Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 EchoPark Speedway 1500 Tara Place Hampton, GA 30228 EchoPark Speedway website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 71,000 Real Racing… Real Fast EchoPark Speedway opened in 1960 as the Atlanta International Raceway. In 1990 it became Atlanta Motor Speedway and finally rebranded as EchoPark Speedway in June of 2025. The 850-acre facility features a 1.54 oval track, with a seating capacity of 71,000. The facility hosts two major NASCAR Cup Series races each season, the Quaker State 400 in July and the Autotrader 400 in October. It also hosts a wide variety of other races throughout the year. Food & Beverage 4 Fans are allowed to tailgate in the parking area, if you stay within the area of your parking space. Once inside the speedway, fans have a wide option of food and beverages to choose from. There are stands representing Papa John’s Pizza, Bojangles, Sonny’s BBQ, Jim N’ Nick’s BBQ, Moe’s Southwestern Grill and many race-themed stands with names like the Turn One Grill, the Infield Grill and the Pole Position Club. As you would expect of an Atlanta-area venue, Coca Cola is the official soft drink of EchoPark Speedway. A wide variety of beers and wines are also available throughout the track. Fans are allowed to bring in soft sided coolers up to 14X14X14 to the venue. No glass bottles are allowed in the coolers Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere on race days can best be compared to the county fair. It is an event that race fans look forward to each year. Families hold mini reunions with friends and other family members at the track. Like college football, fans are proud to wear the racing colors of their favorite driver. There are bands playing and a wide variety of games and giveaways taking place in the Fan Zone. A popular pre-race option at EchoPark Speedway is the pre-race Track Pass. This pass allows you to sign your name on the start/finish line on the track, check out Victory Lane and provides you with stage-front access for the driver introductions. These passes cost $91.12 on top of the cost of your admission to the speedway. Neighborhood 3 On race days, EchoPark Speedway literally becomes its own neighborhood. It spread out over 850 acres, and includes shopping options, bars and restaurants, an entertainment area, camping facilities and even residential condominiums. For those who need overnight accommodation, but do not want to use the camping option, the nearest hotels are the Home 2 Suites by Hilton-Griffin or the Holiday Inn Express-Griffin. There are several hotels, restaurants and a Tanger Outlet Mall located at the I-75 Exit # 218. These hotels include the Hampton Inn Locust Grove and the Holiday Inn Express and Suites-Locust Grove. Fans 4 Atlanta is one of the favorite stops along the NASCAR season due to the long and storied history of the track. It also offers easy access via multiple interstate highways, as well as flight connections from anywhere in the country through Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson. Fans arrive hours before the race to enjoy the activities in the Fan Zone. The Fan Zone is located just outside of Gate 13, and it offers musical entertainment, exhibits from NASCAR sponsors, food booths, souvenir stands and fan photo opportunities. Access 4 EchoPark Speedway is in Hampton, Ga, a small town located 30 miles south of Atlanta via either Hwy 19/41 or I-75. Directions from I-75 North or South: Take Exit 218 onto Highway 20 West. Go 10 miles to the entrance of the speedway, which is located just west of the Highway 19/41intersection. You will then be directed to the appropriate parking lot by speedway south. You can also reach the speedway by traveling south from the Atlanta area on Highway 19/41 via Exit # 235 (Tara Boulevard). We advise you against using this route, as you will encounter heavy traffic and dozens of red lights before you reach the track. There are 10 major gates into the speedway stands. Be sure to check your tickets for the gate located closest to your seats in the grandstand. Each grandstand features the name of a NASCAR icon, including Petty, Earnhardt and Johnson. You are allowed to exit and re-enter the speedway during the race. However, you must rescan your ticket on the way out of the speedway, then have rescanned again to be readmitted. Once you park your car, free trams and shuttles will transport you to the gates of the speedway. Return on Investment 3 The cost of attending the Quaker State 400 is comparable to most of the other NASCAR Cup Series around the country. The standard admission for adults is $64.15, while children aged 12 and under get in for $11.25. Premium seating along the start/finish line and pit row are priced at $96.75. Another premium seating level is in the second level of the Earnhardt Stands, which provides you with an overview of the entire 1.5-mile oval, and costs $106.90 - $127.15. Camping spots in the track’s infield cost $105 per night. Parking is free in the grass parking lots outside of the speedway gates. EchoPark Speedway operates on a cashless basis. Wi-Fi is provided throughout the speedway at no cost. Extras 5 In 1992, Atlanta Motor Speedway hosted both Richard Petty’s last NASCAR race and Jeff Gordon’s first NASCAR race. EchoPark Speedway rents out scanners that allow you to hear the actual communications between the drivers and their pit crews during the race. The cost to rent a scanner is $81.44. Former Georgia Governor/U.S. President Jimmy Carter worked as a ticket taker at the Speedway in the 1960’s. He never the racing community, as he hosted reunions for track staff at both the Georgia Governor’s Mansion and the White House. The concourse underneath the stands offers some nice features, including exhibits about past races, and a checkered finish line running through the concourse at the precise location of the finish line on the track. The speedway has been used on several occasions as a Red Cross evacuation site for families affected by Florida hurricanes. Final Thoughts EchoPark Speedway has been one of the most popular NASCAR tracks for nearly 70 years. The facility is constantly adding new features to maintain its position as a favorite stop for NASCAR fans on their racing calendars.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Scarborough Arena Gardens 75 Birchmount Road Toronto, Ontario M1N 3J7 Toronto Beaches website Scarborough Arena Gardens website Year Opened: 1951 Capacity: 358 Displaced Sandbox In 2025, Toronto lacrosse was dealt a significant body blow. The board of the Ted Reeve Community Arena, in a controversial act, voted to keep the ice in the facility all year round. This displaced the programming for the Toronto Beaches Lacrosse Club and left the Toronto Beaches team of the OJLL homeless. Although the move was said to be a “hybrid model,” moving lacrosse to the bubble next door, which would allow lacrosse to continue, it was met with skepticism and anger by lacrosse patrons. Ted Reeve had been the home for the Toronto Beaches for over thirty years. In fact, the Beaches had just survived a short stretch where the team was displaced due to renovations at Ted Reeve. The history of the Toronto Beaches Lacrosse Club dates all the way back to 1915. The Beaches played at a Junior B level from 1979 to 1983 and then at Junior A from 1991 to 1997 and then from 1998 to the present. They have made two appearances in the Iroquois Trophy final, in 2002 and 2022. The solution for the homeless Beaches is Scarborough Arena Gardens. Built in 1951, Scarborough Gardens just completed a massive two-year renovation which saw the old building torn down completely due to structural and asbestos concerns. It is owned by the City of Toronto, but is further east than the Beaches community where Ted Reeve was found. The 2026 season is the first for the not-for-profit Toronto Beaches at the Gardens, their new Sandbox. Food & Beverage 2 There is a very limited selection of concessions available for a Beaches game. Concessions are sold at a temporary table along with merchandise and tickets at the back end of the lobby. Water, Gatorade, chips, cookies, chocolate bars, beer, and coolers make up the entirety of the menu. Prices are good, and there is enough for a light snack, but that’s about it. Atmosphere 3 Scarborough Arena Gardens is essentially a brand-new facility. The exterior is attractive with grey brick around the lobby and a canopy over the entrance with wood support beams and brown highlights. An updated exterior plaque provides a bit of history of the building, including the use of the old Gardens for exterior shots in the movie Youngblood. In the lobby, there is plenty of glass and the natural light floods in. A large trophy case provides more history of the building as well as some local hockey trophies. Large murals provide colourful highlights near the ceiling. Entry in the lobby is from the west and the east side of the lobby is a wall of glass that looks right into the arena. Just in front of the arena is a temporary table selling tickets, merchandise and snacks. On both the exterior and in the lobby, there is no advertising or markings for the Beaches. This could change in subsequent seasons with more prep time available. Inside the arena, the floor runs from east to west with the view of the centre logo, really the only Beaches marking in the building, from the north. Entry is from the west, and a simple hockey scoreboard hangs on the east side. Seating is on the north side with four rows of contoured, plastic benches. Protective mesh surrounds the entire arena floor. Unfortunately, the shot clocks are hung on the glass in the northeast and northwest corners and are difficult for fans to see. Behind the seating, on the north side, there are huge windows that allow plenty of natural light into the arena, creating a unique effect early in the game. Some of the windows need to be covered and are done so with temporary tarps. Permanent blinds definitely need to be installed to preserve the clean aesthetic of the arena. One of the real highlights in the arena is the wooden beam truss supports that hold up the corrugated aluminum roof. The gameday production at a Beaches game is extremely simple. The sound system consists of temporary speakers on stands behind the benches on the south side. Music is played for the warmups; however, none is played during intermission or for goals. The worst part of the sound system is that announcements are nearly impossible to understand. Neighbourhood 4 Scarborough Arena Gardens is found in the Birchcliffe-Cliffside neighbourhood of the Toronto borough of Scarborough. It is east of what most would think of as the tourist area of the city, where the Rogers Centre and Scotiabank Arena are found. There are a few spots for pre- and post-game food and drink that are not too far away; however, the immediate neighbourhood is fairly residential. Some options include Buster’s By The Bluffs, Henry Jollof, Blue Elephant Cuisine and The Quarry Cafe. The closest sporting option to Scarborough Arena Gardens is the Scarborough Shooting Stars of the CEBL, which plays during the same season as the OJLL. Other sporting options during the same general time include the Toronto Blue Jays and Toronto Maple Leafs of the CBL. There are, of course, many more options when stretching into the fall and winter, including the Maple Leafs, Raptors, Argonauts, Marlies, Tempo, Sceptres and Toronto FC. The University of Toronto also fields several Varsity Blues teams, including football, basketball and hockey. Toronto is one of the top tourist destinations in North America. Other tourist options include the Scarborough Museum, Scarborough Bluffs, and Rosetta McClain Gardens, all found in Scarborough. A wider net cast brings tourists to the Hockey Hall of Fame, Casa Loma, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the iconic CN Tower. For fans who wish to stay near Scarborough Arena Gardens, the Super 8 Toronto is available as well as several BnBs and independent motels. A wider selection of international chain motels will require fans to journey closer to downtown Toronto. Fans 3 Assessing fans in the OJLL is challenging as the attendance figures are not published. At the game that was reviewed, there were around 150 fans in attendance. Due to the small capacity, this provided a decent fan experience with plenty of space for those in attendance without the arena feeling empty. The fans in attendance were supportive and fairly loud. Access 3 Scarborough Arena Gardens is located in the Birchcliffe-Cliffside neighbourhood of the Toronto borough of Scarborough. It is found in the larger Birchmount Park. The Gardens are at the northeast corner of Birchmount Road and Kingston Road. It is approximately 8 km east of the Don Valley Parkway and 9 km south of Highway 401. Fans driving to the game will definitely have to traverse a good chunk of city driving, and Toronto traffic is no joke. The Beaches seem to have addressed this issue with 8 pm start times for most home games. There is parking available at the facility, which could fill up depending on what other events are scheduled for Birchmount Park. For fans wishing to take public transit, there are TTC bus stops on Birchmount and Danforth. Fans should consult the Toronto Transit Commission website for fare schedules and maps. Getting around Scarborough Arena Gardens is not difficult, especially due to its complete rebuild. The washroom facilities are more than adequate for the venue. They are ultra-modern with cubicles with floor-to-ceiling doors. Security protocols are not really an issue for a Toronto Beaches game. Tickets are purchased at the door, and cash is preferred, with e-transfer as an option for purchases. Return on Investment 4 Toronto Beaches tickets are very affordable. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and free for kids under 5 and Beaches Minor Lacrosse players and Toronto Beaches alumni. Parking is free, and concession prices are good. Addressing some of the gameday production issues will make the experience even better and raise the ROI score. Extras 3 An extra mark for Scarborough Arena Gardens essentially being a brand-new, squeaky-clean facility. An extra mark for the original Scarborough Arena Gardens making an appearance in the 1986 movie, Youngblood. Exterior shots of the Hamilton Mustangs home were of Scarborough Arena Gardens. An extra mark for the parking lot, which has a huge solar panel structure to park under. Not only does the facility generate clean energy, but it provides shade to park under. Final Thoughts After being displaced from Ted Reeve Arena, the Toronto Beaches have found a new Sandbox at Scarborough Arena Gardens. In their first season in their new home, the Beaches are finding their way. There is room for improvement, but the base lacrosse experience is solid. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 George Taylor Field 4 Seymour Avenue St. Catharines ON L2P 1A3 Niagara Ironbacks website George Taylor Field website Year Opened: 1986 Capacity: 2,000 Iron Baseball The Niagara Ironbacks were born in 2025. Filling a hole that Ontario normally ignores, the Ironbacks joined the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League, providing a true summer collegiate experience in the province. The dubious Intercounty Baseball League once provided a summer refuge for college baseball players; however, with the 2026 rebranding to the Canadian Baseball League and full professional focus, the Ironbacks are the lone summer collegiate team in Southern Ontario. The Ironbacks are owned by Mal Romanin, who is the former communication director of the Toronto Blue Jays. The team is named in honour of the “hard-working people of St. Catharines and the Niagara Region.” Home for the Ironbacks is George Taylor Field. Found in St. Catharines, George Taylor Field opened in 1986 and is the former home of the St. Catharines Blue Jays. The stadium saw such well-known Jays as Carlos Delgado, Pat Hentgen, Vernon Wells, and Jeff Kent play in the New-York Penn League. In 2012, it was rededicated and named after the former groundskeeper George “Clickey” Taylor, who also coached local baseball for over 35 years. It was originally known as Merritton Baseball Field, which has been in use since the sixties. The stadium was rebuilt in 1986 and named Community Park, to coincide with the arrival of the Blue Jays, who played here until 1999. Food & Beverage 3 There is one simple concession stand on the outside of the stadium. Burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, candy, and chips are all available. Items can be bundled in combos to save a couple bucks. Soda, slushies, and bottled water, along with CWench sports drinks, are the soft drinks available. Beer, seltzer, and wine are also available for those of age. The Ironbacks also have signature beers, Ironbacks Lite and Dead Red IPA, provided by Decew Falls Brewery. Atmosphere 2 George Taylor Field is a fairly simple venue but has received some improvements over the years. The exterior is very simple with no aesthetic entrance, just the backside of the stands. There is plenty of chain-link fencing around the stadium. George Taylor Field also lacks any real curb appeal as it is tucked behind what appears to be a vacant school. A temporary ticket table and merchandise table welcome fans entering the park. Before entering the seating area, fans will take note of a whiteboard with the day’s starting lineups right beside a large Ironbacks roster poster complete with profile pictures. The poster is a nice touch in promoting the players along with the free lineup sheets available at the ticket table. Behind the first base stands, cornhole boards are set out along with some picnic tables for fans. Entering the seating area, there are a variety of seating options. The first three rows consist of traditional, plastic, stadium seats, followed by three rows of aluminum benches with backs, followed by eight rows of aluminum benches. A small press box/operations box is behind the seating, covered in blue, corrugated siding. The seating area stretches from approximately first base to third base. The field is a well-maintained grass surface, which was one of the improvements made. There are plenty of full-turf fields in the PGCBL, and the maintenance of George Taylor Field appears to be one of the best options. LED lighting and an upgraded speaker system are also improvements that have been made at the ballpark. A simple baseball scoreboard stands beyond left centre field. The gameday production at an Ironbacks game is also fairly simple. Typical promotions include the beer batter, 50/50 draw and tracking the strikeouts with K’s on the outfield fence. Roster printouts are free and available at the ticket table. The in-game host is terrific and has a great balance of enthusiasm without being annoying. Neighbourhood 3 George Taylor Field is located in Community Park in the Merritton neighbourhood of St. Catharines, southeast of downtown. The neighbourhood is fairly residential, but there are a few spots fans can go to get pre- or post-game food and drinks. Some options include Ferraree’s Italian Lounge, Olee’s Ale House, Early Bird Restaurant, The Lucky Penny, Doughboy’s Diner, and Taqueria el Errito. There are a few sporting options in the summer in St. Catharines. George Taylor Field is also the home of Brock Badgers baseball in the fall. Brock also fields other athletic teams during the school year, including basketball and hockey. The St. Catharines Athletics and Niagara River Lions also play during the summer months. Other options include the Niagara IceDogs and St. Catharines Falcons. St. Catharines is very close to Niagara Falls, which offers a whole host of tourist options and is a must-do for all first-time visitors to the Niagara Region. Other tourist options include the St. Catharines Museum, Bruce Trail, Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame and Canal Locks. For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Stone Mill Inn and Four Points Sheraton are good options. Fans 2 The Niagara Ironbacks are still in their infancy, but are making headway when it comes to attracting fans. At the time of writing, during the 2026 season, the Ironbacks averaged 360 fans per game. This ranks them 10th in the 15-team PGCBL. This is also an improvement from the 109 fans the Ironbacks averaged the previous season. A school day game in June attracting over 1,100 fans does skew the results a bit. However, an improved product on the field is showing some improvement in the stands. Fans in attendance are fairly reserved, but do interact with the in-game host a bit. Access 5 George Taylor Field is located at Community Park in the Merritton neighbourhood of St. Catharines. It is just 1 km east of Highway 406, which is the main artery for the Niagara Region south of the Queen Elizabeth Way. It is on the southeast corner of Seymour Avenue and Merritt Street. Getting to the ballpark is pretty easy, and traffic should not be an issue. Parking is available in a lot off of Seymour Avenue past the former school. For fans interested in public transit, there are bus stops on Merritt Street. Fans should consult the Niagara Transit website for fares, maps and schedules. The ballpark is easy to maneuver, with not too many places to go. The washroom facilities are very good here, including a couple of family, gender neutral washrooms. A Niagara Ironbacks game is cash-friendly, along with cashless options. Return on Investment 4 The Niagara Ironbacks have three tiers of tickets that coincide with the different types of seats. Preferred seats are $16, Standard seats are $13.50, and General Admission is $8. Preferred seats are specific. Tickets are available online or at the gate. Parking is free, and concession prices are good. Combined, this offers great value for a solid baseball product on the field. More fans in the stands would provide a better spectator experience and improve the ROI. Extras 2 An extra mark for the Niagara Ironbacks as the lone Ontario team in the PGCBL and one of only two summer collegiate teams in the province. (The other is in Thunder Bay) An extra mark for the manager of the Ironbacks, Richard Griffin, for five decades in baseball. Griffin was, among other things, a baseball columnist for the Toronto Star for years and won the prestigious Jack Graney Award presented by the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame for a media member making a significant contribution to the game. Final Thoughts Although still in their infancy, the Niagara Ironbacks are continuing to blaze trails in the Ontario baseball market as the lone Summer Collegiate team in Southern Ontario. George Taylor Field has become a good place to catch a game, and improvements to the ballpark are ongoing. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Vinny Martin and Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 New Britain Stadium 230 John Karbonic Way New Britain, CT 06051 New Britain Bees website New Britain Stadium website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 6,146 Hard Hittin’ New Britain New Britain Stadium opened in 1996 with a capacity of around 6,100. Located in Willow Brook Park, the stadium has a long history and has hosted a few teams at a few different levels of baseball. Currently, the venue is home to the New Britain Bees of the Futures Collegiate Baseball League. New Britain Stadium is the second highest capacity ballpark in the Futures League, behind Dodd Stadium, home of the Norwich Sea Unicorns. The Bees were originally a part of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB) from their inception in 2015 to 2019. The ballpark was formerly home to the New Britain Rock Cats of the AA Eastern League from 1996 to 2015, before the franchise relocated to Hartford. The Rock Cats, who were named the "Hardware City Rock Cats" after New Britain's nickname “Hardware City” for one season, were the AA affiliate of the Minnesota Twins for a majority of their existence. Many notable names have played in New Britain, such as David Ortiz, Torii Hunter and Joe Mauer. Food & Beverage 2 New Britain Stadium offers minimal but serviceable food and drink options on game days. There are two open concession stands on the main concourse, one serving classic ballpark options like Hot Dogs, Chicken Tenders and Italian Sausage, with the other offering snack items like popcorn and cotton candy. There is a stand serving a variety of domestic beers located right behind the main entrance. Down the third and first baselines you will find the Alvarium Beer Hive and the Five Churches Brewing Skyline Sanctuary Beer Garden. Both are nice outdoor seating areas with great views of the game, but were not serving anything during this visit. It is possible that they open up for weekend games. Pepsi products are sold here at New Britain Stadium. In general, the food and drink options here will not blow anyone away, but they get the job done at a very reasonable price. Fans Line Up for Concessions at New Britain Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Atmosphere 2 The Bees game day presentation is extremely laid back and minimal. Most summer collegiate teams supplement the on-field product with between-inning games, contests, mascots, or fan interaction. Here, none of that exists. It is limited to PA announcements and music, which may create a somewhat boring experience for the more casual Bees fans. Being a former AA stadium, the venue itself is very large for summer collegiate baseball. The concourse is fairly large, and you can even hear the game being broadcasted in the concourse while you are stepping away from the game, which is a cool touch for this level of baseball. The stadium is also very well themed for its new tenant, as the entire concourse is covered in black and yellow. Although structurally in good condition, the stadium shows its age in several areas. There are a few major flaws of the stadium's design, one of which being the scoreboard, which is very small and very hard to see from any seat. The stadium also lacks shady areas, making a mid-summer game on a hot day pretty uncomfortable. Neighborhood 2 New Britain is a moderately sized city in central Connecticut, located about 10 miles away from the state capital of Hartford. New Britain is nicknamed “The Hardware City” as it contains the headquarters of Stanley Black and Decker. New Britain Stadium's former tenant actually used to go by the “Hardware City Rock Cats” for its first two years. The area surrounding the ballpark is mostly a generic commercial area with not much in the name of things to do. New Britain High School is located close by, with its facilities, Beehive Field and Veterans Memorial Stadium, located on the same grounds as New Britain Stadium. Central Connecticut State University is also located about 10 minutes away. New Britain Stadium Interior. Photo by Vinny Martin, Stadium Journey. Fans 2 New Britain Stadium's biggest flaw is its size. A summer collegiate baseball team will usually not draw enough fans to fill a stadium of this size, so unfortunately the place was very empty. A good majority of fans in attendance were in suites, or congregated under a small, shaded area behind home plate to escape the sun. The fans who were in attendance made noise and seemed to be knowledgeable and passionate, but there definitely was no “buzz” in the stadium- no pun intended. Access 4 New Britain Stadium is conveniently located immediately adjacent to Route 9, which serves as an easy expressway to Connecticut's major interstates of 91 and 84. Depending on what direction you are coming from, traffic around the major cities of Hartford and New Haven could be a pain when traveling to weeknight games, but in general, New Britain is very accessible. New Britain Stadium has completely enclosed concourses that are very spacious. All walkways around the stadium are also very wide. The stadium is separated into a lower and upper bowl separated by that aforementioned walkway, with the lower bowl having folding plastic seats, and the upper-level having a mix of molded plastic seats and bleacher style seats. With the stadium typically being fairly quiet, it is easy to spread out and roam around to find a spot that works for you. The restrooms here are clean and very large. There are also ramps and handicap accessible seating on all sides of the stadium. New Britain Stadium Concourse. Photo by Vinny Martin, Stadium Journey. Return on Investment 4 A Bees game is one of the most affordable sporting experiences in central Connecticut. General admission is $9, which gives you access to any seats in the ballpark. Parking is also free. Food is also very cheap, with almost all food items being available for $6 or less. Beer prices are a little on the pricier side relatively speaking, but also not bad with domestics being available for $8. Extras 2 The New Britain Sports Hall of Fame is displayed in the concourse next to the team store, and is a nice tribute to hundreds of familiar athletes to come through the city. Another point goes to the valiant effort to retheme the stadium around the Bees, with bold yellow and black concourse walls to a very nice indoor team store. You have to respect the investment which is rare for venues at the summer collegiate baseball level. Final Thoughts The Bees were dealt a unique situation with New Britain Stadium, having a much larger and more advanced facility than most other summer collegiate baseball teams. That creates a different but relatively unspectacular experience for summer ball. The emergence of Dunkin Park in nearby Hartford has taken professional baseball and maybe some general interest in baseball away from New Britain. With all that being said, New Britain Stadium is still a very affordable and easy night out at the ballpark that is worth a visit.

