.  Neighborhood 5  Lake Placid is a small resort town with a lot of sports history. It is still the home of the U.S. Winter Olympic Training site and all the facilities are still there. The Olympic Jumping Complex features 100- and 128-meter ski jumps, an elevator ride to incredible views of the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, and a zipline ride back down. Mt. Van Hoevenberg is nearby and allows visitors to experience bobsled, luge, and skeleton, along with cross-country skiing and an indoor climbing gym.   At Whiteface Mountain, you are able to ski the same terrain used for alpine events. These four sites can all be visited with the Legacy Sites Passport, a worthwhile purchase if you are staying in the area for a few days. This pass includes the Olympic Museum and tours of the arena, which is a great option if you are visiting any time other than when the tournament is being held.  The Adirondacks offer much more in terms of hiking, though with the tournament in mid-March, you might need snowshoes. Regardless, if you enjoy being outdoors, Lake Placid has you covered.  In terms of restaurants and bars, Sol de Oro Sports Bar and Grill is right across the street from the rink, as is The Boat Tasting Room, where you can sample a variety of beverages from Wood Boat Brewery and local wineries.   Lake Placid’s downtown is next to Mirror Lake and Main Street runs parallel to it for a few blocks, with dozens of establishments of all types, all within walking distance of the arena. (The actual Lake Placid is just north of town.)  As a resort, Lake Placid’s lodging can be expensive in the winter. The 2027 men’s tournament is held on the weekend of March 20-21 and as of this writing, it is too early to book rooms, but for the previous weekend in March you are looking at a minimum of $200 to stay in town. The Rodeway Inn Lake Placid South is about a 25-minute walk away and usually the least expensive option, for good reason. Generally, I would recommend booking as far in advance as possible with a cancelable rate and checking periodically for reductions in price.   The women’s tournament is held two weeks earlier and attendance for the games is about half that for the men, which might be another option for those who really want to see the arena. Again, Lake Placid has a lot more than just this hockey tournament and is a popular winter destination in its own regard, so keep that in mind when planning a trip.  Fans 4  The two teams I saw play were equally supported in the crowd, along with a few neutrals whose teams had lost the night before and even some local fans. Everyone was well behaved and enjoying the intensity of the game. Still, there were some fans who broke the cardinal rule of attending a hockey game by getting up in the middle of the action. There are lots of whistles in hockey and that is when you go to the concession or return to your seat. So, a point is docked.  Access 2  Lake Placid is not easy to get to. Located in Upstate New York, the closest highway is Interstate 87. The portion from Albany to the Canadian border is not tolled and generally free of traffic. Turning off here, you will take a two-lane highway for about 30 miles with limited options for passing.   Normally, this should not be a problem, but on tournament weekend, the much more popular FIS Cross-Country World Cup Finals were also being held. This meant that traffic into town was limited and there were bottlenecks several miles out while cars turned off into parking lots for shuttle buses.   If you are coming from the west, you could take I-81 to Watertown and then drive about 2.5 hours through the mountains. Obviously careful planning is required if you are driving in this area in the winter.  Around town, parking can be hard to find and is not free, with meters enforced from 8-8 Monday through Saturday and from 1-8 on Sunday. For future tournaments, I would expect no other events to be held on the same weekend but make sure to check schedules and plan accordingly. There is no dedicated parking at the arena itself.  The PlacidXPRSS is a free shuttle bus that runs through town every hour or so and might be helpful for getting around, though most restaurants are walkable from the venue. You would need a vehicle to access the other Olympic facilities however.   Inside the arena, the concourse is quite narrow and can get very crowded with standing fans and those making their way around. Concession and restroom lines are very long during intermissions, so get your food beforehand or sneak up during a break in the action.     Return on Investment 5  The ECAC tournament holds two semifinal games on Friday and the championship on Saturday. Tickets were $50 for each day, or $75 for an all-session pass. This is a pretty good deal to see some decent hockey in the most historic rink in the country and well worth the expenditure, with food reasonably priced as well.  Extras 5  There is so much to see here, as you would expect from a small town that held two Olympics. Outside you can find some Olympic sculptures, while just inside the main entrance are the actual scoreboard used in that game and a statue of Herb Brooks.  The museum is incredible and really should be visited as early as possible. As mentioned, the 1932 Games were here, and they were just the third Winter Olympics in history. Naturally, the 1980 hockey team takes precedence in the displays, though every sport is honored, including speed skating, which saw Eric Heiden claim all five gold medals in 1980.   In one corner of the concourse is a small artwork to remind you that there are sports other than hockey.    Final Thoughts  Overall, Herb Brooks Arena is as impressive as you would expect. The combination of history and location cannot be beat, just like the 1980 team. It is fitting that ECAC hockey continues to use this historic rink to crown its champion. If you have yet to be, consider visiting for one of next year's tournaments to see this vaunted venue in action.

