Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Converse Family Field House 2807 N Glebe Rd Arlington, VA 22207 Marymount Saints website Converse Family Field House website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 1,000 D3 Hoops in Northern Virginia Located in Arlington, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., Marymount University is a Catholic college, whose sports teams, known as the Saints, compete at the Division III level of the NCAA in the Atlantic East Conference. The Saints basketball team plays on Marymount's main campus at Converse Family Field House. The arena is located within the Rose Bente Lee Center, which also contains several other student recreational facilities. It is named not after the athletic shoe brand but after the Converse family, who donated a significant sum of money to the Marymount Athletic Department to build the facility. Food & Beverage 3 Although there is no concession stand exclusively serving the Converse Family Field House, Bernie's Cafe is in the Rose Bente Lee Center lobby and is open during Marymount basketball games. Fans can go there and bring the food into the arena, about a 30-second walk away. Bernie's is also open on non-gamedays to serve the Marymount student community, and you will find many students there during the game as well. Every food item on the menu costs $10.50 and comes with fries. You can choose between two hot dogs, six chicken tenders, six wings (BBQ, plain, or hot honey), or a double cheeseburger that comes with very thin patties that are quite seasoned. Fans can buy Coors beer for $5 or soft drinks for about $2. Keep in mind that all food is made to order, so you're best off ordering before the game or at halftime so you don't miss much of the action. Although not many fans will be there, you may have to wait in line behind students as well. Atmosphere 3 Walking into the Rose Bente Lee Center will put you in a spacious lobby. Bernie's will be on your right, and the arena entrance will be straight ahead, past displays for the Hall of Fame and Marymount All-Americans. You will walk through a set of double glass doors, after which you will find blue plastic bleachers on either side of the court. The court itself is a unique gray color reminiscent of blacktops that many grew up playing basketball on. Marymount has cheerleaders, a dance team, and a small pep band that plays during breaks in the action. The band is situated in the corner of the arena and is hard to see, but they certainly make themselves heard. Marymount is a small school, so these groups are not large in size, but they manage to keep the fans engaged and entertained. Neighborhood 4 Marymount's main campus is in a residential neighborhood in Arlington, although there are several lively neighborhoods close by. The Metro 29 Diner is a favorite place to get a bite to eat in North Arlington, as is Cowboy Cafe. You will find many other locations along Langston Boulevard (Route 29), a short drive away via Glebe Road. The Ballston neighborhood (which also houses a separate Marymount campus) is a couple of miles away and has even more options - it is one of the liveliest parts of Arlington. Fans 3 Marymount typically draws a couple of hundred fans a game, which is about average for Division III. This is your typical crowd - mostly friends and family, with a few students and locals thrown in. They are moderately engaged, but are usually pretty quiet. You may get one or two fans who just like to yell and complain about everything, but for the most part, the crowd is pretty respectful. This is Division III, so don't expect a loud and raucous crowd, but the Saints do have their regulars. Access 4 Marymount's campus is located a couple of miles off I-66 via US 29 and Glebe Road. Locals can also take Route 50 or several other major arterials to get here, depending on where they are coming from. Many roads lead here, but you will likely encounter traffic, especially for weeknight games that correspond with rush hour, so be sure to allot an appropriate amount of time. When you get to campus, tell the guard at the security gate that you are there for the game, and they will direct you either to a nearby surface lot or a garage, depending on what else is happening on campus that day. Both of these are a short walk from the arena. There is no Metro station near the campus. The Ballston-Marymount University station on the Orange and Silver Lines serves Marymount's campus in the Ballston neighborhood, not the main one where the Converse Family Field House is located. and is about two miles away. Restrooms are available inside Bernie's as well as on the ground floor, one level down from the Field House. Stairs and an elevator can take you there, although there is no reason to use them, as the ones in Bernie's are more convenient. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Marymount basketball games is free. Concessions are affordable, too. Overall, a game at the Converse Family Field House is an excellent value. Extras 3 Check out the championship banners above the bleachers and the Marymount Athletics Hall of Fame in the lobby. Each of these is worthy of a star on its own. A third star for the unique gray color of the court, a throwback to the blacktops of players' youth. Final Thoughts The Converse Family Field House isn't the flashiest venue or the largest, but it still is a nice atmosphere to watch a basketball game in. The men's and women's teams often play doubleheaders, meaning you can spend an entire afternoon watching college basketball for no cost whatsoever. It's hard to complain about that.

Minor league baseball teams have created numerous promotions to attract a larger audience to their ballparks recently. However, one promotion that took place well over a century ago has been lost in time. It was a radical idea that would be an advertising stunt and attract visitors to the town. That idea was free baseball for the Decatur Commodores in 1915. It was an ideal conceived by team management of the Three-Eye League that gained enough attention that other teams thought about themselves, and a few others contemplated that it might just be what the minor leagues were looking for. Newspapers from Salt Lake City to Boston claimed that the “millennium had arrived in Decatur, Illinois.” The Commodores, or Commies, as they were called by the local populace, had been in town since 1900 but had been operating at a loss since a second version of the club arrived in town in 1910. Attendance peaked at 52,104 in 1907 before dropping to 38,597 in 1909. The ball club’s treasurer, Mont Peniwell, proposed a plan that would have local businesses, fans, and residents donate enough money before the season to allow for all fans to watch games for free at the ballpark for the 1915 season. A goal of $12,000 was established, and Peniwell began looking for subscribers. Subscriptions would be sent to the local newspaper by fans It would be a boost to the community, and the thought process was that larger attendance numbers would spill over to the local merchants of Decatur. Archie Davis, a local druggist, was the first fan who sent $10 in with his coupon from the newspaper and said the following. “A good crowd will be at every game, and my only trouble will be in securing a box seat so that I can get as close to the players as possible.” The idea was not original and was suggested by the Wichita Wolves of the Western League in February. Team president A. M. Ebright set a goal of selling $75,000 worth of tickets at 50 cents apiece to local businesses and residents to open the gates to Island Park for free. He envisioned free advertising from across the nation, increased trade with local merchants, and fans of all income levels being able to attend a game. However, it does not appear that the ball club met the goal and abandoned the free baseball concept. A receipt from a fan who donate $2 towards a subscription for free baseball for Decatur A subscription ballot was printed in the Decatur  Daily Herald,  where fans or businesses would fill in how much they would like to donate. Subscriptions came in from the Decatur Hotel, Decatur Railway & Light Company, and the Decatur National Bank. Sydney Bacharach, owner of Cheap Charley Clothing Store, was more than willing to back the campaign. “Free baseball looks like a great thing for businessmen. We want to get the people here, and then when they see what Decatur is offering them, they will do their business here.” The news caught the attention of many outside of Decatur. New York Giants scout, Dick Kinsella, said that the city got more advertisement out of free baseball than any other town this size ever had.  Folks in Montana referred to Decatur as where they have free baseball. Three-Eye president Al Tearny stated that he wouldn’t be surprised that several years, the majority of minor leagues operated with free baseball within several years. League members in Peoria, Bloomington, Quincy, and Dubuque contemplated adopting the practice in 1916. A comic from Toledo, Ohio, with a satirical look at the free baseball promo However, Peniwell soon discovered that the club couldn't meet the $12,000 objective. It was downsized to $8,000, but the club had met its goal and played the season with free baseball. The free seats were only for the bleacher sections, and fans wanting to sit in the grandstand would have to pay 15 cents. Buttons were created for fans to wear to the game to show their pledge. On April 30, the Commodores opened at home at the local racetrack that was fitted with a new grandstand roof, wire fencing in front of the grandstand, and a steel outfield wall. The bleachers were packed with fans, and many sat behind the wired fencing in front of the grandstand. Others watched the game from their automobiles in right field. However, attendance was 770, with only 178 people paying for seats in the grandstand. The second game drew a larger crowd of over 2,000 people. There were 300 people in the grandstand, 15 rows of people stood beyond the bleachers and down right field, and the bleachers were packed. The third game on Sunday was expected to attract 4,000, but wet weather doomed the game, and only 500 were in attendance. The headline says it all about the Commies promotion One caveat about the promotion was the number of school children who attended games. It became so concerning that the local truancy officer showed up to see who was playing hooky at school. The team then established that all school children would not be allowed to play games until after 3:30 pm, after class let out. Crowds of around 1,000 would be at hand for select games, but it was soon evident that the Commies were nowhere near the $8,000 mark for their goal. By May 16, the club only collected $3,469. Donation boxes were set up at the entrance of the stadium, and the club began charging 15 cents per person who watched the game from their automobiles. Penniwell announced that the club received $6,200 in subscriptions at the beginning of the season, with two sources pitching in an additional $1,500 to push the total close to $8,000, but when it came time to collect, most did not pay up. The club collected only $3,469 of actual money (43 percent short of the goal). Imagine putting yourself down for 4-boxes of Girl Scout Cookies from your next-door neighbor's kid and then a month later refusing to pay when your order of Peanut Butter Patties, Thanks-A-Lot, and Thin Mints arrived. You might wake up with a slashed tire, but that's what took place with the subscriptions in Decatur. Many said they would pay anywhere from $2 to $150, but never did. Since most fans sat in the bleachers, sales from seating in the grandstand were down. It also led to fewer fans patronizing the area during games. I am not sure if this meant that fans did not purchase food or beverages at the game, since that did not appear to be mentioned in any of the newspaper articles of the time, but the team underestimated its goal of reaching the $8,000 goal. The team also had to make additional payments towards police, laundry services, coal for the clubhouse, new uniforms, and player salaries. The team was in the red for $3,231 when it was all said and done. Then, adding insult to injury, Mother Nature had the final word on the Commodores campaign on July 15 when a tornado ripped apart the grandstand’s roof before a ballgame. Insurance officials then razed and condemned the grandstand. Photos of the racetrack grandstand after the tornado struck it before a game. The Commies would continue to play with fans now being charged 15 cents to sit in the bleachers, but the team was close to folding or relocating to Galesburg, Illinois, to close out the season. On August 11, the team played its final game, and a few days later, a benefit game was set up with a semi-pro team that attracted only 350 fans.  The failure of the free baseball campaign wiped out baseball in Decatur until a new version was created for the 1922 Three-Eye season. The team would play at Staley Field, which had recently become available after the Decatur Staleys football team relocated to Chicago and is now known as the Bears. The Commies attracted a record 64,024 fans in the year that signaled a triumphant return of baseball to town. In 1927, Fans Field would be built and serve as home to the Commies for the next 50 years.  Just as quickly as it was launched, the free baseball campaign lost momentum. While the idea was noble and appeared solid on paper with all the finances considered, it initially put Decatur on the national radar and instilled a sense of pride among residents and businesses. However, trouble arose when it was time to collect payments. What could have marked a transformative era for minor league baseball pricing ultimately faded away. At that year’s winter meetings in Chicago, the Three-Eye League made it clear that there would be no such talk of free baseball with any of its club members, setting a price of 25 cents a ticket for games. Rock Island would take Decatur’s place in the loop’s schedule for 1916. There was a lot of promise at the start of the season for the Commies and Decatur. Today, one would have to look 110 miles north to Peru, Illinois. The Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp of the summer collegiate Prospect League does charge admission to Schweickert Stadium . The team has built the stadium from the ground up and does not have plans to charge a dime for games anytime soon. Other small-town summer collegiate teams in the Cape Cod League, Florida Collegiate Summer League, and the New York Summer Collegiate League also admit fans for free. Fortunately, we would never see a promotion like this ever again for a minor league team. The loss of revenue from a $10-$12 bleacher seat would be ludicrous, regardless of the publicity it would receive nationally. An interesting tidbit, the Commies franchise continues today as the Kane County Cougars in the Midwest League. They offer $5 lawn seats for games, available for purchase up to a week before the event. While not free, it’s pretty close! ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Phoenix Municipal Stadium 5999 E. Van Buren St Phoenix, AZ 85008 Map It Arizona State Sun Devils website Phoenix Municipal Stadium website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 8,775 Phoenix Muni The Arizona State Sun Devils baseball team has a long and storied history, with only four losing seasons since its founding in 1959.   The Sun Devils moved to the Big 12 conference beginning the 2024-25 season after successfully playing in the Pac-12 since 1978.   The team is first in the number of alumni who have played in MLB.  The stadium’s outfield walls proudly display nineteen retired numbers, many College World Series (CWS) appearances, and five national championship years. After playing four decades at on-campus Packard Stadium (1974 – 2014) in Tempe, AZ, the Sun Devils moved to Phoenix Municipal Stadium (Phoenix Muni) in 2015.  Phoenix Muni was built as the spring training home for the San Francisco Giants (1964 – 1981) and later the Oakland Athletics (1982 – 2014).  Since taking residence, the Sun Devils have made significant renovations to the 60+ year-old facility.   Fans can admire a statue for Bobby Winkles, the first Sun Devil baseball coach (1959 – 1971) upon entering the venue. It's an enjoyable, historic park in which to watch some spring baseball. Food & Beverage 3 Phoenix Muni sticks to a classic ballpark menu, with the strongest variety found along the third base concourse. Lines can build at peak times, so plan accordingly. Hot dogs, chicken tenders with fries, and nachos run $7–$14, while snacks like popcorn, pretzels, peanuts, and candy range from $5–$13.50 depending on size. Just inside the main entrance, a Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers outpost (an Arizona sports‑bar chain) offers hot dog, cheeseburger, and chicken‑tender baskets for $14–$16. One of the best values is the sausage cart down the third‑baseline, serving Italian sausages and bratwursts. Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers at Phoenix Muni, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Coke products are the stadium’s soda option, priced $6 -$8 for fountain drinks. Bottled water is $5, though fans may bring in sealed bottles, making it an easy place to save a few dollars. Beer and wine generally fall in the $14–$15 range. Tempe‑based Huss Brewing features its ASU‑themed ‘Devil’s Halo’ amber ale on tap. A Chick‑fil‑A stand and an Ice kiosk sit along the third base concourse as well, with a standard chicken sandwich coming in at a steep $11.18.  Atmosphere 3 Attending a game at Phoenix Muni is a decent outing for any baseball fan.  Green fold-down stadium seats (with cup holders) line the seating behind home plate and the infield while bleachers with backs (general admission) extend down the baselines.   The bleacher area provides net-free seating, though those sections lack handrails and cup holders, and the seating is quite uncomfortable and cramped.  A deck down the first baseline offers tables with stools, views of the field, and the indoor batting area. Fans seeking shade should get tickets behind the home plate and infield area (sections 1 – 7 on the first level or in A to M on the second level).  Sections 1 (and F and G) are directly behind home plate. A fantastic amount of Sun Devil baseball fame and history surrounds the park.  Plaques line the exterior of the park as well as the outfield walls.  These include the number of players in MLB or made the MLB draft, All Americans, CWS appearances, number of conference championships and national championships, a plaque honoring Packard Stadium, and plaques acknowledging former team managers.  The left field line is 333 ft, honoring former coach Jim Brock #33; the right field line is 334 ft, acknowledging former player Cory Hahn #34.  Nineteen ASU retired numbers are visible on the outfield wall.   The light poles at the park are the ones from the old Polo Grounds, though the lights were updated before the 2025 season.  Two ‘Chairs of Honor’  pay tribute to prisoners of war and those missing in action. The scoreboard provides excellent gameday stats (including previous at-bat results) and player information, with some video tossed in when needed. The announcer does a superb job calling the starting lineup and player changes (for both the home and away teams).  Music can get loud between innings, so you’re forced to stop talking with friends around you while it lasts.  Unfortunately, the music person has gotten on the ‘play loud noise snip its between every pitch’ band-wagon so watching a game isn’t quite as enjoyable as it used to be. Located on the outer concourse to the right of the main entrance, the team shop is spacious and well‑organized, offering a wide selection of Sun Devil shirts, caps, and other merchandise. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is adjacent to Papago Park , which also includes the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden . If you’re an outdoorsy person on top of being a baseball fan, this area is the perfect place to spend the day. It is convenient to take your family to the zo o (which normally closes at 5 pm ) and then head to the ballpark for a night game. The zoo is so close you can hear fans cheering in the stadium from inside almost the entire zoo. Also, next door is the Hall of Flame Fire Museum which provides a history of firefighting exhibits.  While no places to eat or drink are within walking distance, a short drive (about 3 miles) down Mill Ave will bring fans to downtown Tempe, which has plenty of places to imbibe and dine.  Pedal Haus Brewery (brewery with a full menu), Zipps Sports Grill , Daily Jam - Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant, and Postino Annex (wine café and light fare) are just a few recommended places.  My favorite, Hundred Mile Brewing , is just two and a half miles away. In the same area, Canopy by Hilton Downtown, Sonesta Select Downtown Tempe, and AC Hotel are some hotels for travelling fans.  Many more hotels are just two or so miles from the ballpark nearer the airport like Residence Inn, Radisson, Marriott, and Holiday Inn. For other sports to see when in town, check out ASU basketball at Desert Financial Center or several spring training facilities.  Tempe Diablo Stadium (Angels), Sloan Park (Cubs), or Scottsdale Stadium (Giants) are the closest ones; Chase Field , where the Diamondbacks play, is about eight miles west of Phoenix Muni. Fans 3 Since the baseball program is so storied, a large season ticket holder base across multiple generations is in attendance for games. You’ll see current students, families with kids, middle-aged and retired alumni, and other fans.   All cheer and applaud loudly when the Sun Devils make  a good play and yell at the umps when a call is made against the Sun Devils.  Many adorn ASU shirts and caps.  Attendance is always strong, with a 70% - 80% capacity at most games, more on weekend games, or when the Sun Devils battle their archrival U of A (University of Arizona) Wildcats .  Access 4 Fans get to the ballpark relatively easily by car, bike, light rail, or bus.  It is about three miles from the ASU campus and a little over three miles from Sky Harbor Airport.  If arriving by car, fans must walk over a bridge to get to the stadium.  For those who can’t make the walk, a complimentary shuttle runs between the lot and the entrance, with tipping encouraged. Parking is $7, and in a frustrating change this season, payment is now QR‑code only. Pedestrian Bridge at Phoenix Muni, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey For visitors taking the light rail get off the stop at Priest Dr/Washington St, then walk .6 miles to the stadium. Clear sports stadium bags are allowed; knapsacks are not.  The security individuals are welcoming; walking through the scanner and getting your bag checked is a breeze.  Re-entry into the stadium is not allowed.  Select and order tickets at kiosks outside the ticket window.  Buying a ticket is all cashless and ticketless; one must have a credit card and a working mobile phone to receive their ticket via a text.  The WiFi isn’t strong, so often attendants must accept the text for you and their own phone and then walk you into the stadium.  While it’s a nice idea, all parties must be present and enter together.  I find it easier just ordering the tickets and parking before heading to the game.  The venue has benches near the main entrance for fans to sit and wait for friends. Newly painted, functional restrooms are on the concourse down both baselines. Return on Investment 3 Aside from the constant noise between pitches, the overall game day experience is strong enough that the ticket prices feel like a worthwhile investment. General admission seats start around $12, while lower-level seats behind home plate run up to $35 before Ticketmaster fees. Prices rise to $14–$50 for higher‑profile opponents, especially the University of Arizona. If comfort and shade matter, spending a few extra dollars for infield seating is well worth it. The program offers military discounts for all veterans, and season tickets are a smart option for anyone planning to attend multiple games. The Sun Devils even sell an eight‑game Sunday package. Concessions trend expensive, so eating beforehand and bringing your own water is a good strategy. Parking is $7. Extras 3 Both the history of the Sun Devils baseball team and the venue deserve additional accolades.  For those with a fear of heights, shuttling fans from the parking lot to the entrance is a first-rate feature.  Finally, having a welcoming and painless security entry makes all the difference in the world, and the parking and security folks do that well.   Final Thoughts The background of Papago Park sets the overall ambience of visiting Phoenix Muni.  It is a truly unique setting for college baseball and one that all baseball fans should try and experience.  ASU Sun Devil baseball program is a premier one.  I recommend all sports fans visit the legacy and history of the team and venue during the spring.