Photos by Steven Kee Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Hinchliffe Stadium 186 Maple St. Paterson, NJ 07522 New York Cosmos website Hinchliffe Stadium website Year Opened: 1932 (renovated 2023) Capacity: 10,000 The Cosmos are Back…Again! In northern New Jersey, a rich soccer history continues with the recent return of the New York Cosmos. The iconic team now plays in USL League One. They play at Historic Hinchliffe Stadium located in the Great Falls Historic District of the City of Paterson, New Jersey, on the N.J. Black Heritage Trail. The Cosmos join 16 other teams in USL League One. ​ Hinchliffe Stadium was built in 1932 and used for baseball, high school football, and auto racing before it closed in 1996. It then fell into disrepair and was abandoned, but in 1921, the ground was broken on a $94 million project to restore the stadium. ​ It was home of the New York Black Yankees and the New York Cubans of the Negro Leagues, and is also the home of the New Jersey Jackals of the Frontier League. It is one of the last remaining Negro League baseball stadiums still in existence. ​ This is the third incarnation of the Cosmos, a brand and name synonymous with soccer. The original Cosmos of Pele fame played from 1971 to 1985 in the North American Soccer League, while the second version played in the second NASL and National Indoor Soccer Association from 2013 to 2020. Those two incarnations of the soccer club captured 8 league championships. Food & Beverage 2 The current selections were limited to a snack shop setup offering burgers, hot dogs, skewers, pretzels, and a basic range of drinks, including soda, water, and select alcoholic beverages. ​ Cheeseburgers, hamburgers, nachos, pretzels, hot dogs, and the Cosmos Special: Double Cheeseburger are available between the prices of $5 and $18. Coca-Cola products are available, along with beer and hard seltzer options that include Bud, Coors, Corona, Sun Cruiser, and High Noons. There is an additional window for sweets and snacks. ​ The hamburger wasn't particularly hot, but it was fresh and tasted good. This seems to summarize the current experience: while the variety is small, the food is fresh and reasonably priced. Atmosphere 3 The match we attended was an international friendly between the Cosmos and Santos Laguna (Liga MX). The exhibition game drew a smaller crowd than a typical USL League One match, but Hinchliffe Stadium remains an inviting and charming venue. ​ Visiting the stadium feels like stepping back into the 1930s. It features a classic, elongated U-shaped design with bleacher seating. Since the bleachers do not have back support, it is recommended to bring a portable seat cushion for added comfort. ​ While the views are excellent from any seat, please note that there is a track around the field, which creates some distance from the action. Additionally, the Cosmos share this venue with the Jackals. This shared usage contributes to the patchy appearance of the field. Furthermore, a protective safety net is in place, which does obscure a completely unobstructed view. ​ A team store offers a nice selection of merchandise near the entrance to the facility. A video board is situated at one end of the stadium, and the Charles J. Muth Museum is open during the game, offering a collection of memorabilia from the stadium’s history in an air-conditioned environment. Fans can also purchase merchandise and learn about the many athletes who once played at the historic facility. Neighborhood 3 Paterson is a remarkably diverse city in every way. It is located about 20 miles from New York City and is known as the Silk City due to its production of silk products. While the surrounding neighborhood may appear a bit rough at first glance, it is encouraged to look past that to see the friendly faces and families visiting the stadium, the museum, and the Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park. ​ The falls are less than 100 yards from the stadium and worth a visit before or after the game. It is also a nice way to cool off during a hot summer game. The Paterson Museum offers a collection of items connected to the city that include a prototype submarine, silk machinery, the Paterson Colt pistol, and items from the Lenape tribe. The American Labor Museum details the history of the labor movement. ​ There are no restaurants within walking distance from the stadium, but the city is known for its Texas Weiners, said to have been invented in town. They are deep-fried hot dogs served with a meat sauce, chopped onions, and brown mustard. The best spots are now in neighboring towns and include The Hot Grill in Clifton and Johnny & Hanges in Fair Lawn. Fans 3 The fans from both teams are incredibly enthusiastic and engaged throughout the game. With noisemakers, drums, whistles, and constant chanting, the energy was nonstop. Both sides have green colors, and it was a sea of green at the stadium. ​ The Five Points supporters’ group is especially impressive. They provide a textbook example of passion, using drums, cowbells, and chants. Their use of green flares, smoke bombs, elaborate displays, and green and white umbrellas created a fantastic atmosphere to encourage their team. ​ One particularly charming moment was seeing a toddler in this section moving a giant green and white umbrella in time with the drumbeat. It perfectly illustrated that these fans, regardless of age, will do just about anything to show their support. Access 3 While the stadium is easy to access, the Cosmos staff strongly recommend reviewing the maps available at nycosmos.com. The stadium is wide open, and an inner concourse provides fans with access to concessions, merchandise stands, the museum, and restrooms. ​ Regarding parking, the Hinchliffe Stadium Parking Facility is located directly adjacent to the stadium and is the most convenient option. Street parking is limited, and the surrounding streets are narrow and curvy; therefore, parking on the street is not recommended. The parking garage was free during our visit. Return on Investment 3 While some ticket options were overpriced for the value, the entry-level tickets offer a great experience, especially given the amenities both inside and outside the stadium. The welcoming staff and fans further ensured the experience was well worth the investment. ​ Keep in mind that for this specific game, there was no fee for the Hinchcliffe Parking Facility. Some fans took advantage of this by bringing their own chairs and food to watch the game from that area for free. ​ Fans can expect to pay $5 for a pretzel or nacho, while a hot dog is $10. Beer prices are $10, and Coca-Cola products are $5. Some items are reasonable, while some were a bit higher in price. Extras 4 Charles J. Muth Museum is on the right side of the stadium; this museum is a must-visit. I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before kickoff, as it closes at halftime for non-VIP guests. ​ You can find beautiful views of Paterson and New York City looking past the scoreboard, which serves as an excellent backdrop for photos. ​ Paterson Great Falls National Park is just steps away from the stadium. If the game ends before dark, I highly recommend visiting the falls via the Mary Ellen Kramer Park entrance on the McBride Road Extension. ​ Hinchliffe Stadium Parking Facility offers a convenient parking option; the top floor offers an incredible view of the stadium and the surrounding skyline. Final Thoughts It’s pure nostalgia to attend a Cosmos match in 2026, especially for anyone who grew up loving the team in the NASL days of the 1970s and ‘80s. The experience reintroduces the club to a new generation of enthusiasts. Seeing the Pelé and Negro League exhibits in the museum was especially rewarding. The stadium feels frozen in time, complemented by a poignant museum, sweeping views of New York and Paterson, a friendly staff, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Sal Maglie Stadium 1200 Hyde Park Boulevard Niagara Falls, NY 14301 Niagara Falls Americans website Sal Maglie Stadium website Year Opened: 1939 Capacity: 4,000 The American Way The Niagara Falls Americans were established in 2007 as the Niagara Power of the New York Collegiate Baseball League. Located in Niagara Falls, New York, the Power played in the NYCBL until after the pandemic. They returned in 2021 and moved to the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League. All players in the PGCBL must have college eligibility to participate. The league played its first season in 2011 and included a number of former New York-Penn League teams. After a unique ownership situation where the team was owned by Niagara University of Lewiston, the team was sold to CAN-USA Sports and former NHL player Robbie Nichols in 2023. Nichols’ CAN-USA Sports company also owns the Elmira Pioneers and Batavia Muckdogs. When the team was sold in 2023, they rebranded to the current Niagara Falls Americans moniker. Home for the Americans is Sal Maglie Stadium. Originally known as Hyde Park Stadium due to its location, the stadium was built in 1939. It has been home to the Niagara Falls Pirates, Sox, Tigers, and Rapids, all of the New York-Penn League. In 1983, it was renamed for former MLB pitcher and Niagara Falls native, Sal Maglie. Maglie was known during his playing days as “Sal The Barber” because he tended to give hitters “close shaves” by pitching inside. The stadium is sometimes referred to as the Barber Shop. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand that is behind home plate on the outside of the stadium. It has a decent selection of food options including hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, candy, and ice cream. Pizza is from Sammy’s Pizza, just on the other side of Hyde Park Boulevard. Coca-Cola products are the soft drink of choice, and coffee, hot chocolate, and water are also available. A separate line at the concession is where fans will find a small selection of beer and wine. The game that was reviewed was $1 Hot Dog Night, which was a bonus. Atmosphere 3 Sal Maglie Stadium is a fairly simple venue. The exterior is simple with a separate box office and entry gate behind home plate. The box office was not actually used for the game by the Americans, and a temporary table was situated just inside the gate. With a limited structure, the efforts to make Sal Maglie the home of the Americans do not go unnoticed, as just about everything that is not aluminum is painted red or blue. Fans are welcomed by an American-themed inflatable sock man and an old-school event marquee sign. Inside the seating area, the seats are elevated above field level to improve sightlines. The majority of the seating is aluminum benches. The VIP area is behind home plate and consists of traditional stadium seats. Seating goes all the way down to the fence on the third base sign, and there is an alternative press box at the top of the seating area right at third base, probably for other field sports such as football or soccer. First base seating ends around where the first base bag is. Behind the plate and seating is the Doug Smith Press Box, named after a former sports writer, statistician, and reporter for the Niagara Power. The entirety of the field is artificial turf, including the sliding pits and pitcher’s mound. A small videoboard and baseball scoreboard are just beyond the right center field fence. The gameday production at an Americans game is fairly simple. Bruce Springsteen’s “Born In The USA” is played for player introductions, and key moments during the game are accented with a screeching eagle sound effect. The PA announcer does a good job of keeping fans informed and has a laid-back approach, even commenting on the relatively empty stands for the game that was reviewed. In-game host, Lady Liberty, interacts with the fans during the game and facilitates all of the promotions. Neighborhood 3 Sal Maglie Stadium is located inside of Hyde Park in Niagara Falls. There are not many options for food or drink within walking distance of the stadium, so a short trip in the car will be necessary. Some options that are close include Jon Fre’s Restaurant, The Craft, Simply Soul Savor, and the Anchor Bar. There are not many other options for sports in Niagara Falls proper. Sal Maglie Stadium is shared with the SUNY Niagara Thunderwolves and D’Youville Saints. A very short drive to the town of Lewiston will bring fans to the home of Niagara University, where the Purple Eagles field several athletic teams, including baseball, basketball and hockey. Niagara Falls is a decent tourist spot. It is definitely less famous than its Canadian namesake north of the border. Other tourist options include Seneca Niagara Casino, Goat Island, Cave of the Winds, Aquarium of Niagara, and Niagara Falls State Park. A trip to Niagara Falls requires a trip to see the Falls themselves. For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Cambria Hotel and DoubleTree by Hilton are good options. Fans 4 For the 2026 season, at the time of writing, the Niagara Falls Americans welcomed over 1,500 fans per game. This was up from 1,125 fans in 2025 and ranked them fourth in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League. Unfortunately for the game that was reviewed, there were just under 500 fans as the announced attendance. However, it was a mid-week game in June, and the weather was poor. The fans in attendance were supportive and knowledgeable. Access 4 Sal Maglie Stadium is located on the east side of Hyde Park in Niagara Falls, right at Hyde Park Boulevard. It is 3.5 km west of I-190 and very easy to get to. Traffic should not be an issue when getting to the stadium. There is free parking on site that is free. For fans wishing to take public transit, there are bus stops south of Hyde Park, making it a bit of a walk from transit to the stadium. Interested fans should consult the Niagara Frontier Transit Association website for fares, maps, and schedules. Getting around Sal Maglie Stadium is not difficult. There is even an elevator that can bring fans to the top of the stadium. Washroom facilities are adequate for the facility. Being a small, summer collegiate team, the security protocols are not intrusive at all; however, the Niagara Falls Americans website does publish a list of prohibited items. Return on Investment 4 A Niagara Falls American game offers good value for the sports fan’s dollar. General Admission tickets are $10. VIP seating is $15, which comes with wait staff. VIP seating is not reserved in the section, and fans are also free to choose their seat. Parking on site is free, and concession prices are not too bad. The baseball on the field is pretty good, and PGCBL has some other fan-friendly rules, including a 10-player lineup which includes an extra hitter and a mercy rule. Extras 2 An extra mark for the Hyde Park Swimming Pool, which is behind the third base stands. It is not open and has a cover over it. It is comically a repository for numerous foul balls. An extra mark for the unique Niagara University ownership during the previous regime, which gave the school an outlet for students to run the operations and baseball athletes to participate during the off-season. Final Thoughts Niagara Falls Americans baseball offers fans a solid baseball experience at the college level. The PGCBL is not the most prestigious league of the summer, but the Americans will entertain fans at Sal Maglie Stadium with good value for the sporting dollar. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Mohegan Sun Arena 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd Uncasville, CT 06382 Connecticut Sun website Mohegan Sun Arena website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 9,323 The Sunset Season The Connecticut Sun franchise began their existence in 1999 as the Orlando Miracle. The team proved to be unsuccessful, and after only four years of play was purchased by the Mohegan Tribe and moved to their Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT, in an attempt to capitalize on the rabid following for the UConn Huskies women’s team. The team’s nickname is derived from its affiliation with the casino, and its logo is an interpretation of an ancient Mohegan tribal symbol. At the time of their debut the Sun were the first professional sports franchise to be owned by Native Americans. The Sun have qualified for the WNBA playoffs in 16 of their 23 seasons in Connecticut. They have made the league finals on four occasions, most recently in 2022. The Sun have yet to win the WNBA championship. During the 2024 season, reports surfaced that team ownership was exploring options to sell and relocate the team to a larger market in New England. On March 30, 2026, the Mohegan Tribe announced that they had reached an agreement to sell the team to the Tilman Fertita family, owners of the Houston Rockets, for $300 million. As part of the sale, the team will be moved to Houston and rebranded as the Comets. The deal came under much criticism, at least in New England, as there were deals in place from local ownership groups who had planned to keep the Sun local, moving the team to either Hartford or Boston. These bids, which were greater than the eventual winning bid from the Houston group, were rejected by the league due to “bylaws.” Thus, the Mohegan Tribe were forced by the WNBA to sell the team for less money to a group that would move the team. It was a lose-lose-lose deal for everyone, except for Houston fans. The team dubbed the 2026 campaign “The Sunset Season.” Food & Beverage 3 At a venue like Mohegan Sun Arena, where there are several world-class dining options just steps from the entrance, it would stand to reason that the concession options inside the arena wouldn’t try to outshine these options. And that is certainly the case here. While the concession menus do have highlights, they do not stray far from arena basics. Stands line the inner edge of the concourse as well as the atriums on either side of the facility. Arena standards such as hot dogs and nachos highlight the selections, along with a selection of snacks. Fans looking for something a bit more substantial will find subs and wraps available. The most popular concession item at Mohegan Sun Arena is undoubtedly the oversized slices of Frank Pepe pizza. Individual slices or entire pizzas can be purchased. Unfortunately for apizza connoisseurs, the slices here are a pale imitation of those found at the original restaurant in New Haven. Coca-Cola products are featured at Mohegan Sun Arena, offered in both bottles and fountain cups. Adult beverages are sold at Roadies Taphouse stands in both atriums as well as several concession stands. All stands feature an extensive selection of local beers, craft beers and canned cocktails, giving patrons plenty of quality choices. Roadies Taphouse at Mohegan Sun Casino. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Atmosphere 3 As you might expect during the Sun’s farewell season, there’s been a noticeable dip in the excitement level around Mohegan Sun Arena during the 2026 campaign. Having the team linger down at the bottom of the WNBA standings certainly hasn’t helped. Most of the popular aspects of the Sun gameday experience remain, but the energy and excitement is definitely dampened. As you enter the arena, you are likely to be greeted by Blaze, the team’s fuzzy orange mascot, who spends the beginning of its evening interacting with fans. Members of the Sun’s dance squad, Solar Power, also greet fans at the entrances. While you walk the arena’s concourses, you may notice that this facility looks different than most others you may have visited. The interior of the arena has been designed to mimic the overall esthetic of the casino and evoke the look of the local forest. As you enter the seating bowl, you’ll notice the scoreboard. While it’s got a crystal-clear picture and is put to good use with hype videos, replays and promotions, it’s absolutely tiny by today’s standards. On either end of the seating bowl are additional video boards that display game stats. The Sun staff do their best to keep everyone entertained during their visit to Uncasville. From pyrotechnics during player introductions to music played during the action to the presence of dance teams and an emcee who doesn’t stop exhorting the fans to make noise all night long, there’s plenty to see and do. Throw in fan contests during play stoppages, t-shirt tosses, and other giveaways, it’s almost sensory overload at Mohegan Sun Arena. It does seem that everyone’s volume has been turned way up this year to make up for the smaller crowds. Neighborhood 5 Eastern Connecticut is an area full of small towns and wooded countryside removed from the urban areas of southern New England. Still, Mohegan Sun Casino is centrally located within the region, and is located roughly an hour from Providence, Worcester, Hartford, and New Haven. Neighboring Foxwoods Casino is just over 10 miles to the east. Mohegan Sun is one of the largest casinos in the United States, with over 364,000 square feet of gaming space. For fans who come to Sun games and do not want to gamble, the casino also contains theaters, night clubs, 44 different restaurants with enough variety to satisfy any appetite, and 130,000 square feet of retail space, all located just steps from the arena’s front entrance. While the casino may not be your traditional neighborhood, the number and variety of entertainment choices available before or after a Sun game are impressive. More information about Mohegan Sun’s dining, entertainment and lodging options can be found here. Fans visiting the area during the summer months of the WNBA season may wish to visit nearby Mystic, a seaside town and tourist attraction known for its historic seaport, maritime museum, preserved sailing ships and aquarium. It's a popular destination for travelers in the area. The Norwich Sea Unicorns of the summer collegiate Futures League play at nearby Dodd Stadium. A Sun Fan Enjoys the Game. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Fans 2 Throughout much of their existence, the Sun ranked in the top half of the WNBA’s attendance rankings. Over the past couple of seasons, the Sun have dropped to the lower third of the league in terms of attendance. In this, their final season in Connecticut, the Sun rank 11th in the 15-team WNBA with an average attendance of about 8,200 fans per game about halfway through the 2026 season. This figure is greatly impacted by a sellout crowd of over 16,000 for a game played in Hartford. The team is only drawing about 6,500 fans for their games in Uncasville. This is a respectable figure, but a far cry from previous seasons. Even though the Sun play in a casino, where you wouldn’t figure to see a whole lot of younger fans, you will find a good mix of families here at Mohegan Sun Arena. The Sun’s staff do a great job in creating a family-friendly atmosphere, and their efforts show in the stands. Access 5 Mohegan Sun Casino is located just off Interstate 395, which runs north-south through eastern Connecticut. Interstate 95, which runs east-west parallel to the Connecticut shoreline, is just a few miles to the south. Route 2A (Exit 9) off of I-395 will deposit fans right at the Casino. There are several free parking garages surrounding the casino, none of which are more than a 10-minute walk to the arena entrance. If you can resist the bells and lights of the casino floor, you will be at the game in no time. Once inside the arena, fans will enter into a clean, attractive concourse that is more than large enough to handle a typical Sun crowd. Lines are a constant presence at the concession stands throughout the game, particularly at the Frank Pepe pizza stand. Restrooms are clean and more than large enough to handle a typical Sun crowd. The steeply-pitched seating area is octagonal and separated into upper and lower levels. All seats are individual padded stadium seats, colored maroon in the lower level and blue in the upper. The view from all seats is excellent. Game Action at Mohegan Sun Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices to Sun games fluctuate wildly, depending on the day of game and opponent. Weekday game tickets start at $25 and top out at $110 for center court seats. For selected games in 2026, the Suns have held “throwback” games, with ticket prices rolled back to their inaugural season levels. This writer sure appreciated that eight-dollar ticket. Follow the team’s social media pages and check in on the Sun website for flash sales and other deals. Parking is free in the garages that surround the casino. Concessions at the arena are priced similarly to other venues in the area. If you can resist the siren call of the gaming floor, you will find your visit to Mohegan Sun Arena to be a very affordable evening of entertainment. Who knows, you may even end up leaving the place with more money than you had upon arrival! Extras 3 Hanging from the rafters at the Mohegan Sun Arena are several banners honoring the team's conference championships, Billy Joel's ten consecutive sellouts at the facility, and the “Fight of the Century” between Mickey Ward and Arturo Gatti, which took place here on May 28, 2002. Other banners contain several Sun retired numbers and commemorate Mohegan Sun Arena’s “Venue of the Year” awards. The overall visual appeal of the Mohegan Sun Arena earns an extra point. The facility was designed to evoke the surrounding forests of eastern Connecticut and to fit in with the overall style of the casino. The muted colors and Native American decor are not often seen at a sporting facility, and make for a very visually pleasing venue. Just outside the entrance to the arena visitors will find an indoor waterfall, as well as several mechanical wolves atop faux stone towers. These wolves will sit back, wag their tails and howl from time to time. Just outside the Arena is a Walk of Fame which honors some of the bigger acts to have played at the arena. Also, just steps from the arena entrance is the Wolf Den, where up-and-coming artists, as well as some well-known names, play free concerts. Acts as diverse as Queensryche, Maxi Priest, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Los Lonely Boys have played free shows in this intimate, 300-seat setting. Final Thoughts The WNBA did New England women’s basketball fans dirty, there are no two ways about it. By forcing the Mohegan Tribe to sell to a Houston-based group when there were larger bids from potential ownership groups that would move the team to Boston or Hartford, the league guaranteed that one of the nation’s top women’s hoops markets will go dark for the foreseeable future and forces a popular team to abandon its home. It’s a shortsighted decision guaranteed to backfire. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Sonoma Raceway 29355 Arnold Dr Sonoma, CA 95476 Velocity Invitational website Sonoma Raceway website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 47,000 An Artistic Blend of Car Culture and Vintage Racing Velocity Invitational is a unique event in motorsports. Held annually at Sonoma Raceway, this weekend features a unique setup that stands out from other races you may be used to. Gone is the paddock space filled with large 18-wheeler haulers and paddock setups. Instead, large green spaces with lounge chairs, art pieces, and VIP areas take up the majority of Sonoma’s main paddock. Most cars that are racing are in the garages or in a section of open-air white tents for fans to see up close and on display. This weekend is about more than just racing – it’s about appreciating the art of the automobile. Food & Beverage 4 The track has various concession stands and a large number of food trucks located in the main paddock during the weekend, complete with the likes of burgers ($17.99), grilled chicken sandwiches ($13.99), breakfast burritos ($7.99), and hot dogs ($12.99). The paddock cafe is also open on race weekends, giving everyone another option for food and beverages, with both inside and outside seating options. Other choices include the Philly Cheesesteak ($17.99), Super Nachos ($17.99), and Jumbo Chili Cheese Dog ($16.99). With the increase in the number of fans, concession stands are also open above the Esses with a light offering of drinks and small snacks. Atmosphere 5 This event is unique to motorsports in multiple ways. Firstly, the track’s standard viewing areas are all open to race fans as usual. Grandstands are plentiful for all viewing angles, and access around the track is helped by shuttles for fans to get to various parts of the circuit, but that is where the similarities end, as this event features numerous groups of vintage racing on track. Each car you see on track has a display sheet next to its paddock stall, featuring a detailed history of the car itself, as well as a history of the driver. The USAC Porsche West series also participates, bringing a more modern event into the fold. However, various supercars and rare machines also get their time to shine, with numerous parade and demo lap sessions scheduled throughout the weekend. Celebrities and autograph sessions are also seen at the track, with F1 driver Yuki Tsunoda and actor Sung Kang both hosting meet-and-greets alongside on-track demo runs of various cars. This event is a meld of both car culture and traditional concourse vibes, as well as vintage racing and sportscar fandom. Neighborhood 4 There is practically nothing immediately around Sonoma Raceway, but that makes for quite a nice location for a track. Sonoma is close enough to San Francisco and the Bay Area to make visiting one of the country’s most beautiful cities, with plenty to see and do, an easy task. However, it is just far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and nestled away in the beautiful hills of California wine country, to give you the country feel you want when relaxing. To the west is Novato, and to the east is Vallejo – food options include In-N-Out Burger, a California fixture, as well as many more. Hotels are also plentiful in both areas, and attractions range from the Golden Gate Bridge and several national parks to the south, to wine country in the north. Fans 4 While the grandstands aren’t filled to the brim like during NHRA or NASCAR weekend, and parking isn’t filled up like SRO America weekend, fans no less pack the paddock area and various other spots around the facility. Due to the spread-out nature of the event and the goings-on, a large crowd can easily be spread around different areas of the track depending on what is drawing them there – vintage fans wander the paddock, while drifting fans gather outside the back section of the course. VIP areas at Turn 11 are featured during the weekend as well. Access 3 Easily the only downside to Sonoma Raceway is the location of the track in proximity to the highway. From San Francisco you need to take the 101, and from Oakland/Sacramento/Vallejo you must take I-80. Both highways will take you to the 37, which is the main highway to the track. The problem? Near the track it becomes a one-lane road that widens to two lanes at times, but no wider. Thankfully, when you arrive the parking is beyond plentiful around the facility, with many grandstands offering close parking spaces for those willing to drive around. The most recent event here seemed to offer a bit of a reprieve in congestion, perhaps thanks to updated construction work finishing up in various areas around the bay. Return on Investment 2 Tickets to Velocity Invitational are not cheap. Adult general admission tickets for Friday are $49 while Saturday or Sunday are $199, with two-day tickets at $249. Thankfully youth tickets are just a $5 add-on for anyone 15 years or younger with a paying adult. “Family Bundles” for two adults and two kids with preferred parking are $479 for Saturday or Sunday, and $579 for both days. A family weekend camping package includes two adult tickets and two youth tickets for Friday through Sunday, with a campsite and preferred parking all for $799. Couples packages for two adults that include Turn 1 suite access range from $899 to $1,099, while Driver’s Club VIP access is $1,999. Various other VIP and suite access packages are offered from $219 to $1,499 while camping ranges from $199 to $499. Unfortunately, with prices this steep the average fan may feel priced out, even with pre-event sales and discounts. That same value can be found numerous times over at other Sonoma events for far less cost. However, if you’re a car culture diehard and can afford the initial spend, you’re hard-pressed to find a more unique event in the Bay Area, if not the whole West Coast. Extras 3 There are several autograph sessions throughout the weekend with various celebrities that fans can attend. The podium is also located in the middle of the paddock, so you can get right next to the celebrations on Sunday. Finally, various other events like movie screenings take place during the weekend around the facility, to add to the on-track action. Final Thoughts Velocity Invitational may be one of the most unique race weekends of the year. That said, the cost to get in isn’t exactly affordable for the average race fan, so check to make sure this is the right event for you. But if you do decide to go, you will be met with one heck of a showcase that will make your heart rumble without a doubt.