Stadium Journey’s Special Correspondent Chris Tuck reports from Prague on a historic night of European and world football. On the southern wall of the Old Praha Town Hall Tower, in the fading light, the famous astronomical clock strikes 6:00pm (CEST). In just 12 hours’ time, the final qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be known. Old Praha Town Hall Tower, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey So far, 42 countries have qualified, and it has been quite a journey for those who have taken tonight’s more ‘circular’ route to the finals — extra games, extra excitement, extra stress. Tonight, eight European sides will produce four more qualifiers, while four intercontinental teams compete for the final two places. International time zones dictate that it is Europe first. Nowhere is the drama more heartfelt than in the Czech Republic. They last qualified for a World Cup in 2006 and sit 43rd in the FIFA rankings. Their Scandinavian opposition Denmark, sit 23 places higher and are favourites to progress. The Letná Stadium , however, is a Central European stronghold. Tickets sold out in minutes, and locals arrived at the home of club side Sparta Prague with more hope than expectation. Denmark fans arrived in good voice and great heart — serial qualifiers, they were confident of a summer trip to the United States. Denmark Fans PreMatch and in Away Section at Letna Stadium, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Elsewhere, Italian fans arriving at Stadion Bilino Polje in Bosnia were racked with nerves. Surely the mighty Azzurri could not miss three consecutive World Cups? The final two European qualifiers saw Turkey head to Stadiumi Fadil Vokrri in Kosovo, while Poland travelled to the Strawberry Arena in Sweden. As Father Time signalled that the talking was over, Czech fans produced a cacophony of noise and pyrotechnics. Four minutes later, they were in dreamland. Czech Republic 1–0 Denmark (Šulc) Just 72 hours previously, up to 200,000 protesters had gathered in Letná Park, just yards from the stadium, against the policies and plans of the new Czech government led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš. Tonight, just under 20,000 inside the Letná Stadium breathed a collective sigh of relief as the half-time whistle went. Denmark had over 70% possession, with Pierre-Emile Højbjerg pulling the strings in midfield. The Czech Republic had defended with their lives. Elsewhere at the break, Italy led by a goal to nil, Sweden were beating Poland 2–1, and Kosovo v Turkey remained goalless. 21:30 … tick tock… tick tock Red card for Italy. Turkey score. Bosnia equalise. Christian Eriksen comes on for Denmark… Eriksen, whose cardiac arrest while playing for his country in 2021 left him clinically dead for several minutes, remarkably returned to continue his career and featured throughout Denmark’s 2022 World Cup campaign. Thirty seconds after taking to the field, with no tangible contribution, Denmark equalise. The majority of the 18,215 crowd are silenced. 22:40 … tick tock… tick tock Sweden are through. A 3–2 win breaks Polish hearts and a second Scandinavian side has made it to the USA. Turkey win 1–0 in Kosovo, denying the hosts a first-ever World Cup appearance. Two games go to extra time — in Zenica and in Prague. 22:51 … GOL! screams the electric scoreboard as the Czech Republic retake the lead. The large screen reveals it is the 100th minute. It is down to four degrees, but Czech ultras remove their shirts and hold scarves aloft. It is surely their time. Czech Republic Scarves Aloft, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Back in the town centre, the old clock strikes 11pm. The Czech Republic are minutes from qualification. Seven minutes later, it is 2–2. And so, as it so often does, it comes to a penalty shoot-out — such an American-style conclusion that it somehow feels fitting. Italy do what Italy now do: three missed penalties, and their New York diaspora won’t get to welcome their European cousins. In Prague, time slows. Czech National Team Qualifier Match 2026, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Denmark inexplicably miss three penalties, and Scandinavia will have to make do with just two representatives. In Prague, fans hug, scream, and a country unites in a way only football can inspire. All over? Not quite. As the clock keeps pace with a spinning world westward, Mexico hosts the final two matches. DR Congo — a country scarred by conflict — defeat Jamaica at the Estadio Akron and become the 47th team to qualify for USA/Mexico/Canada 2026. Around 12 hours after the old clock began the evening’s journey, the final whistle sounds at the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, and Iraq take the final qualifying place. Forty-eight disparate but proud nations now have just ten weeks before taking to the world stage. Back in Prague, the sun has risen on a new day. The first tourists arrive beneath the medieval astronomical clock to hear the famous chimes. Tick tock…

