Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium 9900 Hemphill St Fort Worth, TX 76134 NAIA Football National Championship website Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 8,000 NAIA National Championship – Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium The National Alliance of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)  was founded in 1940, in part as an alternative to the NCAA and focusing on smaller schools (many of which are private and/or faith-based institutions). Since 1956, the NAIA has held playoffs and a National Championship game  for their participating football schools. The 2025 rendition of the NAIA National Championship was played this year between the Grand View University Vikings  and the Keiser University Seahawks , squaring off in Fort Worth, Texas at Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium. Normally home to Crowley Independent School District’s high school teams, as well as NAIA member Texas Wesleyan (Rams) , this stadium is one of the higher-end Texas high school football venues. While the Grand View Vikings took home their second straight National Championship, and their third overall, everyone who attended felt like a winner. Read on to learn more about the facility and the game.   Food & Beverage   2 First and foremost, fans attending games at this stadium need to understand that it is a high school venue, so the food and drink options are what you would expect at a high school and/or small college facility. You can get your nachos, hot dogs with or without chili, and hot links (which are a nice addition), as well as popcorn, candy, bottled water, soft drinks, and sports drinks. The stadium has two stands, one on each side of the facility, across from each other on the north side of the field. Lines do tend to bottleneck at the expected times, such as at halftime and during long breaks in the action, but by and large things move fairly quickly. One more caveat, again, as this is a high school venue; alcohol is not available.   Atmosphere   2 Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium is a fine venue, but for the most part, anything in terms of atmosphere is geared towards its regular high school tenants. The stadium is adorned with plenty of NAIA banners and signage during this championship matchup, however. There is also a store that sells NAIA Championship merchandise; some of the t-shirts are even printed on demand, which is a nice touch. Beyond the team logos on the scoreboards, however, you won’t find much else telling you who is playing that day – this doesn’t detract from the game too much, however. Anything else “atmospheric” about Crowley Stadium is centered on the Crowley Eagles and North Crowley Panthers.   Neighborhood   3 Fort Worth is one of the largest cities in Texas, and the second largest in the sprawling behemoth that is the DFW metroplex. For sports fans in Texas this is the place to be, as every major professional league and several big time college brands call the area home; the Dallas Cowboys , Dallas Mavericks , Texas Rangers , Dallas Stars , and FC Dallas are all located within 45 minutes of Crowley Stadium, while both TCU and SMU   play their Division I sports a short drive from the stadium as well. If you time your visit right, you should be able to take in at least one other game while you’re in town. If you’re looking for something else besides sports to do, a visit to Cow Town should not be done without a stop to the Fort Worth Stockyards , which is exactly what someone who’s never been to Texas imagines it would be like – a daily cattle drive of Texas longhorn steers is the highlight of a complex replete with historic sites, reenactors, entertainment and dining venues, museums, and shopping of all kinds. Live music can also be found around every corner, and the area is truly just a site to behold. In terms of dining and lodging, there’s an embarrassment of riches for both scattered throughout the Metroplex; your only limit is your budget. However, if you’re looking for something in the immediate area of the stadium, there are a few choices. For dining, Piattello Italian Kitchen  is an award-winning spot a short drive from the stadium. If you’re looking for scratch-made Italian cuisine, Piattello is the spot for you. You might also visit Courtside Kitchen , a pickleball spot that serves sandwiches, burgers, wings, and cocktails. When it comes to lodging, there are quite a few spots within a short drive of Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium – these include Motel 6 Fort Worth – Burleson  and Home2 Suites by Hilton Burleson . As with dining, however, your budget is what’s going to impact your selection.   Fans    3 I was not sure what to expect as far as turnout for this game, as neither Des Moines, Iowa (home of Grand View University), nor Fort Lauderdale, Florida (home of Keiser University) are anywhere near Fort Worth, Texas. Consider me pleasantly surprised by the turnout, as much of the home team side for Grand View was filled on the lower bowl; those fans were loud as all get out and were into the game the whole way through. On the opposite side of the stadium, there were less fans in attendance for Keiser, but they were no less vocal. If this is how the NAIA does it, I am going to spend some more time at their games in the coming years.   Access   4 The site for this year’s NAIA National Championship, Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium, is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Fort Worth, and just under an hour’s drive from Dallas, less than a 40-minute drive from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. So, it makes it fairly centrally located to what’s going on in the Metroplex. Located just off Interstate 35W, getting to the stadium is pretty much a straightforward drive. If you do venture up the highway, you will have the benefit of the facility being sandwiched between two Buc-ee’s , one in Fort Worth and one in nearby Hillsboro. Once you get on-site parking is plentiful, as both lots are open for the game, one on the home team side and one for the visitors.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets for the NAIA Championship go for as low as $40, with parking at $10. There are also no concession items greater than $6, so the only thing that price-wise might be a sticking point is getting one of the on-site printed shirts at around $45 each. All in all, that’s not too bad of a hit to the budget for a college football championship game.   Extras   2 Being as the two participants this year are small schools, I didn’t expect them to travel with a lot of the regular pageantry that would normally be found at their home games. Keiser, for example, brought no mascot nor band, nor their cheer or dance squads. Grand View only brought their mascot, Viktor. I love a good mascot, and Viktor leaned into his surroundings on this visit, as he was replete with a cowboy hat (on top of his Viking horns), a lasso, and bib overalls. He also sported a wooden stick horse, which was a nice touch.   Final Thoughts This game was a lot of fun and ticked off another item on my bucket list. College football is at its best when it relies on its history, traditions, and the often zaniness that can happen with a fan base. Schools at the NAIA level seem to be, for the most part, immune to the problems plaguing the higher levels – and that is naturally a good thing. It might be a little Pollyanna-ish to think this way, but the game seemed simpler and from another time. The old cliche of guys playing for the love of the game seems apropos here. If you’re a fan of college football and the way things used to be, definitely take in the NAIA National Championship – and if it’s at Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium, all the better. Lastly, congrats to the two-time defending champion Grand View Vikings. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

The gang gets back after a year hiatus to discuss their favorite trips, cities, games, and biggest surprises of 2025. You can find all of our fantastic video content on Stadium Journey's YouTube page.   For audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast, visit HIAC Talk Radio .

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Grand Casino Arena 175 West Kellogg Boulevard St Paul, MN 55102 Minnesota Wild website Grand Casino Arena website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 18,064 The Wild State Of Hockey Editor's Note - On September 3, 2025 Minnesota Sports and Entertainment announced they were entering into a 14-year naming rights agreement with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, owners of the Grand Casino properties. The Minnesota Wild continue to play before hockey-crazed, sellout crowds at Xcel Energy Center. The building, while 23 years old, continues to shine as fans rock out to Shout after every Wild goal. The team was born in 2000 following the departure of the original Minnesota North Stars who fled their home in Bloomington just outside the Twin Cities to relocate to Dallas in 1993. Minnesota has never had the privilege of seeing a Stanley Cup champion. The North Stars did reach the finals twice in 1991 and 81. The arena is situated in downtown St. Paul unlike the Vikings, Twins, and Timberwolves who all play in Minneapolis. St. Paul, the capital of Minnesota, is home to Minnesota United FC of the MLS and the St. Paul Saints of the International League (Minnesota Twins AAA team). Food & Beverage 4 There is a wide array of food and beverage choices. The sit-down dining options include Flynt & Kyndie, The Reserve, and The Michelob Golden Light Tap House. Wild Greens, The Deli, Wrecktangle Pizza, and City Burger are some of the other choices. Unfortunately, all are located on the Club Level with the exception of the Tap House and Wild Greens. Some of the other options include local craft beer at MN Craft, local sausage at Market House Meats, Philly cheese steaks and pub chips, taphouse wings, Nordy’s Knots (traditional German pretzels), and Cookie Dough (JR’s Dough Shop). Just for an idea of beverage prices, a bottle of water is $6, Domestic Beer is $12, Craft Beer is $13 and a large craft is $16. The Xcel also offers fans convenient grab-and-go choices which are quickly coming to many stadiums. There is the Wild Market near Section 113 which features Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology so fans do not have to wait. Guests either insert their credit card to enter or hover their palm over an Amazon One device. The items selected are automatically linked to their credit card. Atmosphere 4 The State of Hockey theme is reinforced throughout the stadium.​​ The concourse takes on a Minnesota vibe with an angled roof and wood beams. On the West Side, the arena recognizes every boys and girls high school program in the state with a display containing each jersey.​​​​ There is also a tribute to the 1980 Miracle on Ice team. The concourse fills up well before game time and can get heavily congested. The Xcel Center offers four levels of seating with 74 suites.​​ There is a standing room section at the top of the lower and upper bowls with numbered countertops. The crowd is passionate and unlike some arenas, most fans are seated before the teams take the ice. There is a suite level and then two additional levels. The corners are broken up by a crow’s nest. The organist sits in one location and the other is a Lighthouse with a Fog Horn that lights up when the Wild scores. Fog billows out of the Lake Superior style Lighthouse and envelopes the arena leading up to the opening faceoff. The arena unfortunately favors loud rock music to organ music during stoppages. On this visit, the organ was only played once per period. The mascot Nordy is either in his perch or roams the lower bowl and bangs his drum to encourage the “Let’s Go Wild!” chant. Nordy at Xcel Energy Center, Photo by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey The current LED Video Board was installed in 2014. It is a typical center-hung scoreboard seen at most NHL venues. The only negative is it does not inform fans of the players who are on ice during the game. Neighborhood 4 The area around Xcel is probably the most vibrant part of the city especially at night with bars, restaurants, and hotels in the nearby vicinity. There is also the RiverCentre, Roy Williams Auditorium, and the Science Museum of Minnesota within walking distance. There are three hotels (Courtyard Marriott, Holiday Inn, and Hampton Inn) just across the street. The historic, luxury St. Paul Hotel completed in 1910 is also nearby. Two attractions worth visiting are the Cathedral of Saint Paul (the third-largest Catholic cathedral and sixth-largest church in the United States) and the Capitol Building. The Capitol offers free, 45-minute guided tours Monday through Saturday. The Minnesota State Capitol dome is the second largest self-supported marble dome in the world, behind Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Fans 4 The Wild averaged 18,454 last year which translates into a sellout every night. The crowd is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and engaged. Fans turn on their cellphone flashlights at the end of the pregame ceremonies to illuminate the arena prior to the Wild taking the ice. Prior to the game and in between periods, fans flock to the Hockey Lodge to purchase souvenirs and merchandise of their favorite team and players. The stores even stock some of the past Minnesota North Stars colors as the team has a Stars alternate jersey that they wore on this visit. Each year in March, fans flood Xcel Energy Center for the state boys' high school hockey tournament. The overall attendance last year was a record-setting number of over 135,000 fans for 8 sessions. Access 4 Xcel Energy Center is nestled between two major freeways (Interstate 94 and 35E) making it easily accessible. The arena is serviced by two ramps: RiverCentre Parking Ramp and Kellogg Parking Ramp, both of which are directly connected to the complex. The building can also be accessed from several Metro Transit bus lines and the light rail Green Line. The light rail is about a 10-minute walk. Bags, purses, and backpacks are not allowed. Clutches, wristlets, and wallets sized 4” x 6” x 1.5” or smaller are permitted. The facility is cashless. There are 5 entry gates. Gate 1 is the largest and allows access to the main lobby. Gate 5 is reserved for the Bremer Bank Suite Level and RBC Wealth Management Club Level. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are in the middle of the pack for NHL teams. Tickets could be as low as $50 for early season games on weeknights for the upper level, but the lower bowl will run $100 or more before fees. Food prices are in line with the going rate for NHL stadiums these days. There is a $6 happy hour deal where food and beer are discounted (16 oz beers, fountain soda, hot dogs, and pretzels with cheese) up to 30 minutes before faceoff. Parking can be found for about $15-$35 depending upon how close the lot is. Park Wiz is always a good option to find less pricey parking thru advanced purchase. Extras 3 Xcel Energy also hosts the Minnesota State Hockey Championships and is home to the NCAA Frozen Four for the fourth time in 2024. A number of big performers have dates at Xcel. The Eagles, Jonas Brothers, and Madonna are some of the headliners in 2023-24. The crow’s nest is a nice feature. The third platform features a special guest yelling “Let’s Play Hockey” to culminate the game. The other highlight is the Peanuts Character statues clad in Wild jerseys as a tribute to Peanuts creator and avid hockey fan the late Charles Schultz (a St. Paul native). Snoopy at Xcel Energy Center, Photo by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Despite being over 20 years old, the arena seems relatively modern and up-to-date. With enthusiastic fan support in a rabid hockey market, Xcel Energy Center is clearly worthy of a Stadium Journey.

Acrisure Stadium Pregame, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey By now most of you have probably waved a rally towel or two. Rally towels are a common sight during games with high significance and especially throughout post season games. Some fans who have a collection of rally towels will even have a story behind certain ones. But perhaps the most recognizable rally towel to sports fans around the world is one that is now celebrating its 50th anniversary. The Terrible Towel. 50th anniversary Terrible Towel. Photo: Pittsburgh Steelers The 50th anniversary Terrible Towel is available for purchase  and is guaranteed to sell fast. Born 50 years ago  on December 27th, 1975, longtime Steelers broadcaster Myron Cope was the mastermind behind this “terrible” phenomenon. “I said, what we need is something that everybody already has, so it doesn't cost a dime. So I says, 'We'll urge people to bring out to the game gold or black towels,' then I'll tell people if you don't have a yellow, black or gold towel, buy one. And if you don't want to buy one, dye one. We'll call this the Terrible Towel.”.   “The Terrible Towel is not an instrument of witchcraft. It is not a hex on the enemy. The towel is a positive force that lifts the Steelers to magnificent heights and poses mysterious difficulties for the Steelers' opponents only if need be. 'Many have told me the Terrible Towel brought them good fortune, but I can't guarantee that sort of thing because the Steelers, after all, are the Towels' primary concern. 'Still, at the least, the symbol of the Terrible Towel will serve as a memento of your having been a part of the Steelers Dynasty and if it causes good things to happen to you, so much the better.' “ Myron Cope. With the Steelers large worldwide following, fans have not also been known to bring their Terrible Towels to see their Steel City heroes on the road but on international vacations as well, posing in front of landmarks such as the Great Wall or the Eiffel Towel with their beloved gold rag. Photo: Pittsburgh Steelers As the NFL season approaches its final weekend, the Pittsburgh Steelers will be on the national stage on Sunday night as they take on their bitter division rival Baltimore Ravens in the final NFL regular season game of the year at Acrisure Stadium  with the winner taking the AFC Central crown and the loser looking to 2026. With all that’s at stake, you already know 65,000 plus fans will have those terrible gold colored keepsakes twirling. Some of those towels may actually be 50 years old! For more on this terrible icon, check out below A Steelers Story: The Terrible Towel . https://youtu.be/_2HLglwcfc4

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Canadian Tire Centre 1000 Palladium Dr Ottawa, ON K2V 1A5 Ottawa Senators website Canadian Tire Centre website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 18,652 Sens Hope To Move Back To The Capital The Canadian Tire Centre, which opened in 1996, is more a point of discussion not for where it is, but where it isn’t. The CTC, whose main tenant is the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, is situated in Kanata, a 25-minute trip from Parliament Hill without traffic, but can take 50 minutes to one hour by car on weeknights through rush hour traffic on Highway 417. The alternative is a train-to-bus combo that makes the trip in about 1:20. After the game, it often takes 20-30 minutes to get an Uber/Lyft, and there is no central place for rideshare pick up, which makes for a logistical nightmare as passengers are forced to wait in sub-freezing temperatures post-game. The good news is help could be on the way as the Senators have acquired land downtown and intend to build a new facility. The big question is when construction starts and when the new home be ready to move in. Location, location, location. The building was named The Palladium upon opening in 1996, became the Corel Centre until 2000, and was called Scotiabank Place from 2006-2013. The arena will turn 30 in January 2026. The Senators, who play in the NHL’s Atlantic Division, are moving forward with plans for a new home at LeBreton Flats, having recently signed a land-sale agreement with the National Capital Commission (NCC) in August 2025 for 11 acres. This project is part of a larger redevelopment including housing, retail, hotels, and restaurants, aiming to solve current arena accessibility issues, though land cleanup and design mean a potential opening is likely around 2031-2032. Senators fans, stay patient. Sens fans are patiently waiting for their team to win its first Stanley Cup. Ottawa reached the finals only once in 2007, losing to the Anaheim Ducks. Unfortunately, the Sens supporters are surrounded by more established hockey hotbeds in Toronto, four hours to its southwest, and Montreal, two hours to its east. The current iteration of the Senators is not the original professional team in Ottawa. The original Ottawa Senators were a force in the pre-Original Six days and dominated the early 1900s, claiming eleven Stanley Cup Championships between 1903 and 1927. The Ottawa Black Bears of the National Lacrosse League also play in the building. The Senators are currently owned by Michael Andlauer. The sale was approved by the NHL in September 2023. The team was sold following the passing of Eugene Melnyk in 2022. Andlauer is best known for his logistics companies (Andlauer Healthcare Group) and has prior hockey experience, including owning the OHL's Belleville Bulls. Food & Beverage 4 The concession scene at Canadian Tire Centre offers plenty for the hockey fan to indulge in. CTC starts with the Grab and Go. Fans can grab popcorn, candy, snacks, soft drinks, and beer, and use the self-checkout for a quick exit. The other options included Smoke’s Poutinerie, Tim Horton’s, ByTown Grill (including Cuban sandwiches and burgers), Capital Eats, Chef’s Kitchen, Gabriel Pizza, and Popcorn Factory. Then there are a host of bars serving beer, high-end mixed drinks, and cocktails. CTC serves Coca-Cola products, as well as Dr. Pepper and Canada Dry Ginger Ale. Some of the bars include: Wayne Gretzky Distillery, Six 1 Three, Lone Star Cantina, Hard Rock Club, and Go Sens Go. Hard Seltzer is $14.39, Twisted Tea is $15.15, Domestic beer is $14.08, and Premium is $14.75. A bottle of Dasani is $5.75, and $7.05 for Smart Water. A 9’ cheese pizza is $14.15 from Gabrie,l and a Canadian Cubano is $23 from ByTown Market. Atmosphere 3 The Canadian Tire Centre is probably a mid-level NHL venue for atmosphere. It features solid sightlines and is a good place to take in a game with not as many amenities. The exterior of the CTC is impressive as the cylindrical structure is lit up and has nothing blocking its view. A long canopy along the central sidewalk leads fans into the building and offers protection from the elements (wind and snow), which can be brutal. Ottawa gets a significant amount of snow, averaging around 88-92 inches per season (223 to 234 centimeters), which makes it one of the snowiest national capitals. Ottawa gets more snow than Toronto and sometimes double the amount in some winters. The "Sens sign" in front of the building provides prominent signage and the perfect spot for fans to stop for a selfie on the way in. Behind the sign is a natural gas fireplace. The Molson Cup is located on the third level, a Canadian hockey award given to the player on a Canadian NHL team with the most three-star selections in a season. CTC uses a blend of organ music and popular music. The scoreboard is not one of the better ones in the NHL. The screen is a bit smaller than most, and the board does not show which players are on the ice during live play. The Ottawa Team Shop is located inside the building in the main lobby at Gate 1 and is open from 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday. Neighbourhood 3 Most likely, if you are visiting Ottawa from out of town, staying downtown is the preferred choice. There is an outlet mall and a few hotels, including Wyndgate by Windham and Microtel Inn and Suites, reasonably close, but they are not within walking distance. The Fairfield Inn and Suites is slightly more than one mile away. A very short drive to Terry Fox Drive will bring fans to the Kanata Entertainment Centrum, which is a large retail area with many dining options. Beaver Tails, which is an Ottawa must, can be found at the nearby Tanger Outlets. Beaver Tails, established in 1978, is known for its unique Canadian pastries, but also offers hot dogs, poutine, and ice cream. Ottawa boasts one of the premier tourist destinations in Canada. Being the capital city, the Parliament buildings are high on the list of places to see. There is plenty of availability for a free 40-minute tour of either the House of Commons or Senate, which can be booked online Parliament of Canada . Museums are another way to beat the cold and learn about the city and the nation. The litany includes: Museum of Nature, Canadian War Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Royal Canadian Mint. Lansdowne Park and the Rideau Canal are worth checking out, and skating on the canal is highly recommended. Typically, the canal opens for skating around New Year’s Day. Fans 4 The Senators fans were invigorated last year as they made the playoffs for the first time in seven seasons. Led by young studs Tim Stutzle, Brady Tkachuk, Jake Sanderson, and Dylan Cozens and first-year coach Travis Green, the Senators were back in contention. Ottawa played to about 92% capacity last year at 17,306 per home game. The Senators are averaging 16,811 midway through the current season. The fans are enthused but not as fervent as the fans in their two nearest competitor cities, Toronto and Montreal. The Sens fans are urged on by team mascot Spartacat, who is an energetic, anthropomorphic lion who debuted in 1992. Spartacat makes his way around the CTC witha drum in hand to lead the “Go Sens Go” rallying cry. Access 3 The doors open for Senators games two hours before game time. Entry was simple as CTC has frictionless scanners located at Gates 1, 2, and 3. Patrons can walk through the scanners without emptying their pockets. Bags will still need to be x-rayed. The arena is conveniently located off Highway 417. The exits that will lead you to Canadian Tire Centre are Terry Fox Road and Palladium Drive. There are plenty of parking lots surrounding the arena. Parking runs from $21-40. It is recommended to pre-pay through Ticketmaster. ​​Parking Lots 5 and 9 are “SLAP SHOT” lots, which allow you to park and pay from your phone. Slap Shot Lots must be paid upon arrival (or up to 4 hours in advance of event time) through the Indigo Neo Parking App on a mobile device. Just pull in, park, register your plate, and pay. Fans coming from downtown can take the 1 train to the 62 bus, which stops at Palladium, 5 minutes from the arena. For more information, visit octranspo , The Sens’ website states guests dropping off/picking up passengers may use Frank Finnigan Way, located directly in front of Gate 1. But there is no dedicated area for rideshare,s which is a big negative. A difference not seen at any other NHL venue is that tickets are not scanned at the entry point but instead scanned as people enter the level of their assigned seat. The other quirk is that fans cannot walk completely around the lower bowl, as the Bell Club (sections 109-113) prevents a complete revolution. Return on Investment 3 According to the Fan Cost Index for the 2024-2025 season, the Ottawa Senators were one of the cheapest options in the NHL, ranked 28th at $487.29. That’s the best value in Canada and second best in the league. Prices of food and collectibles are comparable to those of other NHL buildings. Ticket prices are on the more reasonable side, except for rivalry games vs. Montreal or Toronto. Upper level tickets can be secured for weeknights for as little as $5,0, while lower bowl will run as low as $150. Extras 3 The Senators earn an extra point for their return to the original expansion logo in 2020 that the Senators wore during their first season in 1992. The change has been well-received as it brought back the familiar two-dimensional profile of the Roman soldier with minor tweaks to the colors and design The arena garners another point as CTC was the final Canadian building to showcase NHL icon, Wayne Gretzky. Gretzky’s final game in Canada was played at the Corel Centre on February 21, 1999. There is also the Wayne Gretzky Distillery in Section 109, which opened in 2024. The third point is for the beautiful Molson Canadian Fan Deck (opened 2016) on the second level in sections 214-216. The special VIP vinyl stadium seats are behind the net the Senators shoot at twic,e with a full bar directly behind the seating area. A check of TicketMaster Canada revealed a ticket in the fan deck to a March game v Anaheim goes for $156 Canadian or $114 USD. Final Thoughts The Canadian Tire Centre is more than an adequate venue to watch a hockey game. Sens fans dreaming about a new shiny toy in downtown Ottawa might have to wait a bit before the Yellow Brick Road to the capital is complete. Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on Twitter @VenutoGreg and Facebook .