Photos by Marc Viquez and Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Four Winds Field at Coveleski Stadium 501 W South St South Bend, IN 46601 South Bend Cubs website Four Winds Field website Year Opened: 1987 Capacity: 5,000 The Synagogue in Catholic Country When one thinks of South Bend, Indiana, the immediate link is to the University of Notre Dame, one of the most preeminent Catholic universities in the country. Notre Dame Fighting Irish athletics and more specifically football, is so dominant that it maintains its independence to facilitate their own national television broadcast deal with NBC. However, southeast of Touchdown Jesus and the beautiful Notre Dame campus is a synagogue. The Sons of Israel Synagogue was built in 1901 and is currently part of Four Winds Field @ Coveleski Stadium and the team store for the South Bend Cubs. Founded in 1988, the Cubs were originally the South Bend White Sox. In 1994 they became the South Bend Silver Hawks, named after the 1957 Studebaker automobile, which was produced in South Bend. Everything changed in 2015 when South Bend became an affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, rebranding and enjoying the financial success that comes with the Cubs brand. This affiliation was, no doubt, facilitated by owner Andrew Berlin who bought the team in 2011 and is a minority owner of the Major League team. South Bend plays in the Midwest League, a High-A affiliate league in Minor League Baseball. Home for the Cubs is Four Winds Field @ Coveleski Stadium. Built in 1987 with a capacity of 5,000, Four Winds Field is owned by the City of South Bend. Originally named Stanley Coveleski Regional Stadium after the Hall of Fame pitcher who once lived in South Bend. Naming rights to the stadium were purchased by Four Winds Casino in 2013 to give the stadium its current moniker. Food & Beverage 5 The concession options at Four Winds Field are top notch. The South Bend Cubs website has a full accounting of the concessions available for fans who wish to plan out their culinary adventure. Some highlights of the concession experience include the Chicago Dog at Franx; the BBQ Nachos, sandwich or Mac & Cheese at Smokey Joe’s; Cheesesteak Nachos at Steakadelphia; and the Mushroom & Swiss or BBQ Bacon Burger at SMASH Burger. Other options include the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, cheese curds and walking tacos. The expected ballpark fare including hot dogs, fries, pretzels, ice cream and popcorn are also available. Four Winds Field also features a good selection of beer and other alcoholic beverage options including some frozen concoctions at the Tiki Hut. Atmosphere 5 Four Winds Field is an excellent place to watch some Minor League Baseball. The exterior behind home plate consists of light brown brick and although it is not unattractive, it is on the plain side and not the best entrance for fans. The better entrance is on the complete opposite side of the stadium in center field, where fans can make their way through a path that goes through The Ivy apartment complex, culminating with the wrought iron gates and pillars that welcome fans into the stadium. The pillars have posters of famous Cubs. A curious addition is Ryne Sandberg, who is a famous Cubs Hall of Famer, but the link to South Bend is dubious at best. While walking around the stadium, fans should stop and take a picture or two of the Sons of Israel Synagogue, which has a much more aesthetically pleasing exterior outside of Four Winds than inside. Upon entering Four Winds Field, fans are welcomed by a bronze statue of Stanley Coveleski and a plaque explaining some of his career highlights. There is plenty to look at throughout Four Winds Field. A number of plaques and signs outline historic moments in South Bend baseball history as well as other interesting facts about the park. Inside the concourse fans will find the South Bend Baseball Hall of Fame with Cooperstown-like plaques and Cubs championship banners. A huge display with portraits of Cubs who made it to the majors along with their debut date is also worth checking out. The team store at Four Winds Field is a real highlight. As mentioned, the store is inside the former Sons of Israel Synagogue. Inside, among the team branded merchandise items, there are a number of trophies as well as some remnants of the building's time as a functioning synagogue. There are a number of different seating options. The typical green seats wrap around home plate and stretch from first to third base. Above them are the suites, which also offer some shade for the patrons in the lower sections. A couple of rows of seats are also beyond the left field wall. Patio seating is along the left field line and berm seating is along the right field line. A Kid Zone with inflatables is behind the berm. Centre field offers a large plaza. Another interesting seating aspect is the presence of rooftop seating, not dissimilar to those near Wrigley Field, on The Ivy. Fans may be interested in the Cubs Performance Centre beyond right field where fans can use the batting cages during the game. The gameday production at a Cubs game is what one would expect for a Minor League Baseball game. The in-game host runs a variety of promotions and fan interactions. Mascots Stu and Ivy interact with the fans and take part in promotions. Neighborhood 4 Four Winds Field @ Coveleski Stadium is located in Downtown South Bend. Now that construction on The Ivy is complete, a number of restaurants have populated the area. Some options include South Bend Brew Works, Ivy Alley Social House, Finnie’s Next Door, Salvation Bar and Fiddler’s Hearth. Other sports in the area are, of course, dominated by Notre Dame athletics. Fighting Irish football, baseball, basketball and hockey, among other sports, are all options. Other tourist options in South Bend include The History Museum, Studebaker National Museum, The Kizer House and The Oliver Mansion. Taking in some of the beauty of the Notre Dame campus is also a great idea. For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Courtyard by Marriott and DoubleTree are good options. Fans 4 The South Bend Cubs have a solid following. At the time of this Stadium Journey review, in the 2026 season, the Cubs were averaging over 3,400 fans per game. This is down from the over 4,600 fans they normally average. However, the game that was reviewed had over 4,000 fans in attendance and was early in the season, before the summer months. The Cubs typically rank 4th in attendance in the twelve-team Midwest League. The fans in attendance were supportive and knowledgeable, but definitely not over the top. Access 4 Four Winds Field @ Coveleski Stadium is located in Downtown South Bend. It is on the north side of South Street, between Lafayette and Taylor. The stadium is not too difficult to get to and 6 km south of I-90, the closest interstate. Although there will probably be some significant driving through South Bend, traffic should not really be an issue. There is some parking on site that can be prepurchased or there are a number of garages a few blocks northeast. For fans wishing to take public transit, there are bus stops to the north on Weston. Fans should consult the South Bend Public Transportation Corporation website for maps, fares and schedules. Getting around Four Winds Field is not difficult at all. It offers a 360 route that is ⅓ of a mile long. Washroom facilities for the ballpark are adequate. Although security protocols for the Cubs are not abnormal for Minor League Baseball, Stadium Journey recognizes that they are constantly changing. Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the South Bend Cubs website before heading to the ballpark for the latest security information including prohibited items and bag policy. Return on Investment 5 A South Bend Cubs game offers tremendous value for the sporting dollar. Tickets for the Cubs start at $16.50 and go up to $27. Concession prices are what one would expect and there will be a charge for parking. The opportunity to see some solid baseball in an environment that is top notch makes the return terrific for the small investment. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Sons of Israel Synagogue being preserved and used as part of the ballpark. An extra mark for The Ivy apartment complex beyond center field. On a beautiful game day, this would be a highly sought after spot to live. An extra mark for the former South Bend Union Station, which is just across the road from the ballpark. A unique architectural structure adds to the neighborhood. Final Thoughts In the land of the University of Notre Dame, Minor League Baseball is alive and well. The South Bend Cubs offer one of the best baseball experiences a fan could ask for in Minor League Baseball. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

This summer marks the return of two new summer collegiate baseball teams to Indiana. The Richmond Flying Mummies (Northwoods League) and the Kokomo CreekChubs (Prospect League) are bringing the game back to communities that have been without baseball for the past few seasons. ​ The Flying Mummies played in front of a packed crowd at McBride Stadium. The home opener resulted in fans waiting in line 45-minutes before the game, and crowds large enough to make waiting for a hot dog or soda somewhat laborious. Still, many grabbed a seat along the fencing, underneath the wooded grandstand, or sprawled out on the giant grass hill down the left field line to view the game. ​ “I have never seen so many people at the stadium,” Zach Beeson said, who was there with his family. ​ That had not been the case a couple of years ago, when the Richmond Jazz were operating out of McBride Stadium. The Great Lakes Summer Collegiate club was in its 8th season, and games were sparsely attended. You could count the number of people on your fingers and toes at some games, and little promotion or entertainment was on display for those in the stadium. The Jazz quietly folded sometime after the 2023 season with little fanfare. Wilbur greets fans entering McBride Stadium, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. The vibe was different for the Mummies, which included plenty of on-field promotions, a friendly new mascot named Wilbur, and a man who interacted with the crowd and balanced everything from a baseball to a prosthetic leg on his face. It was baseball entertainment done right. The ownership group is led by Matt Bomberg and includes a star-studded lineup of actors, including Napoleon Dynamite stars Jon Heder and Efren Ramirez, as well as The White Lotus actor Jon Gries. They have a range of promotional nights that include fireworks nights and a Sunday Bracket Buffet for $25. A similar case could be made for the Kokomo CreekChubs, who brought back summer ball after only a summer hiatus. They replaced the Kokomo Jackrabbits, who played in the Northwoods League before they were booted from Kokomo Municipal Stadium after the 2024 season. The ball club's dismissal was met with shock, but that mood changed when the new team was announced. ​ The Chubs are owned by former Major League pitcher and Kokomo native Joe Thatcher, with Bullpen Tournaments and Prep Baseball serving as key partners in the organization. A group that is determined to make the city’s second go-around a well-run operation, according to Director of Community Relations, Jen Bingaman. ​ “The owners and leadership of this organization are well-versed in running great businesses and have incredible strategies in place to ensure we have great success. We’re bringing a new level of baseball to our community, and they deserve it. ​The CreekChubs name ranks up there with the best of other baseball teams and is named after a freshwater minnow native to the area. The colors of blue and green are also eye-popping, along with its own mascot, Hooks, who makes his way through the crowd posing for pictures. ​ The stadium was power-washed, the concession menu revamped, the CreekChubs signage lit up outside the stadium, and local businesses set up tables with free giveaways and other promotions. ​Players line up for the National Anthem in Kokomo, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. Opening night for the team drew a crowd of more than 1,500, with fans buying merchandise, grabbing a bite to eat, children frolicking in the play area, and friends and family mingling on the concourse. It was an atmosphere not always seen before and one that hopes to be a regular occurrence this summer in Kokomo. ​ However, this is not the same organization that used to play at the ballpark. It is a completely new organization, with new personnel and a new league. However, it will still take hard work and commitment to appeal to the hometown faithful, according to Bingaman. ​ “Most people, if not all, are very excited to have baseball back in our community and love the team's and ballpark's vibe and excitement. Our loyal fans have shown up for these games and shown their excitement and commitment, too.” ​ It is not good for anyone when a baseball club ceases operations, and for two communities in Indiana, they are getting another chance at baseball. The Flying Mummies and CreekChubs have ownership and branding that should make them mainstays for years to come. Fly Mummies Fly and Go Chubs Go! ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 The Oval Marcus Street Caernarfon, Wales, LL55 2HT Caernarfon FC website Year Opened: 1888 Capacity: 3,000 Mixing Modernity with Tradition Civic pride and sporting anticipation are on the rise in the royal town of Caernarfon. Their imposing waterfront castle, built to keep people out, is now looking forward to welcoming new visitors from across Europe. As the town's football club achieves European qualification for the 26/27 season, the summer will first see their Oval stadium receive a modern makeover to host the prestigious UEFA U19s European Championships. It’s not just the town and its football team that should entice visitors. The drive to Caernarfon via the A4086 is a simply stunning route. Drivers are advised to concentrate on the road whilst passengers get to witness the majesty of the Pen Y Pass, Swallow Waterfalls and the gargantuan Mount Snowdon. Food & Beverage 2 Before entering the stadium, pop into the adjacent supporters’ club... A traditional experience to meet weathered locals and buy a cheap pint of beer. Inside, the food outlet is in the northwest corner of the ground. A limited selection was available at the U19 championships: tea and coffee (£2), sweets (£1), and a pot noodle (£2)! No trip to Caernarfon is complete without looking up the Smoothie King @SwigSmoothies catering van. Parked in the stadium for special matches, a variety of delicious smoothies were available at £5 each. Atmosphere 4 Local fans have had a one-season break from attending home matches at the Oval as major renovations took place during 25/26. The improvements now provide a safe and well-appointed new look whilst retaining the unique charm and atmosphere the ground is famous for. With an elevated side of The Oval necessitating a built-up inner wall, there’s a coliseum-like intensity to matches that can see visiting teams shrink. Built on a hill, the home end has a delightful tilt which has only lost some of its character since new seats were added. The refurbished main stand and changing rooms dominate the lower side of the ground with new seats installed in the Eisteddle Hendra stand at the southern end of the stadium. A UEFA-compliant pitch, floodlights and dugouts complete the smart new appearance of this famous old ground. Neighborhood 5 Cafi Maes in the main square, opposite the castle, is a gem with an excellent food menu and good coffee. The Siopau shops are an attraction worth visiting. Housed in the old customs house by the harbour, it has a variety of artisan offerings from local creatives. Some excellent street art can be seen across the city. At the end of Garnon Street, there is an excellent Welsh football mural featuring star footballer Gareth Bale. Gareth Bale Mural, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Worth noting there’s a high percentage of Welsh language speakers in Caernarfon so you may want to learn a few local sentences. These two would be a good start: Un peint o gwrw oes gwelwch yn dda? Pa ffordd i’r stadiwm? The Visit Caernarfon website provides all the information you need to explore this attractive riverside town Fans 3 The Canaries, nickname of CTFC, have some loud and passionate fans. The club averaged over 450 fans at home games in 26/27. A huge 1,212 attended the Italy v Serbia U19s match in June 2026, a recent figure only matched by a Christmas fixture v Colwyn Bay in December 2025. Local rivalries include feisty encounters with Bangor City, Rhyl, and Porthmadog. Founded in 1937, the club has enjoyed much success over the years. An FA Cup run in 1986/87 is still fondly remembered. The Canaries achieved European qualification with a thrilling 3-0 Welsh Cup Final win over Flint Town United, their first ever success in this famous old competition. Access 2 Located in the far north west corner of Wales, the town is 100 miles from Manchester Airport. Train services from Manchester reach as far as Bangor, with the T2 bus service available to complete your journey. Arriving by car allows an unforgettable meander through Snowdonia, slower than the expressway A55, but awe-inspiring! Street parking is available near the stadium. The closest public car park is Penllyn Multi Storey Car Park, LL55 1NN Note the hillside location makes accessibility into the Oval a little bit more challenging for wheelchair users. Contact the club in advance to make necessary arrangements. Return on Investment 4 Prices in the area are often higher in the holiday seasons. Accommodation prices are certainly cheaper ‘out of season’. Prices in the Cymru Premier League are reasonable, and this is not a stadium journey that will leave large dents in your budget. Prices for the European campaign in 26/27 are £25 for adults and £17.50. Purchase via the CTFC ticketing website. Extras 2 Caerhun Farm provides value for shepherd hut accommodations just ten miles from the Oval stadium. You will find a warm welcome and an invitation to help feed the goats and donkeys too! After viewing the excellent Gareth Bale mural, grab a pint of the Eagle Hotel opposite, one of the nearest pubs to the ground and a chance to speak to local Canaries fans. Final Thoughts A visit to the Oval in Caernarfon, North Wales is recommended. Friendly locals, excellent local attractions and the wider area should definitely be explored. Achieving a modern twist on an old stadium is rare, but the Canaries now have a nest to be proud of.

