Photos by Lloyd Brown, James Hilchen, and Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Comerica Park 2100 Woodward Ave Detroit, MI 48201 Detroit Tigers website Comerica Park website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 41,083 The Tiger Den Note: Comerica Park will become Fifth Third Park beginning with the 2027 MLB baseball season, following Comerica’s merger with Fifth Third Bank. The Detroit Tigers are one of the oldest major league teams in the American League. They have played in several stadiums during their more than 130 years of existence. These include Bennett Park, Briggs Stadium, and Tiger Stadium. They have won four World Series (1935, 1945, 1968 and 1984). Comerica Park has served as the home of the Tigers since 2000. It has an upper deck behind the plate and down the two baselines, with an overall capacity of 41,083. The outfield area at Comerica Park has no upper deck, allowing fans to have a clear view of the Downtown Detroit skyline. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions program at Comerica Park offers a wide variety of foods and beverages. They include Little Caesar’s Pizza, National Coney Island, Guernsey Farms Dairy, Dippin Dots, and both branded beer stands as well as a Michigan Craft Beer stand in the right-field part of the stadium. The stadium offers multiple Cultural Nights throughout the season, with the food specialties of the featured culture at pop-up stands throughout the park. The Tigers offer several value meal deals at Comerica Park. The Hot Dog Value meal offers a hot dog, chips, and a soda for $9.42; a Pizza Value Meal of a Little Caesars Super Slice and a 16-ounce soda for $12.50; and a Value Beer Deal of a 12- ounce beer in a can for $5.00. On 313 Tuesdays, hot dogs, water, soda, and chips are all priced at $3.00. Stands can be found in the Big Cat Food Court along the first base side of the ballpark as well as along the concourses. There is a sit-down beer hall/ restaurant located behind section 133, as well as the Brushfire Grill on the first base side of the ballpark. Atmosphere 4 The Tigers have done a great job of spreading the Tigers brand throughout the ballpark. A large tiger sculpture will greet you as you enter the main entrance to Comerica Park. Once inside, you will see both a tiger-themed merry-go-round, as well as a tiger-themed Ferris wheel. Tiger elites including Ty Cobb, Charlie Gehringer, Hank Greenburg, Willie Horton, Al Kaline, and Hal Newhouser are saluted with statues atop the outfield walls. Longtime broadcaster Harwell is also recognized with a statue on the concourse. Several Tigers numbers have been retired by the club, including Lou Whitaker (#1), Charlie Gehringer (#2), Alan Trammell (#3), Hank Greenberg (#5), Al Kaline (#6), Jim Leyland (#10), Hal Newhouser (#16), and Jack Morris (#47). Jackie Robinson’s 42has also been retired throughout MLB and is included on this list. These numbers all appear on the outfield walls. The main concourse offers displays on the history of the team and its ballparks over the decades along the concourse walls. Neighborhood 5 Comerica Park is located in District Detroit, an area filled with restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and sports facilities in Downtown Detroit. It is next door to Ford Field, the home of the Detroit Lions of the NFL. Among the more popular sites to visit before or after a Tigers game are the Fox Theatre, the Fillmore Detroit concert venue, Union Assembly, Renaissance Center, and the Little Caesars Arena, the home of the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Pistons. Restaurants close to the ballpark include the Elwood Bar and Grill, the Firebird Tavern, and HopCat. Oddly enough, the nearby Red Wing-themed Hockeytown Café is a popular pre-game dining spot. Another popular area to visit is just a few stops on the Q-Line from Comerica Park. Greektown is home to several wonderful Greek restaurants, as well as the Hollywood Casino at Greektown. Fans 4 Tiger fans are very loyal to the team, despite the long drought of postseason appearances. In general, they are quite welcoming to visiting fans. They are proud of their city and how it has rebounded since the 1970’s and can often be relied on for good recommendations on area restaurants, nightlife, and tourist attractions to see. Fans can visit the main team store (section 119) along the first base side of the concourse, as well as several smaller outlets scattered throughout the stadium. It is easy to keep up with the score/stats at Comerica Park, as there is a huge scoreboard/videoboard measuring 67 feet high by 185 feet wide in dead center field, as well as the ribbon boards on the facing of the upper decks. Access 4 It is very easy for Tiger fans and visitors to access Comerica Park by a variety of means. It is near both I-75 and I-375, as well as several state highways. The most popular exit to reach the ballpark is the Grand River exit. It is also served by stations of both the