Photos Courtesy of Gensler. In a significant move for fans of women’s volleyball, the University of Texas has taken the initial steps toward building a state-of-the-art arena tailored specifically for its Longhorns women’s volleyball team. They have issued a request for proposals, inviting private developers to join in a project that promises to elevate the game-day experience while minimizing financial burden on the university. Spanning nearly 4 acres within the bustling Athletics and Entertainment District on campus, the proposed arena aims to be a focal point for volleyball fans. With a seating capacity nearing 6,000, the venue will afford the Longhorns a dedicated space that can also be expanded for concerts and larger events, setting the stage for unforgettable experiences. The facility will be adjacent to the Moody Center , home to the Longhorns basketball program, and the new arena will complement the university's commitment to athletics and community engagement. Currently, the volleyball team plays at Gregory Gym , which has a seating capacity of about 4,000. Built in 1930, it was originally constructed as the home for the university's men’s basketball team. It served as home to volleyball matches from 1974 to 1989, but when central air conditioning was added in 1997, the team returned as tenants in 1998. As demand for tickets has surged following a string of successful seasons that included back-to-back national championships in 2022 and 2023, as well as a Sweet 16 appearance last season, ticket demand for volleyball tickets on the Austin campus has skyrocketed. The Longhorns averaged 4,867 fans for 9 matches this past season, and sell-outs are normal. The Longhorns volleyball team has recently witnessed a remarkable surge in attendance. On September 7, 2025, they set a new regular-season attendance record, drawing 10,899 fans at the Moody Center for a match against Stanford. This growing fanbase only adds pressure for the university to expedite the development of a new arena that can accommodate the increasing number of supporters. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo: Courtesy of the city of Macon, Georgia The Macon-Bibb County has officially selected Barton Malow, in association with Sheridan Construction, to manage the construction of the new arena. This facility will replace the current Macon Coliseum and is set to cater to a variety of events, including minor league hockey, basketball games, concerts, and trade shows. The arena will feature a modern design, aiming to provide a top-tier experience for guests with amenities including luxury suites, club seating, and extensive modern fan amenities. Construction is scheduled to begin in summer 2026, with a planned completion date of 2028. Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller has emphasized the arena's potential to be a significant economic engine, attracting visitors and supporting the city's competitiveness against other areas in Georgia. Photo: Courtesy of the City of Macon, Georgia ia The new arena aims to be more than a venue; it is envisioned as a destination that will enhance the region’s reputation for tourism. Officials believe the facility will generate business opportunities and help maintain low taxes for citizens by bringing in revenue. The arena’s location near Interstate 16 is designed to capture the attention of passing motorists, enticing them to make a stop in Mac Local leaders are optimistic that this project will foster an environment ripe for cultural and entertainment growth, with connections to nearby venues like the Atrium Health Amphitheater and the renovated Macon City Auditorium. The success of these venues could provide a model for what the new arena can achieve. While the total cost for the arena is still to be finalized, estimates suggest that initial budgeting will rely on the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) approved by voters. Currently, $5.7 million has been earmarked from the total projected budget of $450 million.

Photo by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey As of February 2026, the ambitious renovation of White Stadium  i n Franklin Park has reached a total projected cost of $325 million. This redevelopment is a public-private partnership between the City of Boston and Boston Legacy FC, a new professional women's soccer team in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). The Taxpayers Bill While the project was initially framed as a modest $30 million renovation in 2023, the cost to taxpayers has nearly tripled from early 2024 estimates. Current Public Share: Taxpayers are now on the hook for $135 million, up from an initial estimate of $50 million and a late-2024 projection of $91 million. Reasons for the Increase: Mayor Michelle Wu attributed the ballooning costs to inflation, rising material prices (such as steel), new tariffs, and extensive design changes requested by the community. Budget Lock: The Mayor stated this $135 million figure is the "absolute maximum," protected by a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) contract to prevent further overruns. Boston Legacy FC Role The private partner, Boston Legacy FC , will contribute $190 million toward construction, primarily for the stadium's west side. Under a 10-year lease agreement, the team will also provide over $252 million in community benefits over 15 years, including stadium maintenance, rent, and a new Boston Public Schools (BPS) athletics fund. Local Controversy The project remains highly contentious. Groups like the Franklin Park Defenders  and the Emerald Necklace Conservancy have sued to halt the project, arguing it privatizes public land and is irresponsible given a concurrent $53 million budget gap and staff cuts within Boston Public Schools. Critics advocate for a more affordable, fully public stadium that would cost roughly $65 million. Vertical construction is scheduled to begin at the end of March 2026, with the stadium expected to be ready for the 2027 NWSL season.

Photos Courtesy of Northwestern University A new era of Northwestern Wildcats football will begin this year, as construction of the state-of-the-art Ryan Field is underway on campus. The $850 million project is funded through private donations, most notably from the Ryan family, and is designed to enhance the fan experience, including modern amenities, improved sightlines, and sustainability. The capacity at the state-of-the-art college facility will be reduced from 47,500 to 35,000, making it the Big Ten’s smallest institution and one of the crown jewels of college football. However, it will provide better viewing from all areas of the seating bowl for fans and students. Ryan Field will have the best sightlines in college football. The new stadium will feature 12,500 fewer seats and a more vertical design, with padded seating and purple coloring. Fans in the highest seat in the upper deck will be 136 feet from the field, much closer than similar seating areas at Michigan , Notre Dame , and the nearby United Center. Photos Courtesy of Northwestern University Canopies will cover all 35,000 seats, including the student section in the end zone, which will have a capacity of 2,000. There will be club suites, living room boxes, and club seating at the 50-yard line to enhance the experience for the most die-hard Wildcat fan. There will be 13 to 16 sideline suites with a mix of 22-inch padded theater-style seats and bar stools. There will be much more green space, including new plazas. The hope is that these areas will host summer and holiday festivals featuring street carts and food from area restaurants and businesses. The venue is designed to achieve LEED Gold Certification and exceed ADA requirements by 194%. Photos Courtesy of Northwestern University Northwestern plans to market the stadium for corporate events and conventions and hopes Ryan Field could attract NCAA championships in soccer and lacrosse. Evanston Township High School will also play football games there. The original Ryan Field debuted as Dyche Stadium in 1926 for $2.6 million and was well-maintained for the next century. The football plant had a capacity of 45,000 and increased to 55,000 by 1961. Further renovations in 1996 and 1997 reduced capacity while providing extensive renovations.  Further renovations in 1996 and 1997 reduced capacity while providing extensive renovations. The Wildcats have been playing home games at the nearby lakefront Martin Stadium and  Wrigley Field  the past two seasons. They will play their first two home games at the lakefront stadium before moving into their new palace on October 2, on the 100th anniversary of its predecessor's first game. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Mortgage Matchup Center 201 E Jefferson St Phoenix, AZ 85004 Phoenix Suns website Mortgage Matchup Center website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 17,071 Original Suns At one point, the Phoenix Suns were the only pro game in Arizona. That has since, of course, changed with Major League Baseball expanding to Phoenix, the National Football League moving from St. Louis and even the National Hockey League  coming and going. However, the NBA still has the staying power and a commanding presence in the desert. Founded as an expansion team in 1968, the Suns are still working on that elusive first championship after three appearances in the finals in 1976, 1993 and 2021. Home for the Suns is Mortgage Matchup Center.  Built in 1992 as America West Arena, it was one of the first basketball specific arenas in the NBA.  Although the Phoenix Coyotes did call the arena home from 1996 to 2003, it was never ideal and there were plenty of obstructed views.  The most recent renovations have underlined that Mortgage Matchup Center is a basketball centric facility, which definitely has advantages for the Suns game experience. Food & Beverage 4 The concession options at Mortgage Matchup Center are solid.  There are a number of options on both the main and upper concourse levels along with some other dining options.  Local favourites that can be found in the arena include Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, Shaq’s Big Chicken, Benthana Sushi, Los Soles Taqueria and Spinatos Pizza.  Concession locations and options are well documented on the Mortgage Matchup Center website for those who like to plan ahead for their dining experience.  The beer selection is solid as well as other alcoholic beverage options.  One spot of note is the Dos Equis Beergarden, which takes advantage of the excellent fall and winter weather in Phoenix. Atmosphere 4 Mortgage Matchup Center has an attractive main entry on the northwest corner of the building.  A large, glass, concave entry point is welcoming.  The northwest corner also has a large square to go along with the main LED sign, which is the perfect meeting place for fans before the game.  Entering the main entry point brings fans into a large atrium which has a huge bar and is a great pregame social area. Mortgage Matchup Center is unique in that the upper concourse is far more interesting than the lower concourse.  The lower concourse does have more concession options and a food court style eating area, however there are plenty of items to explore on the upper concourse.  There are portraits for all of the members of the Suns with retired numbers or banners.  There are also other artifacts found in glass cases for both the Suns and Phoenix Mercury.  Inside the seating bowl, the floor is north-south oriented with the best spot for a center court logo from the west.  In the rafters on the west side hang the banners honoring Phoenix Suns players and personnel including Dick Van Arsdale, Kevin Johnson, Walter Davis, Dan Majerle, Steve Nash, Tom Chambers, Shawn Marion, Amar’e Stoudemire, Alvan Adams, Charles Barkley, Connie Hawkins, Al McCoy, Cotton Fitzsimmons, John MacLeod, Joe Proski and Jerry Colangelo.  At the northwest corner hang the Suns conference championship banners.  Phoenix Mercury banners also hang.  Above center court is a state-of-the-art four-sided videoboard, which is of ample size, but does not totally dominate the arena.  There are also narrow LED boards at the top of all four ends which provide statistics and other information.  Being a basketball-centric facility, the sightlines in Mortgage Matchup Center are fantastic with two seating decks in an octagonal shape with suite levels in between. The gameday atmosphere at a Suns game is typical of an NBA game.  There is constant activity and near sensory overload.  The Sun Dancers perform a few times during stoppages and the Suns mascot, The Gorilla, takes part in pre-game ceremonies and promotions. Neighborhood 5 Mortgage Matchup Center is located in Downtown Phoenix.  There are a ton of options for pre and postgame food and drink just steps from the arena.  Some options include The Whining Pig, Humble Bistro, Rosso Italian, Blue Hound, Phoenix Bourbon Room and The Arrogant Butcher.  There are a few other sporting options in the area.  Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks , is just steps from the Mortgage Matchup Center.  Mortgage Matchup Center is shared with the Phoenix Mercury  of the WNBA.  The college basketball experience of the Grand Canyon Antelopes  is also worth checking out.  There are other options, including the Arizona Cardinals  and the teams at Arizona State University, that are not in Phoenix proper, but a short drive away.  There are plenty of other tourist options while in Arizona.  These can include the Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, Heritage & Scenic Park, Arizona Science Center, Desert Botanical Garden Arizona Financial Theatre and Symphony Hall.  For fans wishing to stay near the arena, Homes2Suites, Courtyard and Residence Inn are all options. Fans 5 The Phoenix Suns enjoy some of the most consistent support in the NBA.  For the past number of years, they have averaged a capacity crowd.  Due to the comparatively small capacity of the Mortgage Matchup Center to other NBA facilities, this ranks the Suns in the bottom third of the NBA in attendance.  However, the team can only work with what it has and to have better turnouts at Suns games is not possible.  The fans in attendance are loud and supportive and definitely give off the vibe that the Suns are Phoenix’s first team.   Access 4 Mortgage Matchup Center is located in Downtown Phoenix on the south side of East Jefferson, between 1st and 3rd.  It is just 1.1 miles south of I-10 and 2 miles west of another portion of I-10.  It is 1.2 miles north of I-17, so getting to the arena from out of town is not too difficult.  There are a number of parking garages in the downtown area, so parking should not be terribly difficult, however, it is recommended to plan for parking using a prepaid parking app.  For fans who wish to take public transit, the Valley Metro light rail travels right past Mortgage Matchup Center.  Fans should consult the Valley Metro website for schedules, maps and fares.  The concourses in Mortgage Matchup Center can get a bit congested and the washroom facilities are adequate. Security protocols for the NBA and major sporting events are in constant flux.  Stadium Journey strongly recommends consulting the Mortgage Matchup Center and Phoenix Suns websites for the most up to date security information, including prohibited items and bag policies. Return on Investment 3 Phoenix Suns tickets begin at $30 for upper deck ends.  Dynamic pricing and the secondary market can definitely skew the cost of tickets.  They go up to $550 and over $2400 for courtside seats.  The 2016 Fan Cost Index for the NBA had the Suns just above league average as the 10th most expensive experience.  The reality is that the NBA, and all professional, major sports are increasingly expensive.  Extras 3 An extra mark for the longevity of the Suns franchise; at one point, the only professional game in town. An extra mark for the iconic and unique Gorilla mascot. An extra mark for Jerry Colangelo, a basketball legend and the first General Manager of the Suns at only age 28. Final Thoughts Since the Phoenix Suns have welcomed professional sports competition in the desert, they have continued to prosper.  Mortgage Matchup Center is one of the top basketball-centric venues in the NBA and provides the Suns with the opportunity for an excellent gameday experience. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Cressy Field 285 Old Westport Rd Dartmouth, MA 02747 UMass Dartmouth Corsairs football website Cressy Field website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 1.850 Corsair Football at Cressy Field The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (better known as UMass Dartmouth) is one of five campuses in the University of Massachusetts system. It is located in the town of Dartmouth on the South Coast of Massachusetts, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. The university has an enrollment of about 8,000 students, about half of whom live on campus. The school offers 123 undergraduate programs and 32 graduate programs. Cressy Field, Umass Dartmouth's multi-purpose outdoor stadium, is named in honor of Peter H. Cressy, Chancellor of UMass Dartmouth from 1993 to 1999. In addition to the football team, Cressy Field serves as home to the men’s and women’s soccer teams, field hockey, and lacrosse teams. Football was first played at Southeastern Massachusetts University as a club sport in 1985 (the school changed their name to the UMass Dartmouth when it was merged into the UMass system in 1991). The team originally played at Sargent Field (now named Paul Walsh Field ) in New Bedford. In 1988 football was upgraded to a varsity sport to coincide with the opening of Cressy Field on campus. The Corsairs have qualified for the NCAA Division Three tournament three times in their history, most recently in 2024. UMass Dartmouth has also played in five postseason bowl games Food & Beverage 3 A huge upgrade in the concessions experience was undertaken late in the 2025 season, as food trucks were brought in to replace longtime concessionaire Chartwells. Chartwells handles the campus' catering, and traditionally served up a menu of basic, traditional stadium fare. A pair of local food trucks offered up a diverse, high-quality menu for hungry Corsair fans. Boston Trolley Dogs served up giant gourmet hot dogs topped with pulled pork, chili and more, along with chicken fingers, fries and other snack items. Supa Dupa served up BBQ sandwiches and nachos with a variety of meat toppings. If you visit Cressy Field during their annual Blue and Gold Game, in addition to the usual concessions, a beer tent is located adjacent to the football field. At this time, it's not clear if the food trucks are a permanent addition to the UMass Dartmouth game day experience or just a temporary change for the last couple of games on the 2025 schedule, but judging by the lines at the food trucks, this was a big hit with the fans. Lines at Food Truck at Cressy Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Atmosphere 3 You wouldn’t expect an elaborate gameday presentation at a small venue like Cressy Field, and you won’t get one here. Still, all the elements you would expect to see at a college football game are found here. The school's cheerleaders and pep band perform throughout the game. Music plays over an excellent sound system during play stoppages, adding noise and energy to the festivities. A scoreboard in the south end zone provides basic game information, and the PA announcer adds a lot of energy to the proceedings without being too over the top. There’s a pretty good turnout from the student body and a really good turnout from the players’ families. As you might expect, they are really into the game. For a D-3 game, this can be a pretty loud place. As the Corsairs program has enjoyed success over the past few years, the game day experience and fan support has grown along with it. The squad currently enjoys one of the longest home winning streaks in all of college football, having won 26 consecutive games as of the end of the 2025 season. They have not lost a home game since 2019, before the pandemic. Neighborhood 3 UMass Dartmouth is a self-contained campus located in the suburban town of Dartmouth, MA, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford on the state’s south coast. Route 6, which is lined with businesses, eateries, and lodging options, is a mile from campus. Visiting fans looking for a bit of local flavor may be disappointed with the endless suburban