Photos Courtesy of Marc Viquez When you enter through the main entrance of FNB Field in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, you are hit with a carnival of smells, sights, and sounds. Tucked away in the corner, just to the right of the entrance, is a small grill cooking hot dogs to the joy of the many who wait in line. This little cove is called The Spot, and it has been a local institution for close to 90 years. ​ The Spot opened on Market Square in downtown Harrisburg in June 1939 and was operated by Greek immigrants James and George Belehas. At the time, a hot dog was a nickel and a hamburger was a nickel. The vintage diner had curved windows instead of corners and a curved counter with 13 stools. The hot dogs cost a nickel, and the hamburgers were a dime. ​ The location was soon taken over by Jimmy Kaldes, James and George’s nephew, who continued serving grilled hot dogs tucked into a bun and topped with mustard, chopped onions, and a secret chili sauce. The location would move in 1980 to make room for a new city hall, which offered 46 seats to its customers. ​ Jimmy’s son, Billy, would take over the restaurant in the 1980s, but Jimmy would be a fixture until the restaurant closed in September 2007. The closure was due to the increase in rent and the cost of food, thus ending a 68-year-old tradition in Harrisburg, or was it? ​The Smeltzer Dog and the Spot Dog, Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The very next year, The Spot moved locations for a third time to FNB Field, home of the Harrisburg Senators on City Island. All customers have to do is purchase a ticket to a game and follow the smells from the grill. The family tradition is alive, and they are open for all Senators games between April and September. ​ “I come here just for the hot dogs,” Glenda Richie said as she took two to go at a recent game. “They are legendary. If you leave here and you don’t have a Spot Dog, shame on you. ​ The Spot’s current owner, Eric Solomon, is Billy’s son-in-law. He can be seen on the grill introducing a whole new generation of Central PA fans to the famous Spot Dogs, which have been made the same way since 1939. Solomon is one of two people who know the secret recipe, and says that they sell between 1,500 and 2,000 hot dogs during a six-game homestand. ​ The location offers more than just chili dogs, but themed specials that this week included The Seltzer’s Slam, a hot dog with cream cheese, fried Lebanon bologna, grilled onions, and hot honey drizzle. However, make sure you stop by before the 7th inning; that is when they close up for the night. ​Eric Solomon handles the grill that produces close to 500 hot dogs a game. There is also the Rendel Burger, named after former Pennsylvania governor Ed Rendel, topped with Swiss cheese, grilled onions, sweet peppers, tomato, mustard, and stuffed in a pretzel roll. The Killin’ Me Smalls is a cheesesteak with marinara, mozzarella, and onions topped with grilled pepperoni. ​ “This is world famous, and they have been in town forever,” Shawn Spinder says, holding a couple of dogs. “Billy Kaldes has been such a great inspiration to the community. Spot Dogs is the way to go; they’re the best. ​ The locations might have changed, but the lines are still long for the Spot Dog, a local culinary tradition for the past 87 years. There might not be another concession stand that shares such a story across any other minor league ballpark across the country. The still family-owned business is still grilling up hot dogs the same way Jimmy Kaldes did so many decades ago. ​ However, folks get to enjoy a baseball game with their hot dog. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Central Park Denbigh Denbighshire, Wales LL16 3EW Map It! Denbigh Town FC website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 2,400 The Little Fortress The medieval town of Denbigh, translated as ‘the little fortress’, is home to Cymru North side Denbigh Town FC. Their Central Hall home was completed over 60 years ago, but recent investment has created a smart and modern stadium. The renovations have resulted in the stadium being selected to host three prestigious UEFA U19 European Championship matches in Summer 2026. The history of the town can be explored via the castle, cathedral and friary, all well worth a visit. Local accommodation options are available although harder to obtain in holiday periods. Once visitors are checked in, it’s time for some local sustenance… Food & Beverage 3 Once through the turnstiles of Central Park, the adjacent food outlet has a good selection of drinks and fast food. Prices are very reasonable, coffee (£2), cheeseburger (£4) sweets (£1). Upstairs you will find the clubhouse bar, where a variety of drinks can be purchased and consumed. Atmosphere 4 The UEFA U19 tournament fixture between Germany and Denmark brought additional branding and facilities that you will not see on a normal Denbigh match day. A mobile scoreboard was located behind one goal and the opposite touchline to the main stand given over to the press, including a large media gantry. On the same touchline there are two smart new 72-seater stands and modern dugouts. Behind both goals there are simply walkways and a couple of steps of standing provision. All the main structures are on the nearside touchline as you enter. A brand new two story community hub being the centrepiece, which attracted funding and support from the Cymru Football Foundation and various other partners. Further up the touchline is a large, older looking all-seated structure with wheelchair access and approx. 475 seats. This brings some character to the overall experience of visiting Central Park. The £200k playing surface is immaculate; at first glance appearing to be of the 4g variety rather than ‘real’ grass. Smart new floodlights add to the UEFA standard facilities. Neighborhood 4 In Denbigh itself you will find numerous options to eat and drink before heading to the match. To the south-east of the ground, on Ruthin Road, is the newly refurbished Brookhouse Mill. This converted mill brings a refined dining experience and is recommended by locals. For a more ‘British’ pre match routine, there are alternatives. Begin at the Con Amici, a smart Italian bar and restaurant with a pint of Poretti costing £6.30 and Italian culinary specials at around £25. Heading south towards the ground you will arrive at the Masons Arms, a fine sports bar showing cricket, F1, football and almost any sport where locals can cheer on their beloved ‘red dragons’. Next, as the crow flies to the stadium, you arrive at The Railway Inn, a local pub with a warm welcome and a little easier on the wallet than the higher end options. For those still thirsty, continue up Vale Street away from the stadium to the town centre where there are numerous cafes and bars. Follow signs to the Castle (Castell) for a peak into the history of this fortress town. It is a 15-minute walk uphill to the castle, worth the effort for stunning views and a modern café and visitor centre (entrance £6.80). Look up the Friary, too, and together with the castle, you can follow over 700 years of local history. Denbigh Castle, Photo by Chris Tuck, Sadium Journey Aside from the industrial estate, the tree-lined outskirts of the town are well kept, giving this town a civilized and peaceful feel (Saturday nights when the town’s two night clubs kick out may bring a different vibe…) Fans 3 Average attendance for Denbigh Town fixtures is around 300 spectators per match: a number swelled when playing the local sworn enemies of Ruthin Town FC. Other games of interest against Rhyl and Bangor can also see the locals come out in force. Away fixtures are popular as fans head to the coast for some classic ‘awaydays’. Attendees for the UEFA championship games included local children’s teams, overseas fans, groundhoppers and locals either attending or volunteering. The club and volunteers were a credit to the town, friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable; they managed the occasion really well. Access 2 Arriving at Manchester Airport, a hire car would get you to Denbigh in around 90 minutes. Arriving by car increases flexibility for visiting the whole of North Wales including the Snowdonia National Park. Train services are available, but only to Rhyl and an additional bus journey is needed to arrive at Denbigh itself. Alternatively, a local bus from Wrexham (Arriva T51) takes around 80 minutes. From the south, the drive from Birmingham Airport can take you via the M6 or a more aesthetically pleasing route takes you past the Mere Lake in Ellesmere where you can grab a coffee and stroll around this award-winning lake and parkland. Arriving at Central Park, the stadium and surroundings are very flat with no steps, ensuring accessibility levels are very good. Sadly, this Central Park does not have a famous zoo. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices for Denbigh home matches are around £8 for adults with concession prices available. Buy at the gate or in advance. Accommodation is cheaper out of season. The Tyn Yr Eithen has camping facilities and some excellent shepherds’ huts for under £50 a night (book direct with the site for cheaper prices). Overall, your biggest costs will be getting to Denbigh, once in town all facilities come at good value. Extras 2 Denbigh Town continue to produce printed programmes for tier home matches; this tradition is getting increasingly rare so make sure you buy one! The best kebab shop according to locals for ‘after match fuel’ is the Townsend Takeaway. The fast-food venue sits in close proximity to Central Park and it even has a drive-through option! Final Thoughts As Denbigh Town FC invest to get into the top tier of Welsh football, do not be surprised if they succeed. The medieval town of Denbigh is well off the beaten track, but for many these stadium journeys can be the most rewarding. You may choose Wrexham AFC, Liverpool or Manchester United for attractive football experiences in this area, however a visit to Denbigh will give you an experience that only now is European football waking up to.

Photos Courtesy of Marc Viquez Gant Stadium in Zanesville, Ohio, looks different these days and may soon transform into a modern ballpark that Mayor Donald Mason says could be the best baseball stadium east of Columbus. ​ The renovations include a $62,000 demolition project that removed the football bleachers along the left-field line. Gone are the locker rooms and restrooms, which were nearly 87 years old and did not function properly, according to Mason. ​ “We have invested about $1,100,000 over the last five years in Gant, with electric and light improvements being a major investment. We have also added protected fencing to screen foul balls from the parking lot, a pitching cage, and new outfield fencing.” The upgrades are part of the stadium's modernization for future development. According to The Times Recorder, the demolition was facilitated through Ohio's Building Demolition and Site Revitalization grant program and a portion of the $3.2 million the county received in the 2024 cycle. The electrical system is located underneath the grandstand. Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez However, a section of the old football stands remains in place because it houses the control boxes beneath the seating. Those boxes contain the $700,000 lighting and electrical systems installed in 2024. ​ Other parts of the stadium have also seen improvements in recent years, including $50,000 for netting on the first-base side of the venue and $50,000 for a new roof and netting over the bleachers. In contrast, the demolished grandstands had plumbing and mechanical issues beyond repair and had not been used for the past 15 years. ​ The expanded parking area is expected to accommodate larger crowds and is scheduled for completion in spring 2027. The project will also include modern restrooms for men, women, and people with disabilities. Gant Municipal Stadium was constructed in 1939 and dedicated on September 20, 1940, with a football game between Zanesville and New Philadelphia, with more than 5,000 people in attendance. The following year, the Chicago Cubs placed a Class C team in the Middle Atlantic League at the stadium. Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez They would play for two seasons, taking a hiatus with the league for World War II. The Zanesville Dodgers (1944-1948) and the Zanesville Indians (1949-1950) would later call the stadium home. The Zanesville Greys of the Frontier League brought professional baseball back from 1993 to 1996. Although there are no plans for a summer collegiate baseball team at Gant Stadium, the mayor said that there had been interest in organized baseball. ​“About two years ago, we were approached by an individual who asked if he could locate a semi-pro team in Zanesville. I would love that, as we had a team 35 years ago. It was great baseball.​" However, there is plenty of baseball played from March to August by Bishop Rosecrans High School and the Muskingum Valley Old-Timers Baseball Association. The nonprofit group was formed in 1954 when several local baseball players were concerned that Zanesville wouldn't have organized ball due to the surge of interest in softball. The city contemplated turning the diamond at Gant Stadium into a softball field around this time. The group is responsible for developing diamonds and keeping programs running, not for profit, but for the love of the game. It operates multiple levels of baseball, including the Junior and Senior Legion teams, comprised of 25 teams of 13- and 14-year-olds. They also operate the Junior Pioneer (ages 16-20) and the Senior Pioneers (no age limit) “We play seven days a week with up to six games on Saturday and Sunday,” said Pat Bollinger, president of the MVOTA. “For our younger players, it’s like walking into a major league stadium. It has helped a lot of people. We have one player who just retired at the age of 62. The youth baseball program is very good and draws crowds of around 100-200 people.” Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez Bollinger added that MVOTA has put in over $50-$60,000 alone this year for new sod, basepaths, and dirt. High school football has not been played on the field in over 15 years. The mayor states that there is room to develop an adult soccer field or similar to create a positive atmosphere for citizens in the evenings after work. The stadium was renamed in 1996 for Nelson T. Gant, a former slave who arrived in town in 1847 and became the city's first African American millionaire. He purchased the stadium land and then leased it to the streetcar company in 1888, which developed a park and later bought the land from him. The stadium was then built when a WPA grant provided matching funds for a new stadium and swimming pool. ----- 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: 3.29 EverBank Stadium 1 Everbank Stadium Dr. Jacksonville, FL 32202 Taxslayer Gator Bowl website EverBank Stadium website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 67,814 80 Years of Gator Bowl Of the plethora of end-of-the-season NCAA College Football Bowl Games, the Gator Bowl stands out as one of the longest-tenured. Established in 1946, the Gator Bowl enjoyed its 80th edition in 2025. Normally played after the hustle and bustle of the New Year's Day games, the Gator Bowl has been a staple in Jacksonville, Florida, and is among the most prestigious of the second-tier Bowl games. Since 2012 the title sponsor for the game has been TaxSlayer.com and there was even a short tenure when the bowl was titled the TaxSlayer Bowl. The game currently features teams from the SEC, Big Ten, and/or ACC. The 2025 edition pitted the Duke Blue Devils against the Ole Miss Rebels. Home for the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl is EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, home of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars. Built in 1995, EverBank Stadium replaced Gator Bowl Stadium and was built for the NFL. EverBank Stadium is due for a $1.4 billion renovation and should be ready for the 2028 NFL season. For the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl, the field is renamed the Bill Gay Grounds, making the official home of the Gator Bowl, Bill Gay Grounds @ EverBank Stadium. Bill Gay was the founder of W.W. Gay Mechanical Contractors Inc. and the former chair of the Gator Bowl Association. Food & Beverage 3 The concession selections at EverBank Stadium are okay, but not over the top for an NFL facility. The majority of items fans will find on the menus are typical stadium fare including burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, chicken tenders, pizza, and fries. There are several stands in the main concourse that serve alcoholic beverages and the beer selection is focused on major domestic brands. Coca-Cola products are the soft drink of choice here and there are a few spots with self-serve options. Atmosphere 3 The main entrances for EverBank Stadium are from the east and west. The west entrance is the most significant as it has the largest gathering area in front and the statue of the Jaguar for the NFL team. The exterior gives off 1990s-era vibes with huge ramps visible from the outside. It is not unattractive and there is some glass at the main west entrance. Before heading to the stadium, checking out the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Wall on the west side is a good plan. The Gator Bowl makes good use of the facilities in the area. Flex Field is the practice facility for the Jags and hosts the pregame tailgate, which is free for fans to enter. Once inside, fans can head to Daisy’s Place, the covered pavilion that is home to the pre-game pep rallies for each team. There is little in the way of markings for the Gator Bowl inside the stadium, and it is clear to fans that this is the home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Inside the seating bowl, fans will find two tiers of seating, with a massive lower level. For the 2025 edition of the Gator Bowl, the upper deck was closed off. The field runs from south to north, and the best spot for the 50-yard line logo photo is from the west. However, when choosing seats, fans will want to do some research and ensure that they are on the side of the team that they are supporting. It is not critical but will aid in the enjoyment of the game for fans who have a horse in the race. At the north and south ends, there are massive video boards, which are used well throughout the game and are crystal clear. There is a small pool that is glassed in at the upper level of the north end, but it was not in use for the 2025 game. The seats are ready for replacement as they are faded and from a vintage where making seats smaller and cramming more in was the order of the day. The gameday atmosphere at the Gator Bowl is solid. The pregame tailgate is in the Flex Field practice facility across the parking lot. Fans who enjoy the school bands will love this game as the bands perform three times, once each at the pep rally in Daisy’s Place, pre-game, and halftime. Other events take place during the week that are part of the Gator Bowl festivities. A 5K race and pep rallies at Jacksonville Beach are highlights of the week’s events. Neighborhood 4 EverBank Stadium is located in Downtown Jacksonville. There are a number of spots for fans who want some pre or post game food or drink. Intuition Ale Works, Tailgate Bar & Grill, Flavorikan, All American JAX, Chart House, Southern Grill and Avenue Gril are all options. There are other sporting options in Jacksonville and some may even coincide with the Gator Bowl. EverBank Stadium is also the home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Just west on Adams Street are VyStar Ballpark and VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, homes of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and Jacksonville Icemen respectively. UNF Ospreys basketball or JU Dolphins basketball may also be of interest for fans. Other tourist attractions in Jacksonville include the Fairgrounds, USS Orleck Naval Museum, MOSH museum and Southbank Riverwalk. Jacksonville Beach is also a good option. For fans wishing to stay near the stadium, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville is a good option. Fans 3 Second tier bowl games are often dependent on the matchup that they can secure. The Gator Bowl is no different. The 2025 version of the game featured the Duke Blue Devils and the Ole Miss Rebels. The attendance for the game was just over 31,000. This was well below what would be considered a normal Gator Bowl crowd. This lead to the upper deck being completely empty. Access 4 EverBank Stadium is located in Downtown Jacksonville, just north of St. John’s River and encircled by Gator Bowl Blvd. The junction of Highway 115 and Highway 1 is just north of the area and I-95 is about 3.5 km to the west. Getting to the area, therefore, is not that difficult. There are a number of surface parking lots in the area. Pre-Purchasing parking using a parking app is a good idea, especially for fans from out of town. For fans who wish to take public transit, there are buses on AP Randolph Blvd. Fans should consult the Jacksonville Transit Authority website for fares, schedules and maps. Getting around the stadium is not terribly difficult, although the concourses are a bit on the narrow side. The washroom facilities are adequate at the stadium. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl start at $50 and go up to $165. When purchasing bowl game tickets, patience is a virtue and the secondary market can offer good deals closer to the game, especially if the matchup is not involving high demand teams. Concession prices are what one would expect and parking will cost some money. The gameday atmosphere at the Gator Bowl is great and fans will definitely enjoy the experience. Extras 3 An extra mark for the longevity of the Gator Bowl, with the 2025 edition marking the 80th Anniversary of the game. An extra mark for the charities that the Gator Bowl foundation has donated money to. An extra mark for the 2010 edition of the Gator Bowl, which marked the final game in iconic Florida State Coach Bobby Bowden’s career. Final Thoughts The longevity of the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl shows that the organizers must be doing something right. Although a second tier bowl game, fans will still enjoy the atmosphere at Bill Gay Grounds @ EverBank Stadium. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the Gator Bowl once the renovation of EverBank Stadium commences. The game will temporarily be bumped to a different site and will definitely offer a different atmosphere upon its return to Jacksonville. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Princess Auto Stadium 315 Chencellor Matheson Rd Winnipeg, MB R3T 1Z2 Canada Winnipeg Blue Bombers website Princess Auto Stadium website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 33,500 The Loudest Fans in the CFL Editor's Note: In January 2024 the Winnipeg Football Club agreed to a 10-year stadium naming rights deal with Princess Auto. The name of the Stadium was changed to "Princess Auto Stadium" in April 2024. This review, written in 2018, refers to the stadium by its previous name, Investors Group Field. Investors Group Field in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada) is home to the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Colloquially known as “Home of the CFL’s Loudest Fans” (this moniker is proudly on display inside the stadium), the facility opened in 2013, and has a capacity of just over 33,000, but can be expanded to hold 40,000 fans. Located on the University of Manitoba’s campus, Investors Group Field is also used by the school’s football team for home games, as well as by the Winnipeg Rifles of the CJFL, which is a national amateur Canadian football league, from which some players “graduate” into the CFL after proving their skills. Food & Beverage 5 Investors Group Field has everything you could expect in terms of food and drink at a sports stadium. There are plenty of concessions stands behind the seats on each sideline, as well as additional options on the plazas behind each end zone. Food options at Investors Group Field include chicken tenders (regular or spicy), vegetarian perogies, turkey wings, chicken and waffle sandwiches, fried fish, multiple types of hot dogs, chili, butter chicken and rice bowls, several types of burgers (including turkey and chorizo), falafel, shawarma, salads, and pizza, plus all manner of snacks such as popcorn, peanuts, nachos, sunflower seeds, soft pretzels, samosas, vegetarian spring rolls, fries, chips, packaged candy, donuts, cotton candy, and even veggies with dip. And of course, what Canadian sporting event would be complete without poutine on the menu? If you are visiting from out of country, this is definitely a dish you should try at least once, but even if you are a local, you can’t help but be impressed by the sheer variety of items available at Investors Group Field, with options available to suit any budget. Individual items start at $4 and run all the way up to $13, with combos starting at $12. Drink options are not quite as numerous, but there is plenty to get you by for a couple of hours. Selections include bottled or fountain soda, bottled water, and coffee or hot chocolate ($2 to $9 for non-alcoholic drinks), as well as beer, wine, and plenty of liquor and mixed drinks – beer starts at $7, liquor starts at $8, wine is $9, and mixed drinks are $16. Atmosphere 5 Investors Group Field is a great place to take in a football game – the fans are loud, thanks in part to the cantilevered roofs over both sidelines, and all the seats are chair backs, so you can sit in comfort and style. In addition, the Blue Bomber staff brings in plenty of entertainment to keep fans engaged during breaks in the action. First up are Buzz and Boomer, the two bird mascots decked out in Winnipeg jerseys and helmets, who keep fans entertained along the sidelines. Next is Captain Blue, the Blue Bomber pilot who drives his biplane onto the field before the game and after every Bombers score. You will also hear cannon blasts throughout the game, courtesy of the silvery-blue cannon above the end zone, which is fired after every Winnipeg score. And in addition, some lucky fans are treated to free t-shirts, fired from a Gatling-style gun sponsored by Boston Pizza. The Winnipeg Blue Bomber players even get into the act, running and jumping into the end zone stands when Winnipeg scores, for high fives and pats on the back from fans in the front row. And then of course you have the ubiquitous fan contests, in this case weight lifting competitions and fans racing each other while inside giant inflatable hamster wheels. The crowd noise is even loud when the stadium is only half full – the decibel level inside Investors Group Field was once measured at the max level of 108. Neighborhood 4 Winnipeg is a large, sprawling town with plenty of restaurants, hotels, and things to do if you are in town for the day or for the weekend. Being on the University of Manitoba’s campus means there isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of Investors Group Field except parking lots and campus buildings, but there are plenty of restaurant and lodging options within a few minutes’ drive. And if you are coming in from out of town, there are lots of hotels and restaurants near the Winnipeg airport, about 10 km north of the stadium. If you have time before or after the game, Fort Whyte Alive is a great place to visit in Winnipeg – not far from Investors Group Field, the keynote attraction at Fort Whyte is the Bison Safari on Wednesdays thru Saturdays at 1:30 or 2:30 pm, where you can take a shuttle ride right up to within a few feet of the magnificent animals (Fort Whyte has a population of between 30 and 35 bison on site). There is also a small Interpretive Center on site, which features tons of activities for the kids, and if outdoor activities are your thing, there are several hiking and biking trails on the property, as well as activities on the water such as sailing. Another popular attraction in Winnipeg is touring the National Mint, where coins from around the world are made. The mint has daily tours every half hour starting at 9 am – reservations are not required but are helpful if you want to schedule a specific time. Note that the tours are better on weekdays, however, since the productions lines are turned off on weekends, but you can still tour the facility on weekends if you choose (the tour is exactly the same, except that the machines are off and the line workers are not there). Fans 4 Winnipeg Blue Bombers fans get credit for being as loud as they are, but sadly the facility does not always sell out – at a typical game you might only see half to two-thirds of the seats filled. On the plus side, however, a high percentage of fans are decked out in team gear, so you will definitely feel right at home if you choose to show up in your Bombers gear. Access 4 It is easy enough to get to Investors Group Field, and you can see its distinctive outline from kilometers away – the highways around Winnipeg (and much of Canada) are actually really well done, with lots of six and eight-lane divided roads laid out to speed the traffic flow; credit goes to the local city planners, it is obvious they planned ahead when building the streets here. Unfortunately the parking situation at Investors Group Field leaves a little to be desired – as expected, the stadium being on campus means there are lots of parking restrictions, and not many side streets too park along in the vicinity. Cash parking is available in the Gold and Blue lots for $20 on the east side of the stadium (or you can park in the Black value lot for $10 further away to the east), but for the closer in lots will need a pass. However, once you get inside the stadium it is really easy to move around – there are giant plazas behind each end zone you can use to get from side to side, so you can enter at any gate and still find your seat with ease. There are also plenty of bathrooms inside Investors Group Field to accommodate the size of the crowd, although as with most sports venues you may face lines at the concessions during peak periods like halftime. Return on Investment 4 Single game ticket prices for Winnipeg Blue Bombers games start at about $32 CAD, which is in line with professional sports throughout Canada, and is slightly lower than pro football games in the US. Parking is reasonable at $20, and if you are careful with your spending, you can do okay at the concessions as well. That said, with a large group you may end up spending a bit more than you would like (assuming you are picking up the whole tab), but the cost per person at Investors Group Field is a pretty good value for professional football. Extras 5 How many sports venues can boast three mascots? A lot of stadiums feature twin mascots like Buzz and Boomer, but adding Captain Blue and his biplane to the mix is really above and beyond. Furthermore, having the players themselves interact with fans by jumping into the stands when the home team scores really takes Investors Group Field to a whole new level. And don’t forget the cannon either, blue in color for the Bombers and fired after every score – again, while lots of sports venues might have one or two of these elements, very few have all three. Being the loudest stadium in the CFL is also a plus, and the staff really deserves credit for having so much fan interaction in terms of contests and giveaways. Final Thoughts CFL games are a lot of fun, thanks in part to having only 3 downs instead of 4, giving every snap the potential to turn into a big play. So if you have never been to a CFL game, or if you have but have never seen one in Winnipeg, I would encourage you to check out Investors Group Field – you won’t be disappointed.