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Rogers Arena 800 Griffiths Way Vancouver, BC V6B 6G1 Vancouver Warriors website Rogers Arena website Year Opened : 1995 Capacity: 19,700 Weekend Warriors The National Lacrosse League has long been known as an everyman league, where the players are generally more accessible than those in other major leagues, and many are actually “weekend warriors” who have regular jobs during the week.  In 2018, the Vancouver Stealth were sold to Francesco Aquilini and his Canucks Sports and Entertainment and moved from the Langley Events Centre in Langley, a significant distance from downtown Vancouver, to Rogers Arena.  This was a huge moment for the newly minted Vancouver Warriors bringing NLL lacrosse back downtown for the first time since the days of the Vancouver Ravens in 2004.  The Warriors franchise was originally the Albany Attack in 2000.  The team moved to San Jose in 2004 to become the Stealth and then up to Everett, Washington in 2010.  The move was made to Langley in 2014. Rogers Arena is home for the Warriors and owned by Canucks S&E.  Built in 1995 as General Motors Place and a replacement for the Pacific Coliseum, the arena most famously served as the venue for Sidney Crosby’s golden goal for Canada in the 2010 Winter Olympics. Food & Beverage 4 The concession options at Rogers Arena are on par with just about any other major league arena.  For Warriors games, the upper bowl is draped off, so the main concourse concession stands are what is available.  Burgers at Triple O’s, hot dogs at Steamers, sandwiches at Melt and Carve, pizza at Panago, noodles at Chop and healthier food at Sante are all options.  There are plenty of alcohol options, although Molson Beer is definitely the title sponsor and Molson Canadian is readily available.  The main concourse does not have 360-degree access as the club section requires a ticket to enter that concourse.  The concession area offers a food court type seating area.  Inside the arena, there are bars on both ends of the floor that also offer light snacks. Atmosphere 4 Rogers Arena has an attractive exterior with silver panelling with blue highlights.  It is really wedged into Downtown Vancouver with viaducts on both sides of the arena.  Of note, the opening scene of the movie Deadpool was filmed on one of the viaducts just outside Rogers Arena.  There is no real and true main entry at Rogers Arena and entry is at multiple levels.  A number of entries will not be open for Warriors games as the upper level is normally not sold.  There are a number of Vancouver Canucks banners on the outside of the arena and a couple of Warriors banners also.  Inside the arena, the main concourses are fairly wide and non-descript with not too much that is interesting to see.  Inside the seating bowl, the floor is east-west oriented with the best spot for the centre logo picture from the north.  There are plenty of Canucks banners and markings hanging from the ceiling, but none for the Warriors.  A banner commemorating the opening concert by local favourite, Bryan Adams, also hangs.  The roof is vaulted, circus-tent like shape and is fairly unique.  With the upper deck curtained off to give a more intimate experience, the lower bowl capacity is around 12,000.  Rogers Arena features a state of the art, four-sided video board above the floor and a full ribbon around the upper bowl fascia.  The Party Zone is found at the east end on the floor and the Rally Zone at the west end.  Both spots are very popular. Gameday production at a Warriors game is a little more muted than some other NLL experiences.  Music does play throughout the game, but the PA announcer is less involved than in some places like Toronto or Buffalo.  There is plenty of use of the LED lights above and in the partitions of the glass.  The goal horn at Rogers Arena is from a BC Ferry.  