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Tribute Communities Centre 99 Athol St E Oshawa, ON L1H 1J8 Oshawa Firewolves website Tribute Communities Centre website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity : 5,180 (6,125 including SRO) East Side Fire In 2021, the Toronto Rock  moved westward from Toronto to the city of Hamilton. Among the most controversial issues surrounding this move, along with keeping the Toronto brand, was the greater distance that lacrosse fans on the east side of Toronto would now have to travel for the highest level of professional lacrosse. In 2025, a plan to help alleviate this issue was hatched with the relocation of the Albany FireWolves  to Oshawa. Oshawa is 63 km east of downtown Toronto, about equidistant east of Hamilton is west. The FireWolves franchise lineage dates back to the original Philadelphia Wings , who were an original Eagle Pro Box Lacrosse League, now the National Lacrosse League, team in 1987. The Wings moved to Connecticut in 2015 to become the New England Black Wolves, and Albany in 2021 to become the FireWolves. Home for the FireWolves is the Tribute Communities Centre. Built in 2006 and known mainly as the home of the Oshawa Generals  of the OHL, the former General Motors Centre is due a renovation to expand the capacity from 5,100 to 7,000. This move gives the FireWolves the smallest building in the league.  However, Oshawa has been a bit of a lacrosse hotbed over the years with a fairly strong junior scene. Food & Beverage 3 There are a number of concession stands in the main concourse that provide an average selection of expected arena concession options.  Menu items include pizza from Pizza Pizza, burgers, hot dogs, sausage, fries, poutine, chicken fingers, popcorn, nachos, and candy.  Soft drinks include Coca-Cola products, coffee, tea, and slushies.  There is a decent selection of alcoholic beverages, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Alexander Keith’s IPA, Stella Artois, Corona, Mill Street Organic, various seltzers, and wine.  Prospects Bar & Grill is a sit-down, full-service restaurant found on the north side of the arena that offers floor views.  Reservations need to be made for window tables. Atmosphere 3 Tribute Communities Centre is the smallest venue in the NLL and a junior hockey arena first.  The exterior features brown brick and a curved main entrance at the northwest corner.  The main entrance also features a tower and large ads for both the FireWolves and Oshawa Generals.  The northwest corner is a good pregame meeting spot, and the Noel Harding sculpture “Reverb” offers a landmark to aid in meetings. Entry into the Tribute Communities Centre brings fans right to the Generals Team Store and ticket windows.  FireWolves gear is sold on a temporary table in the main concourse and not the Gens Store.  Fans ascend a staircase to bring them to the main concourse, which is behind the top level of the main seating bowl.  Posters of Generals Ring of Honour members are found above the section staircases.  A few Oshawa FireWolves photo op areas are set up in the main concourse, including a lit “OFW” sign and a pair of lacrosse player cutouts.  The Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame is also found on the main concourse.  The Hall of Fame is open on Wednesday afternoons and during Generals games, but was not open for the FireWolves.  Hall of Fame member sketches are found on the walls around the concourse, while the Hall of Fame is full of Oshawa sports artifacts.  The arena floor runs from east to west, with the main logo best seen from the north side.  The seating consists of the main lower bowl and a club level with suites and club seating on the upper level.  At the time of writing, it is unclear how a future renovation to the Tribute Communities Centre will bring the capacity up to 7,000.  A four-sided videoboard, with a lower LED ring, hangs above the centre logo. The gameday production at a FireWolves is a little more muted than some other NLL experiences.  Music is selected by DJ Sweet Lou from the upper northwest corner and plays during gameplay.  The sound system is good, and announcements are easy to understand.  The PA announcer is more like a traditional hockey announcer, focusing on announcements rather than engaging fans and leading chants during gameplay.  When the FireWolves score, a loud train whistle blares, followed by Nickelback’s “Burn It to the Ground.” The FireWolves Fury Dance Team performs during some media breaks and partakes in the pregame player, and dances in various areas in the arena, including in front of Prospects.  Alphie, the mascot, carries the flag to the floor for pregame and moves around the arena, interacting with fans and taking part in promotions. Neighbourhood 3 Tribute Communities Centre is located in Central Oshawa, a neighbourhood that is a bit depressed.  There are some food and drink options that are within walking distance of the arena.  These include Madrock’s Bar & Grill, Mountain Burgers and Avanti Trattoria.  The Tribute Communities Centre is shared with the Oshawa Generals  and Ontario Tech University offers hockey  and basketball  for sports fans to take in.  Other tourist options in the area include the Regent Theatre, Robert McLaughlin Gallery and Canadian Automotive Museum.  For fans wishing to stay near the arena, La Quinta Inn is right across the street. Fans 4 Oshawa’s entry into the National Lacrosse League is not without its obstacles regarding fans.  Oshawa resides in the smallest building in the league.  The game that was reviewed was the second of the season.  Not surprisingly, the FireWolves attracted over 5,300 fans for their debut against the Toronto Rock. After the first three weeks of the season, this ranks the FireWolves 8th in the league.  This average would have ranked them 10th compared to the 2024-2025 season teams.  For the game that was reviewed, the attendance was 4,850.  Oshawa has made a strong showing so far.  It will be interesting to see where attendance ends up later in the season and how a renovation of the Tribute Communities Centre helps get a larger crowd.  The fans in attendance are fairly energetic and add to the experience.   Access 4 Tribute Communities Centre is located in Central Oshawa on the south side of Athol Street, between Charles Street, Bruce Street and Red Tilson Lane.  It is only 2 km north of Highway 401.  Getting to the arena should not be too difficult, but traffic in Central Oshawa can get busy closer to gametime.  There are a few parking garages north and south of the arena, but getting to the arena is a good idea to ensure a parking spot.  For fans who wish to take public transit to the game, there are bus stops on King Street, a block north of the arena.  Fans should consult the Durham Region Transit  website for fares, schedules and maps.  Getting around the arena is not too difficult, but a full house can lead to some crowded concourses.  The washroom facilities are adequate for the facility.  Stadium Journey recognizes that security protocols for major sporting venues are constantly changing.  Stadium Journey strongly encourages fans to consult the Oshawa FireWolves  and Tribute Communities Centre  websites before heading out to become familiar with the latest security requirements, including prohibited items and bag policy. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the FireWolves begin at $42 for ends and go up to $79.  This is by no means the most expensive ticket in the NLL. The small capacity at Tribute Communities Centre makes it a good plan to purchase tickets earlier rather than later.  Concession prices at Tribute Communities Centre are decent and parking can be found for $5.  The product on the floor is fast paced and hard hitting and the FireWolves do a good job with their gameday production.  A FireWolves experience is a little more muted than some of the more over-the-top NLL experiences, which is not a bad thing. Extras 3 An extra mark for the FireWolves lineage back to an original Eagle Pro Lacrosse League franchise, the Philadelphia Wings. An extra mark for the return of lacrosse to the east side of the Greater Toronto Area, which was left wanting with the Toronto Rock moving west. An extra mark for the FireWolves moniker and its connection to Indigenous culture. Final Thoughts The relocation of the FireWolves to Oshawa from Albany is an ambitious idea moving to the smallest venue in the NLL.  However, the move to the Tribute Communities Centre has brought professional lacrosse back to the east side of the GTA.  It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the FireWolves. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Amica Mutual Pavilion 1 LaSalle Sq Providence, RI 02903 Providence Bruins website Amica Mutual Pavilion website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 11,273 Get AMP’ed!!! The Amica Mutual Pavilion, which opened in 1972 as the Providence Civic Center, was built to house the Providence College basketball team  and the Providence Reds of the American Hockey League. Rechristened due to a new naming rights agreement with Rhode Island-based Amica Mutual Insurance, “The AMP” (the new nickname really hasn’t caught on yet) is a popular site for national touring acts as well as a regular stop for the NCAA basketball and hockey tournaments.   The Providence Bruins are the American Hockey League affiliate of the nearby Boston Bruins. The P-Bruins moved to the Ocean State from Portland, Maine in 1992 and currently enjoy the longest uninterrupted affiliation in the AHL, playing their 34 th season in 2025-26. The team has qualified for the playoffs in 26 of their first 33 seasons in the Ocean State’s capital. The P-Bruins have won one Calder Cup, in 1999.   Providence is one of minor league hockey’s legendary cities, with a history the predates the AHL. The Reds called Providence home from 1926-1977. The Reds won four Calder Cups and three Fontaine Cups as champions of the Canadian-American Hockey League.   Food & Beverage 4   Most of the concessions at the AMP are located in a pair of food courts on either side of the arena. Stands are operated by local favorites Sal’s Pizza and Saugy Franks. You’ll find all your arena standards here, including burgers, chicken tenders and oversized pizza slices. Hot dogs come in regular and jumbo sizes.   The snack game is strong at Amica Mutual Pavilion, highlighted by the most popular items at P-Bruin games, Dough Boys and Del’s Lemonade. Both are so in-demand that they get multiple carts scattered around the concourse. Of course, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, fries and more can be found at all the stands.   Coca-Cola products are featured at the AMP. A wide variety of macro beers can be found all over the facility alongside many local brews, including Five Minute Major golden ale, brewed by Union Station Brewery.   Atmosphere 4   The AMP is a pretty entertaining place to be on weekend nights. The affiliation with the nearby Boston Bruins ensures that the fans who visit downtown Providence are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the team on the ice.   The focus of the game day presentation is the large video board that hangs at center ice. Videos, fan cams, graphics grab fans’ attention during play stoppages. Contests and giveaways during stoppages get the younger fans involved, filling the arena with noise at the most random times. Samboni, the team’s mascot, wanders the crowd from time to time, but doesn’t add a whole lot to the experience. Tables set up along the concourse for sponsors hawking their wares provide the occasional bit of swag for visiting fans.     Neighborhood 5     The Amica Mutual Pavilion is located in downtown Providence, within walking distance of a great number and variety of restaurants and attractions. Providence has a reputation as one of the top destinations in the country for foodies, and the area within walking distance of The AMP reflects the diversity and quality of options in the city as a whole.   Federal Hill, Providence’s Little Italy, is located a short walk from the arena. Several nationally renowned Italian restaurants can be found here. Closer to the front entrance of the AMP are local mainstays such as Blake’s, Murphy’s Pub and the Vig.   Also within walking distance is the Providence Place Mall, an upscale shopping center with several national stores and several more choices for the hungry basketball fan. If visiting during the fall or spring, you may be able to check out Waterfires, an outdoor festival which has been held several weekends every year since 1994, during which eighty cauldrons lining the Providence, Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck Rivers are lit on fire. Many other cities have copie d Waterfire, but the original started right here in Providence. The full schedule of Waterfire lightings can be found  here .   Entertainment options in downtown Providence vary from the nationally renowned Trinity Repertory Company and Providence Performing Arts Center to historic sites such as the Arcade, the nation’s first enclosed shopping center, and the Rhode Island State House.   Fans 4   Providence received the equivalent of the New England hockey “Golden Ticket” when the incredibly popular Boston Bruins placed their top farm team here in 1992. Since then, the P-Bruins have ranked in the top 5 in terms of attendance in the American Hockey League in almost every one of their 30 seasons.   The Bruins fell out of the top five in the AHL attendance rankings in 2024-25, but still managed to draw over 7,100 fans per game. The team is on pace to match or exceed that figure again this season.   Rhode Island is one of the most hockey-crazed parts of the country, with a rabid fanbase and strong youth programs in all parts of the state. This is reflected in the typical P-Bruins crowd, which is a mix of long-time diehards, casual fans, families and groups. The Dunk is full of noise and energy throughout the season.   Access 4     The Amica Mutual Pavilion is located in downtown Providence, easily accessed via Interstate 95. Be warned that traffic in and around Providence can be quite heavy if visiting on a weekday, so prepare to take some extra time to arrive. The recent demolition of half of the Washington Bridge, the main access into the city from the East Bay, has exacerbated traffic around Providence.   There is ample parking in the many surface lots and garages around the Amica Mutual Pavilion. Downtown Providence can be a busy place, particularly around the holidays. Fans utilizing public transportation will be pleased to know that both Kennedy Plaza, the hub of the loc al  RIPTA bus service , and  Union Station, the local Amtrak stop , are located a short walk from the Amica Mutual Pavilion.   The Amica Mutual Pavilion features a large seating bowl with excellent views of the court. All seats at the arena are individual folding arena seats. The concourse and restrooms received a makeover in 2008, and the arena is fairly easy to get around. Expect lines to form in the food court and restrooms during halftime, so plan your trips accordingly.   Return on Investment 3   Tickets to P-Bruins games are priced at $37-45 for lower bowl seats, with upper-level seats priced between $30-37. The P-Bruins run specials that will help defray the cost of tickets, with $10 off, Two for One and Me Plus Three packages offered for practically every game on the schedule.   As you may expect, parking in the downtown area around The Dunk will incur another charge. Parking in the lots and garages around the arena costs between $20-40 dollars, depending on location and night of event. If you don’t mind a little walk, you can park at the Providence Place Mall and get your parking validated for just $5. Enclosed walkways bring you from the mall all the way to the Dunk. There is plenty of free parking in the neighborhood for those who want to search a little bit.   Concessions are generally in line with other venues in the area. Local fans comparing a P-Bruins game to the big boys in Boston will undoubtedly enjoy the cheaper prices here.   Extras 3                                                                                                 Providence is an original AHL city, with a professional hockey history that predates the league. Hanging from the rafters of The Dunk are banners commemorating championships won by the Providence Bruins and their predecessor, the Providence Reds. Located in the lobby are plaques honoring local soldiers, the Providence Bruins 1999 Calder Cup championship team, and Providence player of the (20 th ) century Zellio Toppazzini.   Be sure to seek out the historical touches that abound around the arena, in particular the interactive kiosks on the far side of the concourse that commemorate the long history of the Providence Reds. The Reds have their own historic society that continues to operate today. In addition, the Rhode Island Hockey Hall of Fame has added an interactive kiosk to the display.   Fans looking to pick up some Providence or Boston Bruins gear will enjoy the well-stocked Pro Shop located at The Dunk. In addition, there are small kiosks on the concourse and in the lobby. The team has numerous specialty nights throughout their schedule, and has started adding merchandise for these theme nights, including the very popular Providence Fightin’ Parms.   Final Thoughts   Providence and the Amica Mutual Pavilion are often mentioned among the top American Hockey League travel destinations. The combination of a modern arena, frenzied fan support and a fantastic downtown area make The AMP a first-rate destination. Rhode Island has no shortage of quality hockey arenas in the area. It’s a quality Stadium Journey destination.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 MassMutual Center 1277 Main St Springfield, MA 01103 Springfield Thunderbirds website MassMutual Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 6,800 A Decade of Thunder   The Mass Mutual Center debuted in 1972 as the Springfield Civic Center. Attached to the arena is the largest convention center in western Massachusetts, which was built in 2005. In addition to hosting several minor league hockey teams over the years, this was the home of the Hartford Whalers for part of the 1978 season when a roof collapse at the Hartford Civic Center forced the Whalers to search for a temporary home.   The city of Springfield is a charter member of the American Hockey League, with a hockey history that goes all the way back to 1926. Seven Calder Cup Championship teams have played in Springfield.  The original AHL team in the city, the Indians (who were rebranded as the Kings from 1967-1974) played in Springfield for 60 seasons before moving to Worcester in 1994.   Ex-Indian players Bruce Landon and Wayne LaChance secured an expansion franchise for the following season, but the team, named the Falcons, was plagued by inconsistent attendance and a revolving door of affiliations. At the conclusion of the 2015-16 season it was announced that the Arizona Coyotes were purchasing the team and moving them to the Tucson Arena as part of the AHL’s westward expansion.   On May 4, 2016 a consortium of local business owners announced they were purchasing the Portland Pirates and relocating them to Springfield for the 2016-17 season. The name Thunderbirds was chosen to evoke not only images of the mythological bird but also to honor the Air Force’s presence in the region. The Thunderbirds have qualified for the playoffs three times in their first nine seasons, reaching the Calder Cup Finals in 2022.   Food and Beverage 5   The MassMutual Center has an impressive array of concessions options for such a small arena. Highlighting the offerings is a stand run by Bear’s BBQ, where hungry fans can grab their popular Mac Attack bowls topped with brisket or pulled pork. Randy’s Wooster Street offers its specialty pizza slices, and Barrio Cantina serves up Tacos, nachos and flautas. The Tater & Tot stand serves up their signature chili served over loaded hot dogs, tater tots and baked potatos.   Fenway Park’s legendary Sausage Guy operates a busy stand, and fans can also hit up the Chick-fil-A stand for a sandwich or the Casa del Sol Cantina for some loaded nachos. Stadium Journey recommends getting yours in a souvenir goalie helmet. Fans looking for a healthier alternative can head to the Jugitos stand, where assorted smoothies and acai bowls are sold.   Fans looking for a pub-type atmosphere can visit the Breakaway Lounge or the Center Grille, where a selection of drinks and arena classics are served up. If you have a sweet tooth that needs a fix, Crumble serves up their oversized gourmet cookies, and fans can get soft serve ice cream and Dippin’ Dots.     Pepsi products are featured at the MassMutual Center. Fans looking for adult beverages will find no shortage of options, headlined by the Michelob Ultra Bar. Alongside a massive selection of macro brews is local favorite Thunder Boom IPA from White Lion Brewing. Bear's BBQ Stand at MassMutual Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Atmosphere 4   After decades of sporadic crowds and a lackluster game day atmosphere in Springfield, the Thunderbirds front office has found the magic formula to attract fans and bring excitement to MassMutual Center.   The Thunderbirds staff put on a high-energy show with a lot of noise and distraction to keep casual and younger fans interested. They integrate the arena’s lights, video board, and sound system to maximize the atmosphere in this small facility. The team’s mascot, Boomer, is the center of attention from the moment he takes the ice for pregame introductions. The schedule is filled with giveaways and special events, and the team store is stocked with special items honoring Springfield’s hockey heritage and special themes like the Ice-o-topes. During intermission the ice is loaded with youth hockey teams, vehicles packed with folks throwing t-shirts into the stands, and more. “Organized chaos” is the term that comes to mind.   There’s a large video board that is put to great use with replays, fan cams, advertisements, and graphics). The sound system is fantastic, and the energy is high. The team employs a PA announcer and an emcee who make sure the fans are engaged. On the concourse, fans can purchase tickets for the 50/50 or jersey raffle, and younger fans can head to the kid’s area at the back of the arena, where there are coloring stations, a video game screen, and a slap shot cage.   Neighborhood 4   The MassMutual Center is located in downtown Springfield, long considered an area to avoid, but whose reputation is changing as the area goes through a metamorphosis. Central to the area’s rejuvenation is the MGM Springfield Casino, located just a block from the arena.   Despite the many new places going up around the casino, Stadium Journey recommends a trio of old dining options for visiting fans. First and foremost is Red Rose Pizzeria, located downtown since 1963, where diners can enjoy quality pizzas and enormous servings of Neapolitan fare.   Also worth a look is The Student Prince Café and the Fort, where German-styled food and drink have been served since 1935. Finally, fans can head over to Theodore’s Blues, Booze, and BBQ, where local and national blues acts perform every Friday and Saturday while the staff serves up some of the area’s best BBQ.   Of course, Springfield’s biggest attraction may be the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, located a mile from the MassMutual Center. Also located nearby are the Springfield Armory and the Amazing World of Dr. Suess Museum. Located near the museum are several life-sized statues of Dr. Suess characters.   Fans 4   This writer has been attending games in Springfield since the 1990s, and the success of the T-birds has been astounding. The team has averaged over 6,000 fans per game in each of the last three seasons and is well on their way to a fourth straight season topping that mark in 2025-26 as we approach the new year.   So why have the Thunderbirds succeeded when the Falcons struggled to attract fans? The team has worked hard to integrate themselves into the fabric of the community, have attracted groups with ticket deals, and have enriched the game day experience with improvements to the facility.   Overall, a Thunderbirds crowd looks similar to many others across the minor league hockey landscape. You’ll find lots of families, groups, and diehard fans who’ve been coming downtown for hockey games for decades. There’s a lot of enthusiasm and noise in the crowd here, especially when fans from the nearby Bruins or Rangers farm teams descend on Springfield. Warmups at MassMutual Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   The MassMutual Center is located in downtown Springfield, MA, a city of almost 156,000 residents. Springfield is the third largest city in Massachusetts and the fourth largest city in all of New England. The MassMutual Center is easy to get to, as it is just a few blocks from Interstate 91. Interstates 291 and 90 (the Mass Pike) run just a few miles away. Springfield refers to itself as “The Crossroads of New England.”   Springfield’s Union Station , with hubs for Greyhound, Peter Pan, and Pioneer Valley Transit bus lines, as well as Amtrak and CT Rail trains, is located only a half mile from the arena. Several Pioneer Valley Transit bus routes stop at Court Square, right across the street from MassMutual Center. Plentiful parking can be found at the MGM Casino garage, in surface lots in the area, or on-street for fans who want to search for it.   So, why the average access score? Two reasons. Bruce Landon Way directly in front of MassMutual Center continues to be closed, even though the garage and construction in the area appears to be completed.     Secondly, MassMutual Center is just too small for the crowds showing up these days. A happy consequence of the increased attendance is that the facility has a hard time handling crowds that large. There’s just not enough room for everyone on the concourse during intermissions, so time your trips to the concession stands and restrooms wisely.   Return on Investment 4   Prices for Thunderbird tickets start at $21, escalating to $39 for the most expensive seats. The team offers several ticket deals, including Deuces Wild Fridays, featuring $2 domestic drafts, hot dogs, and sodas, and Winning Wednesdays, where a T-Birds win gets you a ticket for another weekday game. Sunday games are designated as Sensory Sundays, with special sensory booklets given out to those fans who need them.   Parking will cost an additional $10 in the Civic Center Garage across the street from the MassMutual Center, with free parking on local streets and in the MGM Parking Garage. With concessions generally priced in line with other local venues, a night at a Thunderbirds game is an affordable entertainment option for Western Massachusetts sports fans.   Extras 3   The Springfield Hockey Hall of Fame is located on the arena concourse. Significant persons in the area’s hockey heritage are honored here. Among the familiar names you’ll find here are Eddie Shore and Willie O’Ree.   The Thunderbirds also honor the city’s hockey heritage with banners honoring all of Springfield’s Calder Cup champions and several retired numbers.   If you can, be sure to check out the tiny team store in the northwest corner of the arena. Throwback merchandise from the Indians and Falcons can be found here, as well as the popular Simpsons crossover merchandise featuring the Thunderbirds’ alternate identity, the “Ice-O-Topes.” Time your trips well, as lines can last throughout the game.   Final Thoughts   Springfield is an original AHL city, but it looked like their time in the league was done when the Falcons left town. That all changed when a new team and new ownership arrived, reinvigorating interest in minor league hockey in the city. The MassMutual Center may have a definite 70s vibe to its design, but the game day experience here is all new. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and  Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Steven Kee and Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 MetLife Stadium 1 MetLife Stadium Dr East Rutherford, NJ 07073 New York Giants website MetLife Stadium website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 82,500 Big Blue Game Day at MetLife Stadium MetLife Stadium is home to the New York Giants and the Jets of the National Football League.  