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

Photos by Lloyd Brown and Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Daytona Stadium 3917 LPGA Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32124 Bethune-Cookman Wildcats website Daytona Stadium website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 10,000 The Wildcats Lair Bethune-Cookman University is in Daytona Beach, Florida. It was founded in 1904 as the Daytona Educational Industrial Training School for Negro Girls. In 1923 it merged with the Cookman Institute. In 1941 it became a four-year college, changing its name to Bethune-Cookman College. It finally achieved university status in 2007. The school is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Bethune-Cookman University is renowned for its work in the field of education. It now offers 39 bachelor’s degree programs and six master’s degree programs. The school has a student body of just over 3,700 students. The athletic teams at Bethune-Cookman are known as the Wildcats. The school has had a football program since 1925. They are members of the SWAC Conference, playing at the FCS level of competition in NCAA football. Over the years the Wildcats have won two Black College National Championships (2010, 2013), as well as seven conference titles. They have participated in five FCS playoffs but have yet to win a game. More than thirty Wildcats have gone on to play in the NFL. They include Boobie Clark, Larry Little, and Eric Weems. Larry Little is also in the NFL Hall of Fame. The Wildcats play their home schedule at the off-campus Daytona Stadium. The stadium is located seven miles from the Bethune-Cookman campus. The city-owned stadium was built in 1988 and has a capacity of 10,000. The field at Daytona Stadium is known as Larry Kelly Field, in honor of the late Daytona mayor who spearheaded the building of the stadium. Food & Beverage 2 After enjoying the pregame feasts among the tailgaters in the parking lot, the food and beverage offerings sold inside the stadium seem like an afterthought. The concession stands are located along the concourse beneath the stands. They offer the stadium standards, including burgers, hot dogs, fries, popcorn, chips, and Pepsi brand sodas. If you fill yourself up in the tailgate lot, you probably can get by with some bottled water or a soft drink during the game to quench your thirst on the often-balmy days and nights. Atmosphere 4 Bethune-Cookman football games are a sporting event, a family reunion, and a concert all rolled into one. Fans, family, alumni, students, Greeks, and locals arrive early to set up their tailgates in the grass parking lots outside of Daytona Stadium. It is a sea of maroon-clad fans and maroon tents to protect against the hot Florida sun. After the food, fun and good conversations are over it is time to head into the stadium. Daytona Stadium is a traditional stadium, with stands on both sides of the field. The home side is on the eastern side of the stadium. This side is populated by the parents, the student body, and the Marching Wildcats. It features seating for most of the crowd, with a very small suite at the top of the stands near the press box. There are three concession stands located underneath the stands at ground level. The visitors’ stands are on the west side of the stadium, with a much smaller set of bleachers. The playing surface is artificial turf, as there are multiple games played on it every weekend. This is because both Mainland High School and Seabreeze High School also call Daytona Stadium home. There is a 33’ X 16’ videoboard behind the end zone. It features replays of major plays during the game, as well as statistics at the end of each quarter. Anytime we talk about the atmosphere at a SWAC football game we must highlight the school’s band. They play a major role in how the game feels, whether you are 20 points ahead or 20 behind. Bethune-Cookman’s band is known as The Marching Wildcats. The band has over 300 members, making it the largest student organization on campus. The band also includes the Sophisticats Flag Corp and the 14-Karat Gold Dancers. The band plays nonstop throughout the game and is known for its halftime shows. Many fans come just for the band alone, leaving after the halftime program. In addition to Wildcat football games the band has performed at several NFL halftime shows, the Orange Bowl Parade, the Walt Disney World Holiday Parade, and the Honda Battle of the Bands Showcase. Neighborhood 2 Daytona Stadium is located several miles from the school campus. Daytona Stadium is owned by the city of Daytona Beach, and most of the neighborhood surrounding the stadium is part of the civic complex for the city. This includes office buildings, as well as the city’s water treatment plant. There are no restaurants, hotels, or shops along LPGA Boulevard. The stadium is just west of I-95, and there is very little in the way of shops and restaurants. However, just east of I-95, there are a great deal of restaurants, shops, and attractions to choose from. We found BJ’s Restaurant to be an excellent choice for a pregame or postgame meal or drink. This corridor also includes the world-famous Daytona International Speedway. It offers a wonderful tour and has a great gift shop. You can’t visit Daytona without stopping at the track! The closest hotels to Daytona Stadium are just east of I-95. They include the Homewood Suites and the Courtyard Marriott, which are both located along International Speedway Boulevard (Highway 92). Our low score for this section reflects the fact that the Wildcats play more than 12 miles from the Bethune-Cookman campus. Football games always suffer when they are played away from the campus of the school. Fans 3 Bethune-Cookman fans make a full day out of a Wildcats game. They arrive very early, as BBQs in the stadium parking lot are a cherished tradition. Many of the fans will decorate their tailgate in the maroon and gold colors of the Wildcats. Many of the fraternities and sororities will have tents set up for their members. You can’t be a Wildcats fan on an empty stomach! One of the traditions at Bethune-Cookman games is the Legacy Walk. This begins 90 minutes prior to kickoff. The Wildcats team bus parks outside the stadium, and team members walk through the crowds to their locker room. A team captain leads the Legacy Walk, and he holds a portrait of Mary McLeod Bethune, the school’s founder. Once inside the stadium, the fans create a sea of maroon and gold. They are energized by the combined efforts of the Wildcat cheerleaders and the Marching Wildcats. The school fight song is sung after each Wildcat score and the crowd also cheers for any major defensive stops or takeaways. The fans are also entertained by the antics of Dr. Wyld D Catt, the school mascot. They also wildly applaud the Marching Wildcats after each fabulous halftime show. We found the crowds to be very welcoming of any visiting team fans. Access 2 It is very easy to get to Daytona Stadium from either I-95 or I-4: From I-95: Take the exit for International Speedway Boulevard (Highway 92). Go west on I-92 for two miles. Turn right at LPGA Boulevard and go two miles. The stadium will be on your right. From I-4: Take Highway 92 exit on go east on Highway 92. Turn left at LPGA Boulevard and go two miles. The stadium will be on your right. If you are flying in, the Daytona International Airport is less than 6 miles from the stadium. You would just head out the airport exit to International Speedway Boulevard (Highway 92) and head west until you hit LPGA Boulevard. There are more than 2,100 parking spaces at Daytona Stadium. These are located on a grass lot just outside of the stadium. Tailgating is very popular at Wildcat games, so parking opens two hours prior to kickoff. You pay for parking on site. The main drawback in the accessibility of Daytona Stadium is getting in and out of the venue before and after the games. This is because there is only one way in and out of the stadium complex via LPGA Boulevard. Return on Investment 3 Attending a Wildcat game at Daytona Stadium will not break the bank, as the ticket prices are in line with what most college football games cost. A basic General Admission ticket costs $40. Tickets along the 50-yard line cost $60. The most expensive seats sold are in the VIP section atop the stands along the 50-yard line at a cost of $70. The VIP section receives special perks, including free food and beverage service and more comfortable seats. Parking at Daytona Stadium is $10. Probably the biggest cost of attending a Bethune-Cookman is related to how big a tailgate feast you want to have before the game. Many families split these costs with other members of the family. Extras 5 Daytona Stadium hosted the NAIA Football National Championship Game from 2014 through 2016. Another extra must go to the Marching Wildcats, as they play a major role in creating a high energy level in the stands at each game. The 2023 season marked the 100th year of Bethune-Cookman football. Numerous observances of the centennial were held before and at halftime of each Wildcat home game. Former UNLV and NBA basketball star Reggie Theus is the Bethune-Cookman Athletic Director and head basketball coach. Daytona Stadium is less than 6 miles from Daytona International Speedway. Even if you aren’t a race fan, it is well worth a visit. Final Thoughts Bethune – Cookman home football games are always an event to circle on your calendar. They begin with a food fest and a family reunion outside the stadium. The party continues inside Daytona Stadium with great Wildcat football on the field and a second party in the stands as the Marching Wildcats play nonstop tunes.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Pete Hanna Stadium 800 Lakeshore Dr Homewood, AL 35229 Samford Bulldogs website Pete Hanna Stadium website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 6,700 Bobby Bowden Field at Pete Hanna Stadium – Samford University Bulldogs Note that the stadium name changed from Seibert Stadium to Pete Hanna Stadium in 2023. Tucked away on the back side of Red Mountain in the Birmingham, Alabama suburb of Homewood is the campus of Samford University. The southern Baptist-based university with an enrollment of just under 6,000 students has been a member of the Football Championship Series (FCS) Southern Conference since 2008. Despite the smaller setting, game days on Samford’s campus come with all the feel of college football game days in the south. Food & Beverage 5 Pete Hanna Stadium has little in the way of in-house concessions stands except a couple of Coca-Cola trailers on each side of the stadium – rather they make use of several local food trucks from the surrounding area, which provide fans with a wide variety of choices. Cricket’s Sweets & Treats with different flavors of lemonade is a popular option on hot afternoons, and other food trucks serve many high-quality options. Dog Nation specializes in combination hot dogs, sausages, and burgers, while another popular truck is Hollywood Grill, which serves Philly sandwiches, burgers, wings, and variations of fries. Taco Tuesdays serve to build your tacos and quesadillas, and Blacktop Bistro also has a well-rounded menu. Overall, the food choices at Pete Hanna Stadium are wonderful. Not only do they give fans a great variety of options, but a high level of quality. Samford does not permit alcohol consumption on its campus, so needless to say, there are no sales of beer, wine, or other spirits. Atmosphere 3 Pete Hanna Stadium blends seamlessly with the surrounding buildings. The use of brick archways at the entry points is consistent with the architecture that is a common theme around campus. The stadium itself is a bit on the small side but has a very cozy feel, right down to miniature hedges along the stands. The smallness of the stadium does help put fans on top of the action and provides great views of the play on the field. Stadium seating is comprised of two main sections of bleacher seating, built into the hills surrounding the stadium. Seating runs between the 15-yard lines on each side of the field. The west, home side of the field has a small section of nine rows of individual seat backs between the 40-yard lines. Throughout the game, most of the dead time during timeouts is filled by engaging fans in Samford football trivia, player-centered pieces, and advertisements. The marching band does play in response to big plays and scores, but for the most part, the scoreboard features play the bigger role in the game day entertainment. With the eastern stands facing directly into the setting sun for most of the game, the best bet is to go with a seat in the western bleachers. This will not only eliminate the constant distraction of the blinding sun but will also drop the temperature considerably. As of the 2023 season, the north end zone is amid major stadium upgrades which will see $65 million in renovation that will include a walkway that connects the east and west stands. Academic, student recreation and student-athlete services will also be part of the project. Neighborhood 3 Samford’s hilly campus is directly off one of the major thoroughfares through Homewood – Samford serves as a buffer of sorts between State Route 149 and the surrounding residential areas. Homewood is also full of beautiful neighborhoods and seemingly endless miles of running and walking trails. Samford is less than four miles from Homewood’s city center and has a well-rounded choice of restaurants and shops. Visitors looking for legendary Birmingham barbecue can find Dreamland BBQ just 5 miles away. A bit of what might be a controversial take: while Dreamland is a well-known, exceptionally good barbecue spot throughout the southeast, locals might point you to SAW’s Juke Joint for the best in Birmingham. There are plenty of attractions within a 15-minute drive of the Samford campus. Along with the miles of trails in the area, the Vulcan Monument sits atop Red Mountain and overlooks Birmingham. The Birmingham Zoo is also conveniently located near the Samford campus. Fans looking to make an overnight or extended stay near the Samford campus can find a Courtyard by Marriott less than 2 miles away. A bit further, but still in the area, is Aloft in the Homewood city center. Fans 3 Game days on the Samford campus have the feeling that this is the only thing of interest for the entire university on those days. As the morning moves on, the university’s quadrangle fills with what feels like the entire Samford student body. As game time gets closer, fans flock to the entrance of the University Center building in anticipation of the Bulldog Walk. The walk is the unofficial ending of tailgating on the quad, as fans begin picking up and the quadrangle's population begins migrating to Pete Hanna Stadium. Samford fans do a great job packing the house. While they may not create an intimidating football environment for the visiting team, they are into the game and react accordingly to key moments throughout the game. It is typical for Samford to nearly fill the 6,700-seat Pete Hanna Stadium during each home game. This near-capacity crowd week in and week out helps create an atmosphere that makes college football game days such a special event. Access 4 Getting to Homewood and Samford from the north or south on Interstate 65 is a relatively straight shot to campus. Those coming from the east or west on Interstate 20 must navigate a couple of bypasses before reaching Samford. It is not necessarily difficult; just a few extra off-highway miles to navigate. Upon arriving at Samford, parking is free at any of the several parking lots around campus. These can fill up fast, so the best bet might be to head to the parking deck at the back of campus and look for a shuttle bus toward the stadium and tailgating area. Pete Hanna Stadium has two entry points for general admission fans, with the third point of entry for students to easily access the student section. The eastern entry point past the statue of Bobby Bowden allows fans to access the seating behind the visiting bench, while Gate F allows fans to enter the western stands. Given the current construction, fans are not able to access the opposite side of the stadium, so fans will need to enter through the gate where their seat is located. As the renovations are completed the two sides will be connected by an arched, brick walkway, allowing fans to go between the east and west sides of the field. In all, getting to and around Samford is rather simple, but with a limited number of access points to campus, getting back on the road following the game can be a bit of a challenge. The inaccessibility of a whole side of the stadium is also a bit of a letdown, especially when it limits access to certain food trucks. Return on Investment 3 General admission tickets run $15 to $30, depending on ticket availability for each game, with reserved seating going for between $30 and $40. Games with the $15 general admission tickets are a great deal, but ticket prices increasing by 100% for more sought-after games do seem to be a sizable hike. Concessions prices at the handful of concessions trailers are inexpensive when compared to what most stadium concessions run. Food truck prices are a bit higher, but fans are getting a much better quality of food than they would at most other stadiums, so a couple of extra dollars is well worth it. With free parking, the overall investment into a day of college football is worth the cost. Extras 4 Samford has been the starting point for many successful FBS coaches. Jimbo Fisher, Terry Bowden, and Pat Sullivan, to name a few, but none has been more notable than the two-time National Championship coach Bobby Bowden. Not only has Bowden been honored with the field being named after him, but a statue outside of the main entry point welcomes fans to the stadium. Hillside seating along the berm in the northeastern corner of the stadium is a nice option for fans looking for something different than typical bleacher/bench seating. Three to four hours before the start of the game, the Bulldogs offense has a walkthrough in the quadrangle among fans; this draws the interest of a handful of attendees. The second floor of the neighboring Pete Hanna Center is home to the Samford Sports Hall of Fame. The display honors the athletic heroes of Samford and the history of the teams that represent the Bulldogs. Final Thoughts Regardless of the size of the campus, football at southern schools has a different feel to it. While many schools of comparable size as Samford in different regions of the country may have the feel of “just a football game day”, the whole feel of game day at Samford is that a whole day is an event. From the pre-game tailgate setup in the campus quad to the Bulldog Walk, the overall experience is one of enjoyment, from the pre-game festivities to the final whistle of the game.