The Vancouver Warriors Dance team participates in the pre-game and performs during breaks in the action.  Timbr the Sasquatch, the Warriors mascot, participates in the pregame and some of the performances also.  Destanik also performs in the Rally Zone during halftime and pregame. Neighbourhood 5 Rogers Arena is located in Downtown Vancouver, adjacent to Chinatown.  There are a number of spots for pre or post-game food and drink within walking distance of the arena.  Some options include The American, London Pub, Shark Club, Bodega on Main, The Keifer Bar, The Pint Public House and Frankie’s Italian.  A major city like Vancouver has a number of other sporting options.  Rogers Arena is shared with the Vancouver Canucks  of the NHL.  Other options include the British Columbia Lions , Vancouver Whitecaps FC , Vancouver Goldeneyes and the UBC Thunderbirds varsity teams.  Other tourist options in the area include Stanley Park, Chinese Garden, Vancouver Aquarium and the BC Sports Hall of Fame, found in BC Place.  Vancouver also offers among the mildest climates in Canada.  The proximity to golfing, skiing and beaches is excellent.  Fans should also consider taking in the tour of Rogers Arena. For fans wishing to stay near the arena, Hotel Blue and Hampton Inn are just steps away. Fans 4 Fan support of the Vancouver Warriors has slowly increased over the years.  The return to Rogers Arena and new ownership should not be undervalued.  At the time of writing, in the 2026 season, the Warriors averaged over 9,700 fans per game, a slight increase from the previous season.  The Warriors ranked 4th out of the 14 team NLL.  There is still room for improvement, of course.  However, with the upper deck draped off, Warrior attendance is in a great place.  Fans in the stands are knowledgeable and supportive of the team.   Access 3 Rogers Arena is located in Downtown Vancouver, adjacent to Chinatown.  It is wedged between a pair of elevated roads, known as viaducts.  It is found on the east side of Griffiths Way.  Getting to the arena can be a bit challenging due to the different elevations of different roads and fairly significant Vancouver traffic.  There are some surface lots and parking garages in the immediate area, however, they fill quickly.  The best option is to plan to be at the arena early and pre-pay for parking if possible.  There are a number of different public transit options, including the Aqua Bus, buses along Expo Boulevard as well as the subway, which is found at the Stadium-Chinatown stop, close to the arena.  Fans should consult the TransLink website for fares, maps and schedules. Entries into Rogers Arena take place on a number of different levels and exterior staircases are prevalent around Rogers Arena and BC Place.  With the upper level curtained off for Warriors games, this is less of an issue than for Canucks games.  The concourses are of decent size, however, the club section in the 100 level has concourses blocked off.  This does not allow fans without club section tickets 360-degree access to the concourse.  Washroom facilities are adequate for the arena. Stadium Journey recognizes that arena security is constantly changing and strongly encourages consultation of the Vancouver Warriors  and Rogers Arena  websites for the most up to date security protocols, including bag policy and prohibited items. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the Vancouver Warriors begin at $29 for General Admission entry.  Standard tickets run from $37 to $63.  Paid parking should run around $25 and concession prices are what one would expect in a major sports facility.  The gameday production in Vancouver is solid and the product on the floor has improved significantly over the last few seasons.  Overall, fans will definitely enjoy their outing to see the Vancouver Warriors. Extras 3 An extra mark for British Columbia as a hot bed of lacrosse. An extra mark of the ownership of Canucks Sports and Entertainment along with the return to Rogers Arena.  Both have given the Warriors a significant shot in the arm. An extra mark for being able to experience a major league venue for less than major league money. Final Thoughts The Vancouver Warriors are putting together one of their best seasons to date.  Returning to Rogers Arena under the ownership of Canucks Sports and Entertainment has been a boon for the team and they are quickly becoming an upper echelon team in the National Lacrosse League. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.