Detroit People Mover (Broadway Station) and the Q-line (Grand Circus Park). These rail stations operate free of charge as they circulate through the downtown Detroit area. The FAST high-frequency bus service delivers fans to Comerica Park from the Detroit suburbs. Info on schedules and pickup points are available at www.ridesmart-fast.org There are six parking areas adjacent to the ballpark. Fans can reserve a parking space before arriving at Comerica Park by going to the SpotHero app. There are four main gates into the ballpark, marked by four 80-foot-tall baseball bats. Gates open 90 minutes before the first pitch. Once inside the park, the concourses are 40 feet wide, easily accommodating the fans as they travel to their seats. Gates open 90 minutes before the first pitch. Return on investment 3 Tickets range from $60-120 depending on the opponent. Parking ranges from $10-20 in one of the parking decks surrounding Comerica Park. In general, the concession prices are comparable to other MLB ballparks. The ballpark operates as a cashless venue. There are reverse ATMs in the ballpark where you can convert your cash to a charge card. Despite the ballpark’s proximity to the Canadian border, these machines do not accept Canadian currency. A transaction fee is added to any purchases using a Canada-based credit card. Extras 3 Comerica Park offers two rides that are more commonly found in an amusement park than in a major league ballpark. The HiChew Carousel is a tiger-themed carousel that operates near the main gate at Comerica Park. Rides are available at a cost of $2.00 per person. The Fly Ball Ferris Wheel is in the third base area of the park. It offers rides inside baseball-shaped cars for $2.00 per ride. The Tigers have made two World Series appearances (2006, 2012) since moving into Comerica Park. They lost both years. Hopefully, the Tigers will hit a home run at the game you attend. When that happens, the two Tigers atop the center field scoreboards’ eyes will light up, and they will roar. Final Thoughts Despite the recent lack of playoff appearances, Detroit is a great baseball town. The team boasts of more than 15 members of the Baseball Hall of Fame, and one of the longest tenures in major league baseball. Comerica Park does a great job of saluting that baseball heritage, while providing a memorable experience for today’s fans with its mix of tiger-related imagery and traditional big-city sports.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Rogers Centre 1 Blue Jays Way Toronto, ON M5V 1J3 Canada Toronto Blue Jays website Rogers Centre website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 39,150 The (Blue) Afterglow After the fairy-tale, roller coaster ride that was the 2025 Major League Baseball season, the Toronto Blue Jays were left to pick up the pieces after a heartbreaking, Game 7, extra-innings loss to the Dodgers in the World Series. Time marches on, and the optimism for the 50th Anniversary Season was at an all-time high. Play on the field did not match that optimism, and the Jays, amid key injuries and poor performances, could not come close to repeating the previous season. Changes continued at Rogers Centre with an eye on history as the driving force. The 50th Anniversary of the team would lead to what seems like the completion of the reimagining of Rogers Centre, and the Blue Jays and owners Rogers Communications seem to have quieted the critics of Rogers Centre for the time being. Food & Beverage 4 Rogers Centre provides a solid culinary experience for patrons. Hot dogs, burgers, nachos, and popcorn are all readily available. There are several different hot dog and burger options. Pizza is provided by Pizza Nova, and soft drinks are provided by the Coca-Cola family of beverages. The alcoholic beverage options, specifically beer, are massive. Fans could head to the WestJet Flight Deck on the second level past centrefield for possibly the best beer selection in the building. For fans who are looking for something a little more unique, grabbing a chicken sandwich at Mary Brown’s, a Canadian chain originating from Newfoundland, or some Apple Brisket or Jerk Chicken Nachos would be the way to go. Rogers Centre has increased the number of “Tap and Go” facilities offering a quick in-and-out for easy-to-grab items. Of particular interest are Loonie Dog Tuesdays. Hot Dogs are only $1 on these special days, and the variety of concession items definitely decreases on these days to accommodate the massive promotion. Atmosphere 4 The biggest area of deficiency at Rogers Centre remains the exterior. Dominated by exposed concrete, Rogers Centre is a massive structure. The entrances remain bland as compared to contemporary ballparks, and there is no “main entrance” to the stadium. The north side of the stadium, where the Marriott, which is part of Rogers Centre, is located, would probably be considered the front. Also, compared to modern ballparks, the footprint of the grounds is relatively small, with