The joint venture, privately funded stadium opened for the 2011 season at an approximate cost of $1.6 billion and was the most expensive stadium built at the time. This review will focus on the Giants' experience, who were the first to move to the Meadowlands complex almost half a century ago. MetLife Stadium has a sleek and modern design, inspired by the many skyscrapers in New York City. The stadium’s main focal point is that it eliminates the color blue during Giants games, while it glows green during Jets games. However, this may be the only aspect that gives the stadium a unique feel for the G-Men. The 82,500-seat stadium is the largest in the NFL. The stadium is in East Rutherford, New Jersey, approximately 6 miles across the Hudson River from Manhattan. The Giants first played at the Meadowlands in 1976 at Giants Stadium, a football-only venue that was cherished by many around the area and the league. Wellington Mara viewed the river as a large street of New York City when announcing the move in 1971. The Giants were looking for a new stadium in the city as their home, Yankee Stadium, was scheduled for renovations after the 1973 season. They previously played at the Polo Grounds from 1925 to 1955. The NFL has seen a wide array of new and distinctive football stadiums in Minneapolis, Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, so a facility such as MetLife might get overlooked from an aesthetic standpoint. However, there has always been a waiting list for tickets for Giants games for 50 years, and one can expect a full house for games each Sunday at the Meadowlands regardless of the team’s record. Food & Beverage 4 MetLife Stadium offers fans an impressive mix of classic stadium fare, regional favorites, and global flavors spread across every level of the venue. Whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go snack or a hearty meal to fuel four quarters of football, the stadium’s dining program is designed to accommodate just about every appetite. Fans craving familiar comfort food will find no shortage of options. Thumann’s hot dogs—available in regular and footlong versions—are joined by burgers from Patty’s Burger, cheesesteaks, pizza slices, and baskets of chicken tenders and fries.  Boardwalk Fryer adds a Jersey Shore flair with fried clams, while WingMan NYC serves up traditional and boneless wings tossed in Buffalo, Hot Honey BBQ, or Garlic Parmesan sauces. Global Pies features empanadas and meat pies, OPA brings gyros and Greek fries, and Taco’s Raqueros dishes out tacos, burritos, and loaded nachos from portable stands.  For something heartier, Against the Grain offers brisket sandwiches during Giants games, complete with Nick Mangold’s signature BBQ sauce, while Nonna Fusco’s Kitchen delivers Italian staples like meatball sandwiches, chicken vodka parm, and zeppoles (a Jersey specialty of fried dough balls topped with confectioner's sugar). Fans looking for lighter or specialty items can seek out Petite Greens for salads and quinoa bowls, Fuku for its popular chicken sandwiches and fries, or Mr. Tot for loaded tater tots topped with burnt ends chili. Sweet tooths are well covered too, with Mrs. Fields cookies, Dippin’ Dots, and Welsh Farms soft-serve ice cream scattered throughout the stadium. Beverage options are just as extensive. In addition to standard soft drinks and draft beer at most concession stands, fans can explore specialty beer locations, gluten-free beer offerings, non-alcoholic beer, and international selections at Beers of the World stands.  There are dedicated areas like the Craft Beer Zone, Modelo Cantina, and Casamigos Tequila Bar. There are more than enough food and beverage options at MetLife Stadium to satisfy fans. The prices are in line with other NFL venues, but there are game-day classics, local favorites, and high-class options to choose from at a Giants game. Atmosphere 3 Many fans have noted that the atmosphere at MetLife Stadium feels markedly different depending on whether the Giants or Jets are playing—but why is that? Giants games tend to carry a more corporate tone, with some longtime fans likely priced out by the introduction of personal seat licenses. Whatever the reason, the building is still full, and demand remains strong whenever Big Blue is in town. Upon arrival, fans enter an exterior concourse that wraps around much of the stadium and serves as a hub for pregame activities and events. It also functions well as a convenient meeting spot both before and after the game. Inside, the interior concourses are relatively narrow and limited in number. While the layout is somewhat unique, it remains easy enough to navigate. Fans arrive early for games and tailgate in the surrounding parking lots. Once the game begins, a sea of blue enters the stadium and floods the concourse towards their seat. The stadium design is rather generic and does not offer many unique features, but most seats offer decent views of the field. However, the Upper Bowl (300 Level) is quite steep in many areas. However, the focus is on the field for many fans in attendance, and when the team is faring better in the standings, the atmosphere is a much better experience. Hopefully, that will change with a few new, young core players hoping to leave their mark on the franchise. Neighborhood 3 MetLife Stadium is in the Meadowlands Sports Complex, in the middle of a vast parking lot that makes it ideal for tailgating before the game. The American Dream  is a retail and entertainment complex that offers an array of options for fans while in the area. The complex’s highlights include an indoor ski slope, an indoor theme and a water park, a trampoline park, and an aquarium.   The mall houses a few interesting places for eating that include the Yard House, Mr. Beast Burgers, Lucciano’s, Around the Clock Diner, and Jarana New Jersey (Peruvian cuisine). There are a total of 400 stores and attractions at the American Dream. Nearby MetLife Stadium, check out the Tick Tock Diner  for a wide variety of food and their iconic dish of Disco Fries. Hamburguesa  for a Latin take on the classic burger, and Song’E Napule  for pizza and other Italian dishes. A few local breweries including Bolero Snort Brewery  and New Jersey Beer Company, are worth having a few samples of pints after the game.  Fans 5 Giants fans are unapologetically vocal, making their opinions known on every down. They’ll tell you the rules of the game, express exactly how they feel in the moment, and openly show their frustration when the team lets them down—sometimes booing all the way to the parking lot.  On the flip side, they are just as loud and generous with praise when things are going well. Still, even a single mistake in a lopsided Giants win won’t escape criticism. Regardless, it’s an engaged, knowledgeable crowd that genuinely loves NFL football, and it’s hard not to get swept up in it. Even a novice fan will leave with a better understanding of the game after spending time among Giants fans. Access 3 Getting to MetLife Stadium is relatively simple; most fans arrive by car and use either the New Jersey Turnpike or Route 3 to get there on game days. There are 82,000 parking spots, but parking permits are required for all vehicles entering the Sports Complex; fans can purchase a prepaid permit online or on the secondary market. There are off-site lots that offer shuttle service to and from the stadium. The south side lots D, E, F, and J are the best options if you are looking to get out quickly after the game. However, you can always stick around for a bit after the game and wait for most of the cars to leave the parking lot, but give yourself some time and a little bit of patience if leaving with the majority of fans after a game. An Uber Zone is located in Lot E of West Peripheral Road outside of the Verizon Gate. Two mass transit options provide service from Manhattan. The 351 Meadowlands Express leaves from Port Authority Bus Terminal and costs $7 for a round-trip ticket and usually takes approximately 20 minutes. Another option is using New Jersey Transit from Hoboken, which allows fans from New York to connect to the bus via the PATH train. The cost is $9.90 for a round-trip ticket. Return on Investment 3 A New York Giants ticket is among the most expensive in the league, but based on the team’s record or opponent could dip down in price. The price could be as low as $61 to $1,000 to see a game. It is best to use a secondary ticket site such as TickPick  for pricing and availability.  The price to park your car is between $40-$60 if prepaid, but can be higher based on parking availability. There are many cheaper shuttle services from off-site locations, such as the Hampton Inn, Homewood Suites, and Hilton, for around $20 round-trip. For customers arriving without a vehicle. Redd’s Restaurant  is less than a mile away from the stadium. NJ Transit bus #161 (with direct access to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC) drops off at Redd’s parking lot. Beer prices range from $6.80 to $16.49 for a 16-ounce can at NFL stadiums across the country. At MetLife Stadium, a 16-ounce can costs $13. The price of a hot dog is around $7 (above the league average). Extras 4 The stadium receives a point for its blue lighting on its interior that lights up for Giants games. The MetLife signage also lights up with a blue hue during game days. Arrive early to tailgate or, if you are taking mass transportation, take advantage of the Bud Light Corner outside the stadium, where live music, games, and drink specials are offered before the game. The Legacy Room displays a wealth of history of the Giants dating back to its founding in 1925. Busts and jerseys of former players encompass the room, with the pièce de résistance being the four Vince Lombardi Trophies. MetLife Stadium was financed privately by the New York Giants and New York Jets. The two organizations paid $1.6 billion to design and construct. Final Thoughts MetLife Stadium is worth a visit, but there could have been more done with its aesthetics and overall experience. If you are looking to watch a football game with loyal fans, this is the place.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Sun Life Financial Arena @ Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex 101 Father David Bauer Drive Waterloo, ON N2L 0B4 Waterloo Siskins website Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 4,400 Return to Waterloo The Waterloo Tiger Cubs were founded in 1934.  The Junior B squad would settle into the Waterloo Siskins brand in 1947.  Since the fifties, one of the main rivals for the Siskins has been the Kitchener Dutchmen. However, in 2020, the Dutchmen were sold to the Ayr Centennials, which ended over six decades of Junior B hockey in Kitchener.  Seeing an opportunity to build their brand, Waterloo rebranded itself as the Kitchener-Waterloo Siskins and played as such for four seasons.  After feeling the pressure from the Siskins Alumni, the Siskins dropped the ‘Kitchener’ from the equation and returned to the moniker of the Waterloo Siskins.  They have been one of the most successful franchises in the Junior B level Greater Ontario Hockey League, taking home 12 Sutherland Cups as Junior B Champions. Home for the Siskins since 1993 has been the Sun Life Financial Arena @ Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.  A living memorial to residents of Waterloo Region who gave their lives in World Wars I and II, the Rec Complex is a community hub with a swimming pool with diving facilities, two running/walking tracks, meeting rooms, and gymnasiums to go along with the arena.  The naming rights of the arena are held by Sun Life Financial, who have a large office in Kitchener-Waterloo, once the head office. Food & Beverage 3 Sun Life Financial Arena has one main concession stand open for Siskins games.  There is also a small cafe in the lobby with limited hours.  The main concession has a decent variety of food items, including hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches, muffins, cookies, popcorn, nachos, ice cream, and chocolate.  The fries are excellent and highly recommended.  Beverages include bottled soda, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and Gatorade.  There is also a separate beer cart that sells a limited selection of macro brands. Atmosphere 3 The Waterloo Memorial Recreation has an attractive, modern exterior featuring light siding and brick with grey trim and plenty of glass at the entry.  Fans entering from the main entry at the east side will enter into a large lobby with easy access to the arena and swimming pool, and gymnasiums.  At the west end of the lobby is the Waterloo Memorial Wall, which displays military flags, paintings, lists of residents who served and perished, and the poem “In Flanders Fields” written by John McRae, who was from nearby Guelph.  There are plenty of facilities out there that have the term “Memorial” in their title, but few that put together the effort that is found here to make the facility a true memorial.  On the east side of the lobby is the entry to Sun Life Financial Arena.  Between the stairs to the arena and the box office is the provocative “Etched Into Memory” sculpture.  Before entering the arena, fans should either have tickets in hand or first visit the box office for purchase.  Upon entering the arena, fans will find themselves on the running track at the top of the seating bowl.  The ice is north-south oriented, and the north end is definitely a spot of interest.  On the north wall is the original sign from the old Waterloo Memorial Arena, which was the previous home of the Siskins before it was condemned and necessitating the building of the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.  A plaque narrates the history of the old arena.  Below the old sign is the Waterloo Hockey Wall of Fame.  Some significant members found on the wall include Jamie Allison, Don Beaupre, Ron Smith, Bill Goldsworthy, and Father David Bauer.  Below the Wall of Fame plaques are screened team photos from the various Sutherland Cup Champion Siskins teams.  Above the ice surface hang the 12 Championship banners for the Siskins and the retired number 66 for Tyson Downs, a Siskin who died suddenly in 2023 of a heart condition. The seating bowl has eleven rows of grey, blue, and navy arena seats.  With a capacity of 4,400, over 3,000 seated, and the Siskins attracting around 200 fans per game, there are plenty of opportunities to find the perfect seat for the best sightlines.  Upgrades to the arena were completed in 2024 and include a new LED score clock above centre ice, LED lighting throughout the arena, and a repaired PA system. The gameday production at a Siskins game is fairly simple, with typical music and announcements found at most hockey games.  Promotions include a program draw, Chuck-a-Puck, and a 50/50 draw. Neighbourhood 4 The Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex is located in the University neighbourhood of Waterloo, on Father David Bauer Drive.  It is close to Wilfrid Laurier University and across the road from Waterloo Park.  There are a few spots for pre or post game food and drink within walking distance including Sole and Proof Kitchen & Lounge.  A bit of a further walk is Uptown Waterloo which has a bunch of other options including Beertown, Piper’s Arms, Famoso and the Heuther.  Taking a short drive down King Street to Morty’s Pub or Ethel’s Lounge may be the best choices. There are a few other sporting options in Waterloo.  Sun Life Financial Arena is shared with the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks  hockey team.  Laurier also fields football  and basketball  teams.  The Waterloo Warriors hockey , basketball  and football  teams are nearby also.  The area is best known for the iconic Kitchener Memorial Auditorium, which is home of the OHL’s Kitchener Rangers .  The KW Titans, Kitchener Panthers  and Kitchener-Waterloo Lacrosse Club  also play at the Aud Complex.  Other tourist type options for KW include Oktoberfest, the Clay and Glass Museum, Waterloo Park and the Jazz Room.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Delta is close by. Fans 2 The attendance for Waterloo Siskin games has remained relatively steady, even during the transition from the Kitchener-Waterloo brand back to Waterloo.  At the time of writing, the Siskins averaged 443 fans per game. This places them 9th in the league.  For the 2024-25 season the Siskins averaged just under 250 fans per game.  The increase can be attributed to the significantly successful School Day game in December of 2025, which had an attendance of over 3,100 fans, which was the game that was reviewed.  Removing this game and the Siskins continue to average around 250 fans per game.  The area has a competitive sports landscape, but there is plenty of room to improve.  The attendance is even more noticeable as the Siskins play in the biggest building in the league.   Access 5 The Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex is located in the University neighbourhood of Waterloo on Father David Bauer Drive.  It is 3 km from highway 85 and some driving through town will be necessary to get to the arena, however, traffic should not be an issue when the Siskins are playing.  There is plenty of parking at the facility.  For fans wishing to take public transit, the Laurier-Waterloo LRT stop is about a 1 km walk from the Rec Complex.  There are also GRT buses that run south of the Rec Complex on Erb Street.  Fans should consult the Grand River Transit  website for fares, schedules and maps.  Getting around the arena is not difficult at all and there will be plenty of space to stretch out.  The washroom facilities are also more than adequate for the number of fans in attendance. Return on Investment 4 GOHL hockey is definitely a bargain, and the Waterloo Siskins are no exception.  Tickets for the Siskins are General Admission and go for $12 for adults, $10 for students/seniors, and $6 for children.  Children three years old and under are free.  Parking at the Rec Complex is free and the concession prices are decent.  The level of hockey is solid, and the Siskins put a good product on the ice.  The biggest detractor from a Siskins game is the huge gap in the capacity of the arena and number of fans in attendance. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex as a living memorial for residents who gave their lives in combat. An extra mark for the display of history from the old Waterloo Memorial Arena. An extra mark for the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex as a community hub. Final Thoughts After pressure from the Siskins alumni, in 2025, the GOHL’s Siskins returned to the “Waterloo Siskins” moniker, having previously played as the Kitchener-Waterloo Siskins.  The Siskins continue to put a solid product on the ice and the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex is a good facility which has benefited from some recent, key renovations. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 JTF Homes Arena @ Zancor Centre 1600 15th Sideroad King City, ON L7B 1A3 King Rebellion website Zancor Center website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 500 Join The Rebellion The King Rebellion joined the Junior A level Ontario Junior Hockey League in 2024 after moving from Brantford to King City.  The franchise was founded in 1966 as the Milton Merchants and moved to Brantford to become the 99ers in 2018.  After Brantford secured OHL hockey with the Brantford Bulldogs , the writing was on the wall that there would be changes in the hockey landscape in Brantford. The 99ers were purchased by Willa Wang of Beijing Xinghongao Sports and Culture Co.  Willa is the mother of Oshawa General Simon Wang, a former Rebellion player who is, as of this writing, only the 3rd Chinese-born player drafted into the NHL.  The renaming of the 99ers provided one of the most unique team names in sports, and it is not just a clever moniker.  The "Rebellion" refers to the role that King Township played in the short-lived Upper Canada Rebellion of 1837. Upon moving to King Township, the Rebellion played their first few months of home games in nearby Nobleton at the Nobleton Arena @ Dr. William Laceby Nobleton Community Centre .  In January of 2025, the permanent home for the Rebellion, Zancor Centre, was finally ready in King City.  Named after the real estate developer, Zancor Centre is a community hub with a pair of NHL-sized arenas as well as a swimming pool, gymnasium, and community rooms.  The Rebellion plays in the JTF Homes Arena. Food & Beverage 3 There is a snack bar in the main lobby that serves the entirety of Zancor Centre.  It is a fairly simple menu, not unlike other arenas in this league.  The menu includes pizza, hot dogs, beef patties, chips, candy, chocolate, cookies, brownies, and muffins.  Soda, Gatorade, water, juice, energy drinks, coffee, and hot chocolate are the beverages available. Atmosphere 3 Zancor Centre has a bit of an unspectacular, yet functional exterior featuring plenty of brown brick.  The main entrance has a bit of an inlet with a natural seating area on the east end, which keeps Zancor Centre from looking like a giant brown box.  Entry into Zancor Centre brings fans into a large atrium with high ceilings that links all of the parts of the centre.  At the east entry, fans are right at the home of the Rebellion, JTF Homes Arena.  After passing a temporary ticket table and merchandise table, fans enter JTF Homes Arena.  There are large windows that allow people to see into the arena.  On gameday, these are mostly covered to ensure that spectators are purchasing tickets.  Inside the arena, there are plenty of markings for the Rebellion, including clear links to the minor hockey associations in King Township, as well as a Rebellion schedule.  One item of interest is a large poster near the entrance to the arena explaining the name Rebellion and the links to the Upper Canada Rebellion.  The ice surface is south-to-north oriented, with seating only available on the east side.  Seating consists of four rows of plastic benches with rails behind for standing room.   There is plenty of standing room at the north end of the rink as well.  Drink rails are available at the north end.  Sightlines are not the greatest, as from pretty much any of the seating spots, fans are required to look through multiple panes of glass through the penalty boxes.  The arena is bright and clean, and windows at the top of the east and west sides let in plenty of natural light.  A simple hockey scoreboard hangs above centre ice. The gameday production at a King Rebellion game is very simple.  The sound system is excellent, and announcements are easy to understand.  Neighbourhood 3 Zancor Centre is located at the northeast end of King City, on the edge of town.  There are a couple of spots for pre or postgame food or drink.  They include Motorino, Hogan’s, the Hunt Pub and Locale King City.  The Rebellion is the only game in town, however, there are other teams nearby.  The OJHL has the rival Aurora Tigers  and Newmarket Hurricanes a short drive away.  The Schomberg Cougars of the PJHL are also close by.  Other tourist options in the area include the King Heritage and Culture Centre and Canada’s Wonderland.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Holiday Inn in Aurora is a good option. Fans 2 Assessing fans in the OJHL can be difficult.  Not all teams report their attendance figures and the King Rebellion are among that group.  For the game that was reviewed, there were maybe 120 fans in attendance.  Rebellion fans would probably fall into the “friends and family” category and are generally pretty reserved.  The small capacity of Zancor Centre precludes the Rebellion from attracting an elite level of support that the top tier teams in the league enjoy.  However, by no means are the Rebellion selling out their games.   Access 5 Zancor Centre is located in the northeast end of King City, in King Township, between Richmond Hill and Highway 400.  It is located on the northwest corner of 15th Sideroad and Dufferin Street.  It is approximately 5 km east of Highway 400 and not too difficult to get to.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  For fans who are interested in public transit, there is a York Region Transit bus stop at the corner.  Fans should consult the York Region Transit website for fares, maps and schedules.  Since Zancor Centre is so new, accessibility is at the forefront and getting around is very easy.  Washroom facilities are also good.  Fans should note that JTF Homes Arena is very cold and there are no heaters over the seating section. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for a King Rebellion are $15, cash or card at the door.  Discounts are available for students and seniors.  Kids and minor hockey players of King or Nobleton are free with their jersey.  Parking on site is free and concession prices are what one would expect.  The product on the ice is high quality and fans will enjoy the experience.  A bit more of a production would add value to the low investment for a Rebellion game. Extras 2 An extra mark for Zancor Centre as a community hub with multiple sports facilities. An extra mark for the strong connection the King Rebellion have built with minor hockey in King and Nobleton. Final Thoughts The OJHL moving from Brantford to King City is an interesting one.  The ownership situation in King is an interesting one as well.  The King Rebellion now enjoy their brand new facility in JTF Homes Arena @ Zancor Centre and time will tell if the Rebellion will be a long term staple for the area or a flash in the pan, much like the Upper Canada Rebellion of 1837. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Xander Loosvelt, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Memorial Stadium 1101 Fambrough Way Lawrence, KS 66045 Kansas Jayhawks website David Booth Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1921 Capacity: 41,525 The Booth is Back and Better Than Ever After a near-complete teardown and just two years of construction, the University of Kansas has completed phase one of the new home for Jayhawk Football - David Booth Memorial Stadium. The original stadium opened in 1921 and currently stands as the seventh-oldest college football stadium in the country. It was renamed nearly a century later, in 2017, in honor of alumni David G. Booth, who pledged $50 million to overhaul the facility. Since the turn of the century, the stadium has taken on smaller renovation projects, including new turf, the Anderson Family Football Complex, the Gridiron Club, luxury seating, and the touchdown club, but none matched the magnitude of the rebuild that began in 2023. The new stadium was set to improve concessions, the concourses, and implement a brand new seating design. After a near-total demolition, phase one was completed in the summer of 2025. Phase two still to come over the next couple of years, which includes renovating the east side of the stadium as well as the potential additions of a south side of the stadium for additional student seating and a mixed-use facility including a hotel, restaurants, and retail. For now, we take a look at how the completion of phase one has transformed David Booth Memorial Stadium and improved on providing its fans with the ideal gameday experience. Food & Beverage 3 David Booth Memorial Stadium offers a wide variety of food and drink options, including a couple of Jayhawk specialty items, but the quality also varies from stand to stand. Despite that issue, rest assured that you’ll get your items quickly in a short line, and the staff will be there to help if you run into any trouble. The large variety is what really carries this rating. Walking the long concourse will allow you to pass by so many different options, including chicken, hot dogs, tacos, burgers, pizza, nachos, and even notable specialty items such as the chicken tinga-loaded nacho residing at “Tiza De Roca” for $15. The wide variety allows for those high-quality specialities, but also results in some of the food being less than desirable for your taste buds. For the drink options, that statement flips. It’s hard to go wrong when most of the general drink options consist of Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, and Gatorade, or for alcohol, when you see nearly every stand has Modelo and Bud Light. If you're looking for a specialty item you won’t see most places, take a chance on the Chicken Tinga Loaded Nacho. However, if you want something simple and reliable, around a fourth of the stands at least serve good quality hot dogs at a price tag of $6. Atmosphere 4 The Booth provides a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that bolsters the fan experience in almost every way imaginable. There are three main sides to the stadium. The west and north side general seating areas both contain exclusively chairback seats that provide good leg room and clear sight lines, with all seats on the west side and the bottom seats on the north side having cupholders. The east side consists of benches since it mainly serves to house the student section and visiting team fans, but they’re still somewhat comfortable and provide a lively viewing experience. Additionally, the suites are well designed and closer to the field than in most stadiums, wifi is mostly available throughout the stadium, and the scoreboard is gigantic with great visuals to complement the experience before, during, and after. It doesn’t stop with the aesthetics, though, as the KU faithful do everything in their power to add to home-field advantage. The marching band is playing in the stands at all potential moments from kickoff until the end of the game, and also plays on the field pregame and postgame. The cheer and dance teams fire up the crowd and provide entertainment at commercial game breaks, and the Kansas mascots Big Jay and Baby Jay interact with spectators all around the stadium. Music often plays over the loudspeakers with a wide variety of songs ready to blare for any game situation, and the PA announcer follows suit and matches the tone of the home crowd. There’s even a pregame flyover and small fireworks to go along with the vast amount of pregame traditions. The best seats in the house are in the middle of the west side of the field as those spots guarantee leg room, cupholders and a clear sight line with the logo facing correctly. Those seats are in the middle of all the action as well as giving you easy access to the wide variety of food and drink concessions - and just for an added bonus, the sun shines on the opposite side in the fall when the weather’s hotter. Neighborhood 5 David Booth Memorial Stadium is located right in the heart of Lawrence off 11th and Mississippi street in one of the nicer parts of the city. You can walk to the stadium from nearby locations, but depending on where you're staying you may end up driving to park closer to the stadium. Luckily, Lawrence has a ton of great places to eat all within a mile or so of the Booth. Jeffersons (Chicken Wing’s Restaurant) and Limestone (Pizza Restaurant) are both good options on Massachusetts Street for a casual meal near the event, but a nicer upscale place also located on that street is Wine Dive and Kitchen. Want to eat even closer to the stadium? Toppers Pizza and Rock & Hawk are both right around the corner and renowned by local residents. While you're looking to kill some time, Breakout Lawrence is praised for its engaging escape rooms and creative puzzle designs. Some more educational attractions in the college town could include a trip to the Lawrence Art Center or a look around the Dole Institute of Politics. If you want to experience all the sports, the historic Allen Fieldhouse offers tours of its sports complex and team facilities around the arena. For the easiest time getting around, the Oread hotel is the place to stay. Its price tag is a little higher than other options, but it overlooks the stadium from the roof and its room quality is worth the price of your stay. If you wanna be a little further but still involved, the Eldridge is near the majority of the better eating options on Massachusetts Street, but if you want to be completely removed from the business of the city the DoubleTree by Hilton will still allow you to drive short distances while staying on the outer parts of Lawrence. Fans 4 Jayhawk fans at David Booth Memorial Stadium are loud and passionate, but holding them back from the highest possible marks is their tendency to leave games early. Due to smaller stadium capacity, their average attendance is near the bottom of the Power 4 conference teams, but the stadium still routinely fills up to near capacity. The problem is that some of the fans, mostly the student section, leave games early even when the score is still close. The stadium is rarely seen to be near completely full towards the end of games in comparison to some of the best college football locations. Still, the fans as a whole still get a high score because of how engaged and involved they are at the games. There's always noise filling up the stadium even when the stadium itself may not be filled, and fans are always cheering on the home team even when the moment isn’t necessarily big. There's a host of traditions going on throughout the game including the Rock Chalk chant, the university’s fight song, Waving the Wheat on scoring plays and so much more. Jayhawk fans are able to make their presence known at each and every game, and can give the Jayhawks a great home field advantage when they are actually present at the games. Access 3 David Booth Memorial Stadium is in the middle of the road when it comes to accessibility. The positives outweigh the negatives, and most of the negatives aren’t necessarily reflective of the stadium itself as much as they are on its location. Bad news first: To get to Lawrence, you have to fly through Kansas City International Airport and then drive down to the city. That itself isn’t ideal, but it’s also surprisingly difficult to find parking around the stadium unless you buy a parking pass for one of the lots or garages. Lastly, there are only so many Ubers around, so closer to game time it gets increasingly unlikely you’ll be able to take one to the game. I would recommend getting a parking pass for lot 92 and then taking one of the available buses to the stadium. Additionally, the stadium’s accessibility inside and surrounding the stadium is also really good. Entering through security is easy, and the stadium has a lot of gates to enter so the time from getting in line to inside the stadium is usually under a minute. Entering through the gates on the south side of the stadium is best so you can walk near the field when heading to your seats, get the shortest lines and pass the most entertainment and food options just outside the stadium. Only mobile tickets are accepted, and the stadium has a clear bag policy for bags under 12x12 and above 6x9 as well as no larger bags or backpacks being allotted. From inside the stadium it is very easy to move around and navigate the main concourse as well as get to other levels. Though you can’t see the main field of play from everywhere, numerous TVs have the game on all over the concourse so you won’t miss a minute of the action. The accessible seating on the main concourse also allows for clear lines of sight into the game. The best part is the restrooms are pretty clean for public stadium bathrooms and lines are quick for the most part. Overall, a mixed bag on accessibility, but the score is definitely closer to being a four than it is a two. Return on Investment 4 David Booth Memorial Stadium is worth the cost of the experience, and everything manages to be around the right price for the experience. Most ticket prices fall within the range $20 to $40, and almost every price falls somewhere between $10 and $60. With food generally ranging from $5 to $15 depending on your item of choice, along with soda being about $5 and alcohol about $12, your consumption price will probably end up around $25 total. Parking can vary, but if you get a pass for my recommended spot your charge will be $35. Putting that all together, the average spectator is going to spend around $85, with that price varying from about $60 to $130 for most fans. Considering the entertainment value and overall experience, the price is fair and worth the cost. Want to save money? I would recommend avoiding Ubers since a lot of attractions are within walking distance and buses are around the stadium for transportation. Sitting in the upper decks will also allow for cheaper ticket prices but still great views with clear sight lines. Extras 4 There’s a few extra perks that add to the experience at David Booth Memorial Stadium. For first time fans, the Booth has multiple Rally House stores inside the venue that allow you to purchase merchandise and other team memorabilia. The staff at these stores and throughout the stadium are super friendly and willing to assist with whatever you may need. If you want to know who the best players in the program’s history are, take a look at the west side of the stadium to see the names of recognized former players and retired numbers. Additionally, the stadium’s environment is a great place for the whole family, including children as there are kid’s activities outside the stadium before the game. In fact, all of the pregame tailgates near the stadium are a good time and worth arriving at the game earlier to experience. Final Thoughts The new and improved Booth has certainly lived up to fan expectations even when the team has fallen short. No one really knows if Kansas football will ever return to the levels the team saw in the late 2000s or even the early 2020s, but excitement for phase two of the stadium is strong. After the $300 million dollar donation in the fall of 2025, David G. Booth seems determined to help get this project done, and only time will tell what the future holds for the home of this football team. It seems as though next year will see reduced capacity as renovations won’t be finished in time for next season, but in two to three years we’ll be able to fully evaluate what the Booth has become. As it stands now, it’s a great gameday experience that is less talked about due to the lack of a winning football team. The Booth is worth a visit during football season and is one of the more lively venues in college football.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 TD Coliseum 101 York Boulevard Hamilton, ON L8R 3L4 Toronto Rock website FirstOntario Centre website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 17,383 Rock City Renovation The expansion Ontario Raiders joined the National Lacrosse League in 1998.  They played one season in Hamilton before being sold to an ownership group consisting of Toronto Maple Leafs  Assistant GM, Bill Watters, Blue Jays President, Paul Beeston, Tie Domi and Bobby Orr, and immediately moved to Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto and rebranded the Toronto Rock.  After being the final event in the venerable arena, the Rock moved south to join the Leafs and Raptors at what was then known as the Air Canada Centre.  The Rock enjoyed great success in Downtown Toronto, but decided to make the move west, back to Hamilton in 2021.  While maintaining the Toronto Rock brand, the team, under the ownership of Jamie Dawick, helped push the FirstOntario Centre to a much-needed renovation.  After a year in Mississauga during construction, the Rock have returned to the newly christened TD Coliseum and are optimistic about the future in the Hammer. TD Coliseum opened in 1985 as Copps Coliseum, to attract an NHL expansion franchise in the forefront.  The shock of Ottawa gaining the Senators at the detriment of Hamilton still has not fully healed.  The Coliseum has been home to a host of AHL franchises and the OHL’s Hamilton Bulldogs .  In 2024, the City of Hamilton began a $300 million renovation on what would become TD Coliseum.  The Toronto Rock is the only sports tenant at the time of writing, but they will soon have company, as the Bridgeport Islanders of the American Hockey League will be moving to Hamilton for the 2026-2027 season. Food & Beverage 4 One of the main areas of focus for the recent renovation of the arena was concessions.  The concession.  Food options now feature higher quality and significant variety.  Sugar & Salt, Matty’s Patty’s, Fizzy Feathers, Dip City, Mr. Softee, Casa Escobar, Rizzo’s House of Parm, and Shaq’s Big Chicken are all available stands.  A further focus of the renovation was the creation of new premium dining areas, including the Vinyl Room, Rogers Club, and TD Lounge.  A full accounting of the concession landscape can be found on the TD Coliseum website.  It should not be surprising that with the improvement in quality of the concessions has come an increase in the cost. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of TD Coliseum now punctuates the theme throughout the arena.  TD Coliseum’s exterior, which once featured white or off-white siding, now features a black colour scheme with green highlights; the same green of the TD logo.  A new exterior sign at the northwest corner of the footprint is the other main highlight of the renovations on the outside.  The footprint of the arena remains the same, and there is not much of a gathering area outside the arena.  The largest would be the northwest corner.  A new focus at TD Coliseum is ensuring that fans enter their assigned gate, which uses the arena’s resources a little bit better. Inside TD Coliseum, the dark theme with a charcoal grey colour scheme throughout the concourses.  At first glance, it seems that TD Coliseum is envisioned more as a concert venue than a sports arena.  There are no markings for the Toronto Rock or any of the FirstOntario Centre, formerly had a single concourse which serviced both the upper and lower bowl, similar to the Palace of Auburn Hills .  With all of the new premium dining areas, this has changed a bit, and the lower concourse, which was once used just for arena personnel, is now used in some areas.  Entering the seating bowl shows more renovations.  The floor runs from east to west, with the best view of the centre logo from the north side.  The suites, which were once behind the lower seating bowl, have been reoriented and are mainly on the south side.  Floor-level suites are now on the north side, and where the suites were previously, there are now high-top rail seats.  The four-sided videoboard is state-of-the-art and modest in size, a refreshing change from the newer ones in major arenas that are nearly the length of the floor.  A full 360-degree LED ribbon is found on the fascia of the upper level.  All of the seats have been replaced and are dark charcoal and no longer the assorted bubble gum colours.  Many sections of the upper deck were curtained off, and the lower bowl definitely has a more intimate feel than it did previously.  No Toronto Rock banners were hanging in TD Coliseum; however, it is assumed that this will change for subsequent games. The Toronto Rock pulls out all of the stops when it comes to the gameday production.  The PA announcer is strong and leads cheers and chants throughout the game, not as over the top as found in Buffalo , but more than a typical hockey announcer.  In place of a “First Pitch” is a first shot.  The game ball is delivered to the referee via a remote control car in a unique promotion.  The Rock entered to some pyro and flanked by the community Fan Tunnel and Rock City Dancers.  The Rock mascot, Iggy, takes part in promotions, and the Rock City Dancers perform during media breaks as well as in the corners at floor level.  The Rock features individual goal songs, which is debatable whether it is a positive or negative feature. Neighbourhood 2 TD Coliseum is located in Central Hamilton.  It is generally a depressed area with plenty of signs of homelessness.  There are a few spots for pre or post game food and drink in the area.  These include Cowabunga, Undefined, Tobey’s Good Eats, The Mule and Merit Brewing.  Hamilton does have some other sporting options including the Hamilton Kilty B’s , Dundas Blues , Forge FC , McMaster Marauders football  and basketball  and the Hamilton Cardinals .  It appears that TD Coliseum will once again be home to an American Hockey League franchise in the future.  However, if there is one thing that Hamilton is known for, it is the Hamilton Tiger-Cats  of the CFL. There are other tourist options in Hamilton worth checking out.  These include the Canadian Football Hall of Fame at Hamilton Stadium, FirstOntario Concert Hall, Hamilton Farmers Market, Art Gallery of Hamilton and the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Sheraton Hamilton and Homewood Suites are very close to the arena. Fans 3 It will be interesting to see where the fan support for the Toronto Rock settles.  The game that was reviewed was the first game at the refurbished TD Coliseum and the first home game of the 2025-26 season.  The previous season, the Rock attracted an average of just over 5,100 fans per game at the much smaller Paramount Fine Foods Centre in Mississauga.  The average was just under capacity for the building and ranked them 11th in the 14 team NLL.  The previous season, the Rock averaged more than 8,600 fans per game, ranking them 6th in the league.  For the first game of the season, the Rock welcomed 5,700 fans.  This is below their previous average in Hamilton, however, the NLL typically sees attendance rise after Christmas.  The fans that are in attendance are a little louder and more vocal than typical Ontario fans.   Access 3 TD Coliseum is located in Central Hamilton, on the southeast corner of York Blvd and Bay Street.  It is 1 ¾ km east of Highway 403, and much closer to major highways than some of the other sports venues in Hamilton.  Getting to TD Coliseum is not too difficult when coming from the west, but the traffic definitely picks up when getting closer to Central Hamilton.  There are some parking garages and surface lots in the immediate area.  It is recommended that fans use a pre-purchased parking option and plan ahead.  For fans wishing to take public transit to the game, the West Harbour GO station is a 15 minute walk from TD Coliseum and HSR buses travel York and King Streets.  Fans should consult the GO Transit and HSR  websites for fares, schedules and maps.  With the renovation, getting around the concourses is more of a challenge.  Use of both the upper and lower concourses will require fans to use staircases, where they previously did not need to, when walking a full 360 revolution around the arena.  The new seats are definitely not larger than the previous ones and a case could be made that they are actually smaller.  TD Coliseum is also a cashless venue.  Stadium Journey recognizes that security protocols at major sporting events are consistently changing.  TD Coliseum does feature modern scanning equipment which keeps the entry flow moving.  Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the Toronto Rock and TD Coliseum  websites for the most up to date security information including prohibited items and bag policies. Return on Investment 3 Toronto Rock tickets begin at $56 and increase to over $120.  The Rock have the most expensive ticket prices compared to the other Canadian NLL teams.  Concession prices are also on the expensive side.  Parking will go for at least $20.  Overall, the Rock provide a more expensive experience than probably anticipated.  That being said, the Rock provide a fantastic product.  NLL lacrosse is fast paced, hard hitting and exciting.  Music plays throughout the game and the promotions and gameday atmosphere are engaging and exciting. Extras 4 An extra mark for the success the Rock have enjoyed including 6 Champions Cups and 5 in their first 7 years in Toronto. An extra mark for the Toronto Rock closing Maple Leaf Gardens.  The final event at the venerable arena before renovation and rebranding by Toronto Metropolitan University was the Rock’s NLL Championship in 2000. An extra mark for the NLL everyman image.  The majority of the players in the league have other full time jobs and are lacrosse “weekend warriors.” An extra mark for the impact of the Toronto Rock on the lacrosse community in Southern Ontario.  With the building of the Toronto Rock Athletic Centre  in Oakville, Jamie Dawick and the Rock have done a great job promoting lacrosse at a wide variety of levels, including the OJLL Oakville Buzz . Final Thoughts In a return to Hamilton, the Toronto Rock are enjoying a renovated new home in TD Coliseum.  There is a different vibe surrounding the upgraded facility and it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the Rock in their return to the Hammer. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Amica Mutual Pavilion 1 LaSalle Sq Providence, RI 02903 Providence Friars website Amica Mutual Pavilion website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 12,410 When the Saints Go Marching In   Providence College is a small liberal arts college located about two miles from downtown Providence, Rhode Island. It is the only college in North America administered by the Dominican Friars. With a total enrollment of just over 4,500 students, Providence College is the smallest school in the Big East Conference.   Back in the late 1960s and early 1970s Providence College was an emerging national powerhouse on the collegiate basketball scene. During this time the team played their home games in the cozy on-campus Alumni Hall, which seated only 2,620. Demand for Friars tickets was so great that a downtown arena was built to house the Friars’ basketball team and the American Hockey League’s Providence Reds. The Providence Civic Center, now named the Amica Mutual Pavilion (Its nickname, the “AMP,” hasn’t really caught on yet), has been home to the Friars since its opening in 1972.   Ironically, the AMP, which was built to house the growing Providence basketball program, replaced the venerable Rhode Island Auditorium , which served as home to the Providence hockey team. When the basketball team moved off campus the hockey team moved back on campus into Schneider Arena .   Basketball has been played at Providence College almost as long as there has been a Providence College. An informal team represented the school in 1921, when PC was only four years old. The Friars are a founding member of the Big East Conference, and Providence has been the home base of the circuit since its founding in 1979. The Friars have qualified for 22 NCAA Tournaments, reaching the Final Four in 1973 and 1987. In addition, Providence has made the NIT Tournament 20 times and are the only two-time champions (1961 and 1963). 31 Friar alumni have played in the National Basketball Association.   Game action at Amica Mutual Pavilion. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Food & Beverage 4   Most of the concessions at the AMP are located in a pair of food courts on either side of the arena. Stands are operated by local favorites Sal’s Pizza and Saugy Franks. You’ll find all your arena standards here, including burgers, chicken tenders and oversized pizza slices. Hot dogs come in regular and jumbo sizes.   The snack game is strong at Amica Mutual Pavilion, highlighted by the most popular items at Friar games, Dough Boys and Del’s Lemonade. Both are so in-demand that they get multiple carts scattered around the concourse. Of course, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, fries and more can be found at all the stands.   Coca-Cola products are featured at the AMP. A wide variety of macro beers can be found all over the facility alongside many local brews, including Friar American Golden Ale, brewed by Newport Craft Brewing and Distilling Company.   Atmosphere 5   Providence may be a mid-sized city and the AMP may be a mid-sized facility, but there’s nothing mid-sized about the game day presentation at a Providence College basketball game. Friars hoops are undoubtedly the crown jewel of Rhode Island sports, and something Ocean Staters are proud to call their own.   A Friar game is a non-stop assault on the senses. The crowd here can get LOUD! The Friars cheer team, dance squad and pep band are all present to perform during play stoppages. DJ Finesse keeps the music pumping and the Friars employ an emcee who makes sure the fans are engaged. Contests during time outs give fans a chance to be part of the action. And of course, Friar Dom roams the arena throughout the game, interacting with fans, posing for pictures, and even partaking in some of the promos. You may even see him on top of the cheerleaders’ pinwheel.   The Friars gameday staff use the AMP’s large video board well, with hype videos throughout the game, using new light effects on the court in tandem with music and video. The student sections, located on both ends of the court, make sure this building never gets too quiet, and the local Friar Fanatics proudly follow suit. It’s an electric, intimidating atmosphere that’s carried the Friars for decades.   Friars Dance Team Performs at The AMP. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 5   The Amica Mutual Pavilion is located in downtown Providence, within walking distance of a great number and variety of restaurants and attractions. Providence has a reputation as one of the top destinations in the country for foodies, and the area within walking distance of The AMP reflects the diversity and quality of options in the city as a whole.   Federal Hill, Providence’s Little Italy, is located a short walk from the arena. Several nationally renowned Italian restaurants can be found here. Closer to the front entrance of the AMP are local mainstays such as Blake’s, Murphy’s Pub and the Vig.   Also within walking distance is the Providence Place Mall, an upscale shopping center with several national stores and several more choices for the hungry basketball fan. If visiting during the fall or spring, you may be able to check out Waterfires, an outdoor festival which has been held several weekends every year since 1994, during which eighty cauldrons lining the Providence, Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck Rivers are lit on fire. Many other cities have copied Waterfire, but the original started right here in Providence. The full schedule of Waterfire lightings can be found  here .   Entertainment options in downtown Providence vary from the nationally renowned Trinity Repertory Company and Providence Performing Arts Center to historic sites such as the Arcade, the nation’s first enclosed shopping center, and the Rhode Island State House.   Fans 5   Attendance for Friars basketball remains consistent year after year, averaging around 10,500 fans per game. This figure puts them on the fringes of the top 50 schools nationwide. PC hoops are the crown jewel of sports in Rhode Island, and you’ll be sure to find a loud and enthusiastic crowd at the AMP, whether you’re attending a Big East game against a traditional rival or a game against a local New England squad.   Anchoring the crowd at The AMP are the student sections, which fill up the floor seating and several sections on either end of the building. Despite the fact that The AMP is located two miles from campus and students must be bussed to the arena, they turn out in very impressive numbers. One of Stadium Journey’s other writers who visited Providence commented that he was not expecting the crowd here to be as “spicy” as they were.   As the most popular team in the state, Providence College attracts more than just alumni. Locals, some of whom have been attending games since the team’s glory days of the 1970s, turn out in force to root on the Friars. Providence College puts out a high energy gameday experience, which attracts families and younger fans as well. Friars Game Action at the AMP. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 4 The Amica Mutual Pavilion is located in downtown Providence, easily accessed via Interstate 95. Be warned that traffic in and around Providence can be quite heavy if visiting on a weekday, so prepare to take some extra time to arrive. The recent demolition of half of the Washington Bridge, the main access into the city from the East Bay, has exacerbated traffic around Providence.   There is ample parking in the many surface lots and garages around the Amica Mutual Pavilion. Downtown Providence can be a busy place, particularly around the holidays. Fans utilizing public transportation will be pleased to know that both Kennedy Plaza, the hub of the local   RIPTA bus service , and  Union Station, the local Amtrak stop , are located a short walk from the Amica Mutual Pavilion.   The Amica Mutual Pavilion features a large seating bowl with excellent views of the court. All seats at the arena are individual folding arena seats. The concourse and restrooms received a makeover in 2008, and the arena is fairly easy to get around. Expect lines to form in the food court and restrooms during halftime, so plan your trips accordingly.   Return on Investment 3   Providence College utilizes variable pricing for their home games, meaning that prices can vary wildly depending on game, day and opponent. Ticket prices start at $30 and go up from there. While the Friars attract solid crowds, there are usually some seats available at game time. More information can be found at the Providence College ticketing site .   Parking is available in lots and garages around The Dunk, ranging in price from $20-40. Locals will search the streets around downtown for on-street parking. Just be sure to pay attention to meter hours and other restrictions. Another option is to park at the nearby Providence Place Mall, which will validate your parking for five dollars. Enclosed walkways connect the mall with the arena, meaning you can avoid the cold Rhode Island winter.   Concession prices at The Dunk are expensive, but generally in line with other major venues in the area. With the quality and variety of dining options in the area, it is recommended that if visiting Providence, you eat somewhere in the neighborhood before or after the game. Banners Hang at the AMP. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 3                                                                                                 An extra point is awarded for the sense of history at the AMP. Banners hang from the rafters commemorating Final Four appearances, conference championships and tournament appearances. In addition, several notable alumni are honored with banners.   Providence College is notable for the effect it had on college basketball today. As a founding member of the Big East, today’s superconferences can trace their roots directly to Providence College. In the front offices of the arena is the table where the Big East conference was formed, commemorated by a plaque. The great majority of the fans who visit here will never see this piece of history, but the AMP played a very important role in today’s college basketball landscape.   A final extra point for Friar Dom, one of the most unique mascots in the country. Widely considered to be one of the most terrifying mascots in all of sports, Friar Dom has been known to frighten children and startle unsuspecting adults who come too close. But don't worry, Friar Dom is friendly, and will gladly pose for that selfie with you.   Final Thoughts   For the most part, the sports scene in tiny Rhode Island is ruled by the nearby Boston professional teams. Providence College basketball gives Ocean State residents something to call their own. The Friars rule the local sports scene. The Amica Mutual Pavilion is an outstanding mid-sized arena which fits the needs of Providence perfectly.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