sprawl of big box stores and restaurant chains, but if you are good with these options, there’s plenty to be found. A complete visitor’s guide to the area around campus can be found here . Stadium Journey’s favorite spot to visit after a Corsairs football game is Buzzards Bay Brewery, located about a ten-minute drive from Cressy Field in neighboring Westport. Buzzards Bay offers up a variety of excellent craft beers, and on most weekends the brewery features live music and food trucks at their site on a converted farm. Max's Burgers and Cask 'N Pig BBQ are other excellent options nearby. Visiting fans coming to the area may not wish to spend a whole lot of time in either Fall River or New Bedford, two cities struggling with some of the issues facing many poor cities in the northeast. Still, there are places of interest in both cities. Fall River is home to Battleship Cove, the largest collection of World War II naval vessels in the world. Also nearby is the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast/Museum, located in the same house where the infamous murders took place in 1892. The museum is open for tours and fans of the macabre can even spend the night at the house. The New Bedford Whaling Museum focuses on the history of the Whaling industry and features a walkable downtown with cobblestone streets near its working waterfront. There are plenty of attractions in the area for visiting fans. Boston is located about an hour away to the north. Cape Cod is located a half-hour to the east. Providence is a half-hour away to the west, and Newport, with its Gilded Age mansions, is 45 minutes away. The Jolly Roger Flies at Cressy Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Fans 3 The crowd at a UMass Dartmouth football game can vary greatly depending on the day of the week, weather and opponent, but a typical crowd numbers between 1,000-2,000 fans per game. For the 2025 season the Corsairs averaged 1,400 fans per game. There's a good turnout from the student body at football games, and a lot of support at the school between all the different Corsair teams. One of the great things about going to games at smaller schools is the connection that so many in the stands have with the players down on the field. With many of the players in the game coming from local towns, a great percentage of the fans in the stands consist of families and friends. The fans here create a lot of noise and energy as they support their team. Access 3 Cressy Field is located on the southern end of the UMass Dartmouth campus, alongside the University’s other athletic facilities, including the Tripp Athletic Center . The town of Dartmouth is located in southeastern Massachusetts, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. Located about an hour’s drive south of Boston, the campus is easily accessed by car, as it is located just a few miles from Interstate 195. Fans utilizing public transportation will take SRTA’s number 14 bus that runs hourly between Fall River and New Bedford. Schedules can be found here . UMass Dartmouth has a unique layout, with the majority of the buildings on campus located within a single ringed road that circles the campus. Visitors to UMD will enter on the north side of campus and drive around to the athletic complex on the south side of campus. Parking is available in one of the many lots that ring the campus. To help fans access the Cressy Field more easily, the school has instituted shuttle service from the parking lots to the football field. Several manicured paths will guide fans through a grove of trees to the football field. Seating is comprised of metal bleachers on either side of the field. There is plenty of room around the field for fans who wish to stand and take in the action. Portable restrooms are located on the north end of the field as well as in the nearby Tripp Athletic Center . UMass Dartmouth Corsairs during the National Anthem. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Return on Investment 4 All ticketing at UMass Dartmouth is done electronically through the HomeTown Ticking app. Cash is not accepted at Cressy Field. Tickets are sold as general admission for ten dollars. Seniors and youth receive a two-dollar discount. With free parking and inexpensive concessions, a visit to Cressy Field is an affordable entertainment option for southeastern Massachusetts football fans. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for the unique setup and architecture of the UMass Dartmouth campus. The school was named in 2013 by Travel and Leisure as one of the ugliest campuses in the nation. The campus was designed by famed architect Paul Rudolph in the early 1960s in the Brutalist style. To contrast the school’s buildings from the outside world in an attempt to create a social utopian environment, most of the buildings on campus are made entirely of concrete (béton brut) and feature irregular features which attempt to create a more communal atmosphere. Many visitors to campus describe it as resembling a prison. It may be better described as a bunch of gray concrete spaceships parked in a giant open field. Either way, it's a most unique campus. Final Thoughts One of the more entertaining Division Three football experiences in New England can be found at UMass Dartmouth. After the game, take a tour of one of the more interesting campuses in the nation. In a region dominated by Gothic architecture, this Brutalist campus in the middle of the southeastern Massachusetts woods certainly stands out. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Tripp Athletic Center Ring Road Dartmouth, MA 02747 UMass Dartmouth Corsairs basketball website Tripp Athletic Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 2,500 Worth the Tripp   The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (better known as UMass Dartmouth) is one of five campuses in the University of Massachusetts system. It is located in the town of Dartmouth on the south coast of Massachusetts, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. The university has an enrollment of about 8,000 students, about half of whom live on campus. The school offers 123 undergraduate programs and 32 graduate programs.   The Tripp Athletic Center, named in honor of former coach, athletic director, moderator of athletics and Textile Science professor Frances Tripp, features a fitness center, aquatics center and indoor track in addition to several basketball courts. It was built in 1972 at a cost of $2.7 million.   UMass Dartmouth has sponsored varsity basketball programs at the school since its founding in 1966. They currently compete at the Division Three level in the Little East Conference, which is made up of nine schools located throughout New England. The Corsairs have qualified for 14 NCAA Tournaments, reaching the Sweet Sixteen three times (1993, 1994 and 2001) and the Final Four once (1993). The women’s basketball team has qualified for three NCAA tournaments, reaching the Elite Eight in 2017. Corsairs Celebrate a Tournament Victory. Photo courtesy of UMass Dartmouth Athletics.   Food & Beverage 1   There is a concession stand in the main lobby of the Tripp Athletic Center. Unfortunately, this stand has rarely been open since the pandemic. When operational, visiting fans can get a variety of snacks and drinks here. Pepsi products are featured here at UMass Dartmouth. No alcoholic beverages are sold here at this on-campus facility.   If you visit UMass Dartmouth for a game when the concession stand is closed, there are some vending machines in the lobby. Fans are also able to bring in their own drinks and snacks. This being New England, it’s not uncommon to see Dunkin’ Donuts coffees here on a cold Massachusetts winter night.   Atmosphere 3   The staff at UMass Dartmouth put on a much more involved show than many of their counterparts at the D-3 level. There is a lot going on here, especially when you compare a Corsair game to many of their local counterparts. When the Corsairs are competing for a conference title, which is often, fans pack the Tripp Center, and the gym is full of noise and activity. Even on a slow night, there’s quite a bit going on here.   The centerpiece of the gameday atmosphere at the Tripp Center is the new video board, which is put to use with graphics and ties in with the promos the PA announcer reads throughout the game. Speaking of the PA announcer here, he’s quite busy, and really leans into his job, filling the gym with energy and leading the promos that go on throughout the game. T-shirts are tossed into the crowd, and it’s not unusual to see youth groups taking the court at halftime, cheerleaders doing their thing, a pep band playing during stoppages, and some of the other Corsair teams lending their support to the hoop squads on a given night. The school’s mascot, Arnie the Pirate (get it? Arrrrnie?) roams the gym interacting with fans and joining in the promos.   Even when all this activity is going on, the Tripp Center is an intimate enough setting that you can hear sneakers squeaking on the court and coaches barking instructions to their players. It’s the best of both worlds.   Game Action at Tripp Athletic Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 3     While the UMass Dartmouth campus is fairly secluded with a great deal of green, open space and wooded areas, it is close to a very busy commercial area. Visitors will find many places to eat, shop and stay on Route 6, a short drive from campus. A complete visitor’s guide to the area around campus can be found here.   Fans coming to the area may not wish to spend a whole lot of time in either Fall River or New Bedford, two cities struggling with many of the issues facing many poor cities in the northeast. Still, there are places of interest in both cities. Fall River is home to Battleship Cove, the largest collection of World War II naval vessels in the world. Also nearby is the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast/Museum , located in the same house where the infamous murders took place in 1892. The museum is open for tours and fans of the macabre can actually spend the night at the house. The New Bedford Whaling Museum focuses on the history of the Whaling industry.   There are plenty of attractions in the area for visiting fans. Boston is located about an hour away to the north. Cape Cod is located a half hour to the east. Providence is a half hour away to the west, and Newport, with its Gilded Age mansions, is 45 minutes away.   Fans 2   UMass Dartmouth averages between 200-300 fans per game at Tripp Athletic Center. As is typical of other small schools in the northeast, the crowd here can be described as a “friends and family” crowd. Many of the fans in the stands have a personal connection with the athletes on the court. There are lots of proud parents and classmates mixed in with a few die-hard local hoops fans. UMass Dartmouth’s membership in the Little East Conference means the bulk of their schedule consists of other local schools. It’s not unusual to see visiting fans taking in the action as well.   Access 3     UMass Dartmouth is located in suburban Dartmouth, Massachusetts, in between the cities of Fall River and New Bedford. The school is easily accessed by Interstate 195. Route 6, the main commercial thoroughfare in this area, passes near the campus. Given the suburban location of the campus, driving is the primary method for getting to UMass Dartmouth. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA)  operates buses to both Fall River and New Bedford that arrive on campus roughly every half hour.   Tripp Athletic Center is located on the south side of campus, adjacent to several other athletic facilities, including Cressy Field. UMass Dartmouth has a rather unique setup in that most campus buildings are located within a single ringed road. Tripp Athletic Center is on the outer edge of this road, a bit of a distance from any parking lots. Signs direct fans to Lot 7, a decent distance away from the gym. If possible, your best bet is to park in lot 10, right across the street from the Tripp Center. It’s not the most convenient setup you’ll come across.   You would be hard pressed to find a more nondescript building than the Tripp Athletic Center. Marked with only a small sign and hidden away from the road, it is an easy building to miss. An entrance ramp leads fans into the gym lobby on the second floor. The Corsair Hall of Fame is located here, as well as the concession stand, restrooms and vending machines.   All seating is on one side of the basketball court, consisting of wooden bleachers. Fans enter at the top of the seating area and walk down to their seats. All seats offer great views of the action. Restrooms are more than adequate for a typical Corsair crowd. Opening Tap at Tripp Athletic Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Return on Investment 5   Tickets to Corsair basketball games cost five dollars for adults and three dollars for children aged 13-17. Children aged 12 and under are admitted at no charge. All tickets must be purchased through the Hometown Ticketing fan app. Parking is free in the lots across Ring Road. It adds up to an affordable night of entertainment for southeastern Massachusetts sports fans.   Extras 3                                                                                                 The Corsair Athletic Hall of Fame is located in the lobby just outside the basketball court. The display features memorabilia from throughout UMass Dartmouth’s athletic history.   UMass Dartmouth displays its basketball success proudly on the walls of the Tripp Athletic Center. Tournament teams and conference champions in both basketball and volleyball, as well as members of the school’s 1,000-point club are honored here.   A final extra point is awarded for the design of the UMass Dartmouth campus itself. The university was “honored” in 2013 as one of the ugliest campuses in the United States. Travel and Leisure magazine likened its buildings to “concrete spaceships,” which is a fairly accurate description. Designed by internationally renowned Modernist architect Paul Rudolph. Campus buildings were built in the Brutalist style popular in the 1960s. The exterior and interior of the buildings are made from rough concrete (beton brut). The campus features large windows, meant to blur the distinction between inside and outside, and short, irregular stairs, meant to slow people down and allow them to appreciate the campus more fully. Newer campus buildings, have been built to complement, but not to copy, Rudolph’s aesthetic and soften the unusual vibe given off by his design.   Final Thoughts   UMass Dartmouth offers an entertaining night of basketball at an affordable price. Fans who like their hoops with a side of architecture may wish to visit UMass Dartmouth for another reason entirely. A tour of the Paul Rudolph-designed campus can be just as interesting as the action on the court.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Jeremy Pushkin, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 War Memorial Gymnasium 2335 Golden Gate Avenue San Francisco, CA 94118 San Francisco Dons website War Memorial Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 5,300 Welcome to the Hilltop War Memorial at the Sobrato Center has been home to Dons basketball since 1958, built as a tribute to USF alumni killed in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The Dons are three-time national champions, winning back-to-back titles in 1955 and 1956 behind the legendary Bill Russell and a third in 1977. Despite that rich history, USF has made just one NCAA Tournament appearance since 2000, so it is the intimate on-campus game day experience rather than postseason hype that draws fans to the Hilltop. A $15 million renovation added a club level, remodeled restrooms, and a video board in each corner, giving this gym a modern edge without losing its old-school charm. Food & Beverage 2 War Memorial offers limited concessions with basic stadium fare: hot dogs on sourdough buns ($7), bratwurst ($8), nachos ($7), popcorn, pretzels, and frozen treats. Both cash and card are accepted, though $50 and $100 bills are not. The venue is a Coke facility with beer and wine available at $12. The standout is the Hilltop Pilsner, a collaboration with local brewery Magnolia brewed specifically for the Dons, a nice local touch that elevates an otherwise ordinary selection. No outside food is permitted, though sealed water bottles are allowed in. Grab the Hilltop Pilsner and a hot dog on sourdough for a San Francisco twist on the stadium classic. Atmosphere 4 The "Welcome to the Hilltop" branding sets the tone as soon as you walk in. The lower level, with its sections named after Dons legends, features individual seats, with the center two sections on each side offering padded chairbacks — the most comfortable option in the building. The remaining lower level seats are unpadded, while the upper level is entirely general admission bleachers. For premium options, the Sobrato Club level ($100–$300) includes complimentary food and drinks. The lower level padded center sections are the best seats in the house, but a packed War Memorial with a rowdy crowd is electric from anywhere. Four high-quality corner screens show a live game feed with player stats, complemented by a dot-matrix scoreboard on one side of the gym. Championship banners celebrating men's and women's basketball and volleyball hang from the rafters. WiFi is available throughout. Game day entertainment leans on a live band in the student section supplemented by some piped-in music, giving War Memorial a more organic college basketball feel than many major D-1 arenas. The Dons run several promotional games throughout the season, notably including the Bill Russell Impact Game, a tribute to the USF and NBA legend.  Neighborhood 4 The campus sits in a largely residential neighborhood, but the surrounding area is rich with independent businesses and some of San Francisco's most iconic attractions. For a quick pre-game bite, Arguello Market offers solid grab-and-go sandwiches just a short walk from campus. If a sports bar is more your speed, Kezar Pub is a popular local option across from the San Francisco 49ers original stadium. The broader area includes excellent dining along Clement Street or Divisadero Street The historic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is just a half mile from campus, and nearby Golden Gate Park borders the area with the de Young Museum, California Academy of Sciences, and Japanese Tea Garden all within reach. Chase Center (Golden State Warriors) and Oracle Park (San Francisco Giants) are about five miles away for fans looking to catch additional sports, and the Dons themselves play select games at Chase Center. Hotels in the immediate area are limited though the Hotel Kabuki in Japantown, about a mile away, is a good option. Fans 3 War Memorial draws a mix of alumni and local basketball fans rather than a heavily student-driven crowd. The student section was roughly half full, though the rest of the arena had respectable attendance. Consistent sellouts are rare outside of rivalry games, but WCC matchups against Saint Mary's and Santa Clara bring the best energy and the biggest crowds. What the crowd lacks in size, it makes up for in spirit. Even with a half-empty gym, fans were starting chants, making noise, and staying engaged throughout, even in the midst of a blowout. The student band adds to the energy. In a packed War Memorial for a rivalry game, the atmosphere can be genuinely intimidating, as evidenced by the 2024-25 season in which the Dons went undefeated at the Hilltop for the first time in over 40 years. Access 3 Several Muni bus lines serve the campus, with the 5-Fulton and 31-Balboa providing the most direct access. Uber, Lyft and Waymo are widely available. Street parking is competitive in this more residential neighborhood.  