not too much space around the exterior of the stadium. Two bronze sculptures at the top of the north side of Rogers Centre, “The Crowd” and “The Fans,” highlight the exterior. To the delight of Blue Jays fans, the bronze statue of Rogers founder, Ted Rogers, previously found by Bremner Boulevard has been moved to a corporate location. In its place is a monument to the World Series-winning teams in the form of the iconic pose of Joe Carter rounding the bases after his game-winning home run in 1993. The inside of the Rogers Centre can be dark. The 100 level is generally the spot to be before the game. The best concessions can be found here and past left field; the pre- and post-game show with Jamie Campbell of Rogers Sportsnet can be found. The other major improvement for 2026 is the reimagining of the Level of Excellence. August of 2026 saw the opening of the new Hall of Excellence, which honours the members of the level, with each member having a personal display including artifacts and highlights. Silver Slugger and Gold Glove Awards are also highlights of the new area. An interactive QR code allows fans to vote for the next member of the Hall. The 100-level concourses are fairly open, considering the age of the building. The videoboard is massive and engulfs an entire level. Above the videoboard are the championship banners of the 1985, 1989, 1991, and 2015 American League East banners, along with the 2016 ALDS and a single banner for the 2016, 2020, 2022,, and 2023 Wild Card teams. Nestled neatly in there are the 1992 and 1993 World Series banners. Joining them is the brand new 2025 American League East and ALCS Championship banner. The Jays nod to history continues with the Level of Excellence, located on the fascia of the fourth level and includes Halladay and Gillick, joined by Tom Cheek, Carlos Delgado, Joe Carter, George Bell, Tony Fernandez, Dave Stieb, Paul Beeston, Cito Gaston and Jose Bautista. Inducted into the Level of Excellence in late August, 2026 is Buck Martinez, having served the Jays as a player, manager and broadcaster. After an MLB investigation into alleged sexual misconduct and his placement on the ineligible list, Baseball Hall of Fame member Roberto Alomar has been removed from the Level of Excellence. A number of displays have opened in the Outfield District on the 100 level that, hopefully, are permanent. The most prominent is the display with the 1992 and 1993 World Series trophies. New displays provide a wonderful walk through all eras of Toronto Blue Jays history. In the 500 level, the right field and left field sides of the Jumbotron each have social areas. The right field area is where fans will find the Corona Rooftop Patio, a bar area that often features live pre-game music. The left field side is where fans will find the TD Park Social area, which features Muskoka chairs, cornhole, and a huge chalkboard. Each side, although similar, has a different vibe and both have been extremely popular. The bullpens have been raised, and each is well within shouting distance of fans. The symmetrical outfield fence design has been jettisoned for some differing heights and distances, making it a little more unique than before. The visitors bullpen in right field is also near a new area, the Schneider’s Porch, which is on the 100 level and popular as well. Rogers Landing and Club 328 are also popular areas in the lower bowl. All of the 100-level seats have also been replaced, and improved sightlines have come with the new seating orientation, specifically in the outfield corners. The outfield dimensions have also changed slightly, and there are now a few other corners and wall heights that generally make the ballpark more interesting. The game day production at Rogers Centre is good. At one time, the Blue Jays went overboard with sound effects between pitches. That has been toned down a bit. The Jays promotion team does their thing throughout the stands, and the Jays mascot, Ace, interacts with fans. Typical baseball promotions and the like are peppered throughout the game, but the highlight of the Jays experience is the Seventh Inning Stretch. Before the seemingly mandated “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” the Jays play their song, and the eerily catchy “OK Blue Jays” is belted out to the delight of the crowd. Neighbourhood 5 Rogers Centre is perfectly located. There is not a better location in the city for the Blue Jays to be. Downtown Toronto is a fantastic spot to make an afternoon, a weekend or an entire vacation. There are a huge number of locations where one can eat before or after the game. Fans looking for a true culinary experience, may want to ascend to the top of the CN Tower to the 360 Restaurant. For fans looking for a more traditional pre-game experience then The Loose Moose, The Pint Public House, or Steam Whistle Brewery are good options. Front Street and Bremner Blvd have a plethora of dining options. The Sportsnet Grill is located inside the Toronto