The 2026 Rose Bowl game will feature the number 1 ranked Indiana Hoosiers as they await the winner of the opening bracket of the College Football Playoff between Alabama and Oklahoma. This will be the Hoosiers first appearance in the Rose Bowl since winning the Big Ten in 1968. The top ranked Hoosiers earned the top seed of the College Football Playoff bracket with a 12-0 season and their Big Ten Championship victory over longtime powerhouse Ohio State. Hoosier backers are hopeful this will be their first step toward the National Title game. Here’s a list of events throughout the L.A. area and Southern California that you may want to knock off your Stadium Journey list for you westbound travellers. Crypto.com  Arena Crypto.Com Arena Exterior, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey The Los Angeles Lakers will be hosting 5 games from Christmas Day on through New Year’s weekend.  Thursday 12/25 vs. Houston Rockets 5:00 PM Sunday 12/28 vs. Sacramento Kings 6:30 PM Tuesday 12/30 vs. Detroit Pistons 7:30 PM Friday 1/ 2 vs. Memphis Grizzlies 7:30 PM Sunday 1/ 4 vs. Memphis Grizzlies 6:30 PM The Los Angeles Kings   will be taking the ice for 3 home games starting with a Saturday Night clash with their SoCal rivals from Anaheim. Should you be left out of the Rose Bowl game, the Kings will be hosting a late afternoon New Years Day matinee as well. Saturday 12/27 vs. Anaheim Ducks 6:00 PM Thursday 1/1 vs. Tampa Bay Lightning 4:00 PM Saturday 1/ 3 vs. Minnesota Wild 6:00 PM Across the street from Crypto, fans can enjoy pre and post game dining and entertainment options at LA Live . Among the entertainment options at LA Live are the Grammy Museum  and the annual LA Kings Holiday Ice  where visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to show off their ice skating skills.  Intuit Dome Intuit Dome Exterior, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey The Los Angeles Clippers   will have 4 home games from December 28 through the New Year weekend with a couple of attractive matchups as well as a New Year’s Day game for those willing to venture to Inglewood after the Rose Bowl game. If you’re lodging by nearby LAX, the Intuit Dome would be a great stop on the way back before wrapping up the first day of the new year. The Intuit Dome is now in its second season of operation and has received mostly positive reviews. Sunday 12/28 vs. Detroit Pistons 6:00 PM Tuesday 12/30 Sacramento Kings 8:00 PM Thursday 1/1 vs. Utah Jazz 7:30 PM  Saturday 1/ 3 vs. Boston Celtics 7:30 PM Honda Center - Anaheim Honda Center Exterior, Photo by Andre Ojeda, Stadium Journey The Anaheim Ducks are among the top teams in the NHL’s Western Conference and will be home for 3 games including a New Years Eve matinee.  Monday 12/29 vs. San Jose Sharks 7:00 PM Wednesday 12/31 vs. Tampa Bay Lightning 1:00 PM Friday 1/ 2 vs. Minnesota Wild 7:30 PM The Holiday Bowl - San Diego Snapdragon Stadium Exterior, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey If looking to add to your bowl game chasing experience, on Friday January 2, Snapdragon Stadium  in San Diego will be hosting the Holiday Bowl  featuring the Arizona Wildcats and the Southern Methodist University Mustangs. One of the more attractive non-playoff affiliated bowl games, the first 10,000 arriving fans will each receive a free admission ticket to SeaWorld .  Other points of interest throughout the southland: Holiday tours of the Rose Bowl  from December 26-28 and January 2nd.  Norton Simon Museum   celebrating its 50th anniversary California Science Center If visiting the California Science Center, one exhibit you will certainly want to check out is GAME ON! Science, Sports and Play . This interactive exhibit is a cutting-edge, 17,000 sq. ft. exhibition celebrating the transformative power of play and the joy of the human body in motion . GAME ON! Think you got what it takes to impress Kobe and Company?, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey GAME ON! Here’s your chance to step up to the plate! Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey

Rendering courtesy of the University of Texas Athletics The University of Texas has recently announced plans to construct a new multipurpose public arena that will ultimately become the home of the Longhorns four-time National Championship women’s volleyball program. Also on tap to be constructed is an adjacent student-athlete housing complex. Built on the former site of Frank Erwin Center, the Longhorns old basketball venue, the four-acre site aims to seat approximately 6,000 fans, but be able to add additional seating for concerts, shows, and University of Texas events. Adjacent to Moody Center , the Longhorns current basketball arena, the new volleyball venue will ultimately replace the existing Gregory Gymnasium. “It is important for us to be strategic about how we use our space and how our students and visitors engage with our campus,” said UT President Jim Davis in a news release. “This is a unique development that will enhance the University's athletics facilities and housing portfolio and benefit students, Longhorn fans and our city for years to come. I am grateful to our Board of Regents for their support for our vision.” While no timetable for construction or completion is currently available, UT sent a request for proposal (RFP) during the week of December 8th, looking for private developers to plan, design, construct, equip, finance, and operate the new facility. According to the wording of the RFP, UT would own the arena and student-athlete housing properties, while the outside partner would operate them. “This is a critical step for the future of Texas Volleyball and our student-athletes' housing experience,” said Athletics Director Chris Del Conte in the same news release. “It is about creating an experience that our student-athletes, coaches and passionate fans will be proud of in the heart of a district built for elite talent and entertainment.” The University of Texas Longhorns Women’s Volleyball team is currently in the middle of the NCAA playoffs, and are a strong contender for the National Championship again this season. ------ Follow me on Twitter: @EricMoreno6477 Visit my Writer's Portfolio: EricMoreno.Contently.com

We have all seen the articles, snippets, and quick memorials for Pelé. In a news cycle that quickly moves on to the next sensationalized attention-grabber of information. They are quick to tell us his official name was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, who was born in Brazil on October 23, 1940, and was a football legend and Brazilian treasure. I think he deserves more time and to be brought up more frequently for changing the face of soccer in the United States. Pelé’s arrival in the United States changed the course of soccer in the United States of America. Pele came out of semi-retirement when he signed with the New York Cosmos of the North American Soccer League for $1.67 million a year for the 1975 season and was the highest-paid athlete on the planet. The league struggled to gain credibility since forming in 1968, which included 36 franchises coming and going. His first game with the team brought on 21,000 plus and was watched by 10 million viewers on CBS. The game put the sport on the national radar of the country, and for the next three seasons, Pele and the Cosmos would draw fans wherever they played. When he played his final game, a record crowd of 77,000 people packed Giants Stadium in a match against his former club Santos. However, the success would be fleeting with the league expanding to multiple markets that would play in giant football and multi-purpose stadiums. Salaries skyrocketed, and clubs ceased operations rapidly. The league would cease operations in March 1985, and the Cosmos would fade from history a few months later after an ill-fated independent schedule. However, the cast had been set with youth soccer involvement exploding through the country; many of those players would become members of the US Men’s Soccer Team in 1990 when they qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years. In 1994, the USA would host a successful World Cup, proving that the country could be a soccer nation. Soccer might still be played in high school football venues in front of 2,000 fans, or perhaps the indoor version of the game would still be considered the top echelon of soccer in this country. Today, Major League Soccer thrives with a majority of soccer-specific venues and a passionate fanbase with 29 clubs. Would that have been the case without Pele’s success with the Cosmos? Pelé is one of the most successful and popular sports figures of the 1900s but should be discussed and referenced throughout the 2000s. In the United States, he doesn't seem to get the recognition he deserves for not only being the best player but also for his undeclared dignity in soccer. He wasn’t just labeled one of the greatest players of all time but was given the title of “the greatest” by FIFA. He was a superior player & human being that was also named Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee in 1999. In addition, he was voted world player of the century by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics. To have titles like these but still not be a household name in the 21st century is why he holds the title (in my opinion) of one of the most underrated and appreciated players in the United States.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Louis A.P. Pieri Gymnasium 60 School St. Franklin, MA 02038 Dean Bulldogs men's basketball website Pieri Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 900 __________________________________________________________________________________ The Dean Doghouse   Dean College is a private college located in the town of Franklin, Massachusetts. Founded in 1865, it has an enrollment of about 1,100 students who work toward bachelor’s and associate degrees at the college’s four schools. Long known as Dean Junior College, the school transitioned to a four-year college in 1995.   Pieri Gymnasium is named after former Boston Celtics minority owner Louis A.R. Pieri. Pieri was a graduate of Dean College and at one point a member of its board of trustees. Pieri has a long and colorful history in local sports, as he served as the General Manager of the Providence Reds beginning in 1929. Under his leadership, the team won four Calder Cups. Pieri is a member of the American Hockey League Hall of Fame, and the League awards the Louis A.R. Pieri Award annually to its coach of the year. Pieri was also the owner of the Providence Steamrollers basketball team, the Rhode Island Auditorium  and coached Brown basketball for a season. Pieri was one of the co-founders of the Ice Capades.   Dean began their transition to Division Three in 2016, becoming full members in 2020. The Bulldogs basketball teams currently compete in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference. They have yet to qualify for the NCAA Tournament.   Opening Tip at Pieri Gymnasium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Food & Beverage 0   There are no concessions at Pieri Gymnasium. Fans are welcome to bring their own refreshments in to enjoy during the game.   Atmosphere 2   The atmosphere at a Bulldogs game is about as bare bones as you’ll ever see at a college basketball game. Music plays over some portable speakers pregame and during play stoppages. The PA announcer adds some energy to the proceedings without being too over the top. Old-school scoreboards hang at either end of the gym and provide basic game information. The fans don’t add a lot of noise or energy, not that a bunch of rowdy fans would make sense in this tiny gym. If you enjoy hearing the squeak of sneakers on the court, coaches barking instructions to their teams, and the trash talk of the players during the action, you’ll enjoy your time at Pieri Gymnasium. Pieri Gymnasium Dedication Plaque. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 2   The city of Franklin has a population of about 36,000 residents. The town (Franklin is technically a city, but the locals still refer to it as a town) was named after founding father Benjamin Franklin, who helped establish the first library in the United States here in 1790.   Even though Dean College is located right near downtown Franklin, visiting fans won’t find much in the way of dining or lodging options in the immediate vicinity. Much of the area surrounding the college is residential. There are a few dining options downtown, including Rome Restaurant and Teddy Gallagher’s Irish Pub. The majority of the dining and lodging options in the area are located by I-495 and a little further away in neighboring Foxboro where Interstates 495 and 95 meet. More complete information about the town of Franklin and things to do around town can be found here .   If you’re visiting the area and looking for other sporting options, Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots  and New England Revolution , is only nine miles away. Of course, options are endless in the nearby cities of Boston, Providence and Worcester.   Fans 1   Attendance at Dean basketball is certainly what we at Stadium Journey would describe as a “friends and family” type of crowd. This means that virtually everyone in attendance has a connection to the players on the court. Stadium Journey visited Dean College on a frigid December weeknight during finals week, and reported attendance was a paltry 55 fans. A head count taken by this writer confirms this total was accurate. A perusal of the box scores from the 2025-2026 season shows that crowds range between 50-150 fans per game for Dean basketball games. Crowds have been relatively consistent since Dean moved to Division Three.   You’ll find some students in the stands at Pieri Gymnasium, but no organized student section. With the Bulldogs’ schedule loaded with teams from around New England, you’ll also see some fans representing the visiting teams in attendance. Game Action at Pieri Gymnasium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   Pieri Gymnasium is located on the northern edge of the Dean College campus, close to downtown Franklin, a small city roughly equidistant to the cities of Boston, Providence and Worcester. Interstate 495 runs right through the city, intersecting with I-95 just a few miles from the city. The gymnasium is located about two miles from I-495 but is easily reached through the town’s suburban streets.   The Franklin station of the MBTA’s Commuter Rail, which connects the area to South Station in Boston, is located just two blocks from the Dean campus. Full route information and schedules can be found here . If driving to a Bulldogs game, ignore the listed address on the web site (59 Emmons St.), as this will lead you to the opposite end of campus. Granted, the Dean campus is small, but still. The entrance to Pieri Gymnasium is at 60 School Street.   There is a very small lot in front of the gym entrance. Seriously small. It fits nine cars. Really, I counted the spaces. And you have to drive a compact car to fit. There are parking spots on School Street, as well as a large parking lot a short walk away on the opposite side of Grant Field. You’ll enter Pieri Gymnasium into a small lobby, with the gym on your left and Alumni Hall on your right. Small restrooms are located at the back of the lobby. Just time your trip wisely, because you are sharing these rest rooms with the visiting team.   Seating in Pieri Gymnasium consists of molded plastic bleachers on one side of the court. There are bleachers on both sides, but only one side is used for Bulldog games. Even though there are only seven rows of bleachers, there is plenty of seating available for a typical Bulldog crowd. In this tiny gym, you’ll have a great view of the action no matter where you sit.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge to attend a Bulldogs game at Pieri Gymnasium. Parking is free in the lots around campus and on the streets nearby. With no concessions available, you won’t have to reach for your wallet once while visiting Dean. Memorial Hall, Dean College. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 3   There are banners hanging all around Pieri Gym honoring Dean championship teams from their junior college days in all their varsity sports. In a far corner of the gym, a new collection of banners has started reflecting their D-3 achievements. 1,000-point scorers for the men’s and women’s teams hang here, as well as banners honoring champions in lacrosse, cross country and football.   Across the lobby from the gymnasium is Alumni Memorial Hall, a residence hall for upperclassmen. The Dean Athletics Hall of Fame is located on the first floor, as well as plaques honoring Dean alumni who lost their lives in service of our country.   It may be hard to believe when visiting this basic facility, but the Boston Celtics once played a game here . As part of a barnstorming tour in the 1958 preseason, the team hosted the Cincinnati Royals. Eight future Hall of Famers took part in the action at Pieri Gymnasium. The event coincided with the dedication of the gym in Pieri’s honor.   Final Thoughts   While Pieri Gymnasium may not be much to look at, it boasts a pretty impressive history for such a small facility. As Dean College grows their athletic program, this old barn will be sure to see more history made in the future.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Hart Center Arena at Luth Athletic Complex 1 College Street Worcester, MA 01610 Holy Cross Crusaders men’s basketball website Hart Recreation Center website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 3,536 The Hart of New England Basketball   The Reverend Francis J. Hart Recreation Center is part of the Luth Athletic Complex, a multi-purpose facility located on the campus of the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA (pronounced “WUH-stuh” by locals). Reverend Hart was the guiding force behind intramural athletics at the College for more than 40 years, and his legacy is honored in this athletic center. John and Joanne Luth donated $32.5 million to the college in 2015 towards expanding and renovating the athletic department. Their donation largely funded the massive renovations to the complex in 2016. The Hart Recreation Center houses not only the Holy Cross basketball arena, but a 1,400-seat hockey rink , a six-lane swimming pool with separate diving area, rowing tanks, racquetball and squash courts, and the college’s strength and conditioning facilities. Behind the Hart Center is a full-size track, practice fields, soccer field   and a lighted turf field  which service numerous varsity sports and intramural programs. Holy Cross has a long and storied basketball history, hosting teams since 1900. The Crusaders won the national championship in 1947 and made it to the Final Four in 1948. Two additional Elite Eight appearances followed in 1950 and 1953. In 1954 the team won the National Invitational Tournament. Overall, the Crusaders have qualified for the NCAA Tournament 13 times, most recently in 2016. Ten Crusader alumni have played in the National Basketball Association, most notably Hall of Famers Bob Cousy and Tom Heinsohn. The Crusaders’ women’s team has appeared in 14 NCAA tournaments themselves. Holy Cross basketball was so highly regarded that they could have joined the Big East Conference when it formed in 1980. The school vetoed the move for academic reasons. Today, Holy Cross competes in the Patriot League, a mid-major conference made up of northeastern schools with high academic standards.   Food & Beverage 4   A pair of concession stands, christened “Crucessions ‘Sader Kitchen” are located in the Hart Center lobby. One window focuses mainly on food, one on beverages. Be aware that cash is not accepted at the Hart Center.   The menu has undergone an upgrade in recent years. In addition to arena standards such as hot dogs, chicken tenders, pizza slices, fries and nachos, premium sandwiches such as steak and cheese and grilled chicken bacon ranch on naan are available. Enjoy a cup of hot chili, or add some to your dog, fries or nachos for an upcharge. A selection of snacks can be purchased at either stand, including soft serve ice cream (Stadium Journey is lobbying hard for Holy Cross ice cream helmets). If you’re looking for a healthier item to eat, a variety of wraps and salads are sold here too. It’s quite a selection for such small stands.   Pepsi products are featured at the Hart Center. Hot drinks, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and lattes are popular choices on cold Worcester winter nights. Fans looking for adult beverages will be pleased to find a nice selection of beer, including Sam Adams and Holy Cross Lazy IPA brewed by local favorite Harpoon.   Here’s a Stadium Journey insider’s tip: there are some vending machines located in an alcove just past the concession stands in the main lobby. Bottles of soda can be found here for a cheaper price than at the concession stands. This can be our secret. Fans line up at the 'Sader Kitchen. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Atmosphere 3   Any seasoned college basketball fan will tell you that the small gyms across the country contain some of the most rabid fans and the best game day atmospheres in the country. While the Hart Center doesn’t draw large enough crowds to measure up to the legendary gyms in the nation, there’s no doubt that if this place filled up, it would be a great place to experience a game.   Holy Cross does have all the elements needed to produce an elite game day atmosphere. The student sections are behind the baskets, just waiting to be filled with rowdy students. The dance and cheer teams are present most nights to perform during timeouts, and when the pep band is in attendance, it adds a lot to the atmosphere in such a cozy gym. A large video board is located on the far side of the gym, along with two smaller boards on the near side. They are put to good use with game information, videos, graphics, and promos. The PA announcer adds energy to the proceedings without being too over the top.   Younger fans and students take part in contests during time outs. Youth teams take the court during halftime, and fans are right on top of the action. The Crusaders would have an incredible home court advantage if the Hart Center were packed. But since it isn’t, you can hear the sneakers squeak on the court and the coaches barking out instructions to their teams. It’s a great place to visit for basketball purists.   Neighborhood 3   Worcester is the second largest city in all of New England, but has never enjoyed a reputation as a destination location. That all began to change when the city announced that the Pawtucket Red Sox would be moving to the brand-new Polar Park , located just 2.5 miles from the Holy Cross campus.   Holy Cross is located in southwestern Worcester about three miles from downtown. There isn’t much in the immediate area of campus in terms of dining or lodging options, but Worcester contains many excellent options.   Worcester’s acclaimed “ Restaurant Row ” on Shrewsbury Street is home to over forty different eateries, shops and salons. It’s a favorite destination for locals looking to enjoy a night on the town. Fans will find additional options in the downtown area around the DCU Center . The up-and-coming Canal District, anchored by Polar Park , is rapidly growing and also worth a look. Likewise, fans looking for lodging options should head downtown.   Traditionally overshadowed by its neighbors in Boston and Providence, Worcester is carving out its own niche as an affordable alternative to those cities. For fans visiting during ski season, Wachusett Mountain  is located just ten miles outside of city limits   Fans 2   For the 2024-25 season, Holy Cross averaged about 1,250 fans per game. This put them just above the attendance average for the Patriot League. This figure marks a slight increase over previous seasons. Thus far in 2025-26 (this review was written over the semester break) Holy Cross is averaging about 800 fans per game, but hoops attendance traditionally picks up after the new year.   One thing that you may notice about the crowd at a Holy Cross basketball game is that the crowd tends to skew older. You’ll find plenty of seniors in the stands here, some of whom have been following the Crusaders faithfully for decades. There are plenty of families and locals to be found here too, as this is certainly a place where you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family. Cheerleaders at Holy Cross. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 4     The Holy Cross campus is located in southwestern Worcester, at the junction of Interstate 290 and Route 146. Hart Recreation Center is located at the southern edge of campus atop Mount Saint James, adjacent to many of the school’s athletic facilities. There is a large parking lot adjacent to the arena. The College of the Holy Cross’ location gives it spectacular views of the city below.   2016 renovations greatly expanded and modernized the facility. Fans enter into a bright, modern lobby which houses the ticket booths and restrooms. The basketball arena and hockey rink share a concourse, which is where you’ll find the concession stands and Holy Cross Athletic Hall of Fame.   The basketball arena is located to your left as you enter the Hart Center. Fans holding lower-level seats will enter the arena at floor level, while fans holding reserved or upper-level seats will head to the staircases. Lower-level seats consist of molded plastic bleachers. There are three rows of individual plastic stadium seats at the top of the lower level, and metal bleachers make up the balcony seating. All seats at the Hart Center are painted purple and enjoy great views of the court.   