The main entrance is located across from the campus bookstore. Gates open one hour before tip-off and entry is quick, with a bag check but light security. Paper tickets are still available at the box office for those buying last minute tickets, a nice option in an increasingly mobile-only landscape. The entire concourse overlooks the court, so you never miss a play while stretching your legs. However, all concessions and restrooms are on the lower level, and the main food stand does not have a view of the court, so plan your concession runs accordingly. Restrooms are serviceable with no major lines or issues. Return on Investment 2 Tickets purchased directly from USF start at $25–$35 for upper level general admission, with lower level seats around $50. Senior and youth tickets are a few dollars cheaper. USF also offers a Family Pack of five tickets at $10 off per ticket, which is the best deal available. Secondary market tickets are scarce and often more expensive than the box office, so buying direct is the way to go. The Sobrato Club ($100–$300 depending on matchup, including all-inclusive food and drinks) can represent solid value for fans who plan to eat and drink at the game. For a mid-major program, prices feel a bit steep, though it is significantly more affordable than the Warriors, the other basketball option within city limits. Extras 3 The Hall of Fame area is the crown jewel. On display is a signed Chuck Taylor shoe from Bill Russell, jerseys of Russell and Bill Cartwright, and the program's national championship trophies. For college basketball history fans, it is a must-see stop. The Hall of Fame also includes artifacts from the now-defunct Dons football teams, which counts NFL Hall of Famers Pete Rozelle, Ollie Matson and Gino Marchetti among its notable alumni. Former Dons great Bill Cartwright is often in attendance, so keep your eyes open for a living legend. Championship banners celebrating the program's three national titles hang alongside those from women's basketball and volleyball, giving the building a real sense of tradition. Final Thoughts War Memorial at the Sobrato Center is a hidden gem for college basketball fans. The intimate setting, rich history, and passionate core fanbase create an experience that feels authentic in a way that bigger arenas struggle to replicate. Come for a rivalry night against Saint Mary's or Santa Clara, and this 5,300-seat gym on the Hilltop will remind you why college basketball in a small venue can be something special.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Frost Bank Center 1 Frost Bank Center Drive San Antonio, TX 78219 San Antonio Spurs website Frost Bank Center website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 18,418 San Antonio Spurs – Frost Bank Center Since 2002, the San Antonio Spurs   have called Frost Bank Center on the east side of town in the Alamo City their home. The Spurs won four of their five NBA Championships as tenants of Frost Bank Center, and the ABA transplant franchise grew many of their great Hall of Fame players while residing here; this includes Tim Duncan , David Robinson , Tony Parker , and Manu Ginóbili , while head coach Gregg Popovich  also saw the vast majority of his wins at the “Barn”. While the arena has undergone numerous upgrades and renovations over the years, including a massive renovation in 2015, its days are officially numbered in terms of it being home of the Spurs. The team is building a new facility in downtown San Antonio, closer to the River Walk, the Alamodome , and all the energy, history, and entertainment that has become associated with the Alamo City. For the next few years, however, Frost Bank Center will still be the home of the Silver and Black. This looks like a great time to be a fan, as well. Thanks to the Spurs hitting the NBA Draft Lottery, they have had a score of top 10 picks that look to all be coming together at once. It’s good times again in the Alamo City, as well as at Frost Bank Center. Read on to learn more.   Food & Beverage   5 The concession offerings at Frost Bank Center have always been first rate. The culinary scene is always evolving, but you can still find some old reliable options. Whataburger, Pluckers Wing Bar, Pizza Hut, and this season’s new tenant, Taco Palenque,are some of the more well-known brands. There are also stands for barbecue, tacos, burgers, chicken fingers, and fruit cups scattered throughout the three main levels of the arena. On the plaza level you’ll also find SA Central, a culinary experience curated by a host of SA’s local celebrity chefs. Burgers, tacos, and sandwiches with just the right amount of San Antonio flare can be ordered up. The Spurs also feature a culinary residency program, in which they offer concession space to small, minority-owned businesses in the community – the rotating group this season includes Sari-Sari Filipino Restaurant , which offers up their signature hand-rolled lumpia, barbecue pork skewers, and pancit bihon, a dish of noodles, carrots, beans, and onion. It is delicious. Other offerings include Peach Cobbler Factory  and Beignet Stand . If you’ve got a sweet tooth like me, these spots are sure not to be missed. Their names say it all. The arena also now boasts more self-service kiosks, where you can get a hot dog, popcorn, nachos, or bottled drinks while avoiding large crowds. These are great to take advantage of if you want something in the middle of the game.   Atmosphere   4 I’ve been coming to see the Spurs at Frost Bank Center since day one. What they have always done and still do well is make the games feel like big events. This is not always easy to do during the long NBA season. The Spurs hold numerous theme nights and giveaways throughout the season. The various jerseys and court stylings throughout the year (like what is done for the Emirates Cup) keep things fresh for fans. You can also find spots in Frost Bank Center, like the Michelob Ultra Club and Patio that give fans an almost sports bar-like experience during games. The patio features a stage for live musical performances before and after Spurs games on most evenings. There is also a massive team store on the main level of the arena, which was expanded in time for the most recent season, giving fans even more merchandise while removing some of the bottleneck that used to occur during games. Also, the Spurs have decorated Frost Bank Center with a ton of art, most of which has been done by SA artists and offers great photo opportunities. Be sure not to miss the life-size statue of the Coyote (more on him later) on the main concourse level. Lastly, like most teams the Spurs proudly display representations of the team’s glory years. This includes hanging their championship banners from the rafters, along with the retired jersey numbers of past team greats. You can also take a picture with the team’s five NBA trophies near the Michelob Ultra Club.   Neighborhood   3 I have written about this extensively in past reviews, so there is not much need to rehash it. This section has, by far, the lowest score to be had in this review. San Antonio is a dynamic city with a ton of things to offer for visiting fans. Entertainment, history, culture abound, especially in the downtown area, where the new arena is under construction. Scores of dining, lodging, shopping, and points of interest can be found for anyone and everyone, with the only limit being your budget. Make sure to make a visit downtown , see the Alamo , go to the top of the Tower of the Americas , have a picnic in Hemisfair Park , stroll the River Walk , shop and eat at the Historic Pearl  or Shops at River Center , and rest your head at the Grand Hyatt River Walk or Hotel Emma , then head further out to Six Flags Fiesta Texas or SeaWorld San Antonio . These are the types of experiences you want in your visit to the Alamo City, and they’re all a relatively short drive from Frost Bank Center, but they’re not right by it. The east side of town, where the arena is located, is growing, but the area immediately surrounding the facility has not kept up with that. Quite frankly, there is very little to see and do before or after Spurs games in the vicinity. You can find a few fast-food options and motel-type facilities in the immediate area, and directly across the street from the venue is Willow Springs Golf Course , one of the San Antonio’s municipal offerings. That’s about it though.   Fans   5 So far this season, the Spurs are averaging well over 18,000 fans per home game at Frost Bank Center. This means it’s been a virtual sellout for nearly every game. In addition, thanks to standing room only areas, the team has reached nearly 19,000 fans for three games already this season – these are numbers the team hasn’t seen since the championship era. Good times are indeed back in the Alamo City. The fans have always come out and supported the team, mainly because the Spurs are the city’s only major professional club. However, the relationship runs deep; the Spurs are part of San Antonio and vice-versa. The two are almost inextricably entwined now. New this year is a special supports group: the Jackals . Modeled after European futbol fan groups, the Jackals are an exclusive group where those wishing to join have to try out beforehand. This is a truly innovative addition to the team, and they have been a boon to games. They are LOUD.   Access   4 Even though it lies within a virtual island unto itself, Frost Bank Center is surprisingly easy to get to. Situated between Interstates 10 and 35, the exits are clearly marked and once you get there, there are plenty of spots in the nearby parking lots – many of the industrial buildings in the area will also open up their lots, as well. It really just depends on how far you want to walk and how much you want to pay. If you do drive in, the routes from both highways tend to get backed up with traffic before and after games. If you’re flying in from out of town, Frost Bank Center is just under a 20-minute drive from San Antonio International Airport .   Return on Investment   4 It used to be a bargain to get into Spurs games, especially the past five-plus years, as the club has been rebuilding. These days though, the prices are a little higher. Single-game tickets purchased through the team start at $44, while on the secondary market, the lowest I could find was $35 each. The concessions, souvenirs, and parking are pretty much on par with what you will find throughout the rest of the NBA. For parking, as mentioned earlier, it depends on how far you’re willing to walk and how much you’re willing to pay. I did see some lots charging $25. In the past, paying these prices would’ve really hurt while the team was rebuilding. These days, however, fans seem glad to pay them while they watch the Spurs rise again. In the big picture though, these costs still pale in comparison to those fans pay in bigger markets.   Extras   4 I have mentioned in past reviews my deep and abiding love for the Spurs mascot, Coyote . Growing up in in the Alamo City, the Coyote has been indoctrinated into the life of every young person for the past 40-ish years. He’s been the best in the business for years, and he’s still going strong. I almost gave this section a score of “5” on the strength of him alone. In the mid-2010s the Spurs were one of the first teams to abandon having a traditional female-only dance team (RIP to the Silver Dancers). In lieu of them, they introduced a co-ed Spurs Hype Squad  that performs stunts, dance, tumbling, and acrobatic routines throughout each game. They’re pretty fun to watch. Coupling them with the in-arena DJ really enhances the atmosphere in Frost Bank Center, and makes it a place unlike any other in the NBA.   Final Thoughts I’ve seen the Spurs at Frost Bank Center more than any other pro sports team. The experience is still a fantastic one and they have done everything and anything to make it better over the years. Sports fans really need to add it to their bucket list while they can. In the meantime, Go Spurs Go! Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14, is known for love and romance, but throughout history, it has also seen dramatic, memorable, and sometimes surprising events in the world of sports venues. From remarkable achievements to unforgettable moments, sports venues have provided a unique backdrop for expressions of camaraderie and valiant efforts. #5.  The Milwaukee Bucks' Valentine's Day Recovery (1981) On February 14, 1981, at the Richfield Coliseum,  the Milwaukee Bucks  faced the Cleveland Cavaliers  in an NBA game. After trailing significantly, the Bucks managed a historic comeback in the final quarter. They secured a 104-102  victory, showcasing the resilience of the team. The game celebrated not just athletic prowess but also the spirit of togetherness, with players dedicating the win to their loved ones. #4.  St. Valentine's Day Massacre - WWF (1999) The WWF (now WWE)  hosted a dramatic pay-per-view event, "St. Valentine's Day Massacre," on February 14, 1999, at the Memphis Pyramid . This event featured major superstars, including the debut of Paul Wight (later known as The Big Show). It remains a notable milestone in professional wrestling history. #3.  The Valentine’s Day Massacre in the NHL (1976) One of the most notorious events in hockey history took place on February 14, 1976, at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum when   the New York Islanders faced off against the New York Rangers. The game became famously known as the "Valentine’s Day Massacre." The Islanders triumphed with an astonishing score of 11-0 , marking one of the most lopsided losses in NHL history. Fans were divided, with Islanders supporters celebrating love for their team while Rangers fans were left devastated. #2.  Sugar Ray Robinson vs. Jake LaMotta (1951) The legendary boxing match known as the "St. Valentine’s Day Massacre" took place on February 14, 1951, at Chicago Stadium (i.e., arena). Sugar Ray Robinson claimed the Middleweight Title from Jake LaMotta in a showcase of skill and heart. #1. Super Bowl LXI (2027)  On   February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium  in Inglewood, California, Super Bowl LXI  will take place.. After efforts to designate it as a national holiday—given that it is the day most frequently called out by U.S. workers—the Super Bowl will now take place on the Sunday before Presidents' Day. This timing allows U.S. citizens to have the day off or take off, as Presidents' Day is widely recognized as a national holiday. Chronological Honorable Mentions On February 14th 1896 : George Lohmann records a hat-trick for England against South Africa in a cricket match, achieving a remarkable 8-7 innings. 1936 : Maribel Vinson wins the U.S. female Figure Skating Championship, highlighting her prowess in competitive figure skating. 1951 : Sugar Ray Robinson defeats Jake LaMotta to reclaim the middleweight title in a legendary boxing match known as the "St. Valentine’s Day Massacre." 1971 : In the 13th   Daytona 500 , Richard Petty wins his third Great American Race and goes on to win the inaugural Winston Cup title, further establishing his legacy in NASCAR. 1976 : The NHL's Valentine's Day Massacre occurs, where the New York Islanders defeat the New York Rangers 11-0, marking one of the most lopsided games in NHL history. 1981 : The Milwaukee Buck s  stage a remarkable comeback against the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning 104-102 and showcasing their resilience. 1982 :  Bobby Allison  wins the 24th   Daytona 500  with a margin of victory over Cale Yarborough, solidifying his reputation in the racing world. 1984 : During the Sarajevo  Winter Olympics ,  the romance of the event is highlighted as byJayne Torvill and Christopher Dean winning the gold medal with an iconic, revolutionary performance to Maurice Ravel's Boléro. 1993: In the 35th Daytona 500 , Dale Jarrett, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, wins from Dale Earnhardt and Geoff Bodine. 1999 : The WWE hosts the St. Valentine's Day Massacre  pay-per-view event featuring the debut of The Big Show. 1999: In the 41st Daytona 500, Jeff Gordon wins, and it's the first Daytona 500 pole sitter to win the race since Bill Elliott in 1987. 2008 : The Los Angeles Lakers face the Boston Celtics in a fiercely competitive Valentine’s Day game, where fans enthusiastically embrace the spirit of the day. 2009 : National Signing Day for college football recruits takes place, marking a day when many athletes publicly commit to their colleges. 2010 : The 59th NBA All-Star Game occurs at Cowboys Stadium (now AT&T Stadium) ,  setting a record with 108,713 fans in attendance. The Eastern Conference narrowly defeats the West 141-139. 2016 : The 66th NBA All-Star Gam e  takes place at the Air Canada Centre (now Scotiabank Centre)   in Toronto, where the West beats the East 196-173, with Russell Westbrook named MVP. 2017 : At the Laureus World Sports Awards, Usain Bolt and Simone   Biles are honored as the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, respectively. 2027: Super Bowl LXI on   February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Throughout history, Valentine's Day has woven itself into the fabric of sports culture. This day has marked moments where love and sports intersect in unique and engaging ways. As much as it's about romantic gestures, it’s also a day that reflects the spirit and camaraderie of sports, making it a special occasion for both fans and players alike.

Photo by St. Louis CITY SC It’s what you didn’t know you wanted until it presented itself, The Tina Turner Kit from the St. Louis CITY Soccer Club . This dazzling golden kit marks Adidas's inaugural collaboration with a female music artist for a soccer uniform. CITY SC observes that the Tina Turner Kit reflects the Queen of Rock’n’Roll’s glamorous style and the vibrant spirit of her live performances. With a two-year commitment, this will be CITY SC’s secondary (away game) kit for both 2026 and 2027.  Accented in black are Founding Partner and front-of-jersey sponsor Purina, Founding Partner BJC Healthcare on one sleeve, and an MLS and Apple TV patch lockup on the other. The Tina Turner Kit sparkles in gold, reflecting the flow of her glamorous outfits and the vibrancy of her live performances. Her silhouette is depicted in metallic gold on the kit’s authentication tag, while her signature, showcased in CITY Red, pays tribute to her legendary lipstick and nails. Tina Turner’s rise to global stardom was ignited in St. Louis, where she first stepped into the spotlight. In recognition of this lasting bond, the St. Louis CITY Soccer Club is excited to commemorate her legacy with a series of celebrations in the city that she once cherished as home.  As Erwin Bach expressed, “St. Louis is a homecoming for Tina; it’s where she first felt the thrill of the stage and the joy of performing.” Carolyn Kindle, CEO, St. Louis CITY SC, said, “Not only did Tina Turner change music, but she also impacted culture over decades and continues to permeate it today…It is a profound honor to celebrate her influence and legacy. St. Louis has long been home to so many artists who have shaped music history, and Tina stands at the top of that list.” The Homecoming Celebration includes: The Tina Turner Kit:  A historic collaboration with Adidas, this shimmering gold jersey is a tribute to Tina’s electrifying stage presence. It features her signature and her silhouette. Take a look at the kit in the official launch film: YouTube video courtesy of St. Louis CITY FC The Tribute Concert:  The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra presents Eternal on February 15—a symphonic journey through the songs that defined Tina’s career at Powell Hall . The Pop-up Shop:  Visit the Tina store at City Foundry  (until Feb 20) to buy the official kit and Adidas Originals range, plus view a selection of Tina’s personal artifacts, including clothes and Grammy awards. Tina Turner Night at Energizer Park : Tina Turner night will be on Saturday, Aug. 22, when CITY SC faces the Houston Dynamo. Her hit, Simply the Best, will be incorporated into the events that CITY SC is presenting to honor her legacy. Tina Turner Music Curriculum:   The Center of Creative Arts and CITY SC are partnering to develop a music curriculum for kids and teens that focuses on Tina Turner. Students will explore her enduring influence while learning to perform some of her iconic songs. The Tina Turner Kit launched by St. Louis CITY SC marks a significant cultural celebration, merging soccer with the legacy of one of music's most iconic figures. This shimmering gold jersey not only reflects Turner's vibrant presence but also pays homage to her roots in St. Louis, where she first found her voice.  This kit aims to inspire and connect generations through music and sport. As fans don this unique jersey, they actively participate in honoring Turner's enduring influence and the spirit of resilience she embodied. The Tina Turner Kit and its associated events serve as a reminder of how art can intertwine with community and heritage, celebrating a legacy that continues to resonate deeply within and beyond St. Louis.