Photos by James Clotfelter, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Morrison Stadium 1804 California St Omaha, NE 68102 Union Omaha website Morrison Stadium website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 6,000 More Than a Baseball Town Unless you are a true USL League One sicko, soccer is most certainly not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Omaha. You are much more likely to associate the city with the College World Series, the Old Market District, or, if you are like me, Union Pacific and train infrastructure. But if you give it a chance, you'll find a successful soccer club nestled in a surprisingly vibrant city. Union Omaha has built a strong following despite its relatively short history. The club spent the past few years playing in Papillion at Werner Park, home of the MiLB's Omaha Storm Chasers, and now temporarily resides at Morrison Stadium on the campus of Creighton University while its permanent home is being built in downtown Omaha. While Morrison Stadium is clearly a temporary venue for the club, it still offers a quality experience and serves as a home for soccer culture in the Midwest. Food & Beverage 3 One of the few aspects that reminds you this is a temporary home is the food and beverage selection, which is not much to write home about. There are two concession windows along the main stand offering stadium basics such as Coca-Cola products, snacks, pretzels, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, and more. Prices are reasonable, the quality is average, and if all you want is a drink, there are card-operated vending machines scattered throughout the concourse for grab-and-go options. What does stand out is the drink selection, which is heavily supported by local craft beer offerings. Multiple Union Omaha-themed craft beers are available alongside domestic beers and seltzers at drink kiosks located in the corners of the main concourse. A special shout-out goes to the Union Omaha Vienna Lager and Fairy Nectar Hazy, both produced by local breweries. Atmosphere 3 A common concern with temporary stadiums is the atmosphere, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the experience. First, Creighton has a beautiful campus to walk through before reaching the stadium, and Morrison Stadium's exterior blends seamlessly with the rest of campus. There is one main stand along the west sideline with a concourse overlooking the field. This is where you'll most likely enter the stadium and find the concession stands, merchandise tent, restrooms, and championship banners commemorating the success of Creighton soccer. Below the concourse sits the main seating bowl, featuring blue chairback seats on the lower level and a second deck consisting of premium seating. The south end houses the supporters' section, the north end contains group seating with oversized plastic beach chairs, and the east side features general admission with tiered grass seating. If you don't mind sitting without a chairback, I recommend general admission, as it offers the same sightlines at a lower price. During the match, the stadium filled in well, especially considering this is a temporary home for a third-division soccer club. The atmosphere is relaxed. There are chants throughout the match, but most people are there for a fun night out while casually supporting the local team. It feels like many of the attendees are regulars, with fans spending the pre-match catching up with one another while kids find a patch of grass behind the concourse to play pickup soccer. While it is not the most intense environment, the crowd clearly cares about the success of its team, and the soccer never takes a backseat to the communal atmosphere. Neighborhood 4 This was my first visit to Omaha, and it quickly became one of my favorite mid-sized cities. Morrison Stadium sits on Creighton's beautiful downtown campus, less than a mile west of the Capitol District, home to Charles Schwab Field, CHI Health Center, and the famous Matt Bar & Grill. Roughly the same distance to the south brings you into downtown and the historic Old Market District, characterized by brick-lined streets, quirky shops, dessert stores, restaurants, and breweries. While you're there, I recommend Brickway Brewery & Distillery for a drink and Chic Bao Bao for some fried rice. It is also worth visiting the Durham Museum. Housed in Omaha's original Union Station, it serves as both a railroad museum and a museum highlighting Omaha's history. On Tuesdays, admission is only $5, making it one of the city's best values. Omaha is an extremely walkable city, so honestly, the best thing you can do is explore it for yourself because it has much more to offer than first meets the eye. Fans 3 The fans at Morrison Stadium are about what you would expect for lower-division soccer. Attendance ranks around the middle of USL League One, and considering the club is still waiting for its permanent home, there is nothing to hang their heads about. While not particularly vocal, the fans are knowledgeable about their players and attentive to the action on the pitch. Many locals spend pregame and halftime catching up with friends around the stadium, giving the fanbase a very communal feel. As the team settles into its new stadium, attendance numbers should only continue to grow. Access 4 Morrison Stadium is located on the campus of Creighton University in Omaha's Capitol District and is within walking distance of many downtown attractions, including the Old Market District. If you're driving, there are several paid lots surrounding the stadium, and regardless of which direction you approach from, you'll find signage directing you to the parking areas. Once inside, the concourse is easy to navigate. It sits above the seating bowl and wraps around roughly three-quarters of the stadium. Restrooms are located in the corners, and exiting after the match is simple thanks to the wide concourse. Return on Investment 4 Perhaps the biggest strength of an already enjoyable experience is the value offered by a Union Omaha match. Parking prices vary by lot, but you shouldn't expect to pay more than $20. General admission tickets cost $16.50 at the gate, which was actually a few dollars cheaper than buying online. Once inside, concession prices are reasonable, with food ranging from $3 to $12 and beer and seltzers hovering around $7. The club also routinely offers attendance giveaways, providing fans with a free souvenir to take home. Extras 2 There isn't much in the way of extras, which is understandable given the temporary nature of the venue. The stadium does feature a beautiful downtown skyline backdrop. At the match I attended, the giveaway was a Union Omaha hand towel with the trim featuring the national flags of every country represented on the roster—a thoughtful touch that deserves some credit. Final Thoughts Is this the best experience in USL League One? Probably not. Is it the worst? Certainly not. Morrison Stadium offers a clean, enjoyable venue for this level of soccer, and while it is well worth a visit, I am excited to see what Union Omaha's new downtown stadium will bring.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Mat-Su Miners 2075 Glenn Highway Palmer, AK 99654 Mat-Su Miners website Hermon Brothers website Year Opened: 1976 Capacity: 1,300 __________________________________________________________________________________ Rally in the Valley Mat-Su is shorthand for Matanuska-Susitna, the borough in which the town of Palmer, Alaska is located. Palmer is the home of the Mat-Su Miners, one of the five teams in the Alaska Baseball League. The team began play in 1976 as the Valley Green Giants, an expansion team owned by the Alaska Goldpanners, another ABL team. In 1980 the team severed ties with the Goldpanners and rebranded to its current moniker, which it has used since. The Miners play their home games at Hermon Brothers Field. The field was built in 1976 by a crew of volunteers, and has seen constant renovations over recent years. Over the past two decades nearly every structure on the site has been newly built or renovated thanks to efforts by volunteers and grants from the community. The field was named in honor of the Hermon brothers, owners of Hermon Brothers Construction, who were instrumental in the building of the field. The Miners have won nine ABL championships and two National Baseball Congress World Series, in 1987 and 1997. Over seventy Miner alumni have gone on to play in the Major Leagues, including Craig Counsell, Jeff Brantley, Steve Trachsel and Brandon Duckworth. Food & Beverage 3 There is a concession stand located on the concourse behind home plate. It serves up a decent array of food, consisting mainly of standard ballpark fare. Anchoring the menu are hot dogs and burgers, with ballpark favorites such as nachos, pretzels and popcorn available. Of course, there are snacks sold here as well, including ice cream treats, peanuts, candy and cracker jack. A few unique items can be found on the menu. Hot dogs can be supersized into a “Miner Dog,” or enjoyed on a stick as a corn dog. If your diet requires alternates to a standard burger, the Miners have you covered, with veggie burgers and turkey burgers available. Add some chili to your dog or nachos, or enjoy a cup on the side. Want some soup? You can order a cup of noodles. Coca-Cola products are featured at Hermon Brothers Field. The beer stand has a good selection of adult beverages, featuring craft brews from Bear Paw and Denali Brewing alongside wine and canned drinks. Atmosphere 2 The game day presentation at Hermon Brothers Field is a fairly simple one. Fans looking for the typical wacky shenanigans and over-the-top promotions so common at ball games today will be missing out. A Mat-Su Miners game features a more traditional experience, lacking all that noise and distraction. Music is limited to between innings (kudos for the classic rock and hockey organ playlist), and PA announcements are limited to sponsor reads and lineup changes. There are free raffles for fans, and plenty of room for younger fans to run around chasing foul balls. It’s enough to distract you from the mistakes made throughout the game by the folks running the PA and scoreboard. Hopefully they were just having a rough night during Stadium Journey’s visit. The Miners Huddle Up Before a Game. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 Given Herman Brothers Field’s location on the Fairgrounds, there’s not a whole lot in the immediate vicinity of the ballpark to attract visiting fans. However, there is plenty to do a short drive from the park in “The Valley.” Downtown Palmer is just a couple of miles away along Route One to the north. Among the many options along this route are The Noisy Goose, the Palmer Alehouse, and Turkey Red. Visitors to the area will also find several local lodging options along Route One in the downtown area, including The Pioneer Motel and the Valley Hotel. Additional choices can be found in nearby Wasilla. If your tastes run towards the major chains, Anchorage is a 45-minute drive away. Of course, the area surrounding the town of Palmer offers an infinite number of attractions for the visiting baseball fans, whether you head north toward Denali National Park or south towards the city of Anchorage and beyond. If you choose to keep your focus solely on baseball, all five teams in the Alaska Baseball League are located within a three and a half-hour driving radius. If you time your trip to Alaska wisely, the Midnight Sun Baseball Game is held every year on the solstice in Fairbanks, a few hours to the north of Palmer. For a more complete look at all the adventures awaiting you in Alaska, visit TravelAlaska.com. Fans 3 Since the Alaska League doesn’t release official attendance figures, it can be tough to accurately gauge crowd size, but Stadium Journey visited Palmer on a beautiful Thursday night, with a good-sized crowd on hand. If forced to estimate the size of the crowd, I would guess it approached 500. As is the case with many of the ballparks in this circuit, it’s a community affair at an ABL game. Many of the fans seem to be regulars, and know each other well from years of attending games together. Even if you’re an outsider or wearing the opposition colors, you’ll be welcomed. Sportsmanship rules the day in small parks like Hermon Brothers Field. Game Action at Hermon Brothers Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 4 Hermon Brothers Field is located adjacent to the Alaska State Fairgrounds, right off of State Route 1, the main route to Anchorage to the south. The ballpark’s entrance is located near the fairgrounds’ Red Gate. Fans will enter the ballpark behind the centerfield fence, and will walk around the field to the seating areas. The Miners provide a pair of golf carts to shuttle those fans around who may not be up to the long walk around. Seating is available in many sections. An old wooden grandstand is located behind home plate. This is reserved for season ticket holders. Metal bleachers are stretched out down both foul lines, along with picnic tables and some open areas for fans who want to bring their own chairs. In an interesting quirk, the last row of all the bleachers come equipped with plastic bucket seats attached to them. A paved path stretches around the facility, and while it could use a little maintenance in spots, it serves to make passage around the ballpark easy. Concessions, merchandise, and restroom buildings are easily accessible and lines are not an issue. For that spectacular view of the Chugach Mountains, and to keep the sun out of your eyes during the game, choose seats on the first base side of the field. Return on Investment 5 Admission to a Miners game is only four dollars for adults, with youth admitted for two dollars, and seniors, children under age five, and members of the military admitted for no charge. Parking is free in the large lot next to the field. Factor in affordable concessions, and the Miners are a very affordable entertainment option for sports fans in the Valley region. Distracted by the View at Hermon Brothers Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 2 There is a display on the back side of the press box/main grandstand structure that lists every player to ever play for the Miners since their inception. Each player is listed on a colored tile. These tiles are color coded depending on if the player reached the majors, played professionally, or served in the military. It’s an extensive and unique display. Another extra point is given for the breathtaking backdrop enjoyed by Hermon Brothers Field. If you sit on the first base side of the field, you may find yourself losing focus from time to time as your gaze wanders from the action on the field to the spectacular peaks of the Chugach Mountains in the distance. Final Thoughts Hermon Brothers Field is one of those quaint, small-town ballparks that make stadium journeys so special. With high-quality baseball being played on the field at a most affordable price, you’ll enjoy your visit to Alaska. And oh, that view! Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Lee Jordan Field @ Loretta French Sports Complex 18100 Old Glenn Highway Chugiak, AK 99567 Chugiak-Eagle River Chinooks website Lee Jordan Field website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 600 Keep Your Chin Up! Lee Jordan was an Anchorage newspaperman who moved to Chugiak and started a weekly paper there. He served as mayor of Chugiak-Eagle River before those towns combined their governments with the Municipality of Anchorage in 1975. Jordan was instrumental in establishing youth baseball programs in the town. The main ball field at the Loretta French Sports Complex was named in his honor in 2016. Mr. Jordan passed away in 2018. Loretta French was an advocate for children and seniors in the town of Chugiak, and was instrumental in getting the facility that now bears her name built. In 2011 Jordan organized an exhibition game between the Anchorage Glacier Pilots and Athletes in Action Fire, an independent summer collegiate baseball team playing out of Fairbanks. The game, played at the Loretta French Sports Complex, was such a success that the Fire relocated to Chugiak and rebranded as the Chinooks. The franchise has won one Alaska Baseball League Championship, while playing in Fairbanks, in 2007. The team has yet to win a title while in Chugiak. Some notable alumni to play for the Chinooks are Josh Donaldson, Kirk Nieuwenhuis and Connor Menez. Food & Beverage 2 There’s a small concession stand in the building at the center of the Loretta French complex. Hot dogs, hamburgers, pretzels and nachos are served here. If you’re looking for some snacks, chips, candy bars and ice cream treats are available. Cans of Coca-Cola products are sold at the concession stand. No alcohol is available at this community ball field. Atmosphere 3 The Chinooks run a different game day show than the other teams in the ABL. It’s a little livelier than the other teams in the league. While things are not as crazy as you may be used to if you frequent minor league baseball games regularly, the staff and fans here at Lee Jordan Field make sure that everyone here has a good time. The team employs music more liberally than their counterparts in the ABL. The home team enjoys walk-up songs, and an 80s heavy playlist blares over the speakers between innings. The PA announcer keeps things moving while using a quick, but professional delivery, making lineup and sponsor announcements all night long. The fans even take part in some of the announcements. Sponsor tables line the wide walkway along the right field side of the field, and there is plenty of room for kids to roam and chase down foul balls. You’ll see plenty of four-legged fans in attendance as well. You might even see some hearty fans taking up residence up on the hill beyond the left field fence. Fans Line up Chairs Along the Fence at Lee Jordan Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 2 Lee Jordan Field is located in Chugiak, an unincorporated community about 20 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage. Approximately 10,000 people live in this community, most of whom commute to Anchorage to the south or the Mat-Su Valley to the north for work. The Loretta French Sports Complex is located on the south side of Route One, the main road to access Anchorage and points south. Fans looking for lodging or dining options in the immediate vicinity of Lee Jordan Field will be disappointed, as the complex is self-contained, with nothing nearby of interest. Downtown Chugiak is about two miles away on the opposite side of Route One. Fans will find a few dining options here, including Luci Mae’s, Polar Bear Café and Bobby’s Café. For more varied dining options, and for your best lodging choices, visiting fans should head into Anchorage, a short 20-minute drive away. Of course, the area surrounding Chugiak offers an infinite number of attractions for the visiting baseball fans, whether you head north toward Denali National Park or south towards the city of Anchorage and beyond. If you choose to keep your focus solely on baseball, all five teams in the Alaska Baseball League are located within a three and a half-hour driving radius. If you time your trip to Alaska wisely, the Midnight Sun Baseball Game is held every year on the solstice in Fairbanks, a few hours to the north of Chugiak. For a more complete look at all the adventures awaiting you in Alaska, visit TravelAlaska.com. Fans 3 Lee Jordan has a capacity of only 600, and during Stadium Journey’s visit on a Friday night, the crowd appeared to be close to that number. Fans filled the bleachers and lined up along both foul lines in the chairs they brought from home. There’s a real community feel around Lee Jordan Field, as the crowd is made up of regulars who have been coming to Chinook games for years. Everyone seems to know everyone, and there’s a real friendly vibe in the stands. Visitors are welcomed, and you can feel comfortable sporting the colors of the opposition. The fans are knowledgeable and supportive of the players on the field, and get involved in the banter and even some of the promotional reads. Even if it’s your first time to Chugiak, you’ll feel like part of the community by the time you leave. This is small town baseball at its best. Delivering the Pitch at Lee Jordan Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Lee Jordan Field is located in the Loretta French Sports Complex, a community recreation center in the small town of Chugiak, AK. Also part of the complex are several regulation and youth baseball and softball fields, a picnic area, a playground, and a skate park. It is located on the Old Glenn Highway, less than a mile from State Route One, the main road from the area to Anchorage. Lee Jordan Field is the central field in the facility, and the first one you’ll see as you enter the complex. A large parking lot is beyond the centerfield fence. A paved walkway leads from the parking lot to the seating area and concession stand. Seating consists of metal bleachers on either side of the field, with plenty of room along both foul lines for fans to set up their own chairs and take in the action from their favorite spot. No matter where you sit, you’ll have to watch the game through a chain-link fence. A major drawback at Lee Jordan Field is the lack of restroom facilities. There are several port-a-johns in deep right field near the entrance to the complex for fans to use. Lines at the concessions or merchandise stand are not an issue at this small ballpark. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for admission to a Chinooks game. Parking is free in the lot adjacent to the field. Prices in the snack bar are reasonable, making a game at Lee Jordan Field an affordable entertainment option for local sports fans. All the Armed Forces Flags for Armed Services Night at Lee Jordan Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 There’s not a whole lot going on at a Chinooks game that can be considered extra. The team sells a good variety of team merchandise, and free raffle tickets with prizes from local sponsors are handed out to all fans. Along the top of the bleachers are flags of all the teams in the Alaska Baseball League. Final Thoughts There is nothing fancy about Lee Jordan Field. What you will experience at a Chinooks game is small town baseball, through and through. And that is exactly what will keep you coming back for more. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Here at Stadium Journey, we pride ourselves on being the premier destination for stadium reviews, venue history, and comprehensive fan experience reviews. But our coverage does not stop at the written word. We have built a digital footprint across all your favorite platforms to bring the ultimate groundhopping adventure directly to your feed. If you want to feel the roar of the crowd and see the stunning details of venues around the world, you absolutely need to check out our Instagram and TikTok accounts. We are incredibly proud of the top-tier short videos we are producing for these platforms. These bite-sized clips are packed with immersive visuals, offering you a front-row seat to the best concession food, the most unique concourses, and the electric atmospheres of game day. Whether it is a quick pan across a historic grandstand or an up-close look at a legendary stadium hot dog, our Instagram and TikTok feeds deliver an instant jolt of sports travel excitement right to your phone. For fans who want to dive even deeper into stadium culture, our YouTube channel is an absolute goldmine. We have built a massive stockpile of podcast media that you simply will not find anywhere else. You can spend hours watching and listening as our team breaks down the nuances of different venues, debates the best road trip itineraries, and explores the rich history behind the buildings we love. It is the perfect companion for your next stadium journey. Of course, the conversation never stops on our Facebook, Threads, Bluesky, and X (Twitter) pages. Those platforms serve as the ultimate hub for our community of passionate sports travelers to share their own photos, debate our latest venue ratings, and stay completely up to date on breaking stadium news. We are everywhere you are. Join us and other fans who already follow us and make sure you never miss a moment of the action: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StadiumJourney X (Twitter): https://x.com/StadiumJourney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stadiumjourney/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@stadiumjourney Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/stadiumjourney.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd1hdI-H_OTn2Y7btzmVZeA TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stadiumjourney

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Maryland SoccerPlex 18031 Central Park Circle Boyds, MD 20841 Bethesda SC website Maryland SoccerPlex website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 4,000 Packing the 'Plex for Bethesda SC Bethesda SC is one of the newest teams in USL League Two, having just joined for the 2026 season. This semi-professional league is part of the fourth division of American soccer and features mostly current and recent college players. Despite the name, Bethesda SC does not play their home games in Bethesda, Maryland, but half an hour away at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Gaithersburg (although it has a Boyds address.) The confusion stems from the fact that the Bethesda SC USL-2 team is associated with the larger Bethesda SC soccer program, which includes many youth teams of various ages, which many of the USL-2 players played for at one point. Most of the organization's training facilities are indeed located in Bethesda, but the USL-2 team required a larger facility to host their games, opting to play at the SoccerPlex. The Maryland SoccerPlex consists of many fields used by local teams, with Bethesda SC playing on the stadium field, also known as Maureen Hendricks Field. On your way in, you will likely see many youth soccer games going on on the back fields. Food & Beverage 3 Although the concession situation at a Bethesda SC game is somewhat haphazard, there are several options to choose from. The team operates a concession stand from a folding table in front of a box truck by the entrance,, selling basic snack items such as candy, chips, and pretzels (of the bagged variety, not the soft and hot kind), as well as bottled water, soda, and Gatorade. Michelob Ultra Zero Alcohol Beer is also available. Additionally, Bethesda SC partners with local vendor El Jefe Wood-Fired pizza to sell their food at games. You can order a pizza and it will be made in their own wood-fired oven while you wait. (For those unfamiliar with wood-fired pizza, the oven is very hot and it cooks very quickly, so even though it's made to order, it should only take a few minutes.) The team's concession items only cost a few dollars, while El Jefe is more expensive but worth the cost. Atmosphere 4 The Maryland SoccerPlex has bleacher seats on both sides of the field, but only the east side (the side you come in on, opposite the press box) is open for Bethesda SC games. With the the small size of the crowds, they want to keep everyone on one side to improve both the energy in the building and the appearance on camera. It certainly does improve the atmosphere to keep the crowd together, but the problem is that fans are looking into the setting sun for a significant portion of evening games. None of the bleachers have backs except the top row, and all seats are general admission. A scoreboard in the far right corner had a space to show the shots for each team, although it was not updated when we visited. It also is capable of showing video and other graphics, although it typically just shows ads for the team's sponsors. Bethesda SC puts on a good effort to keep the fans in the game, ranging from pregame giveaways to halftime t-shirt tosses and more. At the 80-minute mark, the PA announcer will encourage the fans to make some noise and urge on the team in the final stretch, and they will respond with applause and cheers. Neighborhood 2 The Maryland SoccerPlex is located in Gaithersburg, about half an hour outside Washington, D.C. It is located in a sprawling complex in a residential area, and there is absolutely nothing within walking distance. Fans will have to drive several miles back towards I-270 before they will find anything useful. There are a number of shopping centers located on Maryland Route 118 once you get close to the interstate that contains mostly chain restaurants, but these are several miles away. If you’re looking for a more natural setting, Hoyles Mill Conservation Park is located just north of the Plex and offers scenic hiking trails and beautiful green space. Fans 4 Although Bethesda SC fans do not come close to filling even the half of the stadium that is open for their games, they do draw pretty good crowds for this level of play, with several hundred showing up on a typical day. Those in attendance get loud at times, with many wearing Bethesda SC jerseys or other gear and a few even bringing team flags and waving them during the match. Those in attendance range from season ticket holders deeply knowledgeable about the players to families with young children who just want a chance to see some soccer. Many of the kids in attendance participate in Bethesda SC's youth soccer programs and hope for a chance to someday play at a higher level, maybe even on this very field. Access 3 Getting to the SoccerPlex by car is relatively easy – take exit 15B off of I-270 and proceed for several miles to the stadium. You will then head all the way to the back of the complex and follow the signs for stadium parking. Your best bet is to park on the lot on the east side of the stadium, which will be off to your right before you pass the stadium itself. The entrance used for Bethesda SC games is on this side, as are all the seats and vendors. In the unlikely event that lot fills up, there are numerous other lots in the complex. How full it gets will depend on what is happening on the other fields that day - evening games will typically be less crowded, and if it is raining or was earlier in the day, that may have resulted in some back field games being canceled and more parking being available. (Bethesda SC will play rain or shine but delay the game if there's lightning in the area.) Restrooms are located on the opposite side of the stadium from the bleachers, and you will have to walk halfway around to get there. That being said, we heard a staff member mention that fans who have a medical reason they need to be close to the restrooms can walk around the barricades and sit on the west side, where they will have easy access. Getting out of the Plex after the game is usually easy, unless a lot of events on other fields let out at the same time in which case traffic can be quite backed up. Return on Investment 5 General admission tickets to Bethesda SC games are just $10 each plus about a dollar of fees. Parking is free and concessions are affordable. Overall, a Bethesda SC game is an outstanding value for soccer. Extras 3 Look for the team store on the concourse under a tent selling Bethesda SC merchandise. A second star for the halftime t-shirt toss, a rarity at this level. After the game, kids in attendance can participate in a Meet the Team and autograph session with the players. Final Thoughts Bethesda SC brings an outstanding soccer experience to fans in Montgomery County. From the moment you walk into the stadium until after the final whistle, you will find an outstanding atmosphere at affordable prices. These lower division soccer games can be hidden gems if you know where to look, and Bethesda SC shows why that is the case.