There is a concourse inside the arena that circles the entire court. At points, the concourse overlooks the Hart Center’s meeting rooms and practice court. Standing room is available on this concourse at either end of the court.   Be sure to time your visit to the concession stand and/or restrooms carefully, as lines can form at halftime.   Return on Investment 5   Tickets to Crusader basketball games start at $17 for bleacher seats, with chairback seats priced at $24 and floor seats available for only $30. Discounts are available for youths and seniors. Parking is free in the large lot adjacent to the Hart Center, and concessions are reasonably priced. A Crusader basketball game is a most affordable entertainment option for central Massachusetts sports fans.   Extras 2   Extra points are awarded for the sense of history here at the Hart Center. While the glory days of Holy Cross hoops did not occur here (the Crusaders used to play at the old Boston Garden regularly), there are reminders of the school’s success everywhere. A statue of Bob Cousy greets visitors outside, and the Athletic Hall of Fame is filled with names of Crusader greats. Banners commemorating Crusader tournament appearances and retired numbers hang from the Hart Center rafters.   Final Thoughts   The Hart Center is one of the nicer small basketball facilities in this part of the country. Watching a Crusaders game is an affordable experience in an intimate setting. While Holy Cross no longer competes among the giants in the sport, college basketball historians will enjoy looking around the Hart Center at the reminders of the Crusaders’ glory days.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. A new ball club has thrown its hat into the ring of baseball entertainment. In the grand tradition of the Savannah Bananas and Tri-City Chilli Peppers , a new form of baseball will be coming to Chicago this season, known as the Chicago Snowballs. ​ Snowball owners Cherie and Paul Travis have described it as “professional baseball reimagined,” and the team will play games at Kerry Wood Cubs Field, located at Lane Tech College Prep High School. ​ They are looking for baseball players and performers with a “unique set of skills” that include male and female players who can pitch, hit, execute backflips, play musical instruments, and stand out on the diamond. ​ “We're not looking for typical baseball players to try out. We want multitalented athletes with other skills. The shortstop who plays the rube… the pitcher who does gymnastics… the outfielder who juggles.” reads the pitch on the team's website. “If you can play baseball and entertain a crowd, you're our kind of player.” The team also introduced their main logo, a personified cartoon snowball with a red winter cap. The team's wordmark was also introduced. The team colors are red, white, blue, and light blue. ​ The Snowballs were inspired by the success of the Savannah Bananas, whose recent North American tours have drawn record-setting crowds across baseball stadiums and football venues alike. Co-owner Cherie Travis also pointed to the Harlem Globetrotters as an influence on the team’s entertainment-first approach. ​ The first game is scheduled for May 3, 2026, at Kerry Wood Cubs Field, which has a capacity of 1,200. The Snowballs will tour the Midwest. Team tryouts will take place January 5-8 at The Dome at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Illinois. ----- Follow Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his   YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Mercedes-Benz Stadium 1 AMB Dr Atlanta, GA 30313 Celebration Bowl website Mercedes-Benz Stadium website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 71,000 A Celebration of HCBU Football The 2025 Cricket Celebration Bowl featured a contest pitting the South Carolina State Bulldogs, the conference champion from the MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference), against Prairie View A&M Panthers, the champion of the SWAC Conference (Southwest Athletic Conference). The game is widely accepted as the HBCU National Championship Game, as it pitted the champions from the two major HBCU Division I conferences against each other. The game has been played in Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium since its opening in 2017. Atlanta was chosen to host the title game due to its large number of HBCU schools located in Atlanta and due to its heritage as a part of the Civil Rights movement. The mission of the game was to provide each of the participating school’s alumni, fans, and students with a first-class bowl experience, while celebrating the heritage, legacy, pageantry, and traditions of HBCUs. The 10th edition of the Celebration Bowl was the most exciting ever, as South Carolina State overcame a 21-0 halftime deficit to win the game in the fourth overtime period 40-38. Food & Beverage 5 Mercedes-Benz Stadium pioneered the concept of cashless purchases and value menu items to speed up the ordering process, while providing a select set of menu items at a very reasonable price. This is known as the Fan First Food Experience, where you could purchase an entire meal of chicken tenders, a hot dog, a slice of pizza, a pretzel, a bag of popcorn, nachos with cheese, and a refillable Coca-Cola product for $20. Of course, the stadium also offered a more expensive and diverse set of food and beverage options at its more than 60 concession stands. Vendors included Auntie Ann’s, BBQ and MAC, Bruster’s, H&F Burgers, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, Fresh Mex, Williamson Brothers BBQ, Molly B’s, and Chick-fil-A. The Michelob Ultra Grill and Sweetwater Brewing Company. Atmosphere 4 This was one bowl game that really lived up to its name, as Bowl Week was a combination of a class/family reunion, a holiday party, a concert, and of course, a football game. The Celebration Bowl offered this all-in-one package. It offered fans from the two major HBCU conferences to get together for a good-natured rivalry and bragging rights for their respective schools/conferences. The Celebration Bowl is a football game where nobody leaves their seats at halftime. The Marching 100 Band from South Carolina State and the Prairie View A&M Marching Storm Band put on a spectacular show featuring great music and real showmanship. Many fans felt that the halftime show was the main reason for attending the event! Neighborhood 5 Fans from both schools had several opportunities to visit some of downtown Atlanta’s top tourist sites. Centennial Olympic Park is located just a few blocks away, and features the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola Cola and the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Fans can also visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic District, located two miles from Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The College Football Hall of Fame (www.cfbhall.com) is an easy walk from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and it offers a terrific exhibit on the history and traditions of HBCU football. Fans 4 There were several fan-friendly events leading up to the Celebration Bowl. The HBCU Band of the Year National Championships were held the day before the game. This event featured the top two Division I and Division II bands in head-to-head competition, with a champion crowned at each level. The Coca-Cola Fan Experience opened the morning of the game at the adjacent Georgia World Congress Center. It featured a wide variety of exhibits, team memorabilia, and gameday merchandise. Once inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, fans had no worries about the weather, as the stadium has a retractable roof that can be closed in the event of poor weather. Access 4 One of the reasons Atlanta was chosen as the site for the Celebration Bowl was due to its proximity to the member schools of both the MEAC and SWAC Conferences. Fans could either drive to Atlanta for the event or fly into Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, which offers direct flights from most HBCU cities. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is centrally located in downtown Atlanta and is conveniently located near a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Fans could either drive to the stadium using the WAZE traffic app or take the MARTA public transit system around the city. Once at the stadium, it was easy to navigate. Parking areas opened four hours before kickoff, and the four major gates at the stadium opened 90 minutes before the kickoff. The concourse was wide and allowed easy access to the seating bowl. Lines at the concession stands moved very quickly, so fans did not miss much of the action. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices began at $45.10 for seats behind the end zones and ran up to club seating at the 50-yard line for $154, which comes with some additional food and beverage perks. Only the 100 level of seating at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was used for the Celebration Bowl, guaranteeing fans a close-up view of the action. We’ve already discussed the Fan First Food Experience, which provided a host of food options at a very reasonable price. Parking at one of the Mercedes-Benz parking lots was $30 for the Celebration Bowl, with the nearby College Football Hall of Fame parking lot offering parking for $24. The cheapest method of getting to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on gamedays was via the MARTA light rail transit system. It costs $2.50 each way. Riders could reach the stadium via either the GWCC/State Farm Arena/Mercedes-Benz Stadium Station or the Vine City Station. . Extras 3 The Celebration Bowl has been carried since its inception by the ABC/ESPN television networks. The center hung a 360-degree videoboard that constantly provided fans with shots of key plays, game statistics, and other helpful information. Mercedes-Benz Stadium also hosts the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl during the postseason. Final Thoughts Unlike the other bowl Games, which rotate hosting the National Championship Game, the Celebration Bowl is always seen as the National Championship Game for HBCU football. Atlanta and Mercedes-Benz Stadium provide an excellent permanent home for this game.

Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey College football in 2025 couldn’t be more exciting. It’s the second year of the 12-team playoff, and chaos has occurred across the country with teams moving conferences, players transferring left and right, and schools pouring in money towards NIL for players. With all of this change, one thing has remained constant: the stadiums and the fans. Every Saturday is nothing short of a spectacle as people pour into these historic venues to watch their teams battle it out. This is Stadium Journey’s FBS Top 25 stadiums for the 2025 season. A “FANFARE” score has been used by writers to determine the optimal evaluation of a venue. This score tracks different elements of the stadium on a scale of 1-5: food & beverage, atmosphere, neighborhood, fan support, access, return on investment, and an extra category for anything that doesn’t fall into the others. To view the complete review for each of the 25 stadiums, click on the stadium title link below. 1. Husky Stadium - Washington Huskies 4.86 Aaron Terry - Husky Stadium is notable for several reasons, including hosting speeches for several US presidents, as well as hosting multiple NFL games. More impressively, the wave is said to have originated here back in the fall of 1981 (credit is shared between a former band director, yell leader, and trumpet player). But perhaps most important of all is that Husky Stadium is officially recognized as the loudest college football stadium in the nation, thanks in part to cantilevered metal roofs above each sideline that trap the noise inside. During a 1992 game versus Nebraska, ESPN recorded a noise level of 133.6 decibels, the highest ever recorded for college football.   2. Bryant-Denny Stadium - Alabama Crimson Tide 4.71 Jack Quinn - When you take the exit towards Tuscaloosa, you’ll come upon a quaint southern town that merely sits in the shadow of a cathedral that is Bryant-Denny Stadium. The massive bowl carries countless stories of success at the highest level of college football. The Alabama Crimson Tide has ruled the SEC and college football in general for many years, recently hosting opponents in their 100,000+ seat stadium, which is always buzzing on game day since it was expanded in 2010. Bryant-Denny is a full bowl-shaped stadium with a lower bowl and an upper deck that is disconnected into four large parts, one on each side of the field.   3. Arthur L. Williams Stadium - Liberty Flames 4.71 Aaron Terry - Arthur L. Williams Stadium in Lynchburg, VA, is home to the Liberty Flames football team and was built in 1989; its current capacity is 25,000. The facility started off with only 12,000 seats, but underwent a major renovation a few years back when Liberty made the move from FCS to FBS. The facility now includes two-story stands on both the east and west sides, a five-story press box complete with 18 suites, and seating around the horseshoe of the south end zone, which boasts both box seats as well as berm seating, capped off by brick arches built into the wall surrounding the venue.   4. Ohio Stadium - Ohio State Buckeyes 4.57 Photo by Conrad Klank, Stadium Journey Stadium review by Sean MacDonald - Ohio Stadium, home of the Buckeyes, is one of the best sporting destinations in the land, and the team on the field often matches the overall game day experience. Opened in 1922, “The Horseshoe” has hosted generations of Buckeye fans and continues to evolve and expand to keep the beloved venue modern. Ohio Stadium has a capacity of just under 105,000 and is doubtless one of the top experiences for a sports traveler. College football home games here are truly events, and if you haven’t been to one of the football stadiums in the Big Ten, consider Ohio State the perfect place to start.   5. Michigan Stadium - Michigan Wolverines 4.57 Photo by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium review by Sean MacDonald - Ann Arbor is the quintessential college town, and this is most obvious on a sunny Saturday autumn afternoon when the Wolverines are home at Michigan Stadium, more commonly known as The Big House. This nickname is not an exaggeration, as the gridiron is the third-largest stadium in the world behind Narendra Modi Stadium in India (114,600) and Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in North Korea (113,281), which obviously makes it the largest in the United States, even with its capacity having been reduced to 107,601 a decade ago.   6. Bridgeforth Stadium - James Madison Dukes 4.57 Gregory Koch - The Dukes routinely draw near-sellout crowds, with the fans in attendance being some of the most passionate in the country. Whether it’s tossing the streamers after touchdowns, banging the bleachers on third downs, or booing the refs after a perceived bad call goes against JMU, these fans are loud, they are proud of their Dukes, and they are not afraid to show it. When visiting Bridgeforth Stadium expect the crowd noise to be consistently loud and intimidating for opposing teams.   7. Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium - Texas Longhorns 4.43 Eric Moreno - There is nothing quite like the atmosphere of a big-time college football stadium on game day. In recent years the Longhorns have done a great job ramping up the atmosphere at DKR, from upgrading the Godzillatron in the south end zone to the Longhorn-shaped player’s entrance (complete with billowing smoke), to upgraded lighting and LED boards, it’s all better in Austin. The stands are littered with burnt orange, and the student section is filled with rowdy fans throwing their horns up (always up) – including groups such as the Longhorn Hellraisers . Fans chant “Texas Fight” and sing along to the “Eyes of Texas”.    8. Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium - Clemson Tigers 4.43 David Welch - In what otherwise would be a sleepy college town of just over 17,000 sits the 83,350-seat Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium, ominously dubbed “Death Valley.” It was Howard who would start the tradition of rubbing the chunk of quartzite from Death Valley, California. Howard implored players, “If you're going to give me 110 percent, you can rub that rock. If you're not, keep your filthy hands off of it.” The legend of “Howard’s Rock” was born and is the centerpiece of the famed, “Greatest 25 Seconds in Sports.”   9. Sanford Stadium - Georgia Bulldogs 4.43 David Welch - It is hard to beat the experience of football down south and “between the hedges”; for over 90 years, football on the University of Georgia campus has been played at the same location, as the stadium has grown around it. Football in the South takes on a different importance, making the whole experience seem more of an event than just a Saturday football game. College football season might kick off in September and run through early January, but in the state of Georgia, football season never ends.   10. Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium - Oklahoma Sooners 4.43 Aaron Terry - Home to the Sooners football team of the University of Oklahoma, the venerable facility is laid out in a bowl design, with both the north and south end zones enclosed; one of the most prominent features at the stadium is the clock tower built into the wall behind the north end zone, on the exterior of the venue. Come game day in Norman, the Oklahoma Sooners put on quite a show, making Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium one of the better atmospheres in college football today. Tens of thousands of red-clad fans show up for tailgating hours before kickoff, the atmosphere inside the stadium is loud and raucous, and the staff pulls out all the stops to keep fans engaged, including twin mascots, appearances by the Sooner Schooner, jugglers, OU flags trotted out throughout the game, and even flame and fireworks to welcome the team onto the field.   11. Vaught-Hemingway Stadium - Ole Miss Rebels 4.43 Matt Colville - It's been called the Literary Capital of the South; Grisham, Faulkner, and Willie Morris all lived here and used the small Mississippi town as a setting for many of their novels. It's Oxford, Mississippi, and after coming here, it's easy to see why, as the scene is something straight out of a novel. At The Grove, you'll find tailgating as you've never seen before – it's as grand and upscale as you can get, with chandeliers hung from a sea of tents and people eating off fine china. Students wear their Sunday Best, with men in slacks and women in dresses and boots, backdropped by beautiful Greek column buildings and hundred-year-old oaks.   12. Kidd Brewer Stadium - Appalachian State Mountaineers 4.43 Will Halpern - Kidd Brewer Stadium, known as “The Rock,” is a staple of college football not just in Boone but in the state of North Carolina, and even though at times it lives in the shadow of the four in-state ACC Programs to the east, Kidd Brewer Stadium and the Mountaineers who play here have been trendsetters. The Mountaineer Walk allows the team to walk to the stadium past the fans, while “Mountain Music” by Alabama is played before the team walks from the locker room through the corner of the concourse and onto the field for the start of the game.   13. Joan C. Edwards Stadium - Marshall Thundering Herd 4.43 Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Aaron S. Terry Stadium review by Jude Hannahs - ​Marshall University fans are passionate about college football. At first glance, Marshall might not seem like a school known for its loud, energetic football spirit. However, without context, one might mistake Marshall games for Ohio State, given the enthusiasm and cheering from the fan base. The Herd is among the most exciting teams to watch in the Sun Belt Conference and the Appalachian region. Marshall offers everything you want from a smaller Division I school; producing NFL legends like Randy Moss and Troy Brown, the Thundering Herd is formidable – especially at home.   14. Tiger Stadium - LSU Tigers 4.29 Michael Davis - There are plenty of great atmospheres in college football, and many fans have legitimate reasons to think their school has the best atmosphere. LSU fans are no different, and if creating a list of the top three college football atmospheres, it would be hard not to list Tiger Stadium as one of them. The LSU fan base is one of the best all-around in college sports, and obviously, Tiger football fans are the hardcore of the group. On game day in Baton Rouge, the reflection from the Mississippi River becomes a tidal wave of purple and gold. Just like every great college atmosphere, the atmosphere begins with tailgating – over two-thirds of Tiger fans tailgate for five or more hours before every game, and many begin more than 24 hours before kickoff. There are plenty of charcoal grills, tents, televisions, music, and other festivities for tailgaters.   15. Lane Stadium - Virginia Tech Hokies 4.29 Joseph Oakes - Lane Stadium is best known for its “Enter Sandman” entrance, as the Metallica song is played as the team runs out onto the field. Everyone “starts jumping,” and they can at times register on the Richter Scale as the stadium shakes. Lane Stadium is the epitome of a college football on-campus stadium. It is a massive facility from the exterior, as it is built mostly above ground and is very steep. It also matches the Virginia Tech campus buildings, as the exterior of the stadium is adorned with the famous Hokie Stone.   16. FBC Mortgage Stadium - UCF Knights 4.29 Chris Green - The Knights and their fans have been on the highest of highs in the last half-decade. Arguably the most visible and fastest growing program in NCAA Football, UCF has long been a hidden gem among college game day experiences. However, the latest round of popularity has only helped this notoriety grow even further into the mainstream. A trip to a Knights football game at FBC Mortgage Stadium, aka the Bounce House, reveals that the college football experience is alive and well on the campus of UCF – from the tailgating all across campus to the in-game fan interaction, the average uninitiated fan who isn’t familiar with the Knights will be surprised by the atmosphere here.   17. Hard Rock Stadium - Miami (FL) Hurricanes 4.29 Aaron Terry - Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL, is best known as the home of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins . However, on a few Saturdays in the fall, Hard Rock Stadium welcomes the hard-rocking fans from the nearby University of Miami, becoming a literal sea of orange for a few hours. The Miami (FL) Hurricanes have called the venue home since 2008, when they moved here from the old Orange Bowl Stadium, which was subsequently demolished and replaced by LoanDepot Park , home of Major League Baseball’s Miami Marlins .   18. Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium - Memphis Tigers 4.29 Aaron Terry - Opened in 1965, Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium is home to the Memphis Tigers football team, as well as the annual Liberty Bowl, and currently has a capacity of 56,862. The facility is a true bowl design, with an oval-shaped grandstand that rises to a peak in the middle of each sideline, and descends to have valleys behind each end zone. The sight lines here are truly outstanding, meaning all seats have a great view of the action, due to the fact that the grandstand is very close to the field, but also because the seats are very steep, meaning all the seats are closer to the action than at comparably sized stadiums.   19. Acrisure Stadium - Pittsburgh Panthers 4.29 Patricia Beninato - Pitt games are populated mainly by the school’s students and alumni, but the crowd will vary depending on the Panthers’ opponent for the day. The stands are much fuller for games against rivals Virginia Tech , not so much for non-conference teams like Western Michigan . You’ll find the students in the northern end zone, and the most popular side of the stadium for non-students is the western side behind Pitt’s sideline. Even when the crowd is small, though, they are loud and engaged all during the game, to the point that it can be surprising how loud a relatively small crowd can be. Expect lots of “HAIL TO PITT” and “LET’S GO PITT” chants, and it’s a good idea to learn the words to “Seven Nation Army” and “Lose Yourself,” because you’ll hear them sung a LOT.   20. Blaik Field at Michie Stadium - Army Black Knights 4.29 Paul Baker - Virtually every sports fan has a bucket list of venues they would like to visit. Chances are there are some legendary names on those lists, such as Fenway Park , Lambeau Field , St Andrews , or Wimbledon. Some venues that should be on any sports fan’s bucket list lie further off the beaten path, however, such as in quaint West Point, New York, a town of only 6,763 people – here is a venue that should be on any sports fan’s short list of places to go as you explore the planet. Watching an Army football game at Michie Stadium is more than just a game; it is part history lesson, part sporting event, part Fourth of July.   21. Albertsons Stadium - Boise State Broncos 4.29 Photo Courtesy of Operation Sports Stadium review by Stadium Journey - Albertsons Stadium is on the banks of the Boise River, nestled among the trees at the base of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It is a very picturesque setting for one of the most interesting college stadiums in the country. Unique in all of football is The Blue, the world’s first blue AstroTurf field. First installed in 1986, basically as a way to make Boise State stand out during its days in Division II, it has transformed into a rallying point for the Boise State team and its fans.   22. Reser Stadium - Oregon State Beavers 4.29 Photo Courtesy of Scott Schoonover Paul Hilchen - Oregon loves its football, and Beaver fans don’t take a back seat to anyone. “Beaver Nation” is as passionate a fan base as any in college football, but that passion doesn’t go too far like some fan bases, where visitors are taunted and sometimes hassled. This stadium feels very inviting for everyone, the same feeling you would get in most “small town” settings, even though Corvallis isn’t a small town. Beaver fans are very classy and set a good example for others to follow. I didn’t see many fans that were there because “it was the place to be and be seen” – true, hardcore, OSU Beaver football fans fill the stands here.   23. Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex - Hawaii Rainbow Warriors 4.29 Chris Green - Perhaps no other game day experience captures the true feeling of family, the connection to the local culture, and the enthusiasm that college sports can create than what you’ll experience at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex. Located on the campus of the University of Hawaii Manoa, this growing facility has quickly morphed from a track-and-field venue to a respectable football stadium in short order.   24. Stanford Stadium - Stanford Cardinal 4.29 Photo Courtesy of P.J. Loury Chris Green - Stanford football is one of the most successful programs over the last few years in college football, especially within their conference. The experience at Stanford Stadium on game day is also one of the best there is – the stadium’s location, fan base, and overall aesthetics make for a remarkable experience in a picturesque setting for fans to flock to. The atmosphere at Stanford Stadium is that of a relaxing college football experience. While seemingly an oxymoronic, one minute in the stands helps you realize how true it is; the roar of the crowd fills the air during the game as the Stanford faithful cheer on their team. However, the view over the end zone grandstand shows a beautiful forest of trees, to give a wonderful setting for football.   25. Jordan-Hare Stadium - Auburn Tigers 4.14 David Welch - Down on the Plains, Saturday afternoons take on a whole different feel than most college campuses in the country – Auburn, Alabama, is transformed from a sleepy college town into one of the top college football game day experiences in the country. There seems to be the perfect combination here of a respect for the traditions that make the Auburn football experience important, combined with a modern game atmosphere of piped-in hype music, which goes a long way in creating a fun game atmosphere.