Photo Courtesy of Denver NWSL The Denver Summit is about to break the all-time single-game attendance record for a women's soccer game in the country. The game is scheduled at Empower Field at Mile High Stadium on March 28. T he NWSL franchise is less than 100 tickets away from breaking the mark set in August by Bay FC when they played at Oracle Park in San Francisco. Despite the record-breaking news, the expansion club's temporary stadium hopes to be completed by the time it takes the field in July. This season alone, the team will play at three different temporary fixtures, while its permanent stadium is set for completuon for the 2028 season. The team hopes to have its 12,000-seat temporary stadium in the Denver suburb of Centennial ready for its June 12 match against Houston. A ccording to the NBC affiliate in Denver’s website , the structure is being shipped from China and is in different locations. Rob Cohen, Summit FC controlling owner, told the affiliate that one-third of the structure is in a Colorado warehouse, a third is on trucks, and the final third of it is at the Port of Los Angeles. He added that tariffs were not in their budget but are now part of it. Photo Courtesy of Denver NWSL In the meantime, the club will play two home games at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park , the home of the MLS Colorado Rapids, and the home opener at Mile High Stadium . Centennial Field served as the Summit's home for the rest of 2006 and 2007 and was downsized to a 4,000-seat venue dedicated to high school sports and part of the Cherry Creek School District’s athletic program. That stadium, located at the Santa Fe Yards in Denver's Baker neighborhood, will be completed in 2028. The 14,500 soccer-specific venue will be the second of its kind dedicated to women’s soccer in the United States after CPKC Stadium  in Kansas City, Missouri.  The unnamed permanent 3-sided stadium will cost $150 million and will be designed by Populous. It will be the third all-electric stadium in the United States after the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle and the future Etihad Park in Queens, New York. The permanent stadium will also serve as home for the Summit Academy program and will be the first all-electric women’s stadium.  ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey In an innovative collaboration with RedPocket Mobile, the Pioneer Baseball League has unveiled The RedPocket Mobiles. The team will compete in the league as a road team in the 2026 season, marking the first time in over a century that an American professional baseball team has been named after a corporate partner. “I am thrilled to announce the extension of our partnership with RedPocket Mobile,” said PBL President Mike Shapiro in a statement.  “As a key element of our agreement, RedPocket will own the naming rights to our travel team, now called the 'Mobiles.' This innovative approach underscores the PBL's commitment to forging meaningful partnerships with pioneering sponsors like RedPocket Mobile.” According to the press release, the last baseball team to be sponsored in this manner in the United States was the Brooklyn Tip-Tops of the Federal League in 1915. The baseball team was named after owner Robert Ward’s  Ward Baking Company  that produced Tip Top Bread.  RedPocket Mobile  is a prepaid Mobile Virtual Network Operator that provides no-contract cell phone plans using all three major US networks. The company was founded in 2026 and offers flexible, budget-friendly monthly and annual plans. The travel club was added to replace the Grand Junction Jackalopes , who ceased operations in September 2025. The Mobiles have not released a logo or uniforms and will open the PBL season at Modesto on May 19. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo: Courtesy of International Polo Tour The International Polo Tour (IPT) has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a $300 million, high-tech stadium in Palm Beach County, Florida. Set to be the first of its kind in the United States, this modern arena is poised to redefine the landscape of polo and enhance community engagement. Stadium Features and Technology Construction is projected to begin soon, with a grand opening planned for the end of 2030. The stadium is designed to accommodate between 8,000 and 15,000 spectators and will incorporate cutting-edge technology. Features include artificial intelligence-powered kiosks and robotic bartenders that will work alongside human staff, creating a unique spectator experience. Chairman Tareq Salahi highlighted that the stadium aims to elevate polo on a global scale while serving as a local community hub. Beyond polo events, the facility will host various community programs, charity matches, and cultural events, ensuring it is accessible to everyone. He hopes they will have a New Year’s Eve kickoff celebration at the end of 2030 to roll out the start of the 2031 Winter Season from January to April season for the equine world at Palm Beach County. Photo: Courtesy of International Polo Tour Economic Impact The stadium is expected to significantly boost local tourism and create new jobs within the Palm Beach area. As the IPT Chairman noted, this initiative will be beneficial for nearby restaurants and businesses, contributing positively to the local economy. Additionally, the project emphasizes ecological and community wellness, incorporating green spaces and educational programs related to equestrian arts. Community Engagement The IPT plans to utilize the stadium for a variety of activities. Along with professional polo matches, there will be educational workshops and equine programs aimed at engaging individuals of all ages. This commitment to community involvement ensures that the stadium's impact extends beyond the sport itself. The International Polo Tour's new stadium in Palm Beach County represents a forward-thinking approach to sports and community integration, promising to be a landmark destination in Florida’s cultural and economic landscape.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Carl Totzke Court @ Physical Activities Complex 200 University Ave W Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1 Waterloo Warriors Basketball website Physical Activities Complex website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 1,957 Hard Court Warriors The Waterloo Warriors first took to the basketball court in 1958.  Less than twenty years later they went on a miraculous run, winning the 1975 CIAU (now USports) National Championship.  At that time, the National Championship game was held on campus and the home of the Warriors, the Physical Activities Complex, was rocking and packed to the gills.  Phil Goggins hit a last second shot to send the home crowd into a frenzy, and lead the Warriors to victory .  Much has changed since then.  The Warriors were a power in the seventies and eighties with Wilson Cups, as OUA Champions, in 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1983 and 1986.  That success has not followed into the new millennium.  Home for the Warriors is on the campus of the University of Waterloo.  The seriously blandly- named Physical Activities Complex opened in 1967, and for many years was a concrete behemoth with little soul and plenty of distractions.  A significant set of renovations that were completed in 2021 made the PAC, as it is commonly known, a much better spectator facility and is also much more functional.  The court in the PAC was named after longtime athletic director Carl Totzke.  Life was breathed into this old facility to the delight of fans and students Food & Beverage 2 The concession options at the PAC for basketball are pretty limited.  Chips, popcorn and chocolate bars are available.  Soft drinks, water, coffee, hot chocolate and apple cider are the beverages available.  It is enough for a light snack during the game, but that’s about it.  There are plenty of spots in the area for food and drink, so heading out to a restaurant is probably the best idea. Atmosphere 3 The main entrance for the Physical Activities Complex is on the east side of the building which offers an attractive glass entrance, covering up the former brick and concrete that is found around the other three sides of the building.  A large quad area to the east is a perfect meeting spot for fans.  The main entrance brings fans into a bright, clean concourse which is a far cry from the drab concrete stairs that were what passed for welcoming in the old days.  Just inside the entrance fans can find some Warrior nostalgia with a display of all of the iterations of the Warrior logo over the years as well as the Warrior Hall of Fame wall.  Some artifacts can be found in trophy cases in the area.  After passing through security and having the tickets scanned, fans ascend to the PAC and enter the main seating area. Many OUA facilities just seem like a simple gymnasium which is as much a home to PE classes as they are to Varsity Athletics.  The PAC does have a bigger feel to it, with the right crowd can produce some significant energy.  New lighting and flooring to go with the updated seating, which was installed a few years ago, give the PAC a brighter, cleaner, bigger-event feel to it.  Those hideous, old wooden bleachers that were among the worst anywhere have been converted, smartly, into a welcoming Warriors sign fans can see before entering the PAC.  The court runs from southwest to northeast, with each of the four corners labeled according to the four directions.  The southeast side of the court is where to get that perfect picture, while the more comfortable, stadium chair seating is found on the northwest side.  A bridge which links the north and east corners of the PAC is available along the wall. History has been embraced at Waterloo with the naming of the court after longtime Athletic Director, Carl Totzke.  The northeast wall at court level features a plaque dedicating the court and explaining the importance of Carl Totzke to the Warrior family.  The southwest wall features a simple, yet effective, basketball scoreboard, complete with player information.  The scoreboard is surrounded by a plethora of Warrior provincial championship banners, including six Wilson Cup banners.  The 1975 National Championship banner also hangs proudly on the southwest wall.  The adventurous and the historians will want to look in the north corner of the court to find the marked spot where Phil Goggins hit the game-winning shot to defeat the Manitoba Bisons to win the 1975 National Championship game.  One of the greatest players to play at Waterloo was Mike Moser, whom the USports basketball MVP award is named after, tragically died in 1975, before the Warriors had their playoff run.  His number has been retired by the Warriors.  Waterloo needs to take the next step to fully embrace their history and display that retired number in the PAC.  The numbers of Peter Savich, Bill Jones and Jaan Laaniste are also retired from basketball and should be on display. The gameday experience is about what one would expect for an OUA basketball game.  The gameday operations are mostly run by students, including the video streaming, play-by-play, colour analysis, camera work and PA announcing.  A variety of music is played in warmups and during stoppages.  Waterloo’s mascot, King Warrior, is often found interacting with fans and making his way around the venue.  For bigger games, like the rivalry game against the Laurier Golden Hawks, the cheerleaders are present behind the baselines and periodically the Warrior band is in attendance. Neighbourhood 4 The PAC is located at the north side of the campus of the University of Waterloo, minutes from Uptown Waterloo. The Student Life Centre is now joined directly to the PAC and there are some food options there.  The University Club is just a quick jump across the parking lot and does have some limited seating times.  Uptown is where there is far more to consider.  The Huether, The Pub on King, Ethel’s Lounge, the Duke of Wellington, Beertown and Morty’s Pub are just a few of the culinary options that can be found on King Street.  University Shops Plaza is a little closer to the opposite end of campus and has a number of options including Williams Fresh Cafe, Mel’s Diner, bbq Chicken and Molly Bloom’s are all good options. There are a bunch of other sporting options in the area.  The Warriors field a full complement of athletic teams and the PAC is shared with the women’s basketball team and volleyball teams among others.  On the other side of Columbia Street is the Columbia IceField Arena, home of Warriors  hockey and Warrior Field, home of Warriors  football.  Just “up the street” from the University of Waterloo, is Wilfrid Laurier University.  The Golden Hawks compete in basketball at the Athletic Complex , football at University Stadium  and hockey at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex .  Heading to the other side of the twin cities border will bring fans to Kitchener, home of the Kitchener Rangers  and their home at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. The Duke of Wellington and Jazz Room on King Street offer fans live music on weekend nights.  Taking the train to the town of St. Jacobs for the market may be of interest or walking through Waterloo Park if the weather’s nice is fun also.  Oktoberfest is the busiest time in Kitchener-Waterloo and the largest German party rages on around Thanksgiving. For fans wishing to stay near the PAC, the Inn of Waterloo is just north on King Street and the Delta by Marriott Waterloo is a short drive away. Fans 3 It is difficult to assess USports basketball fans as attendance figures are not normally published.  The Warriors seem to draw a couple hundred fans per game.  Keep in mind that all Warrior basketball games are doubleheaders with the women playing first and the men playing after and there are plenty of people coming and going.  A bigger crowd can be expected for the rivals up the road at Wilfrid Laurier.  Fans in attendance provide decent support and participate in the tradition of standing and clapping until the first Warrior basket.   Access 4 Getting to the PAC is not terribly difficult.  It is located at the north end of the campus of the University of Waterloo on the Ring Road, which is easily accessed from Columbia Street West.  It is 4 km from the Conestoga Parkway and driving through Waterloo will be required for those coming from out of town.  Parking at the PAC is an option as Lot M is at the top of the hill, very close to the Columbia Street entrance.  Other lots are not too far and most have a $10 charge.  Lot X, on the other side of Columbia Street, is free on weekends.  For fans wishing to take public transportation to the PAC, there are a couple of options.  Grand River Transit buses travel the entire Ring Road, which circles the campus.  The University of Waterloo stop for the ION light rail is also a short walk through campus to the PAC.  Fans should check the GRT website, if interested, for times, maps and fares. Getting around the PAC has become much easier over time. With a dedicated entrance on the east side of the building, fans are no longer confused as to which of the four corners of the building would be unlocked for admittance to the basketball game.  Also, there are now washroom facilities at the level above the main seating area, which is much better than the previous system where fans were required to go all the way to the basement to find a washroom.  The bridge linking the north and east corners also improves the flow of fans and allows for a more intimate experience with fans on both sides of the court. Return on Investment 4 Waterloo Warrior basketball tickets are available online or at the door.  Adults are $10 with discounts for seniors, children and students.  All will cost an extra dollar at the door, rather than online.  University of Waterloo students are free with proper identification.  Tickets are for doubleheader events with the women’s team playing before the men.  Parking on campus will cost $10 or free with a bit more of a walk.  Concession prices are not steep at all.  Warrior basketball is solid on the court and fans will definitely have a good time with one of the cheapest tickets that can be found anywhere. Extras 4 An extra mark for the student-run event, especially their work for online broadcasts. An extra mark for the increased embrace of Warrior basketball history with the marking of the 1975 National Championship spot and dedicating of the court. An extra mark for the Battle of Waterloo rivalry with the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks who reside just up University Avenue. An extra mark for Roly Webster and Ari Grossman. A couple of former Golden Hawks have taken the helm of the Warriors athletic programs and pushed the re-investment in the facilities and programs and are hoping for some big results on the court. Final Thoughts The Waterloo Warriors have now fully embraced the renovation to the PAC.  Carl Totzke Court @ Physical Activities Complex is a comparable facility to other USports programs and the Warriors are slowly improving.  Returning to the success of the seventies and eighties is the ultimate goal, and providing fans a solid gameday experience is a step in the right direction. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Iowa does not have a bear population; it will occasionally get a wandering bear from neighboring states. Now, Iowa wants more bears in their state, Chicago Bear Fans, that is, and the whole organization. Iowa enters the fray with lawmakers pitching the “Iowa Bears." In a surprising turn for the ongoing Chicago Bears stadium saga, Iowa has officially entered the race to become the next home of the historic NFL franchise. On February 10, 2026, a group of Republican state senators introduced Senate File 2252, a bill specifically designed to lure the team across the Mississippi River by offering massive financial incentives for a new world-class facility. The "Hail Mary" Proposal The proposed legislation seeks to expand Iowa’s Major Economic Growth Attraction (MEGA) program. Originally intended for advanced manufacturing and biosciences, the bill would modify the program to include professional sports stadiums costing $1 billion or more. If approved, the Bears could receive a suite of incentives, including: Sales and tax refunds Qualifying investment tax credits Withholding tax credits Public infrastructure support for roads and utilities "While Illinois and Indiana squabble over this issue, we are ready to get off the sidelines and into the game," stated Senator Kerry Gruenhagen, one of the bill's primary sponsors. Location and Logistics Proponents of the bill, including Senator Scott Webster, have suggested the Quad Cities, specifically the Iowa side near Davenport or Bettendorf, as the most logical location. Webster argues that a stadium in eastern Iowa would serve as a central hub, drawing fans not just from Chicago but also from Des Moines, Madison, and St. Louis. However, critics point out significant geographical hurdles. The Quad Cities are approximately 130 miles west of Chicago's suburbs, a nearly three-hour drive. For comparison, the furthest an NFL team currently plays from its namesake city is the San Francisco 49ers, whose Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara is roughly 42 miles away. A Three-Way Border War Iowa’s late entry transforms the stadium search into a three-state competition: Illinois : Currently the frontrunner. Reports on February 9, 2026, indicated that Governor J.B. Pritzker and state lawmakers are nearing a deal to provide infrastructure funding for a $5 billion domed stadium and entertainment district in Arlington Heights . Indiana : Has already passed legislation to create the Northwest Indiana Sports Authority. Recent proposals include "Halas Harbor" in Portage  and potential sites in Gary  and Hammond . Iowa : Pitching "tax certainty" and a conservative regulatory environment as the ultimate alternative to Illinois' "punitive" climate. The Chicago Bears have not yet commented on the Iowa proposal. While the team’s primary focus remains on the 326-acre property they already own in Arlington Heights, President and CEO Kevin Warren has confirmed the search is wide open due to past property tax stalemates in Cook County.  Sources close to the negotiations expect a final decision on the team's future home within the next few weeks, as both Indiana and Illinois stake their claims in this evolving saga of professional football.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Boulder Flatirons   will not take the field during the 2026 season, as the Front Range League  has announced that the team will go on hiatus due to a shortage of available home dates at Scott Carpenter Park. The Flatirons were created when the league assumed control of the Boulder 64s (Collegians)  franchise last September and began building a new expansion team. The decision to form the Flatirons followed the prior ownership's transfer of the franchise to the Front Range League, citing their inability to manage multiple teams. In a surprising twist, the former ownership of the 64s resurfaced, claiming rights to the Collegians brand. To avoid a prolonged dispute over what the league viewed as a low-value entity, the Front Range League opted to move forward with the Flatirons, maintaining a willingness to share Scott Carpenter Park. Initially, league officials proposed an alternating schedule, and the City of Boulder committed to ensuring a fair distribution of available dates. However, the Collegians later submitted a request for 30 home dates, significantly exceeding their typical allotment of 8 to 10 dates. Granting them priority as returning tenants further complicated matters, as most of these sought-after dates fell on valuable weekends. With only a few scattered weekday openings left, the Front Range League concluded that the Flatirons could not support a viable season in 2026. Looking ahead, the league plans to regroup and continue collaboration with the City of Boulder, aiming to launch the Flatirons in 2027. The long-term vision remains to provide affordable, family-friendly baseball at Scott Carpenter Park and establish a strong presence within the Boulder community. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos Courtesy of Populous The Buffalo Bills will walk into a brand-new Highmark Stadium this season. In an era defined by billion-dollar domes and multi-purpose entertainment complexes, the new Bills stadium was designed for football and to embrace the area’s cold and brutal winters. A More Intimate, Intense Fan Experience Newer venues, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, and US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, all feature retractable or fixed roofs for all-weather events, synthetic turf, glass-heavy designs, and multi-use functionality for concerts, festivals, and global events. They’re designed to make money, even after the last snap is taken for the football season. However, Buffalo chose a different angle when constructing its modern stadium - it won’t have a roof. Proposed stadium projects in Cleveland , Nashville , and Chicago all feature a covering over the stadium. The Buffalo region receives 95 inches of snow annually. Wouldn’t a roof be mandatory? The exterior features 4,400 steel panels perforated with holes shaped like the Bills’ charging buffalo logo. They manipulate airflow by disrupting wind patterns, slowing gusts before they enter the seating bowl. This reduces wind chill for fans and minimizes interference with gameplay—especially important for quarterbacks like Josh Allen. Photos Courtesy of Populous Design for Comfort, Despite Being Outdoors The stadium’s canopy incorporates one of the largest snow-melt systems in the NFL. When snow begins to fall, sensors activate a hydronic heating system that pumps hot water through pipes embedded in the canopy. This melts snow on contact and radiates heat downward toward spectators. Additional heating systems are installed beneath the playing surface and within the concrete seating areas. These systems keep both the field and seating functional during extreme winter conditions. The steel canopy is also designed to trap sound from the spectators. Its angled structure reflects crowd noise toward the field, intensifying the stadium atmosphere and making communication difficult for opposing teams. The “Bills Mafia” is known to be among the most passionate and loudest in the league; the new canopy hopes to let visitors know exactly how deafening it can be during a close game. Photos Courtesy of Populous A Modern Stadium That Honors Tradition The stadium will have a capacity of 60,000, a decrease of 12,000 seats. The lower seating will allow for fans to be positioned closer to the field, increase noise levels, and provide more intimate viewing experiences (upper deck seating will be the closest to the field in the league). There will also be 5,000 to 10,000 standing-room-only sections. The stadium’s façade features iron-spot brick and pays homage to the city’s industrial past, referencing historical buildings such as the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium , where the Buffalo Sabres played from 1970 to 1996. The design creates a window open to the past and an eye towards the future. The Bills will open the new Highmark Stadium this fall, and it will symbolize the franchise’s commitment to Buffalo and Western New York, providing Bills fans with a football plant built specifically for them. It will be designed specifically for football and usher in a new era of Buffalo Bills football. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Hamilton Stadium 64 Melrose Ave. N Hamilton, ON L8L 8C1 Force FC website Tim Hortons Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 23,218 Lighting the Forge Editor's Note: On December 18, 2024, it was announced that the stadium will undergo a naming rights change, and will be temporarily rebranded as Hamilton Stadium until a new naming rights sponsor is found. In 2018, the Canadian Premier League took the pitch for the inaugural season, planting the new league as the top tier of professional soccer in Canada, outside of the three teams that play in Major League Soccer. Bob Young, the “Caretaker” of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League was instrumental in the formation of the new league. The CPL features a quota for Canadian players with the goal being to develop more Canadian soccer players. Bob Young would take the helm of one of the inaugural teams, Forge FC, which is owned by Young’s Hamilton Sports Group and play in the home of the Tiger-Cats, Tim Hortons Field. Located on the same spot where the iconic Ivor Wynne Stadium once stood, Tim Hortons Field opened in 2014 and has one of the largest capacities in the CPL at over 23,000. Forge FC has been the most successful team in the league, winning the league championship in 2019, 2020, and 2022. Food & Beverage 4 Concession options at Tim Hortons Field are limited to the lower deck on the east side, but there are plenty of options to keep fans happy. The Butcher Burger Bar, Poutine Provisions, Pizza Pizza, Stipley Snacks, and Tim Hortons are all great options. Coca-cola products are the soft drink of choice at Tim Hortons Field and Tim Hortons beverages are also available. Lincoln Lager by Bench Brewing is the feature local brew, which goes along with the other macro brews. There are plenty of options and fans will be happy. Atmosphere 4 Tim Hortons Field is located in the Stipley neighbourhood of Hamilton. It is nestled into the existing neighbourhood and essentially features two large east and west grandstands on the east and west sides. The exterior is not unattractive but is fairly simplistic. The largest gathering area is at the southeast corner of the block. The team shop can be found at this corner. Inside the stadium, the pitch runs from south to north and the main grandstand on the east side is where the majority of seating is. Club seating is on the west side, which probably gives a better view as the view from the east side has a bit of an empty feeling with the entirety of the west lower level being empty. Forge FC markings throughout the stadium are not over the top, but not invisible. Fans will surely know that Tim Hortons Field is the home of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, but they will also feel at home as Forge FC supporters. Facia on the east side features Forge banners and the “Together We Forge” mantra and markings for the 2019, 2020, and 2022 North Star Shield winners as Canadian Premier League champions are proudly displayed. One advantage to playing in a CFL stadium is the use of the excellent video board, which stands in the north end. A pleasant surprise at Tim Hortons Field was the lack of football lines for the soccer experience, making it feel a little more professional and a little more like a genuine soccer pitch. The gameday production for Forge FC is fairly simple, but not unlike most soccer experiences. Forge FC makes great use of the video board. The mascot, Sparx, can be found interacting with fans and traversing the crowd. The supporters section offers its entertainment with the chants and smoke that are typical at a high-level soccer match. Cheerleaders can be found on the pitch level or in the end leading the fans in support of Forge. Neighbourhood 2 Tim Hortons Field is absolutely a neighbourhood stadium. Located in the Stipley neighbourhood of Hamilton, on the location of the former Ivor Wynne Stadium, Tim Hortons Field suffers from the same location issues as its predecessor. Bob Young attempted to get a different location for the stadium when negotiating with the City of Hamilton, however, the long and drawn-out process ended with no change in location, only a change in orientation. There are not many spots for pre or post-game food or drinks near the stadium. The Capitol Bar and Festival Cafe are nearby. There are a couple of fast food options on Barton Street, but nothing too exciting. The best bet is to hop into the car or take public transit and head to Hess Village. The Gown and Gavel is a good selection as is the Lazy Flamingo. Other selections downtown include Electric Diner and Radius. The Canadian Football Hall of Fame is located at the club level at Tim Hortons Field and is open during non-game hours. Hamilton Place and the FirstOntario Centre are the other big entertainment spots in the city, hosting concerts and other shows and they are located downtown. A must-see experience in Hamilton is the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. For those looking for other sporting experiences, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the CFL share Tim Hortons Field with Forge FC. If lacrosse is the jam, then seeing the Toronto Rock at FirstOntario Centre is the way to go, although they will be moving to Mississauga temporarily during renovations on the arena. Also, McMaster University fields athletic teams as well. The McMaster Marauders football team plays at Les Prince Field @ Ron Joyce Stadium and the basketball team plays at Burridge Gymnasium @ Ivor Wynne Centre . Hamilton also has an Intercounty Baseball League team the Hamilton Cardinals . For fans needing to stay in the area, downtown is again the spot to be. The Crowne Plaza and Sheraton are good selections on King Street. Fans 3 Forge FC fans are among the best in the Canadian Premier League. In the 2023 season, Forge FC have attracted an average of over 5,000 fans per match, good for 2nd in the league. In the previous season, Forge attracted almost 3,500 fans per match which was good for 4th. The Forge FC supporters group, Barton Street Battalion, is found in the northeast corner of the stadium and is loud and supportive of Forge. Unfortunately, Tim Hortons Field has a capacity of over 23,000, and even a strong attendance of over 5,000 fans still leaves a massive number of empty seats for each match. Access 3 Getting to Tim Hortons Field can be a challenge. The Stipley is far from the major highways and fans coming in from out of town will have to travel through the city. It is located east of Highway 403, west of Red Hill Parkway, and significantly south of the Queen Elizabeth Way. King and Main Streets are the main access points to the neighbourhood, but both streets being one-way, means that the traffic does flow well. Parking around Tim Hortons Field is a huge issue for football games, but for the smaller soccer crowd, it is less of an issue. There are not too many parking lots. There are a couple that will charge $15 to $20 and some residents will sell their driveway for the evening. Getting there early to find parking is the best idea if bringing the car to Tim Hortons Field. Fans interested in tailgating should head early to the lot at Chapele and Lloyd, Parking Lot E. The response to the parking situation is a significant public transit effort. There are several buses that travel to King, Barton, and Cannon Streets. There are some Park and Ride lots throughout the city also. Public Transit is free on Tiger-Cat game days with a valid ticket. However, the same situation is not in place for Forge FC matches. More information can be found on the HSR website . Getting around the stadium isn’t terrible. There are many sets of stairs at Tim Hortons Field and a couple of escalators to take the pressure off of the elevators would help also. Washroom facilities are more than adequate at Tim Hortons Field. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for Forge FC are a bit on the expensive side as compared to MLS NextPro or other CPL experiences. Tickets for Forge FC begin at $29 and go up to $50. Club seats go for $67. Parking is not too expensive and concessions are, although a bit expensive, offer high quality and variety. The action on the pitch is very good and Forge FC does what it can to produce a high-quality, professional product. Fans will have a good time at a Forge FC match. Extras 2 An extra mark for the 905 Derby that Forge FC enjoys with their rival York United FC. An extra mark for the success Forge FC has enjoyed on the pitch. Forge FC has won the North Star Shield three times and the regular season championship once. They have been the Voyageurs Cup (Canadian Club) Champion Runner-Up once and participated in the CONCACAF Champions League twice. Final Thoughts The spark of Forge FC has helped the fledgling Canadian Premier League grab a piece of the soccer market in Canada. The CPL continues to grow and with the success Forge FC has enjoyed on the pitch, the future looks bright for both the team and league. Fans should head to Tim Hortons Field to check out Forge FC and enjoy some soccer action. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads , and Instagram @profan9.

Photo by Matt Fiedler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Trinity Health Stadium 250 Huyshope Ave Hartford, CT 06106 Hartford Athletic website Trinity Health Stadium website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 5,500 Soccer in the Nutmeg State The Hartford Athletic has been around since 2018 and in that short span of time the USL Championship league has seen a lot of change. New teams have been added and there’s a greater buzz for soccer as a whole in the U.S.A. in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup. The Hartford Athletic call Trinity Health Stadium home and it definitely provides a solid atmosphere to take in a soccer match. At 5,500 seats, the capacity isn’t gigantic but it isn’t tiny either. It provides an intimate venue where you won’t find a bad seat to take in the action. Trinity Health Stadium, initially known as Dillon Stadium,as built in 1935. In 2018, in anticipation of the Hartford Athletic coming into existence, the city of Hartford undertook a $10 million renovation to bring Trinity Health Stadium into the modern era. The result was a stadium that is perfect for minor league soccer and a place fans should definitely check out if they find themselves in central CT. Food & Beverage 5 Trinity Health Stadium has a great assortment of food and beverage to fit nearly every taste and craving. They have a unique mix of stationary concessions and food trucks. Fans can find plenty of the usual stadium fare like popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels, peanuts, and chips. There are also tasty items like southwest chicken wraps and ultimate nachos which can be found at the Fresh Classics Stand. Another great option for fans is the Wooster Street Pizza location near the entrance to the stadium. Fans call also find some specialty cocktails, wine, and an assortment of beer at the Jim Beam Cross Bar. The prices at these locations are fairly in line with the prices you’d expect to see at your typical stadium/arena but there are certainly bargains to be had. While the stationary concessions are tasty, the real crown jewel of food and beverage at Trinity Health Stadium is the food trucks. Food trucks that offer cuisine from sausage + peppers, steamed cheeseburgers, hot wings, gyros, apple cider donuts, and even Chick-fil-A can be found at Trinity Health Stadium. This is a great way to provide concessions as it allows for more options and also has the flexibility to rotate different food trucks in. So whether you’re looking for something sweet or something savory, there’s something for you at Trinity Health Stadium. Atmosphere 3 Trinity Health Stadium provides a solid atmosphere for a soccer match. The bells and whistles that you get from a soccer match are out in force. The supporters section is rowdy and gives the constant drum beat of energy that you expect from a soccer match There are also some great activities for kids at Trinity Health Stadium. At halftime you’ll see youth soccer teams on the field and a crossbar challenge where a fan tries to hit the crossbar on 3 tries. There’s also a great family fun zone area with activities like cornhole, face painting, and more! This is definitely a family friendly atmosphere where people of all ages can have a great time. If you’re expecting an intense English Premier League atmosphere you’ll be disappointed. But if you expect to see quality soccer in a family friendly atmosphere then you’ll have a great time at a Hartford Athletic match. Fans 4 The fans of the Hartford Athletic really know their stuff. They’re a smart group of fans who get loud at the right moments. While attending a game against North Carolina FC I saw a few opposing fans and none of them were being given a hard time by the Hartford Athletic supporters. So, if you’re a visiting fan you can be assured that you won’t be hassled. As is the case with soccer crowds there is a dedicated section for supporters who are loud throughout the match. If you’d like to sit near the very passionate supporters this writer would recommend grabbing a seat near them. Trinity Health Stadium has a capacity of 5,500 fans. During the 2024 season they’ve averaged 4,496 fans per contest. That comes out to an average capacity of 90% which shows the support they have in the Hartford community. As professional soccer leagues have become more popular so has the support for Hartford Athletic. Fans have also become more acquainted with the sport of soccer over the years and even more so with the ramp up to the 2026 World Cup which will be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Neighborhood 3 Trinity Health Stadium is located south of the center of Hartford along the Connecticut River. The neighborhood is close to a variety of restaurants and entertainment options downtown. In the summer you could easily double dip and take in a Hartford Yard Goats game at Dunkin' Park before or after the Hartford Athletic Match. During the early and late portion of the season you could also take a trip to the XL Center to check out the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL. There are also a number of great restaurants to try while in Hartford including Salute, Trumbull Kitchen, and Black Eyed Sally’s. The area around the stadium is also home to a few great parks like Colt Park which are a great spot to take children before the match. If you’re driving to the match I would suggest trying to park in the lots immediately adjacent to the stadium. There are several lots around the stadium but some of them require a decent walk to and from the match. Access 4 Trinity Health Stadium is very easy to access. While it’s not in the middle of downtown Hartford, it’s a short drive from the center of the city. It is also located directly off of route 91 and also located near route 84. Trinity Health Stadium is an hour and 40 minutes from Providence, an hour and 45 minutes from Boston, and two hours and 20 minutes from NYC by car. The concourses at Trinity Health Stadium are fairly spacious and easy to maneuver. The only caveat is that the concession/food truck area can get crowded, particularly at halftime, so if you’re going to get food be sure to grab some before the lines get long at the half. There are restrooms located at each end of the stadium, 2 are near the concession area and 2 are near the family fun zone. If attending in the spring or later in the fall be advised that it gets chilly at night so bring a jacket to stay warm. Return on Investment 4 Taking in a Hartford Athletic game isn’t something that will break the bank by any means. Tickets can mostly be found for under $40 and there are also some free lots to park in if you’re willing to walk a little farther. If you park closer to the stadium parking is $18 on the day of the match of $15 if you purchase in advance. Fans can also score deals like $2 beer and $1 hot dogs on Saturdays and also $5 drafts before each match an hour before kickoff at the Jim Beam Crossbar. The concessions are also quite affordable and not out of the ordinary for a sporting event. For example, a southwest chicken wrap is $6, a bag of chips is $3, and a bottle of water is $5. So you’re looking at $14 for a filling meal. Fans also are getting a solid return on investment because they get to see a high level of skill on the pitch. This soccer is just a notch below MLS and there’s a lot of talent at each and every match. Throw in the fact that the Hartford Athletic has several activities to keep young kids occupied and you have the recipe for a great night that won’t hurt your wallet too much. Extras 3 One extra star goes to the the excellent Brass Bonanza goal song. It is a beautiful homage to the Hartford Whalers who used that as their goal song. A second star goes to the local flair around the stadium. From the aforementioned Brass Bonanza to the local food, there’s certainly a distinctly Hartford atmosphere. This writer recommends grabbing a steamed cheeseburger or a slice from Wooster Street Pizza. A final extra star goes to the supporters section which remained rowdy and loud for the entire match. They had the proper amount of enthusiasm without getting too wild. Final Thoughts Trinity Health Stadium has been around a long time but has been completely refreshed in the last few years and now has a vibrant and exciting occupant. The Hartford Athletic provide a great match experience to take in. From the excellent on field product, to the local food, to the activities for kids, it’s a great experience attending a Hartford Athletic match. It is definitely something to check out during the summer or early fall.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Children’s Mercy Park 1 Sporting Way Kansas City, KS 66111 Sporting KC website Children's Mercy Park website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 18,467 A Home to be Proud Of Children’s Mercy Park is home to both Sporting KC of Major League Soccer and the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League. The stadium opened in 2011 on day that saw Sporting KC and the Chicago Fire play to a 0-0 draw. Over the years, Children’s Mercy Park has won numerous awards. It is also the only venue to host the MLS All-Star Game, the United States Men’s National Team, and the MLS Cup all in the same year. The stadium has also held numerous World Cup qualifiers, Olympic qualifiers, CONCACAF Gold Cups, and international friendlies. Food & Beverage 4 Children’s Mercy Park is cashless, so plan accordingly. The park offers up a litany of different food options. I you want to know what’s available and where before heading to the game, the team’s website lists all the concessions available and where they are located. It’s a very handy feature. Further, Sporting KC also has an app that is recommended. Within the app, you can order food/drinks and pick it up thereby cutting down your time in line waiting for the food. I’d recommend the El Capitan stand. They offer a variety of Mexican food. The Chicken Hatch Chili taquitos are really tasty as are the fish tacos. If Mexican food isn’t your thing, not to worry. Being in Kansas City, there are numerous BBQ options of course including pulled pork, burnt ends, and pulled pork nachos. Additionally, chicken sandwiches, burgers, Dominos Pizza, and vegan Italian sausage are among the many other options. Typical snacks such as popcorn, pretzels, candy, etc are also available. Coke products are the soda of choice along with Bodyarmor flavors, tea, and Powerade. As for adult beverages, Goose, Corona, Modelo, Bud Light, Kona Big Wave, Michelob Ultra, wine, and a few mixed drinks are options. Overall, the food and drink options are great, although the portions could be a little bigger for the cost, which is about average of what you would pay in most stadiums. Atmosphere 4 The stadium was built for soccer so the layout inside is very easy to maneuver and logical. Concession areas are sprinkled throughout along with 32 restrooms. The stadium is bathed in blue and indigo, the colors of Sporting KC. There are no bad seats in anywhere. Many of the seats in the corners of the stadium are angled so you get a better view of the entire pitch without having to constantly turn your head. Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. The supporter’s stand is on the north side of the stadium. This is general admission and sitting in this area means you will be amongst the crew that sings and chants for the entirety of the game. The south side stands are also GA and are the cheapest tickets available. Pregame festivities include a video and fireworks display when introducing the home team. This is when the supporters crew starts their singing/chanting and they don’t stop until games’ end. Once kickoff occurs, it’s all about soccer. With the constant chanting and ebbs and flows of the crowd overall, it’s hard not to enjoy your time watching the game. Neighborhood 4 Children’s Mercy Park is located just off I-435. The area is a mixture of retail and a few interesting places. Just across State Avenue is the Kansas Speedway. A great NASCAR track, it’s fun to be able to see another great sporting venue. On the property of the racetrack is the Hollywood Casino. Within the casino are three different restaurants, including “Turn 2” which gives you great views of the racetrack. There are numerous food and drink options within walking distance. Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que is a great option. Other options include LongHorn Steakhouse, El Toro Loco Mexican Bar & Grill, and Granite City Food and Brewery. With the racetrack and casino, there are plenty of lodging options including a Best Western and Hampton Inn which are right across the street from Children’s Mercy Park. If you’ve never been to Kansas City before, there is plenty to see. Take some time to explore before or after the game and make sure to see the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the World War I museum. Fans 5 As of this review, Sporting KC is averaging about 18,500 fans per game, which happens to be about what their capacity is. As such, you can expect a full house more often than not. Many fans arrive early and wait for the gates to open. Once kickoff occurs, fans are engaged and other than halftime, there is a constant buzz in the stadium. Access 4 There is a clear bag policy is effect here. The stadium is easily accessible, just off I-435. If you don’t feel like battling post-game traffic, public transportation is available and will drop you off right next to the stadium. Once inside, getting around is not an issue. The concourses are plenty wide and the restrooms are sufficient to handle the crowds. Post-game is a little slow getting out of the stadium because you have about 18,000 people heading out all at once. Plenty of ADA seating is also available. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices will average $30-$60 depending upon where you choose to sit, which seems about average for MLS. There are a few different parking options. For $20, you can park directly across the street and be out of your car and in the stadium in just a couple minutes. A little further away, you can find free parking. The final option is parking at Hollywood Casino and you can take a shuttle to the stadium. This is the best option if you want to avoid some of the post-game traffic issues that occur at every sporting event. With concession prices being the norm and the great atmosphere of the game, you get an above average return for your dollar. Extras 3 Be sure to get the Sporting KC app before going to the game. It will save some time on concessions and has other helpful hints and information. A nice feature here is that important announcements are made in both English and Spanish. Another point goes to the ushers who are very helpful and polite, whether you simply need directions or assistance carrying food and drinks to your seats. Final Thoughts I’d heard good things about Children’s Mercy Park and I wasn’t disappointed with the experience. The stadium is clean and roomy, the atmosphere provides an air of excitement, and the experience is quite enjoyable throughout. It’s not surprising that Sporting KC has won numerous awards for their presentation and stadium…this is a great place to catch a game. Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram : @stadiumjwriter

Photos Courtesy of MANICA The Chicago Bears and Illinois lawmakers are negotiating a deal to keep the NFL team in Illinois, aiming to prevent a potential relocation to Indiana. This agreement centers around public funding for infrastructure improvements at the proposed Arlington Heights stadium site. Details of the Proposal The plan, known as PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes), would facilitate the Bears in financing the construction of their new stadium while allowing for negotiations on long-term property tax agreements with the local village. Key points include: Support from Leaders: Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and legislative leaders are reportedly backing the funding package. Ongoing Discussions: Governor Pritzker noted that negotiations with the Bears are ongoing and productive, emphasizing a commitment to infrastructure improvements while protecting taxpayers. Infrastructure Focus: The initiative aims to enhance the essential infrastructure surrounding the proposed stadium, potentially boosting the local economy. Competition from Indiana Meanwhile, Indiana remains aggressively seeking to attract the Bears. Recent developments include: Indiana lawmakers passed a bill establishing the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, which aims to construct a new stadium near the Illinois border. Governor Mike Braun has expressed strong support for attracting the franchise, maintaining pressure on the Bears as discussions with Illinois continue. As the Indiana legislative session runs through the end of February, the situation remains fluid, with a relocation still in play if an agreement with Illinois does not materialize. Context of the Bears Relocation Plans The Bears have been exploring a move from Soldier Field to the Arlington Heights property since 2023, which includes a purchase agreement for the 326-acre Arlington International Racecourse. The team's motivations for this relocation stem from: Capacity Restrictions: The stadium has the smallest seating capacity at 61,500. Current Limitations: The current stadium has limited capacity and amenities. Revenue Generation: The desire to create a facility that can be utilized for multiple major events throughout the year. This ongoing saga will continue to develop as both states vie for the NFL franchise's future. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Subaru Park 1 Stadium Dr Chester, PA 19013 Philadelphia Union website Subaru Park website Year Opened: 2010 Capacity: 18,500 Sons of Philadelphia The Philadelphia Union competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Eastern Conference of the league. They began in 2010 as an expansion team. Earlier attempts to bring the MLS to the area failed at Trenton, New Jersey, and at Rowan University (also in New Jersey). The MLS is soccer’s highest level in both the United States and Canada. Subaru Park opened in 2010 in Chester, PA, and has also been called PPL Park and Talen Energy Stadium. Besides soccer, there have been “Battle of the Blue” football games played here between the University of Delaware and Villanova. The stadium has also hosted the NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship, the Major League Lacrosse’s Championship known as the Steinfeld Cup, the ACC Lacrosse Championship, and the NCAA Division I and Division III Women’s Lacrosse Championship, as well as numerous rugby matches and concerts. Chester is a city located southwest of Philadelphia towards Wilmington, Delaware, and is directly on the Delaware River. Food & Beverage 5 Subaru Park has a pretty incredible variety of food options. The concourse has a large variety of almost every food type. This is the Philadelphia area so cheesesteaks are always prevalent. Philips Steaks is a great option for this item. Chickie’s and Pete’s has as their staple item the Crab Fries. You must try them at least once. They also offer a pretty good chicken cutlet sandwich, available plain or in buffalo style. There are a few other unique options around the concourse such as Scoops N’ Smiles, P.J. Whelihans, and Chank’s Pizza Cones. Prices are normal prices for a venue of this size, which means not that cheap. Atmosphere 4 The tailgate scene in the parking lot is pretty strong. It looks like the parking lot of Lincoln Financial Field, or some other football stadium. There are many more people out there than I expected. The various supporter groups each have strong showings. Once inside the stadium, you will find a U-shaped set of three grandstands, with an additional smaller stand at the riverside. This is called the “River End” and is where the team’s supporter groups sit during the game. That area can get pretty rowdy and lively. I like that it seems like a European stadium in that the team name is spelled out in the East stand seats. Facing River at Subaru Park, Photo by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey The main complaint is that there is only one scoreboard, located in the north end, and is hard to see for many fans. Neighborhood 1 The neighborhood is terrible. Chester is a downtrodden community that is not showing much life. The area around the stadium is safe on game days but you will not want to venture too far away. And, frankly, there is no reason to do so as there are limited local establishments worth going to. Keep to the local parking lots and areas where there are fans. The one exception at this time is The Larimer Beer Company, a short walk away from the Union’s training complex. It appears to be mainly open on game days and offers some nice drink options. No food is offered there although they may have an occasional food truck outside. Harrah’s Casino is right down Delaware Avenue from the stadium. If you are the gambling type this may be worth a visit. They offer gaming, as well as OTB and live harness racing. The track was built over a top part of the river, so it is worth checking out. There is a nice entrance plaza, where kids can expect to play some interactive games and participate in various vendor giveaways. There are additional plans calling for a riverwalk amidst other entertainment, retail, and residential projects in the area. None of these are currently close to opening. Fans 5 The most famous of the Union fans are the Sons of Ben supporter group. They were founded in January of 2007, way before the team was actually in existence. The group is a registered nonprofit, with more than 5,000 members. There are other supporter groups that crowd the River’s End part of the stadium. They all provide a great match-time atmosphere. The rest of the fans are also good. The stadium is loud and fans know and understand the sport very well. Access 3 The stadium can be pretty easy to get to. It is not far from I-95 via Route 322 towards New Jersey. If you cross the Commodore Barry Bridge from Pennsylvania you have gone too far. Delaware Avenue is the main street right by the stadium and runs north all the way to the Philadelphia International Airport. Parking is pretty expensive but is fairly plentiful. There are also shuttles to the SEPTA Chester Transportation Center for the regional train, but I don’t really think it is a popular option. There is also an Uber and Lyft-specific lot located near the stadium. Access getting out after the games is much more difficult. There will be a lot of cars slowly trying to get back onto Route 322 West. Expect delays as no one sticks around the area after the game. If coming from the south we recommend getting off I-495 in Claymont, DE, and driving through Marcus Hook, PA, and the south part of Chester, PA along US Route 13. Return on Investment 4 The parking is pricey so that drives down the return on investment. But the tickets are generally average by MLS standards. $25 to $50 will get you a seat, while the sideline seats are the best value. Extras 4 The dramatic view of the Commodore Barry Bridge makes this stadium stand out. It provides a cool atmosphere for watching the matches. While marveling at the bridge, you can also admire the River’s End seating area. That lively set of groups stands and cheers the whole match. If you can handle the constant drumming and chanting you are good to go. Tailgating is quite good at the stadium. I did not expect to see that level of support for American soccer. You should also wander around the concourse and look at the various soccer memorabilia presented. The team is really trying to be a member of the local soccer community. While in this area you should also stop by the well-stocked Union fan store to see the many ways you can support the team by wearing their merchandise. Final Thoughts Subaru Park is a well-designed soccer stadium located in a beautiful setting along the Delaware River. The only bad thing is that the neighboring areas of the city of Chester are not as idyllic as the setting.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Scotiabank Arena 40 Bay St Toronto, ON M5J 2X2 Toronto Raptors website Scotiabank Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 19,800 Jurassic Resurgence After the miracle run that saw the Toronto Raptors win the 2019 NBA Championship, the Raptors have seen plenty of change. Not all of it has been positive, and the Raptors have fallen in the standings in the Eastern Conference.  The 2025-26 NBA season has seen a resurgence, and the Raptors have moved back up and into the playoff picture.  One of the major changes for the Raptors has been in the front office.  At the time of writing, Rogers Communications was in the process of buying out the shares of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment held by Bell Media.  This will give Rogers majority control over the Raptors and all of the other sports properties in MLSE.  The Raptors were established in 1995 and were brought into the MLSE fold in 1998. Scotiabank Arena was built to be the permanent home of the Raptors after beginning their existence in what is now known as Rogers Centre.  The Maple Leafs purchased the Raptors in 1998, as well as the site for what is now Scotiabank Arena, and folded them into the newly minted Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.  A quick redesign was completed, and the arena, built on the former site of the Toronto Postal Delivery Building, would also be the replacement for the iconic Maple Leaf Gardens.  The arena opened in 1999 and has been home to the Raptors ever since, quickly becoming one of the top fan experiences in the NBA. Food & Beverage 5 Scotiabank Arena offers a culinary experience that is as good as any franchise in sports.  MLSE is very conscious of the concessions that it offers, and the Scotiabank Arena website provides a comprehensive accounting of all of the options.  All of the expected staples are available, usually found in the Food Junction stands.  Also new to Scotiabank Arena are a few grab-and-go areas.  There are many specialty stands throughout the area that take the culinary experience to the next level.  Some of these include Cherry Street BBQ, Chingchein Rice Dog, Kibo Sushi, Hogtown Gourmet Hot Dogs, Hot Stove Carve, Molson Canadian Brewhouse, Pizza Pizza, The Poutinerie, St. Patties, Tim Hortons, and Wicked Carib.  There are also a number of premium dining experiences, as well as six different bars.  Overall, it seems that there is little a fan could want that is not on the menu. Atmosphere 5 What is the actual front of Scotiabank Arena is not recognized by most.  Although the Bay Street address brings fans to the concrete and glass exterior, keeping the traditional Toronto Postal Building facade, it is the opposite side that draws fans in.  Maple Leaf Square, on the west side of the building, is the perfect pregame meeting place and is the location of the trend-setting Jurassic Park, which is full of fans watching on the massive exterior videoboard on the facade.  The iconic “Search Light, Star Light, Spot Light” sculpture, which was part of the old Air Canada Centre logo, is a focal point in Maple Leaf Square and gives the arena a unique, artistic look.  Legends Row, a series of bronze statues of Toronto Maple Leaf legends, is among the top spots at Scotiabank Arena for photos.  The Scotiabank Arena has benefited from a recent renovation.  The lower-level concourse was a focus for this round.  LED ribbon boards and a refresh of the concourse improve the cleanliness of the arena.  At Gate 5, a new production area for the pregame show, Gate 5 Live has been completed, and the Union Station gate now has an innovative LED ceiling for fans to marvel at as they enter.  The concourse does have a modern, fresh look; however, the tunnel entries to the seating bowl, which used to feature a variety of pictures of important Scotiabank Arena moments, have been replaced with a benign, uniform mosaic consistent with the Scotiabank Arena brand.  The most recent renovation also included a revamping of the 500 and 600-level suites.  Up next is the 300-level concourse, amongst other changes.  The full renovation rundown can be found on the Scotiabank Arena website. Highlights for Raptors fans in the main concourse are the Vince Carter collage, along with the Raptor Windmill Dunk bronze statue in a glass case commemorating the iconic Slam Dunk Contest Dunk from the 2000 event. The seating bowl is two-tiered, and although fans are bombarded with Maple Leafs nostalgia, there are a couple of Toronto Raptors nods.  The court is east-west oriented, and the spot to get that perfect centre court logo picture is from the south.  A huge, yet not overwhelming, state-of-the-art video board hangs above centre court.  Raptors banners hang in the centre of the arena with Atlantic Division Champions, 2019 Conference Champions, and 2019 World Champions banners to the west and the retired number 15 of Vince Carter to the east. The gameday production at a Raptors game is what one would expect for a current NBA game.  It is a constant sensory overload.  There is pretty much no downtime during stoppages in play.  Toronto’s mascot, The Raptor, takes part in the pregame introductions, signalling the opening tip with the beating of a large Raptors drum, waving flags, and taking part in promotions.  The in-house DJ, 4Corners, sets up in the west end and plays music throughout the game and stoppages.  The Northside Crew, one of the first diverse dance groups in the NBA, performs during the pregame and throughout the game.  It is probably not possible for the Toronto Raptors to pack anything else into the time from pregame to the final buzzer. Neighbourhood 5 Scotiabank Arena has a prime location that is among the best in the NBA.  Scotiabank Arena is located right in the heart of the excitement in Toronto, one of the top tourist cities in North America.  Toronto is a vastly cosmopolitan city that offers just about anything that visitors could want. The restaurant scene in Toronto is fantastic, and there are a multitude of pre and post-game spots for food and drink within mere steps of Scotiabank Arena.  Real Sports is located right in Maple Leaf Square, as is e11even.  The Loose Moose, The Fox, Miller Tavern, Taverna Mercatto, and Kellys Landing, to name a few,  are all great options that are within walking distance.  A unique dining experience fans could choose to partake in is at the top of the CN Tower, which features excellent food and the best view of the city.  Toronto is also a sports fan haven, offering a ton of other sporting options.  Scotiabank Arena is shared with the Toronto Maple Leafs , and just down the road is Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays .  Heading west along Lakeshore Blvd. will bring fans to Exhibition Place, which has BMO Field and Coca-Cola Coliseum on the grounds.  These are the homes of the Toronto Argonauts , Toronto FC , Toronto Sceptres and Toronto Marlies .  A pilgrimage to the old Maple Leaf Gardens may be of interest.  The hockey  and basketball  teams of Toronto Metropolitan University can be found here.  Just north is the University of Toronto, where the Varsity Blues have a variety of athletic teams, including hockey , basketball , and football . There are plenty of other tourist destinations in the immediate area.  The CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium are worth checking out.  The Eaton Centre is an iconic Toronto shopping destination, and there are always events going on at Harbourfront.  A trip to see the hallowed Hockey Hall of Fame is also a must when in Toronto.  Just a few blocks from Scotiabank Arena, it is arguably as good as Cooperstown and warrants multiple trips. For fans wishing to stay near the Scotiabank Arena, the Westin Harbour Castle is close.  However, any downtown option will be on the pricey side. Fans 5 For the 2025-26 season, the Raptors have averaged 18,700 fans per game and rank 11th in the NBA.  Toronto had similar attendance figures in the previous season.  Attendance was a little better during the winning seasons, but there is not too much wiggle room here.  The crowd at a Raptors game is significantly more vocal than a Maple Leafs crowd.  However, the ever-increasing cost of attending a game has left some seats empty in the lower bowl.   Access 4 Getting to the Scotiabank Arena by car will force fans to traverse the Toronto traffic, which can be a real challenge.  The Lakeshore is quite far from Highway 401 in the north, so using Lakeshore Blvd or the Gardiner Expressway to travel east or west along the lake will be required.  There are plenty of parking options around, which can be found for $20 or more. The real travesty is that the City of Toronto has not taken any lessons from other cities when events are put on.  Upon exiting Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Police are not present to aid in the movement of traffic, leaving drivers on their own to get out of downtown.  On the plus side, public transit downtown is very good. Union Station is attached to the Scotiabank Arena.  TTC subways and GO Transit trains, along with Via Rail trains, can be found here.  Fans should check the TTC  or GO Transit websites for maps, fares, and schedules. Getting around the Scotiabank Arena is not difficult; however, fans need to keep in mind that there is rarely less than a full house in the arena, and intermissions will be congested.  Washroom facilities are more than adequate, but will have lineups during intermissions as well. With security protocols and procedures in constant flux, Stadium Journey strongly suggests visiting the Toronto Raptors and Scotiabank Arena  websites for the most up-to-date security information before heading to the arena. Return on Investment 3 Toronto Raptors tickets begin at $68 for standing room in the upper deck.  