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Stony Brook Field 384 Underpass Rd Brewster, MA 02631 Brewster Whitecaps website Stony Brook Field website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 1,000 Whitecaps on the Cape The Brewster Whitecaps are one of two expansion teams that joined the Cape Cod Baseball League in 1988. They originally played their home games at a field located at Cape Cod Regional Technical High School. There was one problem with this field-it was located in neighboring Harwich, not Brewster. The solution-build a field within town limits. The town of Brewster chose a site adjacent to the Stony Brook Elementary School, one of two elementary schools in the town, which serves students from kindergarten through second grade. The Whitecaps have won three championships during their time in the Cape League (2000, 2017, 2021). Since their inception, over 100 Whitecaps alumni have gone on to play in the Major Leagues, including Sean Casey, Chase Utley, Ryan Braun, Aaron Judge and Billy Wagner. Food and Beverage 3 Nauset Dining Services operates a concession stand at the top of the hill overlooking Stony Brook Field. For a small stand, an impressive variety of food options are offered. In addition to the standard hot dogs and hamburgers, ballpark staples such as sausage and pepper sandwiches, pizza slices and nachos are sold. Shou you be looking for an alternative item, Veggie burgers are available. An impressive amount of candy, ice cream treats and gourmet popcorn round out the menu. Thirsty Whitecap fans can select from cans of Coca-Cola products. Alcohol is not sold at Stony Brook Field. For something different, try the concession stand’s specialty item, “The Closer,” a grilled donut stuffed with French vanilla ice cream and rolled in chocolate sprinkles. Atmosphere 3 The Cape League is well known for its old-timey, traditional game day experience. As is the case at all Cape Cod League ballparks, there is little going on at a Whitecaps game to distract from the action on the field. Much of the noise and distraction present at most minor league ballparks just isn’t found here. The Cape League is a baseball purists’ dream. This is one of three Cape League ballparks that does not even have lights for night games. The PA announcer is a bit theatrical in his delivery, which can be a distraction to some, while amusing to others. Music plays between innings over a substandard sound system (hopefully this is next on the to-do list). A simple scoreboard displays basic game information. Whitecaps players and interns roam the facility selling 50/50 raffle tickets, which not only reward the winner with a cash prize, but offer an array of prizes from local sponsors. The team now has a mascot, Cappy, who roams the crowd posing for pictures. Stony Brook Field has a playground behind it, which makes perfect sense considering its location at an elementary school. It gives kids who may be getting bored with the game somewhere to blow off steam. Part of the recent renovations to the facility updated and expanded the playground area. As with most Cape League games, a large portion of the younger crowd spends their time chasing foul balls. If one lands near you, watch out for the oncoming horde. Playground at Stony Brook Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 Brewster is a small town with a population of under 10,000 year-round residents known for its beaches, golf resorts and spas. During the summer the town’s population swells to about 20,000. The first water-powered grist and wool mill in the country was built here (on Stony Brook) in the late 17th century. Brewster is a laid back, quiet place to be, even in summer. Stony Brook Field is located next to the elementary school that shares its name. Within a mile is Route 6A, also known as Main Street. Along this road are several excellent clam shacks mixed in among some bed and breakfasts, antique shops and art galleries. If visiting the area looking to eat creatures from the Cape’s local waters, Stadium Journey recommends J.T’s Seafood Restaurant and Cobie’s, both close to the ball field. Some of the Cape’s most prestigious lodging options are located on the town’s beaches, including The Mansion at Ocean Edge, Captain Freeman Inn and Brewster by the Sea Inn. Fans 4 Brewster usually ranks in the middle of the pack among Cape Cod League games in terms of attendance, averaging in the range of 1,200 fans per game. Crowds are much smaller in June than during the peak tourist months of July and August, so if you are looking to avoid the large crowds, come early in the season. Fans at Whitecaps games mirror those elsewhere in the league, with a mix of locals, families, and tourists in attendance. Fans who come to the games generally have some sort of connection with the team, as house parents, boosters, or volunteers, so they are very knowledgeable and passionate about the action taking place on the field. It makes for a very enjoyable atmosphere. Approaching Stony Brook Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Stony Brook Field is located adjacent to the elementary school that shares its name. The school is close to route 6A, the main drag in Brewster. If coming to Brewster from off Cape, you will follow route 6 for over a half hour to route 137, and follow to Underpass Road (or “Underpants Road”, as the Stony Brook students call it). The CERTA flex bus route travels up route 137, but it is a long walk to the ballpark. Driving is the preferred and most effective method for getting to Stony Brook Field. There is ample parking at Stony Brook School. Even though some spots are a decent walk to the field, there is a Whitecaps staffer who shuttles fans from their cars to the field via a golf cart. Perhaps the most noticeable difference in Stony Brook Field if you haven’t been here in a while are the seating options. A new, large section of bleachers have been installed on the home (third) base side of the field. Several smaller sets of bleachers are lined up along both foul lines. There is a picnic area further down the right field line. The hills along the first base side of the field near the school and the small hill on the first base side of the field remain popular spots for fans who like to bring their own chairs and take in the action from higher ground. Some fans will take the walk out to the hill in centerfield, dubbed “Cappy’s Pavilion” and take in the action from there. If you want to avoid having the sun in your eyes later in the game, you’ll want to choose seats on the third base side of Stony Brook Field. There are bathrooms located in the elementary school located atop the hill on the first base side. Several port-a-johns are also scattered around the facility. Return on Investment 5 As is the case with all Cape Cod League ballparks, there is no charge for admission at a Whitecaps game. The team asks for a “suggested donation” of four dollars in exchange for a program and roster. Parking is also free. Fans are able to bring in their own refreshments, making it possible to watch the highest level of collegiate baseball in the country without spending a single cent. If you choose to purchase food at the game, the prices are very affordable. Whitecaps Team Store at Stony Brook Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 3 The Brewster Whitecaps do not offer a whole lot of bells and whistles in their game day presentation. As is the case throughout the Cape League, the game is the focus here. The free program is a plus, as is the extensive 50/50 raffle which offers many prizes from sponsors in addition to the opportunity to take home half the money raised. Visiting Whitecaps alumni and families who travel to the Cape are recognized throughout the game, a nice touch that adds to the small-town, family atmosphere here at Brewster. In 2025 over 400 Cape Cod alumni played in the Major Leagues. This factors out to one out of every six players to suit up in the majors last year. The Cape Cod League is without a doubt the premier summer collegiate league in the country. All ten teams in the circuit are located within two hours of each other, meaning you can spend a week seeing future Major Leaguers compete up close for free in one of the top tourist destinations in the nation. It’s an epic Stadium Journey. Final Thoughts The renovations to Stony Brook Field that have taken place over the past few years have served to both enhance and detract from the game day experience, if that makes sense. New bleachers and new amenities are certainly a plus, but enclosing the field in thick chain link fence has ruined the intimacy this field enjoyed, and has destroyed sight lines from many vantage points from around the facility. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Kinsmen Arena @ Kitchener Memorial Auditorium 400 East Avenue Kitchener, ON N2H 1ZY Kitchener Kodiaks website Kitchener Memorial Auditorium website Year Opened: 1987 Capacity: 1,607 Rebranded Bear In 2026 a re-energizing of junior lacrosse in Kitchener took place. Founded in 1967, the Kitchener-Waterloo Braves were the local representation of lacrosse at the Junior B level. The Braves won the Founders Cup in 1974 and 1988 as Junior B Champions in Ontario. The Braves had a short stint in Junior A from 1976 to 1981 and returned permanently to Junior A in 1991. With a shift away from indigenous names across all sports, the Braves rebranded to the hideous Kitchener-Waterloo Junior A Lacrosse Club in 2020. There was very little success in KW during this period, disappointing considering the legendary lacrosse talent that went through the program over the years. With the 2026 season, a significant influx in talent has happened in Kitchener to go along with a significant rebrand. The Kitchener Kodiaks are a not-for-profit organization under the auspices of the Kitchener-Waterloo Minor Lacrosse Association. With the new identity the Kodiaks at the OJLL level, are in line with KWMLA branding at lower levels. Home for the Kodiaks is the Kinsmen Arena. Part of the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium, the Kinsmen Arena offers a more intimate atmosphere with a modest capacity of just over 1,600 with some standing room availability. Although The Aud itself opened in 1950, the Kinsmen Arena is much newer and opened in 1987. Paired with the Kiwanis Arena and known locally as the “Twin Pads,” Kinsmen Arena draws its name from the local charity and part of the Kin Canada organization. Although the Kodiaks have bounced around over the years in different locations, Kinsmen offers a solid venue, the perfect size, for the local version of the fastest game on two feet. Food & Beverage 2 Concessions at Kinsmen Arena are very simple. There is a cart present at games where fans can purchase light refreshments including soda, Gatorade, water and a few different varieties of canned beer. Chocolate bars are also available. Normal concessions that would service the Aud for bigger events are not usually running during the summer months when lacrosse is happening. Atmosphere 2 The Kitchener Kodiaks play at the venerable Kitchener Memorial Auditorium, which is also the home to the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League. Rather than playing in the iconic Dom Cardillo Arena, lacrosse is found at the Kinsmen Arena, a much newer and smaller arena in The Aud complex. The arena is not over the top and is fairly simple. Fans will enter the indoor portion of the complex from the Eugene George Way, side of the arena as opposed to the main arena off of East Avenue. The exterior of the building is attractive enough with light coloured brick and an LED ribbon to advertise events. The breezeway from this entrance leads past the main box office, past the memorial dedication plaque and Kraut Line display to the twin pads. A temporary table is set up just outside Kinsmen Arena for scanning tickets. Home to hockey at various levels in the winter months, the ice comes out during lacrosse season and the Kodiaks find a solid home for the summer. Kinsmen is located at the northeast portion of the complex buildings. It features a simple, low ceiling and light coloured walls, essentially lacking much in the way of colour. The floor surface runs from west to east, with all of the seating on the south side. Four sections of benches which surround a centre section of traditional arena seats make up the seating area and there is plenty of standing room in the east and west corners and behind the seating area. A simple hockey scoreboard is found hanging in the northeast corner of the arena. The interior of the arena is bland with nothing to even notify fans that the Kodiaks play there. No banners. No markings. The opportunity to showcase some of the history of the team would be great and give fans a better sense of the longevity of the team. In the summer months, the Kinsmen Arena does not have the greatest ventilation. Depending on the weather outside, Kinsmen can be stuffy, on the hot side, and even a bit smelly. The gameday production at a Kodiaks game is very simple. The concrete floor, as opposed to green carpet, offers a different experience from the pro game. The squeaking sneakers, similar to that of a basketball game, create a different feel and when players hit the ground, they tend to slide, unlike the game on the carpet. There is no music during the play giving fans the opportunity to hear the sounds of the game. The smaller venue gives fans a closer perspective to the game and a better sense of just how fast and tough box lacrosse can really be. Some basic music is played before the game and during intermissions as well as for goals. The PA announcer does a decent job of conveying information to the fans, however the speaker system has much to be desired and most announcements are lost to poor speakers and poor acoustics. Neighbourhood 3 The Aud is located in the Auditorium neighbourhood, just east of Downtown Kitchener. For the most part, the Aud is a community arena. There are almost no pre and postgame meal options within walking distance. Fans could hike up Ottawa Street to the Tim Horton's or Dairy Queen. Strykerz Kitchen and Bar in the same plaza may be an option, but it is pretty small. The best bet would be to head downtown or take the highway out to Sportsworld. Downtown, fans might want to try The Grand Trunk Saloon, TWH Social, Bobby O'Brien’s or McCabe’s. Out by Sportsworld Moose Winooski's or Borealis are the choices. For a truly genuine Kitchener experience, fans should look into eating a pre-game meal at the Concordia Club or The Metro. Kitchener celebrates the largest Bavarian festival outside of Germany in Oktoberfest. Other sporting options locally would have to begin with the headline Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League, who play in the Dom Cardillo Arena on the other side of the hall. The KW Titans of the BSL also play here in the winter. When the nicer weather hits, then the Kitchener Panthers can be found on the other side of the parking lot at Jack Couch Ball Park. Other sporting options include hopping over to Kitchener’s twin city, Waterloo to catch some local university action. The Waterloo Warriors call the PAC home to basketball, Warrior Field home to football and Columbia IceField home to hockey. The Laurier Golden Hawks play their football games at Knight-Newbrough Field at University Stadium, their hockey games at Sun Life Financial Arena at Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex, and their basketball games at WLU Athletic Complex. Other tourist options include The Museum, Ken Seling Waterloo Region Museum, Bingeman Park and Joseph Schneider Haus. Kitchener-Waterloo is most well known for Oktoberfest, which takes place starting with Canadian Thanksgiving weekend. Fans who are staying in town overnight should head downtown. The Walper Hotel and Crowne Plaza Kitchener-Waterloo are good selections. Fans 3 Fans are difficult to assess in the OJLL as attendance figures are not reported. An anecdotal observation shows that support for the Kodiaks has increased with a better showing in the win column for the 2026 season. There is still plenty of space to move about, however, it feels a bit more like an event than in previous seasons. Access 5 The Aud is located in the Auditorium District, which is east of Downtown Kitchener. Getting to The Aud is not difficult. It is immediately west of Highway 7, which is the main artery through Kitchener. There is plenty of parking on both the north and south sides of the complex, which should be entered from Ottawa Street or Stirling Avenue. For fans wishing to take public transit to the lacrosse game, there are buses that travel both Ottawa and Weber Streets. The light rail Ion train is a fair hike from the nearest station, so that may not be the best option. Fans should check out the Grand River Transit website for maps, fares and schedules. Getting around the Kinsmen Arena is no issue at all as the building is not packed and there are not a ton of concession options. Fans with mobility issues are better served in the Kinsmen Arena than the Dom Cardillo Arena as there is not the main staircase to ascend in the Kinsmen. Washroom facilities for Kinsmen Arena are adequate for the event. Return on Investment 4 The Kitchener Kodiaks are now part of the Auditorium ticketing system. Tickets now must be scanned as they are for major events. This means that tickets are now available online beforehand. Unfortunately, with this change has come an increase in price. Still very affordable, adult tickets now cost $16 with student and senior tickets going for $12.50. Parking is free and concession prices are decent. Overall, fans will have a good time at the Kodiaks game and not have to shell out a significant amount of money. Extras 2 An extra mark for the Kitchener Kodiaks rebrand. A refreshing change for the branding of a franchise with significant longevity, one of the oldest clubs in the OJLL. An extra mark for the alumni that have gone through the Kitchener program on to the National Lacrosse League. Such NLL legends as Colin Doyle, Dhane Smith, Aaron Wilson, Ryan Benesch and Steve “Chugger” Dietrich all played under the original Braves moniker in Kitchener-Waterloo. Final Thoughts The fresh identity for the Kitchener Kodiaks has breathed new life into the longtime OJLL franchise. The Kodiaks are hoping to build on their new look to attract a stronger audience and help them climb the standings in a league where success in the Twin Cities has been fleeting. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Fitch High School Field 101 Groton Long Point Road Groton, CT 06340 Mystic Schooners website Fitch High School website Year Opened: 1954 Capacity: 1,000 Into The Mystic The Mystic Schooners are one of the two oldest franchises in the New England Collegiate Baseball League. The franchise has played in Willimantic, CT, Pittsfield, MA, and Bristol, MA before settling in southeast Connecticut in 2011. While playing in Mystic, the team has won one NECBL championship, in 2016. The Schooners have played their home games at the baseball field at Fitch High School in neighboring Groton since moving to southeastern Connecticut, with the exception of two seasons. For the 2022 and 2023 seasons, the Schooners played at Dodd Stadium in Norwich, which proved to be unsuccessful due to competition for dates with the Norwich Sea Unicorns of the Futures League and distance from their home fans. The team moved back to Groton for the 2024 season. Ed Harvey graduated from Fitch High School in 1969 and became the school’s baseball coach in 1979. He was the team’s coach for 27 years, winning 440 games. Ed’s son, Matt, was drafted by the Mets and pitched in the Major Leagues for nine seasons. The field was dedicated in Harvey’s honor on May 8, 2025. The original Fitch High School was built in 1928 next to Groton’s Town Hall and was funded by the will of a local merchant, Charles Fitch, with the stipulation that it be named after his son, Robert E. Fitch. By the 1950s enrollment became too large for the facility to handle, so the school district built a new school in its current location. The schools were named Robert E. Fitch Junior and Senior High School. Food & Beverage 2 There is a table set up in deep right field by the entrance to Ed Harvey Field which serves up snacks for visiting Schooner fans. There isn’t much to the menu here, but if you need a drink or a snack while you’re here, you’ll find something to tide you over. There are hot dogs, assorted candy treats, and cold drinks sold at the concession table here. Unfortunately, you won’t find any of the excellent Schooner Beverages sold here (more on them in the extras section). The Schooners also sell team merchandise here. Your basic hats, t-shirts and sweatshirts are available, as well as the new “City Connect” shirsey, which debuted in 2026. This was a big seller at the game Stadium Journey attended. This author may have even picked one up himself. Atmosphere 2 The game day atmosphere at Ed Harvey Field is a pretty bare bones one. This basic ballpark just does not possess the infrastructure to create an intricate experience. Still, the Schooners staff does the best they can with the tools at hand. Music plays between innings over an excellent sound system. The PA announcer keeps things moving with a professional delivery, and the Schooners staff make the rounds of the stands selling 50/50 raffle tickets. There’s a simple scoreboard in right field that displays basic game information. Harvey Field is one of those small-town ballparks where you can feel comfortable talking to your neighbors in the bleachers, even if you just met them, and where you can feel safe even when sporting the opposing colors. There is plenty of room for younger fans to play catch and chase foul balls around the grounds. Delivering a Pitch at Harvey Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing in the immediate area of Robert E. Fitch High School to attract visiting baseball fans, but given the school’s location just off Route One and Interstate 95, the many summer attractions of Mystic and Groton are within a 15-minute drive of the ball field. Mystic is a popular summer destination which offers a mix of maritime history, scenic waterfronts and family attractions. Among the most popular destinations here are the Mystic Aquarium, the Mystic Seaport Museum and Olde Mistick Village. For more information on attractions, lodging options and dining choices in the area, check out the This Is Mystic website. Groton is known for its Naval Base and submarine making history. Some attractions here are the USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum and Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park. Fans looking for the closest options to Ed Harvey Field may want to look up the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa or the Hampton Inn Groton for lodging, or if looking for some local flavor, Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough and Costello’s Clam Shack are located nearby. Fans 2 Mystic draws what we at Stadium Journey like to call “friends and family” crowds to Ed Harvey Field. What we mean by that is it seems that virtually every person in the stands has a personal connection with the players on the field. As a result, the fans are very knowledgeable, supportive, and invested in the success of the home nine. Stadium Journey’s most recent visit to Mystic took place on the Fourth of July with some serious storm clouds on the horizon. Still, there were about 100 fans in attendance. This appears to be a smallish crowd for the Schooners, especially for a Saturday night. With the Schooners’ schedule loaded with games from nearby teams, it’s not unusual to see a good turnout from visiting fans as well. If you’re visiting Mystic from out of town, you’ll be welcomed by the home fans and staff. The bleachers at Harvey Field are a place where you can feel comfortable, have a great conversation with your neighbors, and enjoy the shared experience of some quality, affordable baseball. Driving in a run at Harvey Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Robert E. Fitch Senior High School is located in the Poquonnock Bridge neighborhood of the town of Groton. Located close to downtown and the waterfront, this residential area enjoys easy access to I-95, the major highway through the south coast of Connecticut. Route One, the major business thoroughfare in the area that runs the entire south coast of the state, runs directly to the north of the Junior/Senior high school complex. The ball field is located behind the high school. Ample parking is located just beyond the centerfield fence, as well as a little farther from the field adjacent to the school’s other athletic facilities. Seating consists of a large set of metal bleachers that runs along the third base side of the field. Many fans will set up their own chairs atop the hill beyond centerfield and take in the action from there. Despite the fact that there is no fan access to the first base or right field areas of the field, there is plenty of room for fans to roam and take in the action from different spots. There are no permanent restroom facilities at Harvey Field. There are a few port-a-johns set up for fans to use. Lines are not an issue here, or at the concession stand. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for admission to a Schooners game. Parking is also free of charge in the lot located beyond centerfield. If you plan to stay in your car, be aware that your headlights may distract the players, and you may be admonished over the PA to turn off your lights. Even worse, you may find yourself the subject of angry stares from every person and player at the game. Very embarrassing… Concessions are inexpensive, making a trip to see the Schooners play a very inexpensive entertainment option for southeastern Connecticut sports fans. Schooners Players and Interns Sell 50/50 Tickets at Harvey Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 The Schooners have their own beverage company, Schooners Beverages, proceeds from which go to funding operations of the team. Unfortunately, the beverages were not available at the game attended by Stadium Journey, but they have been in the past. Check out the Schooners Beverages website for more information. Final Thoughts Ed Harvey Field is one of those small-town ball fields that make Stadium Journeys so worthwhile. Placing a team in the summer tourist destination of Mystic was a masterstroke by the NECBL. It’s unfortunate that there isn’t a better facility closer to the town’s many attractions for the Schooners. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