Images from Bob Wilke and the YouTube Page/Matt Werner Michigan City, Indiana, sits on the coast of Lake Michigan, 54 miles east of Chicago. It is known for its miles of coastline, access to the Indiana Dunes National Park, lighthouses, and growing art scene. However, 70 years ago, the wheels were in motion to make it a professional baseball town. The city might have never had a franchise in the league if it weren’t for a 21-year-old player-manager, Al Shinn.  In 1955, he was playing in Hannibal in the Mississippi-Ohio Valley League, which was on the verge of folding. Shinn had just married a girl whose family lived in Long Beach, Indiana. He had met her at a train stop the previous year while traveling to games in Kokomo and Lafayette. Long Beach borders Michigan City, and Shinn thought the town would make a good baseball town and convinced the New York Giants to relocate the financially struggling Hanibal club to Indiana following the season. At the time, Michigan City had a population of 30,000. On November 28, 1955, the league changed its name to the Midwest League and voted the city in as a member. Shinn and his brother-in-law Bob Hood became part-owners, and Shinn continued as player-manager for what was now the White Caps franchise. “Can Michigan City support professional baseball?” asked South Bend Tribune columnist Dick Micell. “The city’s proximity to Chicago and the high death rate of lower classification clubs are popular arguments used by the skeptics.” Michigan City Mayor-elect Francis Fedder was not keen on the announcement, as the ballpark was being used all summer long by various boys’ programs. Ames Field had been in use since 1922, but received a major uplift of $33,462 in 1939 due to WPA funds. The stadium was used for high school football and baseball programs, as well as various youth programs in the area. The home jerseys resemble those worn by the White Sox in 1987. There was also the concern about the shores of Lake Michigan. The popular summertime destination for many in the Midwest would impact attendance at the ballpark. It was estimated that operating the club for the season would cost $50,000, with a minimum of 800 fans per game. The name White Caps was chosen from the foamy, white crests that form on waves when strong winds blow over the water from Lake Michigan. It was not the first time the name was used; a newspaper article from The South Bend Tribune from January 28, 1913, reported on a St. Floryan indoor baseball (softball) victory over the Michigan City White Caps by the score of 16-8. Ames Field was spruced up before the arrival of the White Caps. It received a fresh coat of paint, a new press box, a 35-foot screen behind the backstop, covered dugouts, a large scoreboard displaying league standings, and an updated electronic scoreboard atop the left field wall. Ticket prices were set at 75 cents, and management aimed to attract 800 fans per game to break even.  However, Ames was a traditional football field at the time. The press box was on the left field line, close to third base. The grandstand seats were not covered, and the left field fence appeared to be much further from home plate than in right. “Michigan City is fast becoming a baseball-minded town again, with large signs placed throughout the city and countryside, advertising 'Happy Days are here again' and to support the White Caps.” Team President Ralph Waterhouse announced that $14,000 worth of tickets had been purchased and that the goal of $20,000 sold would be reached by the opening night of April 29. A crowd of 6,000 was expected to attend the White Caps first game, a doubleheader where the team would play the afternoon in Kokomo and the nightcap at Michigan City. However, Mother Nature washed out both games, leading to only 1,000 customers for the game the next night. A bird's eye view of Ames Field and action shots from Michigan City Red Devils high school games. During the inaugural season, Waterhouse passed away from a heart attack at the age of 50. Then, controlling stock in the club was sold by Shinn to a syndicate headed by B.M. Bergerson, the owner of the B&K Root Beer stands mentioned earlier at Stadium Journey. The move was made to ensure that the ball club remained in business until the end of the year. The Caps held special nights honoring local towns like LaPorte and South Bend. They also announced they would give away 1,000 silver coins if 4,000 customers showed up to a Wednesday afternoon game in May. A crowd of 3,300 showed up for a doubleheader against the Kokomo Dodgers in August. Future Major League Hall of Fame pitcher Juan Marichal began his minor league career as a 20-year-old, recording a 21-8 record with 246 strikeouts and a 1.84 ERA for the Caps in 1956.  He would be joined by 10 other men who made it to the big leagues, including Matt Alou and Manny Mota. The White Caps averaged 774 per game and lost $10,000 during the inaugural campaign. The attendance figures were impressive, but the losses were staggering. The ball club even threatened before the second season to drop out of the league in a dispute with the city park board over revenue. The next season, the club had a full working agreement with the Giants and hoped to improve on attendance figures. Cold weather resulted in crowds of 450 and 200 for the first two games of the 1957 season. Attendance dipped over the next three years to 28,775 (an average of around 456) in 1959. After the season, the Giants moved their affiliation to Quincy, Illinois, in 1960. There was sentiment for civic groups to back the club, but it failed to find a major league affiliation by a February 12th deadline. It also did not have an agreement with the Parks Department to use Ames Field, which had just installed new floodlights. The franchise continued playing in Quincy until 1973, when it relocated to Dubuque, Iowa, before folding after the 1976 season. Ames Field would continue hosting high school baseball for close to 50 years, but like the White Caps, it too would disappear. The old ballpark began being torn down in June 1994. The press box was the first to be knocked down, followed by the rest of the grandstand and walls. It was rebuilt as a football-only structure for the high school team and opened in 1995. It is impressive, but it's not a place to put a baseball diamond.  High School baseball continued playing at Ames Field well into the pullover days of the 1980s. Shinn stuck around in the area promoting amateur baseball and sat down with The (Hammond) Times in 1993 to reminisce about his former team. He described that after World War II, the babies boomed, people made money, gas was cheap, and the new mass transportation system made travel the new American pastime. The White Caps were left choking on the fumes of that economic expansion. “It was a time in history that was not right for success in minor league baseball. People could easily drive to Chicago to see the game to the highest degree.”  Shinn’s words remain true well over 30 years later and almost a decade after his death in 2016. Michigan City still attracts tourists throughout the summer months and is a short hop to the resort town of New Buffalo, Michigan, and about an hour's drive to Chicago. The White Caps were a strange anomaly in the history of the Midwest League, part of the failed Indiana expansion era that included other Hoosier towns like Lafayette and Kokomo . Those cities saw the return of summer collegiate baseball through the Prospect League, and it is unlikely that a baseball club will return to Michigan City.  However, who knows when someone will eye the coastal town as a potential team there in the future. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner and promises to be the biggest event in U.S. soccer history. Venues across North America, from Vancouver to Mexico City, are poised to be the host venues for what promises to be one of the largest World Cup tournaments in history. As part of the conditions for hosting the matches, multiple venues across the country will be rebranding and temporarily renaming themselves to comply with existing FIFA rules. Currently, FIFA does not allow stadiums with corporate-sponsored names to be host venues. They do this to prevent additional advertising during the tournament. The result of this rule means that 14 out of the 16 venues will need to undergo a temporary name change when the tournament begins. These include NRG Stadium  in Houston and AT&T Stadium  in Arlington. Photo by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Much to the chagrin of Cowboys fans in the Metroplex , AT&T Stadium will temporarily be rechristened “Dallas Stadium,” while NRG Stadium will be known as “Houston Stadium.” With a capacity of around 95,000, AT&T Stadium is the largest venue to be used in the 2026 World Cup, followed by Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, which will keep its name for the duration of the tourney. Other venues that will see the name change include Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta (“Atlanta Stadium”), GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium  in Kansas City (“Kansas City Stadium”), and Lumen Field  in Seattle (“Seattle Stadium”). The 2026 FIFA World Cup is slated to kick off with the opening matchup between Mexico and South Africa on June 11 at Estadio Azteca. ------ Follow me on Twitter: @EricMoreno6477 Visit my Writer's Portfolio: EricMoreno.Contently.com

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 4790 W 16th St Indianapolis, IN 46222 Indianapolis Motor Speedway website SRO Indy 8 Hours Year Opened: 1909 Capacity: 257,325 Indy’s Endurance Showcase While Indianapolis is synonymous with racing in America, the SRO America Indianapolis 8 Hours stands alone as the only sportscar endurance race on the annual schedule. While IMSA maintains a visit on their schedule, future events will return to standard sprint weekends in 2026, leaving the SRO weekend the only place you can watch sportscar endurance racing at Indy. While generally more low key than other events at the storied facility, this event maintains its place as one of the most fan-friendly and wallet-friendly events on the calendar. Food & Beverage 3 The standard fare is available throughout the infield; the basics like burgers ($9.50-$10.25), chicken fingers ($12), and pork tenderloin baskets ($12.50) are all available, as are soda ($5-$7), bottled water ($5), and beer ($8.25-$9.25). Unfortunately, the only real food options at the track are the main concessions stand near the pagoda plaza – the grandstand food stands are closed, and food trucks are non-existent during this event. Atmosphere 4 Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the literal definition of a motorsports mecca in the United States. Every inch of the track oozes with history – this in itself should be enough to elevate the track’s profile. However, thanks to the recent purchase of the facility by Roger Penske, various upgrades and renovations have made the track even better than it was before. A new LED display behind the Pagoda and other smaller displays around the track offer fans a chance to see the action from anywhere, and renovated bathrooms and common areas are also featured in the latest upgrades. The stadium effect of seats on both sides of the track down the front stretch adds to the roar of the engines. Neighborhood 3 Speedway, Indiana, is a unique setting, as you can see both the past and the future of the area in a few blocks. Located literally in the middle of a neighborhood, the IMS facility is massive, rising above the rooftops of nearby homes. Across the street from the southwest corner of the track is Main Street; here, various restaurants and shopping destinations mix with newly constructed apartments and several IndyCar race team HQs. In addition, a mile west of the track along Crawfordsville Road are more shopping and dining options. Hotels are plentiful and nearby as well, with downtown Indianapolis just a short drive east, and multiple hotels just west of I-465 and the track. Fans 3 The fans at Indy are among the most sports-knowledgeable in racing; you would be hard-pressed to find any others in the US who can top it. Many fans have been going to Indy for various races for decades. As with other SRO America events, while the track may not sell out every seat, attendance has increased each year with impressive consistency, thanks no doubt to the organization’s hard efforts in the marketing department. 2025 saw a busy fan walk before the 8-hour event, as well as long lines at the various autograph sessions during the event. Access 4 To get to the track, you can just follow the signs, literally – there is no shortage of signage on the way to the track. The nearest highway is I-465, with I-74 meeting up with it just north of the venue’s exit. Parking on-site is plentiful both inside and outside the facility, though many of these lots require pre-purchased parking passes. That said, various homes in the area also offer up their driveways for paid parking, as do some of the businesses nearby. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to SRO weekend are relatively well priced – general admission tickets are incredibly low, starting at $20 for Thursday, $30 for Friday, and $20 for Saturday. Weekend passes are just $85 for all three days. Kids 15 and under are free with a paid adult, and parking starts at just $10 and goes up to only $25. Best of all, admission to Sunday’s remaining sprint races is free, with free parking then as well. Compared to prices you will see at the Indy 500, this is an absolute steal. Every ticket also includes infield access, as well as access to the paddock and pre-race fan walk. Extras 4 Several autograph sessions are held throughout the weekend, including all the SRO America Series teams. The series also has several event stores set up throughout the facility’s fan zone, where you can purchase merchandise from the event and the track, as well as from the drivers. The IMS stores also open under the pagoda plaza. On Saturday before the 8 Hour event, a fan walk is held on the track for you to see all the competitors up close on pit lane. Finally, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is located onsite in the infield and is open during race days. Fans of the sport will no doubt enjoy looking into the past and seeing the history of the sport of racing. Final Thoughts Fans still flock to the track no matter what is racing here, and the SRO weekend is incredibly affordable compared to other events. Couple that with the nostalgia factor that Indy injects directly into your soul, and it’s hard to skip this now annual stop on the SRO calendar. Sportscar fans will also have plenty to watch throughout the weekend, with no less than five racing series taking to the speedway during this event.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 TIAA Bank Field 1 TIAA Bank Field Drive Jacksonville, FL 32202 Jacksonville Jaguars website EverBank Stadium website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 67,814 A New Dawn in Duuuval! In many ways, the Jacksonville Jaguars are a story of ups and downs. At one time, just a pop-culture reference on the NBC show “The Good Place” for their history of being bad at football, the team from North Florida now finds itself as a potential contender. Playing in front of packed crowds is once again the norm, and fan fever is at an all-time high. However, their results in the field are often mixed. What sets the Jaguars apart, however, is their continued commitment to their fans. Known for being fan-friendly and fan-focused for many years, including during the down years, the team has continued its commitment to enhancing the fan experience in Jacksonville, even with its recent run of success. What was once considered an average stadium now features a broad range of unique aspects that make EverBank Stadium one of the more unique and enjoyable NFL stadiums to visit in America. In addition, a massive stadium renovation project is about to kick off, including the team playing their 2027 home games at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium , while the Jags home stadium is updated. Indeed, one may also scoff at Jacksonville’s place as an NFL hotbed for fans, but the Jaguars faithful are starting to slowly turn that opinion around. And while success leads to more butts in seats, a consistently impressive game day experience has helped keep those butts in seats for more and more games as time has gone by. Food & Beverage 3 The food options at EverBank Stadium are pretty standard for a professional sports stadium when it comes to prices. What may set the food and beverage experience apart here, however, is the sheer variety of options; some of the most popular are Mrs. Field’s, Auntie Anne’s, and Carvel Ice Cream. For burgers, the 904 Prime Burger location and the new Red Zone Burger are your go-to spots. Tailgate Grill’s three locations feature corn dog baskets and loaded tater tots, while taco fans can get their Mexican food fill at Tostitos Taqueria and Walking Tacos locations. Other options include pizza, BBQ, and even quesadillas at the Yucatan Guacamole Cantina. Atmosphere 4 EverBank Stadium debuted in 1995 and features a popular late-90s unfinished industrial vibe with lots of concrete. While stadiums and arenas like Miami’s Kaseya Center feature similar aesthetics that have remained relatively untouched, Jacksonville’s stadium has seen several upgrades throughout the years, with a whole slew of updates and renovations set to kick off for a 2028 debut. Most notable of the current updates are the fan zones in the end zone areas of the stadium – the north end zone features a VIP suite deck area that includes two pools with clear sides that look out onto the playing field. The seating also feels more intimate with just two bowl levels, instead of the multiple levels like at more modern stadiums. Thanks to recent winning streaks, the packed crowds of loyal fans have helped as well, as EverBank Stadium rocks whenever the Jaguars score. On top of that, the team’s rallying cry of “DUUUVAL!!!” (a reference to the city’s location in Duval County, Florida) hypes the crowd before key plays. Finally, the massively expanded HD video screens behind both end zones feature game stats, replays, and information for fans that the old scoreboards couldn’t offer. Neighborhood 3 The neighborhood immediately around EverBank Stadium is one of sports facilities and parking options; the home of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp is located quite literally in the parking lot of the Jaguars home stadium. Across the street, you will find Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, home to both Jacksonville University athletics and the Jacksonville Icemen of the ECHL, as well as Jacksonville Sharks arena football in the spring and summer. Also nearby is downtown Jacksonville, which offers a bounty of food and shopping options. Not too far is the Jacksonville Beach area, where visitors can dip their toes in the hot sand and warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. That said, all those options are a short drive away, which means it may be a bit of a walk to get to them if you forgo driving. Fans 4 The fans here are loud. Also, EverBank Stadium sees some of the NFL’s key demographics swell in attendance as well, with young fans and women making up a large contingent of the fans in attendance. In addition, families are also taking advantage of the Jags being the 5th lowest average ticket cost in the NFL, with many younger fans coming with their parents for some Sunday football. You can rest assured the NFL experience is alive and well in Jacksonville’s fan base. Access 3 EverBank Stadium is inherently very easy to find and get to. Located just across the St. John’s River from I-95 and just off US-1 alternate 228 and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, the stadium rises from the river’s shores. However, navigating the area is tricky, as the closest bridges are all a few lanes too small for game day crowds – traffic backs up easily and heavily in the area before and after games when fans pack the small streets in and around the Jags’ home. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to NFL games already carry a larger price than most sporting events, but Jaguars games are relatively affordable compared to other teams. Tickets in the upper deck corners start at $65, with upper-level sidelines going for $77. Corner seats in the middle level start at $104 and go up from there, with sidelines at $350. End zone seating ranges from $103 to $179. Lower-level seats start at $150 and can go upwards of $450 depending on where you want to sit and how low you want to go. Parking may cost you as well, as all Jaguars parking passes are sold out ahead of the season kicking off. Secondary market passes are your best bet, as are the numerous cash lots around EverBank Stadium. Extras 5 During the game, the stadium honors local first responders and military members. Jacksonville is a big military city, especially with a large US Navy and US Coast Guard presence. The Jaguars also frequently have military flyovers before kickoff. During the break between the third and fourth quarters, the team also honors an active-duty serviceman/servicewoman who has been recognized for an act of valor, or who recently returned from a deployment, by having them ring the Navy Mutual Bell. Located on the end zone mezzanine overlooking the field, the bell tolls and signals fans to rally behind the Jaguars heading into the final quarter. In addition, there are cooling stations throughout EverBank Stadium for fans that offer somewhere to sit and cool off on hot Florida game days; some of these include large bendy-buses with air conditioning on full blast. Furthermore, outside the main entrance on the west side of the stadium sits a massive Jaguar statue that fans can take photos of. On the same side of EverBank Stadium as the statue sits the Veterans Memorial Wall. Dedicated in 1995, this memorial honors more than 1,500 Jacksonville area veterans and war heroes from all six service branches (Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Navy, Marines, and Merchant Marines). Finally, during the pre-game ceremonies, Jaxson de Ville (the team’s mascot) performs stunts like zip-lining into EverBank Stadium from the top of the lighting towers, thrilling fans and getting everyone into the mood for exciting football. Final Thoughts With continued local investment from the team’s ownership and the potential continued success of the team in Jacksonville, the future looks bright for the Jaguars and their loyal fans. This is a game day experience that many visiting fans find impressive upon their arrival, and for good reason. The Jaguars consistently produce a solid fan experience all around and have given fans good reason to be excited about the future. And with new renovations on the horizon, the game day experience is sure to be a memorable one for fans for years to come.