There are some seats in the upper deck for just under $100, making affordability just about as much of a concern for a Raptors game as it is for a Maple Leafs game.  Parking can be found for $25, and concessions, although high quality and variety, are on the expensive side.  The return is excellent at a Raptors game, but the investment is now significant. Extras 3 An extra mark for Toronto’s claim to the very first NBA game, which was played at Maple Leaf Gardens with the Toronto Huskies and New York Knicks in 1946. An extra mark for Toronto’s celebrity factor, where Nav Bhatia has become a local celebrity sitting courtside for every game since day one.  Fans may also get a glimpse of Drake, who often sits near the Raptors bench. An extra mark for Herbie Kuhn, the PA announcer, who has been with the Raptors since the SkyDome days and brings energy and excitement to the experience. Final Thoughts The Toronto Raptors find themselves back in contention in the Eastern Conference.  Even when they were in the midst of their rebuild, the Raptors put together one of the elite NBA experiences at Scotiabank Arena, one that fans should not miss out on. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  , and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Kimmel Arena 227 Campus Drive Asheville, NC 28804 UNC-Asheville Bulldogs website Kimmel Arena website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 3,200 All in AVL Basketball has been part of UNC Asheville’s campus culture since 1964. The program began at the NAIA level before transitioning to NCAA Division I and the Big South Conference in the mid-1980s. The Bulldogs joined the league in its second season in 1984, and are among its longest continuous members, representing the Big South in the NCAA Tournament five times. Early Bulldog teams played in modest, multipurpose campus gymnasiums before moving into the Justice Center in the early 1970s. The pit-style venue became synonymous with Bulldogs basketball, serving as the program’s home for more than four decades through its NAIA years, its Division I transition, and all five NCAA Tournament appearances. In 2017 the Bulldogs moved into Kimmel Arena, a modern facility that marked a clear departure from the Justice Center. The new arena brought increased space, modern amenities, and a more contemporary game-day environment for both fans and the program.   Food & Beverage   3 Concessions at Kimmel Arena are a bit limited, but what’s available is stronger than expected. Just inside the entrance, a small concession stand offers a straightforward menu of pretzels, popcorn, candy, and Bulldog Rice Krispies treats – nothing flashy, but enough to cover the basics. What truly elevates the food and beverage experience here, however, is Bear’s BBQ Smokehouse. A staple of the Asheville area, with additional locations near the University of Connecticut in Storrs, Bear’s brings a genuine local presence into the arena. Brisket, pulled pork, and BBQ sandwiches anchor the menu, complemented by comfort-food sides like mac and cheese and brisket chili. Vegan options are also available via Impossible Meat, while nachos and cheese, pretzels, hot dogs, and chili dogs round out the offerings for fans looking to keep things simple. Pepsi products serve as the arena’s soft drink option, while the beer selection wisely leans into Asheville’s reputation as one of the country’s premier craft beer cities. Hi-Wire Lager, Pernicious IPA, and Highland Gaelic Ale headline the local lineup, with New Belgium’s Fruit Smash seltzer, Noble Cider, and Barefoot wines, cabernet and pinot grigio providing solid alternatives. In the end, Kimmel Arena may not overwhelm with variety, but the inclusion of Bear’s BBQ and a thoughtfully curated local beverage selection ensures fans aren’t sacrificing quality for convenience, a clear win for an arena of this size.   Atmosphere   3 Kimmel Arena’s design emulates the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains that run just outside of Asheville. From the building’s exterior to the aesthetics of the concourse and into the arena itself, the mountain influence is everywhere, even down to the tile work on the restroom walls, which echoes the ridgeline just beyond the city. Large windows along the building’s southern end even pull those mountain views directly into the arena. In addition, inside the concourse, woodwork along the walls plus curated artwork help transition the space from the neighboring Sherrill Center, while reinforcing the natural theme. The interior of the arena features a single-bowl setup, with entry points at either end of the court and open concourses running along each side. Smaller, traditional scoreboards sit in opposite corners of the arena, displaying basic time, score, and foul information, while a modest four-sided video board hangs above center court. The center-hung scoreboard carries a live game feed along with the score and game clock, serving as the arena’s visual focal point. Breaks in play are typically filled with on-court recognitions and pre-recorded music, complemented by the school’s pep band. While there isn’t much in the way of an in-game host running crowd contests or promotions, the existing elements do a solid job of filling the downtime before play resumes. The atmosphere inside Kimmel Arena is not overwhelming or particularly intimidating for visiting teams, but for an NCAA Division I venue, it generates a surprising amount of energy. That excitement is especially noticeable during key moments or in tight games down the stretch, when the building comes alive just when it needs to.   Neighborhood   4 The University of North Carolina Asheville campus sits just under five miles from downtown Asheville, a city known for its arts scene and thriving craft beer culture. Nearly 30 breweries are within walking distance downtown, with around 50 more in the surrounding area; Sierra Nevada, just south of the city, offers a striking complex, while New Belgium sits along the banks of the French Broad River. Beyond beer, the city also offers attractions for a variety of tastes – the world-famous Biltmore Estate is nearby, and the Asheville Pinball Museum adds a quirky stop. And, for the heartier soles who might be up for a winter hike, the surrounding trails provide stunning views of the surrounding area. Asheville’s arts district along the French Broad River took a major hit during Hurricane Helene and is still recovering, with some scars remaining. A debris pile that is still being processed sits at the base of the UNC Asheville campus, serving as a visible reminder of the storm’s impact on Asheville.   Fans   3 UNC Asheville typically sits in the middle of the Big South in terms of attendance, averaging around 1,200 fans per game. Those numbers climb noticeably on weekends, particularly once conference play begins. For a school with just over 3,000 students, the student presence punches above its weight; “The Blue Zoo” is consistently well-filled and paired with the pep band, the students do their part in creating an atmosphere that feels unmistakably like college basketball.   Access   4 The University of North Carolina at Asheville sits just off Interstate 26, which runs through the city and connects the city to Spartanburg, South Carolina, and Johnson City in East Tennessee. As a result, getting to the area is fairly straightforward, though navigating Asheville itself can be challenging during the evening rush. Parking for Kimmel Arena is conveniently located just steps from the main points of entry. Several lots on the north side of the facility provide ample parking and require only a short walk. Once inside, the concourse runs above the seating bowl and is rather simple to navigate throughout the game. While the crowd typically is decent sized, it rarely creates congestion on the concourse, making movement around the arena relatively hassle-free.   Return on Investment   3 Ticket prices start at $15 for reserved seats, with just a $1.50 fee added to online ticket sales. This is about standard for other programs at this level. Concession pricing is generally fair for what’s offered. BBQ items sit at the higher end of the menu, but given that much of the food selection centers around it, the prices are in line with what fans would expect from local BBQ spots.   Extras   4 The concourse is home to the UNC Asheville Hall of Fame, offering visitors a look at the individuals who have shaped Bulldogs athletic history. Among those enshrined are former men’s basketball coach Eddie Biedenbach, Major League Baseball player Ty Wigginton, and manager Mike Shildt. Also on display is the jersey of Bulldog legend Kenny George. Standing 7-foot-8, George left an indelible mark on the Asheville record book, recording the program’s first triple-double, setting a single-game record with 10 blocks, and leading all of NCAA men’s basketball in field goal percentage (69.6%) during the 2008 season. His dominance earned him Big South Defensive Player of the Year honors that same year. The rafters of Kimmel Arena recognize Bulldog postseason achievements, along with the retired numbers of Josh Pittman (4) on the men’s side and Sheila Ford Duncan (54) for the women’s program. Bulldog mascot Rocky is a constant presence on game-day, making the rounds along the concourse before tipoff and patrolling the sidelines throughout the game.   Final Thoughts Facilities at the lower levels of NCAA Division I can vary widely from school to school. Prior to the opening of Kimmel Arena, UNC Asheville played at the Justice Center, a cozy but dated, pit-style gymnasium that lacked many of the modern comforts fans now expect. Since opening in 2017, Kimmel Arena has provided the Bulldogs with a significant upgrade. The venue offers a more modern feel, additional space, and amenities that many programs at a similar level simply don’t have, improving the game-day experience for both fans and the university’s athletic programs.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 ESL Ballpark One Morrie Silver Way Rochester, NY 14608 Rochester Red Wings website ESL Ballpark website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 13,500 The Rochester Miracle Wings Editor's Note: On February 10, 2026, he Rochester Red Wings announced they had entered into a 10-year naming rights deal with Rochester-based ESL Federal Credit Union. The deal is worth $550,000 over the ten year period, with options to extend the deal for up to 30 years. Rochester, New York is the quintessential minor league city. There are few places around the country that offer a full-complement of minor league sports like Rochester does, with little competition from the big leagues or big-time colleges. At the center of Rochester’s sports identity is the Rochester Red Wings of Minor League Baseball’s International League. The Red Wings are currently the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals and have been around since 1899. The Red Wings were saved in 1957 after their affiliation with the St. Louis Cardinals ended and it looked like baseball in Rochester was for naught. Morrie Silver led the 72 Day Miracle, which sold over 8,000 shares to over 200 shareholders to purchase the team and stadium and keep Rochester baseball strong. Members of the Silver family still work for the Red Wings and the street outside Frontier Field is named Morrie Silver Way. Since 1989 the home for the Red Wings has been Frontier Field. Replacing venerable Silver Stadium, Frontier Field has also been home to soccer and lacrosse. The Red Wings experience offers plenty to the baseball fan and is a must-do for baseball fans. Note: Frontier Field’s name is changing to Innovative Field during the 2022 off-season. Food & Beverage 5 Frontier Field offers some of the best concessions in baseball. There are numerous concession stands and each one has a unique menu. All of the ballpark favourites are present, of course, and there are some local favourites as well. Altobelli’s Deli offers some sub and wrap deli options; Red Osier has the Western New York staple Beef on Weck, and variations of the sandwich; Ice Cream Plus has a host of different ice cream options; Sup Dog offers Zweigle’s hot dogs and sausages. Burgers, pizza and nachos are also available at different stands. For something truly unique to Rochester, fans should head to Home Plate for a Trash Can, the Frontier Field take on the Garbage Plate. The 10th Inning bar area has a whole host of local craft beers and local Genesee beer can be found throughout the park also. Labatt Blue, which is popular in Western New York, is also prevalent in the park. It is hard to fathom that there is anything that a fan would want to eat at the ballpark that can’t be found at Frontier Field. Atmosphere 4 Frontier Field will not awe fans with striking beauty or a bevy of unique features. That being said, Frontier Field is a solid ballpark that has everything that fans would want in a Minor League Baseball experience. The exterior of the stadium is not imposing. A simple design that features a sunken field and to go with the red brick is more functional than beautiful. Frontier Field incorporates what was once an old firehouse on the left field side of the stadium for offices. Fans who enter the front gate, behind home plate, will be welcomed first by Rochester baseball legend, Morrie Silver and a couple kids, in bronze statue form. There are also some original seats from old Silver Stadium that can be used as a meeting place for friends and family. Upon entering the stadium, fans will find more items to catch their attention. A statue of a horse made of baseball gloves, a large red wing bird and a classic bullpen cart all sit right outside of the team store, which is on the left of the main gate. The main concourse has banners for honoured members of the Red Wings including Johnny Oates, Cal Ripken Jr., Luke Easter, Morrie Silver and Mr. Rochester Baseball, Joe Altobelli. The Red Wings Hall of Fame can be found on the right field side and is worth some exploring for members of memories past. Also, a high school baseball hall of fame can be found. Upon exiting, on the left field side, fans can pass the bronze statue of Joe Altobelli. The seating bowl for Frontier Field is a separated, two tier seating area with some of the left and right field side seating covered with some sun protection. Alternative seating including berms, pavilion and picnic areas are also available. The sightlines at Frontier Field are excellent; there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Frontier Field has videoboard beyond both left Center and right Center field. They are probably coming to the end of their lives, but do the job. Often, videoboards try to cram so much information on at a time that the result is text that is too small to easily see. The Red Wings are not guilty of this and feature pitching statistics on one board and hitting statistics on the other. The outfield wall in left Center displays the retired numbers of Jackie Robinson, Luke Easter, Joe Altobelli and Morrie Silver. The number 8,222 represents the original number of shares in Rochester baseball that were sold to keep a Minor League team in the city. The ten Governors’ Cup Championships are on display on the wall in right center. The gameday atmosphere is not over-the-top in Rochester as it is in other Minor League venues. The staple promos are there including the mascot race (featuring Joe Altobelli, Luke Easter and Cal Ripken Jr.), 50/50 draw and other promos. Organ music is still a staple at Red Wings games and organist Fred Costello has been at it for a long time. Neighbourhood 4 Frontier Field is located near Downtown Rochester, just outside of the Inner Loop in the Brown Square neighbourhood. There are a few options that are close to Frontier Field, but the best bet is to hop in the car and take a two or three minute drive to the preferred destination. Some options fans may consider include the Genesee Brew House, 809 Sports Bar and Rocky’s. Over by the Blue Cross Arena, fans will find the old train station that is currently home to the Stadium Journey favourite Dinosaur BBQ. Also, it may be of interest to hit up the founder of the Garbage Plate, Nick Tahou Hots. Other sporting options in Rochester would include the Rochester Americans of the AHL and Rochester Knighthawks of the NLL. Fans could also head to Henrietta to take in some RIT Tigers hockey at the Gene Polisseni Center. The other main attraction that fans must absolutely consider taking in is The Strong National Museum of Play which is fantastic! For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Holiday Inn and Hyatt are among options that are not too far away. Fans 4 The Rochester Red Wings maintain a strong attendance and have the longevity to be envious of. The Red Wings consistently average in the top 20 in all of Minor League Baseball. They usually attract over 6,000 fans per game. Normally the fans are fairly laid back and reserved, but know when to make some noise as the intelligent baseball fans that they are. Access 5 Frontier Field is located in Brown Square in Rochester, at the junction of the Inner Loop highway and I-490. Getting to the ballpark is pretty easy. If you are interested in public transit to the ballpark, the Rochester-Genesee Transit Authority has buses that travel on Broad, Main, Plymouth and State Streets. Check out the RTS website for maps, schedules and fares. There is plenty of parking available for Red Wing games in the lots of the Kodak Tower. Parking goes for only a few dollars and the local police do a great job of making it easy to get in and out of the parking lots. The main ticketing gates are behind homeplate, in the main square by Morrie Silver Way. At times lineups can be a bit of an issue for the late purchasing crowd, so being prepared is always a good idea. Another gate for entry is near the old fire station at Morrie Silver Way and Plymouth Ave, in left field. Getting around the stadium is no problem at all. There is a spacious inner concourse, where all of the concessions can be found and an outer concourse to travel by as well. There are also plenty of washroom facilities. Return on Investment 5 With ticket prices at $13 to $17, discounted for presale, the Rochester Red Wings offer an extremely affordable product that is what every baseball fan is looking for. Parking will go for $6 ot $10 and concession prices are not over the top. The environment and laid back feeling at Red Wings games is excellent. Overall, the return on investment for a Red Wings game is fantastic! Extras 3 An extra mark for organist Fred Costello, who in 2022 set a record for his 46th season as organist of the Red Wings, the longest-reigning sports organist in history. An extra mark for Morrie Silver and the 72 Day Miracle that saved baseball in Rochester and made the Red Wings a truly community team. An extra mark for the view of the iconic Kodak building beyond left field. Although Kodak is no longer, the building is currently used by Monroe Community College. Final Thoughts The Rochester Red Wings are a cornerstone franchise in the International League. They have weathered the ups and downs of Minor League Baseball and come out the other end still strong. Fans looking for a solid baseball experience that will offer tremendous value should absolutely check out the Rochester Red Wings at Frontier Field. Morrie will be glad you came! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram .

The Beanpot Trophy. Photo Courtesy of the NCAA. Not that it will garner much (if any) sympathy west of the Connecticut River, but New England suffered a pretty demoralizing loss on the gridiron Sunday night. While local sports radio personalities debate whether Drake Maye can recover from the beating he took over the course of the playoffs and whether Josh McDaniels could have made better adjustments to the offense during halftime, and if the Patriots can repeat this season’s Cinderella run next year with a target placed firmly on their backs while facing a first-place schedule, the sporting calendar waits for no fan. A loss like the one suffered by the Patriots on Sunday night might paralyze many fan bases for days, if not weeks. But it’s February in Boston, and there’s one sure cure for getting over a sports hangover such as this: The Beanpot. Held annually on the first two Mondays in February, the Beanpot Hockey Tournament is the oldest and most prestigious college hockey tournament in the country. Pitting the four Division One hockey teams in Boston (Northeastern, Harvard, Boston College, and Boston University) against each other, the tournament consists of back-to-back doubleheaders on the aforementioned Mondays. The tournament dates back to 1952, having been contested at three sites: the Boston Arena, the Boston Garden, and now the TD Garden. Initially started as a way to fill a couple of empty dates at the old Boston Arena (better known for years as Matthews Arena), the Beanpot has grown exponentially since its inception. The Beanpot is Boston hockey’s unofficial championship. It almost doesn’t matter what happens afterwards in conference play or even the subsequent national tournament. In Boston, if your team wins the Beanpot, you are Boston’s college hockey champions. Ask any of the dozens of NHL players who participated in the tournament during their college days, and they will list these two Monday nights among their favorite hockey memories. Beanpot Championship Banners Hang at TD Garden. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. The winning team has its names raised to the rafters of the TD Garden, and the trophy is skated around the ice with all the reverence usually reserved for the Stanley Cup itself. The 73rd edition of the Beanpot, held this year on February 2 nd and 9 th , pits the Boston College Eagles against the Boston University Terriers in the championship game, as both teams were victorious in their openers last Monday night. It’s almost a guarantee that at least one of the teams competing will be nationally ranked, and 2026 is no different. Even in a down year for the four Boston squads, Boston College still represents at number 14, with Boston University sitting just outside the top 20. The Beanpot has been used by mediocre teams to salvage a lost season, or as a springboard to bigger things, as Boston University did last year, carrying their momentum from their Beanpot title all the way to the Frozen Four and the championship game. From a fan’s perspective, it doesn’t get much better than this. Tickets range in price from $35 to $75, and include admission to both games. Take everything you love about college hockey and multiply it by four, and you have the Beanpot experience. Four rowdy student sections, four bands, four sets of rabid fans, and a crowd of close to 17,000 make the Beanpot a bucket list item for any hockey fan, or any fan of college sports, for that matter. Beans, beans are truly good for the heart. Boston University Celebrates the 2025 Beanpot Championship. Photo Courtesy of Boston University Athletics.