A Stadium Journey writer never rests. Well... that is not true at all, but no matter where the road takes us on vacation, the magnetic pull of a local sports venue is impossible to resist. During my recent summer trip through Western New York, the itinerary was mostly focused on sightseeing and enjoying the local culture (and a non-business trip to see the Buffalo Bisons). However, true to form, I found myself scanning the map for nearby facilities. It is practically a rule that I have to find a way to step inside a stadium or arena wherever we travel, to get a feel for the fan experience and the architectural layout. Our home base for this leg of the trip was the Richardson Hotel, an incredibly cool and historically rich property. Housed in the monumental Richardson Olmsted Campus, a former 19th-century state asylum known for its stunning Romanesque architecture and striking twin towers, the hotel offered a uniquely atmospheric stay. And likely some ghosts. Even better, it sits comfortably within walking distance of the Buffalo State University campus. With the Buffalo State Sports Arena located just a short stroll away from our unique accommodations, it felt like the perfect opportunity to see what was happening on campus. As luck would have it, the arena wasn't empty for the summer; it was bustling with the energy of the annual American Jump Rope National Championship. We walked over to the arena and were thrilled to find that the doors were open to the public. For a very small fee ($10 for a daily pass and a $20 full event pass also available), we were able to purchase spectator passes and make our way inside to catch the action. It was a pleasant surprise to stumble into a national-level competition taking place right in "our" neighborhood. Once inside, the setup was distinctly geared toward the competitors rather than the casual fan. The seating was mainly consolidated to the bright orange bleachers on one side of the arena. Unsurprisingly, these sections were densely packed with team members, coaches, and families draped in vibrant team apparel, cheering on their respective squads. The hardwood floor itself was divided into multiple competition zones, where athletes executed incredibly fast and complex routines to music. I can't say I understood most of it, but I know that I saw some speed competition, as well as Double Dutch teamwork. While the traditional bleacher seats were dominated by the jump rope community, we quickly found our preferred vantage point. The top of the arena offered a fantastic, elevated standing-room area that provided a comprehensive view of the entire floor. Leaning against the upper railing, my wife and I had a fun, unobstructed look at the intricate events happening simultaneously below. It was a fantastic way to spend the afternoon, proving once again that a willingness to wander into an unfamiliar arena can yield unexpectedly great sports vacation encounters.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 UNO Lakefront Arena 6801 Franklin Ave. New Orleans, LA 70122 LSU New Orleans Privateers website UNO Lakefront Arena website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 8,900 Basketball on Lakeshore Editor's Note - On July 2, 2026 the University of New Orleans announced that they were transitioning into the LSU system, becoming LSU New Orleans after a $20 million transition in an attempt to attract new students. Set along the southern edge of Lake Pontchartrain, UNO Lakefront Arena has never enjoyed the spotlight of New Orleans’ better-known venues; it lacks the instant recognition of Caesars Superdome, the downtown location of Smoothie King Center, or the cultural legacy and history of some of the city’s most famous music halls. However, that anonymity hides a building with a remarkably deep list of some of the city most overlooked moments in sports and pop culture. Since opening in 1983, the octagon-shaped arena has hosted plenty of history making moments. In 1984 a young rookie named Michael Jordan scored 37 points here during his first NBA season, while Larry Bird followed with a legendary 60-point performance just months later. The arena also hosted the 1991 NCAA Women’s Final Four, where Pat Summitt won the third of her eight national championships. Add in professional wrestling, UFC, high-level tennis, major concerts, film shoots, as well as visits from presidents, Pope John Paul II, and the Dalai Lama, and UNO Lakefront Arena’s resume runs deep, including surviving Hurricane Katrina, which closed the building for more than three years. Through it all, the constant has been the University of New Orleans Privateers men’s and women’s basketball teams. Founded in 1958 as the city’s first public four-year university, UNO’s basketball program began in 1968, adopting the “Privateers” nickname as a nod to New Orleans’ maritime and pirate history, most notably Jean Lafitte. The program has made five NCAA Tournament appearances and won four conference titles, most recently in 2017. Ahead of the 2025–26 season, New Orleans native and rapper Master P joined the staff as general manager and assistant coach, injecting new life and hype into a program still rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina over 20 years ago, and once again placing UNO Lakefront Arena at the crossroads of New Orleans’ sports history. Food & Beverage 3 Food options at UNO Lakefront Arena are simple and affordable. There is one fully operational concession stand located on the west side of the arena near the main entrance, and it handles all food and beverage needs on game days. The menu sticks to the basics: catfish baskets, chicken tenders, nachos, chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage dogs, popcorn, and chips. Nothing on the menu is going to surprise you, and there are no signature New Orleans-style items that lean into the city’s culinary reputation. That said, the pricing is reasonable by modern arena standards; most food items fall between $4 and $10, making it easy to grab a meal. Beer drinkers can purchase domestic bottled beer for $9.50, while Coca-Cola is the official soft drink provider, with 20-ounce bottles priced at $4.75. What does stand out is the presentation and the way the concession stand is designed. The main concession stand is styled like a classic 1950s soda fountain, complete with vintage Dr Pepper branding and old-school counter design. It’s a cool visual touch that gives the concourse some personality and nostalgia, even if the menu itself remains straightforward. Walking the concourse you’ll see several additional concession stands scattered throughout the arena – those stands are decked out in sharp black-and-blue UNO branding, along with Bud Light and Michelob Ultra setups. Unfortunately these other stands remain closed for UNO basketball games due to limited attendance. It’s a shame, because the spaces themselves are attractive and clearly designed for a more vibrant environment. Atmosphere 3 The first thing you notice when arriving at UNO Lakefront Arena is its unmistakable shape. Much like Southeastern Louisiana’s Pride Roofing University Center up the road, this is not a typical looking arena. Instead, UNO Lakefront Arena stands out with its distinctive octagonal, almost spaceship-like design, which immediately gives it character before you even step inside. There is one main entrance on the west side of the building, reached by a winding concrete ramp that brings fans up to the doors. The exterior grounds are also well maintained, helped in part by the hundreds of palm trees that surround the facility. With Lake Pontchartrain visible in the distance, the setting provides a scenic backdrop. Once inside, the venue feels impressive for a building that has been standing for more than 40 years. The concourse wraps completely around under the seating bowl, allowing fans to circle the entire building with ease. Along the way, plenty of UNO signage, banners, and reminders of past tournament appearances help reinforce the program’s history. Even the closed concession stands blend neatly into the concourse, featuring blue-and-black exteriors that match the Privateers’ color scheme. In addition, another neat thing you’ll see if you look up at the ceiling along the concourse is a timeline of all the arena’s past events, built into the ceiling tiles – some of the tiles are even autographed by that particular performer or band. Once in the seating bowl, one feature that stands out is the facility’s low ceiling surrounding the seating bowl, with wide open space above center court. From the upper rows fans sit close enough to the roof that it almost feels within reach. This design gives the building a more intimate feel than you might expect in an 8,900-seat arena. Even with only a few hundred fans in attendance, the space avoids feeling cavernous because the seating remains tight to the floor. The interior acoustics also benefit from this layout, as sound travels extremely well throughout the building, creating a louder atmosphere than the crowd size might suggest. Every seat is also a blue chairback, and combined with the bright blue court, the entire arena is draped in UNO’s signature blue-and-black identity. Above the court banners celebrate accomplishments from both the men’s and women’s basketball programs, along with three retired numbers honoring former greats. In addition, a major new addition for the 2025-26 season is the installation of a brand-new 20-by-11-foot video board hanging above center court. The original scoreboard was damaged during Hurricane Katrina and removed, leaving the arena with only a small replay board on the side for nearly two decades. When Master P took over leadership of the program, however, he helped finance this impressive new LED videoboard, finally giving UNO Lakefront Arena a modern videoboard, complete with HD replays. Neighborhood 4 UNO Lakefront Arena is located in the Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans, away from the many tourist areas like the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. However, you can still find plenty to do nearby if you want to experience a quieter side of the city, with less traffic and more locals. Less than 100 yards behind the venue you’ll find many people fishing, boating, walking and riding bikes along the over 6 miles of paved walking trails, nestled along the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain. Make sure to check out Mardi Gras Fountain along the way, which lights up in Mardi Gras colors at night, or you can check out the remains of old Fort St. John, an abandoned Spanish controlled fort located along the lake and Bayou St. John. The New Basin lighhouse also makes for a great spot to visit and take a tour. While riding the trail you can also see some of the levees that failed New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina; getting an up-close look at these levees, which were the scene of so much destruction, is a surreal experience in itself. Another popular spot to check out in the area is City Park – if it’s a gorgeous day you can spend all day in one of the largest public parks in the U.S., and the 20th-most visited park in the country. There’s so much to do here: two regular golf courses, a disc golf course, multiple stadiums, and miles of trails that flow through the bayous and lagoons that make up City Park. Also, inside the park there’s the Museum of Art and the beautiful outdoor sculpture garden. If you have kids or are visiting family, you might want to check out Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Storyland, a small amusement park with roller coasters and a few carnival rides. You can take a gondola ride or a duck boat ride through the lagoons, and there is also access to Bayou St. John, which is the main tributary through the city. The bayou is a popular spot for kayakers and people canoeing during the summer months. You can also hop on the streetcar in City Park and go to the French Quarter, Uptown, or anywhere else in the city. Another cool attraction to check out in Gentilly is Fairgrounds Race Course, the second-oldest horse racing track in the country. If you come to a game at UNO Lakefront Arena on the weekend, then there is a good chance that horse racing will be going on at the Fairgrounds. Or, for restaurants near UNO’s campus you’ll find plenty of local spots and dives that aren’t as well-known as some of the French Quarter institutions. Some of my favorites include Opelousas Seafood, The Original Fiorella’s Cafe, and Walker’s BBQ, famous for its BBQ po’boys, while closer to the horse track and City Park you’ll find plenty of other favorites like Parkway Tavern, Liuzza’s at the Track, Cafe Degas, and Seahorse Saloon. City Park also has a Cafe du Monde location, which is a lot quieter and less crowded than the chain’s more popular French Quarter location. Fans 2 With Master P stepping into the program in 2025 as general manager and assistant coach, the Privateers have gained a level of exposure and energy that the once-struggling program had not seen in years. Attendance during the most recent season hovered just under 1,000 fans per game. While that number may seem low on paper, it represents a noticeable improvement compared to the post-Katrina years, when the program’s future was uncertain and there was even talk of dropping UNO athletics down to Division III. The fans who do show up, however, are fully invested. Because many UNO graduates remain in the New Orleans metro area after college, the crowd tends to lean heavily toward alumni rather than current students – even in smaller numbers, these fans bring real passion and familiarity with the program. The game presentation also helps keep the atmosphere lively. The Privateers cheerleading squad does a strong job engaging the audience, while Captain Bruno, the school’s pirate mascot, works the aisles to keep energy high throughout the night. Adding to the local flavor, UNO also embraces its New Orleans identity with a soundtrack that feels true to the city. Expect plenty of bounce music, along with artists like Lil Wayne, Big Tymers, and naturally, a steady dose of Master P echoing throughout the arena. Access 3 UNO Lakefront Arena is located on the north side of the city, away from most of the tourist sites in New Orleans like the French Quarter. There are several ways to get here, but the best and safest way would be to take the Franklin Ave or Elysian Fields exits off Interstate 610, then travel north for about three miles and you’ll see UNO Lakefront Arena straight ahead. Your GPS may advise you to go through some of the rough areas in New Orleans East to get to campus, but I would not take that route, especially at night. Also do not take the Chef Blvd or Morrison Road exits off the Interstate, unless you are absolutely familiar with the vibes of the city. Once on the grounds you will find plenty of parking surrounding the arena; the only issue is most of the parking is in a large grass lot, which may get muddy after heavy rain. The best part, however, is that parking is free, and once inside the facility you can walk around the entire building and sit anywhere you want – as there won’t be a big crowd, there is plenty of room to spread out and walk around. The venue also has excellent sightlines, except for the upper rows, which may have views obstructed by the low ceilings. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to UNO basketball games are usually easy to come by, since UNO Lakefront Arena rarely sells out. Honestly, the best option is to just buy them in person at the box office. General admission tickets are only $10 there, while on the secondary market you can sometimes end up paying $20 or more, especially for bigger conference matchups. One of the nicest surprises about attending a game here, though, is that parking is completely free. When you pull up to the arena, parking attendants are out directing cars into a huge open lot, so it’s simple to find a spot, and you don’t have to worry about getting boxed in. Also again, there is no charge for parking at all. Concessions here are solid, even if there aren’t any signature New Orleans-style menu items. The setup does have a cool old-school charm though, with a classic soda fountain feel that stands out compared to most modern arenas. For a lot of fans, a lower-level game with fewer than 1,000 people in the stands might not feel like a must-see event, but if you’re someone like me who enjoys visiting historic venues in a city as iconic as New Orleans, there’s still something memorable about the experience. It’s probably the most iconic building in the Southland Conference, when it comes to legendary figures who’ve played here and the iconic events the venue has hosted. Extras 4 One extra for rapper Master P taking over the program as the general manager/assistant coach. Not only did he help finance the new videoboard ahead of the 2025–26 season, but he also remains an active presence on game nights, sitting courtside with the team. Before tip-off, Master P also often takes time to meet with fans and pose for photos. His involvement has made him a true ambassador for both New Orleans and UNO basketball. The New Orleans Privateers have had seven players selected in the NBA Draft, with eight former UNO players appearing in NBA games. The most recent draft pick was Michael McDonald, taken in the second round by the Golden State Warriors in 1995. The program’s most famous NBA alum, however, is Ervin Johnson, a 1993 first-round pick who played 13 seasons in the league and has his jersey retired at UNO Lakefront Arena. Another major bonus of UNO Lakefront Arena is the sheer variety of events it has hosted over the decades; as mentioned earlier, this venue carries a truly storied history. It served as a temporary home for the Atlanta Hawks during the 1984–85 season, welcoming NBA legends such as Michael Jordan, John Stockton, and Larry Bird, who famously scored 60 points on this very court. The arena has also played host to major championship moments, including the 1991 Women’s Final Four, won by Pat Summitt’s Tennessee Volunteers. The facility also hosted the Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament in 2002 and again from 2012 through 2019, along with UFC events, professional wrestling cards, and countless concerts from some of the biggest touring acts in the world. The venue was also the setting for the fictional Spinal Tap reunion concert in the 2025 Rob Reiner movie, This is Spinal Tap II. Beyond sports and entertainment, UNO Lakefront Arena has also been a gathering place for historic public events. The Dalai Lama has spoken here, and more than 100,000 people filled the grounds outside during a mass led by Pope John Paul II. Over the years, it has also welcomed numerous presidential candidates and political figures. To truly grasp the arena’s legacy, take a walk around the concourse and look up at the ceiling tiles, to see a unique timeline showcasing just how many iconic events have passed through this building. And of course, an extra point goes to the arena’s remarkable recovery after Hurricane Katrina devastated the facility in 2005, forcing it to remain closed for more than three years. More than $25 million was invested in renovations and repairs, ensuring UNO Lakefront Arena would return stronger than ever, and continue hosting UNO basketball and many other major events for decades to come.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Maestri Field 6801 Franklin Ave New Orleans, LA 70122 LSU New Orleans Privateers website Maestri Field website Year Opened: 1977 Capacity: 2,900 Miracle on the Lakeshore Editor's Note - On July 2, 2026 the University of New Orleans announced that they were transitioning into the LSU system, becoming LSU New Orleans after a $20 million transition in an attempt to attract new students. The University of New Orleans was built on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain using the property and buildings of the former Naval Air Station New Orleans. Originally called LSU-New Orleans, it welcomed its first students in 1958 – in 1974 it officially became the University of New Orleans. Over the years it grew in size, and today represents the city as the only public college In New Orleans. The Privateer baseball program began as a D2 program in 1970; the legendary Ron Maestri took over as head coach two years later, bringing a new era to the UNO program. Under his guidance the school made an appearance in the Division 2 World Series before transitioning to Division 1 the next year, joining the Sun Belt Conference in 1976, and winning two Conference titles in 1978 and 1979. The Privateers would be a powerhouse in the early in 1980s, and in 1984 UNO made history as the first college from Louisiana to make it to the College World Series. UNO even produced a Golden Spikes Award Winner in Augie Schmidt, as the best college baseball player in the country. UNO has faced several challenges in recent years, mainly to the Covid pandemic, but also the college never really recovered from Hurricane Katrina – the current enrollment is 5,400 students compared to the average of 15,000 students pre-Katrina. After Katrina there was talk of moving the athletics program back to D2, but ultimately the school stayed in Division 1 and joined the Southland Conference in 2014. Coach Maestri came out of retirement in 2014 after a 28-year coaching absence, coaching for 2 years before retiring again. Current Angels skipper Ron Washington was his assistant coach in 2015. Food and Beverage 3 There is one concession stand located on the plaza at the front entrance; hamburgers, nachos, hot dogs, popcorn, and a unique item of Frito chili pie round out the menu. At Maestri Field you will find some of the cheapest concession prices in all of D1 baseball, with prices for most items ranging between $3 and $7. Bottled sodas are $5 with Coca-Cola being the official soft drink provider of UNO. Alcohol is priced kind of high, with canned beer selling for $10 – the beers offered are Michelob Ultra, Bud Light, Stella Artois, and Cutwater canned cocktails. A few local beers offered include Holy Roller and Paradise Park IPA, brewed by Urban South Brewery, which is located in New Orlean’s Lower Garden District. Atmosphere 4 Coach Maestri is the namesake of beautiful Maestri Field at Privateer Park, which opened in 1977. The stadium sits about a mile east of campus, a part of the university sports complex that includes all the school’s athletic facilities – on the grounds around the park you will find the tennis and beach volleyball courts, as well as UNO Lakefront Arena, home of the school’s basketball program, which looms over the field from behind home plate. Maestri Field has been renovated several times since Katrina, with the most recent being in 2014, so this is basically a 10-year-old ballpark. The main entrance is behind home plate, where you will walk under an iron gate welcoming you to Privateer Park. Gayle and Tom Benson Plaza at the main entrance doubles as the concourse, named after the late Saints/Pelicans owner and his wife. There is a pop-up trailer to the left, where you will purchase your tickets and buy a good selection of UNO merch; in the trailer you’ll also find the one concession stand, as well as a neat history display dedicated to the program. All the school’s regional appearances, conference championships, All-Americans, and the 16 former players who have gone on to play in the Major Leagues, are recognized in the display. The UNO colors of blue and white are everywhere, from the signage in Benson Plaza to the outfield wall pads and chairback seating. The main grandstand features seating for about 800 people, and extends from home plate to the dugouts; every seat in the grandstand behind home plate is a blue chairback. The good news is the seats are comfortable, with cupholders and plenty of leg room, while the bad news is that nothing in the ballpark is covered, so there is nowhere to get shade. Down the right and left field lines is metal bleacher seating for a couple of hundred, and also down the left field line is a tent with a full spread of buffet-style food items for season ticket holders. Note that if you sit in the left field side bleachers your view of home plate may be obstructed by the tent. The field dimensions are 330-405-330, and along the outfield wall you’ll find a basic blue wall pad with just a few local sponsors, while in left field there is a large scoreboard with a small videoboard. Beyond the outfield you’ll find several hills, which are actually ridges that are part of the levee system that helps protect New Orleans from constant flooding. Neighborhood 3 The UNO campus and athletic facilities are located in the Gentilly neighborhood of the 7th Ward, on the Lake Pontchartrain side of New Orleans, away from many of the tourist spots in the city, such as the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. However, you can still find plenty to do in Gentilly if you want to experience a quieter side of the city, with less traffic and more locals. Just beyond the outfield wall you’ll find many people fishing, boating and walking along the over 6 miles of paved walking trails, along the south shore of Lake Ponchtratrain. Make sure you check out the Mardi Gras fountain along the trail, which lights up in Mardi Gras colors at night, or you can check out the remains of old Fort St. John, an abandoned Spanish-controlled fort located along the lake and Bayou St. John. While riding the trail you can also see the levees that failed New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina; getting an up-close look at these levees, which were a scene of so much destruction, is a surreal experience in itself. Another popular spot to check out in the area is City Park – if it’s a gorgeous day out you can spend all day in one of the largest public parks in the US, and the 20th most-visited park in the country. There’s so much to do here in City Park; if interested in sports there are two (regular) golf courses, a disc golf course, multiple stadiums, and miles of trails through the bayous that flow into City Park. Or, if you are interested in museums and art there is the New Orleans Museum of Art and the outdoor sculpture garden. If you have kids or are visiting with family you might want to check out Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Storyland, a small amusement park with a few rides, roller coasters, and a storybook theme. City Park also provides a romantic getaway if you want to take a gondola ride or a duck boat ride through the bayous of City Park. There is also access here to Bayou St. John, which is the main tributary through this area of the city. Bayou St. John is a popular spot for kayakers and people canoeing during the spring and summer months. City Park is also a streetcar stop, in case you want to take the streetcar into the French Quarter or the Garden District to see the other tourist areas in New Orleans. Another cool attraction to check out in the 7th Ward is Fairgrounds Race Track, the second-oldest horse track in the country. If you come to a weekend series at UNO during February and March there is a good chance that the track will be hosting horse races in preparation for the Louisiana Derby, usually held on the second to last Saturday in March. Alternatively, if you come to a game during April it is more likely the fairgrounds will be hosting a Jazz Fest event. For restaurants and places to eat near UNO’s campus, you will find plenty of local spots and dives that make New Orleans so great. There’s so many to name, but a few near UNO include Opelousas Seafood and The Original Fiorella’s Café. Another one of my favorite’s nearby is Walker BBQ, famous for their BBQ po’ boys, while closer to the fairgrounds and the city you’ll find a wider selection of restaurants like Parkway Tavern, Liuzza’s at the Track, Café Degas, and Seahorse Saloon. City Park also has a Café du Monde, which is a lot quieter and less crowded than the popular French Quarter location. Fans 2 The Privateers average about 300-500 fans per game, which is kind of disappointing considering the history of the program. I also figured there would be more students at games, but the student section here is non-existent. The one plus is that there is plenty of room to move around, and you can sit wherever you want and have entire rows to yourself. Just don’t expect any between-inning promotions or giveaways; the focus here is strictly on the game. The few fans that did show up are knowledgeable about baseball and diehards of the UNO program. I also talked to several older gentlemen who’ve been coming to games here for over 40 years, including Coach Maestri, who still shows up to support the Privateers when he can. You’ll also find a large number of visiting fans who show up, as many of the Southland Conference schools are within a few hours. For example, the most recent game I was at had a large number of Northwestern State fans who made the trip from upstate to take advantage of a spring weekend in New Orleans. When Southeastern Louisiana, Nicholls State, Tulane, or McNeese State visit you can expect a good number of visiting fans – Tulane and UNO meet up every year in the Pelican Cup, while Southeastern Louisiana and UNO play every year in the Pontchartrain Bowl. Access 4 Maestri Field is located on the north side of the city, away from most of the tourist sites in New Orleans like the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. There are several ways to get to the baseball stadium, but the best and safest way would be take the Franklin Ave/Elysian Fields exit off Interstate 610 – travel north for about three miles and you’ll see UNO Lakefront Arena, with Maestri Field right next to it. Your GPS may advise that you go through some rough areas in New Orleans East to get to campus, but I would not go that route, especially at night – don’t take the Chef Blvd or Downman Road exits. Once on the grounds you’ll find plenty of parking; I was able to park in the lot closest to the stadium, but there is additional parking near UNO Lakefront Arena and the school’s tennis center. Once inside Maestri Field you are free to move around and sit wherever you want. There are also not long lines at the concession and merch stands here. Return on Investment 4 All tickets can be had for $12, and you are free to sit wherever you want, including in the chairbacks. Parking is free near UNO Lakefront Arena and the school’s tennis center, but in regard to concessions I would recommend getting something to eat at one of the many restaurants in New Orleans if you can help it, instead of eating at the ballpark. The level of baseball you are getting to see in the Southland Conference is pretty good, with several of the players on the field, either playing for UNO or their opponent, usually getting drafted. I considered this a good return on investment – you can't beat D1 baseball in a cool city like New Orleans either. Extras 3 The Privateers made 14 regional appearances in Division 1 and two in Division 2, with their most recent regional appearance in 2008. UNO also earned six conference titles in baseball, although none since joining the Southland Conference in 2014. In addition, UNO has had 16 players make it to the Big Leagues, with the most prominent alum being Braves skipper Brian Snitker, who played at UNO in 1976 and 1977. The Privateers best player ever in the baseball program was Augie Schmidt, who played for UNO from 1980-1982. He won the 1982 Golden Spikes Award as the best player in college baseball, and would be drafted # 2 overall by Toronto in 1982, bouncing around the minors before retiring in 1986. The Privateers best season was in 1984, when they advanced to Omaha for their first and only appearance in the College World Series; UNO made history as the first school from Louisiana to ever advance to the CWS. One extra for Maestri Field hosting minor league baseball for four seasons in the early 1990s – from 1993-1996 the stadium was home to the New Orleans Zephyrs, the Triple A affiliate of the Brewers. Jeff Cirillo, Jose Valentin, Mike Matheny. and B. J. Surhoff are a few of the big names who played here on the way to the show.