Photos by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Hornet Pavilion 6000 J St Sacramento, CA 95819 Map It Sacramento State Hornets website Hornet Pavilion website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 3,000 From Minuscule to Makeshift When is a new arena only sort of a new arena? That’s not a riddle, it’s the reality for Sacramento State University men’s and women’s basketball. At the end of the 2024-25 season, Sac State bid farewell to The Nest – at 1,012 seats, among the smallest venues in Division I – and christened the 3,000-seat Hornet Pavilion in November 2025. The Pavilion was carved from a section of The WELL, the university’s recreation center, with bells and whistles added to what were previously just intramural courts at a cost of $5.2M. That inherently brings many quirks, which are detailed below. As my proud Sacramento native friend said, “Typical Sac; always doing things halfway.” (He may have ended the sentence a different way, unfit for print.) Food & Beverage 3 The makeshiftiness (new word?) of Hornet Pavilion reveals itself immediately when presented with concession options. With a limited indoor footprint, nearly all food and beverage stations are outside, in an asphalt space between The WELL and the north end zone of adjacent Hornet Stadium; the home of Sac State football looms large over Hornet Pavilion. First up after entering the premises is a beer, wine, and seltzer tent. Cans of local beer Urban Roots are $13, premium options, including NorCal favorite Sierra Nevada, carry an $11 price tag, while domestics or a Bud Light Seltzer will set you back $7. Hornet Pavilion Beer Tent, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Further along the entryway, you hit traditional concession fare, which is smartly priced. A hot dog, chips, and drink combo is $9, while the same sides accompanied by a cheese or veggie burger is $13. These items can also be had a la carte, along with nachos and candy. For something more substantive, the Street Philly Truck was dishing up hot hoagies. Upon looking at my menu photos, the pricing was blacked out, suggesting inflated charges for Hornet sports fans. Also unclear if Street Philly will be present at all Sac State games, or if different food trucks rotate in. For those not interested in braving the elements, just inside the arena doors is a drink and snack stand, while tucked inconspicuously next to the southeast bleachers is a popcorn, churro, and lemonade cart. All university-run concessions are debit or credit card only. Atmosphere 3 I attended just the third men’s basketball game in Hornet Pavilion history and the first against a fellow D1 opponent. That novelty – coupled with former Sacramento Kings guard Mike Bibby hired as the new coach and Shaquille O’Neal serving as his general manager (but not in attendance) – led to a palpable buzz in the building. Nearly all of the 3,000 seats were filled, and there was exponentially more Sac State gear being worn than this Southern Californian had ever seen in his life. Both endlines feature a ~30-foot-long video board above the basket. Music alternates between a DJ and the Hornet band sitting in the upper reaches of the northwest sideline. Despite the significant upgrade from the old Nest across campus, there were still reminders that this is both a not-quite-permanent venue and a resource-strapped athletics department. The Hornets’ pregame intros were accompanied by swirling spotlights, not from a high-tech lighting rig but from humans holding them on the running track perched above the court. Halftime entertainment consisted of a quick performance by the Sac State dance team, followed by pee-wee hoopers playing chaotic basketball on a lowered rim. Neighborhood 4 Sacramento residents fondly refer to it as “The City of Trees,” and that is plainly evident on the sprawling, redwood-strewn campus on the east side of town. Sac State’s athletics venues are clustered along the southern edge of campus, flanked by an access road and railroad track. That creates a formidable barrier to accessing pre-and postgame pursuits, but a nearby train underpass leads you to Elvas Ave., where a combo beer garden and ghost kitchen complex called Garden at the Line recently opened. A short drive away lies one of the best burritos I’ve ever devoured at Tacos 65. Get the al pastor with grilled cheese and thank me later. When you’re in town for a hoops game, see if the baseball team is in action later in the season or the football team earlier in the year. Or catch the big stage with the NBA’s Sacramento Kings . Old Town Sacramento, located in the city’s former train depot, makes for a fun and touristy couple of hours. Dress up for an Old West-themed portrait session or choose from an incredible variety of saltwater taffy flavors. The California State Capitol is located on 40 landscaped acres downtown, flanked by many other government buildings providing necessary infrastructure to Golden State residents. The best photo ops are along 10th St. Fans 3 Nearly all of the 3,000 seats were filled at the game of this review, and there was exponentially more Sac State gear being worn than this Southern Californian had ever seen in his life; you can tell that the new venue is bringing alums back to campus. In a corner of the northwest sidelines is the designated student section, called Swarm. These co-eds have a ways to go before being considered the Cameron Crazies of California’s Capitol, as no standing and little heckling emanated from their direction. Access 2 I recall The Nest being a decent hike from the closest parking lot, so Sac State has definitely upgraded in this regard by moving to Hornet Pavilion. CSUS Parking Structure III, along Stadium Dr., and funnels visitors to the Hornet Pavilion entrance, which is technically inside Hornet Stadium. Gameday parking rates are $10, providing some nice ancillary revenue from this predominantly commuter school. My group parked off-campus for free off the aforementioned Elvas Ave., enjoying the brisk 10-minute walk each way. Those relying on public transit will find Sacramento Regional Transit ( SacRT ) line 30, or the Gold light rail line serving the Sac State campus area; single-ride fares are $2.50. Both options will require a walk of up to a mile to reach the arena. A green ticket trailer greets those who haven’t purchased advanced seating, while those with tickets in hand (or phone) can proceed directly through the green tent, where metal detectors and yellow-clad security guards await. Hornet Pavilion Ticket Booth, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Those looking to relieve themselves are in for a real treat … or perhaps a trick. Due to the limited indoor space, restrooms are also relegated to the outdoor shadows of Hornet Stadium, in the form of porta-potty trailers each accommodating roughly 4-6 “guests” at a time. Thankfully, one is equipped with a handicapped access ramp, as all trailers require a small set of four stairs to climb. The entirely-outdoor entryway, concession, and restroom setup worked on the mild night I visited Hornet Pavilion, but will make for a suboptimal fan experience in rainy or frigid weather … and Sacramento regularly dips into the 30s on winter nights. Return on Investment 2 When I went to purchase tickets for this early-November non-conference game between two teams that fall well short of being marquee names, I had a bit of sticker shock. Adult general admission in the corner sections starts at $33, rising to $37 for assigned seats closer to center court. The only baseline seating is in courtside padded chairs, I assume, reserved for premium season ticket holders. These prices reflect both our inflationary reality and Sac State’s desire to quickly recoup its investment in Hornet Pavilion. Extras 2 The "Oakland" A’s are playing at West Sacramento’s Sutter Health Park during the 2026 and 2027 seasons, as they await their new permanent home in Las Vegas. While the April-October Major League Baseball season does not align with college hoops’ November-March schedule, you can pop by to scope out by far the smallest MLB park at 14,014 seats. If you see a purple beacon of light emanating from downtown, that means the Sacramento Kings posted a rare victory that night! “Light the Beam!” is the rallying cry for fans of Sactown’s NBA franchise. Final Thoughts Hornet Pavilion is certainly not the lone Division I arena embedded within a university recreation center, but it may be the only one repurposed from general student use. A Sac State hooper could conceivably score a layup, keep running through a pair of double-doors mere feet away, and immediately join a game of pickup basketball or volleyball in The WELL. Sometimes, though, you must play the cards you’re dealt, and I give Sacramento State for its inventiveness in upgrading from one of the smallest venues in all of DI. The university has ambitions to elevate its national profile, and a shiny, new- ish  basketball arena fits into that strategic plan … for now.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 M&T Bank Stadium 1101 Russell St Baltimore, MD 21230 Army/Navy Game website M&T Bank Stadium website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 71,008 Army and Navy In Charm City The Army-Navy Game is one of the most iconic sporting events in the United States. The rivalry football game between the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy has been going on since 1890, although it has only been played annually since 1899. The game was not held in 1917 or 1918, due to World War I, and in 1929, when the two academies disagreed over player eligibility rules. Navy leads the overall series. There have been seven ties. Philadelphia is usually thought of as the main home to the game, although starting in 2008, a bidding process has made the game more likely to rotate to various venues. Philadelphia still holds the record for most games hosted, with 85. Counting 2025, Baltimore has hosted the game seven times. The 1924 game was held at the old Municipal Stadium. That stadium was located on land that eventually held Memorial Stadium. Baltimore’s home of the Ravens, M&T Bank Stadium, has now been home to the 2000, 2007, 2014, 2016, and 2025 games. Cities that join the bidding process for the game will have to figure out how to pay for the transportation of the cadets and midshipmen to the game. Chicago used to be the westernmost place where a game was held (1926), but the 1983 game in Pasadena, CA’s Rose Bowl changed that fact. Food & Beverage 5 The stadium has added a Shake Shack to the stadium, which has created much excitement. Expect long lines, but the prices are reasonable, and the food is pretty great at this new food option. The stadium has good-quality concession stands around the stadium. Many stands offer options such as beer, chili bowls, pizza, and hot dogs. Stands have generic names, such as Goal Line Grill, Kickoff Classics, and the Chesapeake Market. There are also outposts of local favorites, as well as Shake Shack. There are also a few full-service bars scattered around offering top-shelf spirits and premium drinks. Several kiosks also sell a variety of domestic and craft beers. The stadium has followed Atlanta's  lead and begun offering many lower-priced, value options. This has made an already good food experience even better. Atmosphere 5 The game atmosphere is amazing. There are activities both before and during the game to keep all of the fans engaged. The game benefits from being held at such a fine facility. The Ravens have nice facilities and offerings for the team and fans. The large video boards, known as RavensVision, past both end zones are amazing visual spectacles. There are plenty of 22-foot - long LED screens that are located on the upper-level concourses. These screens are big enough to be a normal video screen at many stadiums, and here, they are just for patrons on the concourse to enjoy. These go along with large LED screens at the entrance gates. The signage around the stadium is consistent, modern, and appropriate. The stadium is in the middle of some large renovations, so you may see some construction going on. The Ravens souvenir stands will be closed, but many smaller stands will be available for Army-Navy game merchandise. Ravenswalk leads the fans from downtown and Oriole Park towards M&T Bank Stadium. It has always been a good place for fans to enjoy pre-game activities. One should also stop by to see the text of the former facade from Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium, which is on display between the two stadiums. The text was a memorial to those killed in the two World Wars. The main words of “TIME WILL NOT DIM THE GLORY OF THEIR DEEDS” remind visitors of those this nation lost in the past. The line is a quote from Gen. John J. Pershing, commander of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. Neighborhood 4 The neighborhood is generally the same as Oriole Park at Camden Yards, but does suffer a slight bit, as it is further away from downtown Baltimore. The Horseshoe Casino, located south of the stadium, has the potential to make this “other” side of the stadium more and more important to the Ravens’ social scene. The casino offers game day events, as well as parking. Close to the stadium, and right across from Oriole Park, are Pickles Pub and Sliders Bar & Grille. The Federal Hill neighborhood is also close by. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Mother’s (1113 S Charles Street) and Magerks (1061 S Charles Street) are also good places for a pre- or post-game meal. The Inner Harbor is a popular tourist destination and is a short walk from M&T Bank Stadium. There is a movement by a local developer to redevelop the already famous Harborplace into a state-of-the-art living and working area. Currently, the existing pavilions are underused. Baltimore is home to many touristy attractions, such as Harborplace, Fells Point, and Fort McHenry. The American Visionary Art Museum on Key Highway is located on the way to Fort McHenry and should not be missed, although its unique collection will not be for everyone. If looking for a bit of Baltimore sports history, the Sports Legends Museum is located adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Fans 5 This game means the world to the teams and fans in attendance. Everyone has a side. “Go Army! Beat Navy!” and “Go Navy! Beat Army!” are chanted and shouted almost non-stop before and during the game. Even with the emotions of the game, there is a respectful tone. This is not a crowd that will fight over their emotions. These are respectful fans who take pride in their teams, as well as their nation. Access 5 M&T Bank Stadium is right off I-95, with only a couple of turns putting you on the highway home. Parking garages are located in all directions from the stadium. Street parking is not a great option. Parking near the Inner Harbor is a good option. Check the parking link on the game's website to find bargains that are a pretty close walk away. There is some construction going on between the stadium and the casino so the police route traffic one direction only depending on needs. If you’re not driving to the game, the other primary mode of access is the MTA Light Rail. From points north and south of downtown Baltimore, you can take the train to the ballpark. The Light Rail is slow, so make sure you know that beforehand. The crowds will be overwhelming after the game. Return on Investment 4 The Army-Navy game may not be the cheapest around. It is a desired ticket for many fans. So expect to pay a decent amount of money. That, coupled with pretty expensive parking, means the game will not be cheap. But for the experience you will get, the price seems fair and reasonable. Extras 5 It is the Army-Navy game, so that is probably enough as it is. But there are other reasons to attend. Stay outside the stadium to witness the walk of the Cadets and Midshipmen into the stadium. Then get inside to watch the formations form on the field. It is well worth attending just for this. The game will always have a good flyover pre-game, whether it is Army helicopters or Navy jets that you prefer. The Navy and Army will also always have skydivers jumping into the opening ceremony. Both the Navy and Army have ships and other large equipment around town and at the Inner Harbor displaying their awesome firepower. Don’t forget that you are at the epicenter of Baltimore football, so stop and take a look at the Johnny Unitas statue located at the end of Ravenswalk and in front of the stadium. That and the brand new Ray Lewis statue are honors to iconic men of Baltimore lore, not to mention a great pre-game meeting spot. Final Thoughts The Army-Navy game is one of the most special events a sports fan can ever attend. The overall pageantry of the event and the pure sports aspect of the contest make it a must-see for any real sports fan.

Editor B.J. Schecter spent two glorious decades at Sports Illustrated . Now, at Seton Hall, as the Executive Director of the Center for Sports Media, he's grooming the next generation of sports media professionals. B.J. took a few minutes to discuss The Hall, SI and lots of other fun stuff. STADIUM JOURNEY: Straight to the point: What do you love about Seton Hall? How's it unique? B.J. SCHECTER:  Seton Hall is a special place. There’s a tremendous sense of community and pride in every corner of the campus. Everyone looks out for one another and lifts each other up. There’s this gritty mentality at The Hall that I absolutely love and embrace every day.   STADIUM JOURNEY: How does the Center for Sports Media come to be? What can students expect? B.J. SCHECTER:  I came to Seton Hall in 2017 after leaving Sports Illustrated to build the Center for Sports Media. We want to train and develop the next generation of sports media professionals by creating experiential learning opportunities that are second to none. We’re built around the teaching hospital model. Develop the skills in the classroom and then go out into the field and apply them.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Let's backtrack. As an undergrad at Northeastern, you were the manager for the men's basketball team for three years, which is a huge commitment. Describe the experience. What was the best part of the job? The worst? Were you ever called in to suit up and scrimmage with the team? Fondest memory? B.J. SCHECTER:  Being a manager was an awesome experience. I got to see college sports and a Division 1 basketball program from the inside out. It was a big-time commitment and involved a lot of grunt work and getting yelled at, but I loved every minute of it. The best experience is when we went into Cameron in 1994 and nearly beat Duke. I did suit up from time to time and learned very quickly that I couldn’t put the ball on the floor or it would be taken from me.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Matthews Arena will soon be no more. When you think of Matthews, what comes to mind? B.J. SCHECTER:  Matthews was run down and dated when I went to school at Northeastern decades ago. We never drew well for basketball and was much more of a hockey arena during my time on Huntington Avenue.   STADIUM JOURNEY: When do you cross over into journalism? How does that come about? Where do you begin? Are you thinking "career" right out of the gate? B.J. SCHECTER:  I first got interested in journalism when I was in high school. I got the opportunity to be a stringer for my local newspaper, the Middlesex News , and I loved it. I knew I wanted to study journalism in college and chose Northeastern largely because of the co-op program. I got into The Boston Globe at the end of my freshman year and there was no looking back.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Who were your mentors? What lessons do you keep close to you? B.J. SCHECTER:  My first and biggest mentor was Larry Ames, who was the high school sports editor at The Boston Globe . He drove me hard and taught me how to grind and find a way to get the job or task down no matter the circumstances.   STADIUM JOURNEY: So you're working in  The Boston Globe 's sports section, one of the best in the country, in the '90s when print is thriving. What's that like? B.J. SCHECTER:  The Globe was the place to be when I was there. My mentors were the late Will McDonough, Dan Shaugnessy, Bob Ryan and Jackie MacMullin. It was a dream. So much talent.   STADIUM JOURNEY: How difficult was it to make the leap to  Sports Illustrated ? How many hoops do you have to jump through? What do you think put you over the top as far as getting the job? B.J. SCHECTER:  SI recruited me out of the Globe and I started on the lowest rung – reporter/fact checker. When I was hired it was largely Ivy League and I got the job because of my work ethic, ambition and willingness to do anything.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Describe working at  SI.  What was it like to work at one of the greatest magazines ever? Is it so intense and competitive that you can't enjoy it? B.J. SCHECTER:  It’s hard to describe what SI once was. You want to talk about a murder’s row of writers. To work alongside some of the smartest, most talented people in the business is still a pinch-me experience. I’ve always been a really competitive person, so I relished the environment. It was a dog-eat-dog world, but we had a lot of fun along the way. I spent two decades at SI and loved every minute of it.   STADIUM JOURNEY: Sports Illustrated featured some of the best writing. What  SI  pieces blew your mind? B.J. SCHECTER:  The bonus pieces in the back of the magazine were inspiring and out of this world. Anything that Gary Smith wrote would blow your mind. The two pieces that come to mind were  Crime and Punishment  about former New York City high school basketball star Richie Parker is my all-time favorite SI piece. Smith’s profile on the late Pat Summitt is one of the best stories I’ve ever read. But there were so many others: Bill Nack, Scott Price, Steve Rushin, Tom Verducci, Jack McCallum, Tim Layden .  And, of course, Rick Reilly. His Life of Reilly back-page column was brilliant.     STADIUM JOURNEY: Someone's visiting South Orange. What spots should be on the itinerary? B.J. SCHECTER: Definitely Bunny’s, which has a terrific bar pie. After that—this may seem cliché—hang out on campus. Our campus is beautiful. Jon Hart is  @manversusball .

Photos by Paul Baker., Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 William H. Pitt Center 5151 Park Ave Fairfield, CT 06825 Sacred Heart Pioneers website William Pitt Center website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 2,000 Turning the Tables (and the Court) at the Pitt Center   The William H. Pitt Health and Recreation Center is named for the local real estate executive and philanthropist who donated three million dollars to Sacred Heart University in 1996, a portion of which was used to finance the building of the facility.   The Pitt Center opened in 1997 and is the home to Sacred Heart’s basketball, volleyball, wrestling and fencing teams. Although it’s been the hub of Pioneer athletics for close to three decades, it no longer resembles the facility it was when it opened. In the summer of 2024, the basketball arena underwent a significant renovation. The basketball court was rotated 90 degrees, three video boards and a state-of-the-art broadcast control center were installed, as was a mezzanine for VIP seating and events, a new sound system and lighting.   Basketball has been played at Sacred Heart University since 1965. The Pioneers originally competed in Division Two, where they qualified for 13 NCAA tournaments and won a national title, in 1986. In 1999 Sacred Heart moved up to Division One. They have yet to qualify for a D-1 tournament. The women’s team began competing in 1981. They have played in five D-1 tournaments, most recently in 2024. An empty Pitt Center at court level pregame. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Food & Beverage 2   There is a snack cart in the lobby that serves up a basic menu for visitors to Pioneers basketball games. The cart offers hot dogs, pretzels, and a variety of chips and candy. It will get you through the game if you need a bite to eat during the game. Cans of Pepsi products are sold here, too. Be warned – the line for this cart gets long at halftime. The two kids working the cart move the line as fast as they can, but they can only do so much. There are some vending machines in the room just off the lobby. Bottles of Pepsi products, chips and candy bars can be purchased here if you want to skip the lines at the snack cart.   In addition, the Park Ave. Club is located in the old study hall on the second floor of the Pitt Center. The Park Ave. Club offers a private buffet, adult beverages and access to club seating overlooking the court. Tickets can be purchased for $25 per game.   Atmosphere 3   The gameday atmosphere is where fans who have not visited Sacred Heart in a while will see the biggest changes. Part of the renovations to the arena were three new video boards, two of which are set up on the near side corners, and the other which stretches the length of the far side of the gym. These are put to great use throughout the game with videos, stats, crowd shots and graphics. The Pioneers staff do a nice job integrating these boards into their game day presentation.   The cheerleaders and dance team are on hand performing throughout the game. The Pioneers’ mascot, Big Red, is on hand as well, but does not add much to the atmosphere. There was no pep band in attendance on the day Stadium Journey visited, nor was there much of a turnout from the student body. One can imagine what kind of home court environment the Pitt Center would create if the stands were packed with rowdy Sacred Heart fans.   The sound system is excellent and not overbearing. It’s possible to talk to the people around you without shouting. The PA announcer does his job in a workmanlike fashion. In fact, at times he almost seemed disinterested in the action happening on the court. There are games for fans during play stoppages where fans can shoot for various prizes.   Sacred Heart Dance Team performs at the Pitt Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3   While Fairfield is a really nice place to live (in fact, towns in Fairfield County are regulars on any “Best Places to Live in the United States” list), it’s not exactly what you would consider a destination location. The Sacred Heart campus is located in a residential area, with few lodging or dining options in the immediate vicinity. The Trumbull Mall is located a mile from campus, complete with the usual chain offerings, such as the Cheesecake Factory.   Adjacent to the Sacred Heart campus is the Discovery Museum and Planetarium. This attraction features rotating exhibits and interactive educational displays. Across the street from the Pitt Center is JP’s Diner, a 50s style full-service restaurant which is open on game days.   The Sitting Duck Tavern is a popular local watering hole, and there are numerous options in downtown Bridgeport, located just a few miles away. Visiting fans will find no shortage of lodging or dining options along Route One, the main business thoroughfare in the area, and Interstate 95.   Fans looking for sporting options in the area will find plenty of options nearby. Sacred Heart teams play next door at Campus Field , baseball at Veterans’ Memorial Park  and hockey at the beautiful Martire Family Arena . In addition, Fairfield University is just five miles away, with the Leo Mahoney Arena  hosting the Stags basketball team. The Bridgeport Islanders, the top farm team of the New York Islanders, play downtown at Total Mortgage Arena .   Fans 3   Sacred Heart averaged 1,200 fans per game in the 2024-2025 season. While this figure is a bit below the MAAC average, it represents a marked improvement over their attendance from just a few seasons ago. It would appear at first glance that the renovations to the Pitt Center and the move to the MAAC have had a positive effect on attendance. For comparison, Stadium Journey visited Sacred Heart on a December Sunday during Finals week, which kept students away, but attendance was a solid 822.   You’ll find a mix of local basketball fans and families here at the Pitt Center. The gameday presentation is geared towards families and younger fans in attendance, so this is a place you can feel comfortable bringing the entire family. Even when the students fill the bleachers on the near end of the Pitt Center, it’s a lively, but not an uncomfortable, environment. Sacred Heart trophy display in the Pitt Center lobby. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 4   Sacred Heart University is located in suburban Fairfield, Connecticut, a town of 61,500 residents in the southwest corner of the Nutmeg State. The campus is situated in the northeast corner of the city, directly across the street from neighboring Bridgeport. Sacred Heart is easily accessed by either the Merritt Parkway or Interstate 95. Traffic in this part of the state is usually quite heavy, so you may have to allot extra time to arrive at the Pitt Center. Fans using public transportation will be glad to know that the Greater Bridgeport Transit (GBT)  number 4 bus routes from Bridgeport’s busy Amtrak station to a stop right at Sacred Heart’s front entrance on Park Avenue.   The Pitt Center is located on the southwest corner of campus, adjacent to the school’s other athletic facilities, including Campus Field . There has been a lot of construction on campus, and parking is at a premium near the athletic facilities. The lots closest to the Pitt Center are reserved, so most fans will park in the South Garage, about a quarter of a mile from the center, and the North Lot, about a half mile from the center. At least the scenery on this attractive suburban campus is worth the walk.   Fans will enter the Pitt Center into a small lobby, where the ticket and merchandise tables are located. Fans will also find the snack cart here, as well as a collection of hardware won by Pioneer teams over the years. Large restrooms, built to handle football-sized crowds, are located off the lobby to the right. The gym will be located straight ahead.   Seating is located along all four sides of the court. Seats on the sidelines consist of individual stadium seats, while baseline sections consist of molded plastic bleachers. In this bandbox of a gym, all seats have excellent views of the action.   Return on Investment 4   Tickets to Pioneer basketball games are reasonably priced, costing $25 for center sections and $15 for baseline sections. Parking is free in the garages and lots around campus, and no item at the snack cart will cost you more than five dollars. If you wish to access the Park Ave. Club, a ticket to this premium space will cost you $25. For a Division One basketball experience, this is a most affordable option for local fans. Big Red sits outside the Pitt Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 2                                                                                                 Banners honoring the success of the school’s basketball, volleyball and wrestling teams hang on the walls of the Pitt Center gymnasium, and there is a nice trophy case packed with mementos won by all the Pioneer teams located in the lobby.   On your way into the Pitt Center, don’t forget to grab a quick photo with the statue of Big Red, who is sitting permanently on a bench just outside the entrance to the facility.   Final Thoughts   The renovations to the basketball arena at the Pitt Center took what was formerly a sleepy, plain gym and turned it into a sleek, modern bandbox of an arena, one that should provide the Pioneers with a significant home court advantage for years to come.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram   @PuckmanRI .