Marriott, the hotel at Rogers Centre, and offers views of the field where fans can eat and drink and watch the game. An entire vacation can be had in downtown Toronto. The CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada are right there by the Rogers Centre. The Rogers Centre does offer tours, which have improved drastically since their reintroduction. The Theatre District may be second only to Broadway in New York City as far as stage entertainment is concerned. Right across the road from the Rogers Centre is Toronto Railway Museum. Fans may also want to take the Steam Whistle Brewery Tour, which is also across the road. However, no trip to Toronto is complete without a trip to see the Hockey Hall of Fame. For fans looking for other sports, Toronto FC, Toronto Argonauts, Toronto Raptors, Toronto Marlies,Toronto Sceptres and Toronto Maple Leafs all play within minutes of the Rogers Centre. The University of Toronto is just north of the Rogers Centre and the Varsity Blues field football, basketball and hockey teams among others. A truly unique experience may be to check out Toronto Metropolitan University Bold hockey or basketball at the former Maple Leaf Gardens. Of course there are a ton of places that you could stay in downtown Toronto. A unique experience would be to stay right in the stadium at the Toronto Marriott City Centre. Another unique experience would be to stay at one of the most significant historical hotels in all of Canada, the Royal York. A little more affordable would be the Delta and Strathcona, however you are going to pay to stay downtown no matter what you choose. Fans 4 The 2026 has been a very successful one for the Blue Jays at the turnstile. At the time of writing, very late in the 2026 season, the Blue Jays ranked 4th in Major League Baseball in attendance, averaging over 41,000 fans per game. This is up from the previous season’s average of over 35,000 fans per game and a rank of 9th. Blue Jays fans are fairly ardent and supportive, although Ontario fans are not terribly loud in general. July and August are big tourist months for the Blue Jays as they embrace their role as “Canada’s Team” and welcome fans from all across the country. It will be interesting to see how attendance reacts to a poor 2026 season in 2027. Access 4 The Rogers Centre can be challenging to get to as Downtown Toronto traffic can be difficult. Rogers Centre is located right by the Lakeshore in Downtown Toronto. Driving to the stadium will be difficult as motorists must take either the Gardiner Expressway or Lakeshore Blvd. Hitting the road earlier as opposed to later is always the best idea. With the increased attendance due to a more consistent team on the field and the new ballpark features, driving away from Rogers Centre has become increasingly frustrating and time consuming. The bad traffic downtown is mitigated by the fantastic public transit options. Rogers Centre is just a couple of blocks from Union Station. The TTC subway, GO Transit and Via Rail are all major presences in Union Station. Along Spadina you will find the TTC street car. Any public transit info can be found at the TTC and GO Transit websites. Decent parking can be found downtown, however depending on the day it can greatly fluctuate. Most days you can find parking within walking distance of the Rogers Centre for around $15. On one of those special days, the same parking space can go for $40. The face of downtown Toronto is constantly changing and the parking situation becomes more perilous with the increase in condominium construction. ParkWhiz and SpotHero options are now more prevalent downtown and should be consulted. The concourses in Rogers Centre are pretty wide and getting around is not too difficult. The stadium would have benefitted from escalators. The majority of fans will travel up and down with long trips around traditional stadium ramps. The washroom facilities are plentiful and on most days more than adequate. With security protocols and procedures in constant flux, Stadium Journey strongly suggests visiting the Toronto Blue Jays and Rogers Centre websites for the most up-to-date security information before heading to the stadium, including bag policy and prohibited items. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices for the Toronto Blue Jays have once again increased. Access to the stadium, without an assigned seat is available for $25 and 500 level seats are now expected around $50. Lower level seats are all over $100. Parking and concessions can both be expensive. Although the experience at Rogers Centre has improved dramatically over the last five years, the subsequent skyrocketing costs make a trip to the Jays more of an annual trip for locals rather than a regular one. Extras 4 An extra mark for the innovation that the Rogers Centre brought to Major League Baseball. The huge videoboard, upgraded luxury boxes, retractable roof and in stadium restaurants were all pioneered in Toronto. An extra mark for ballpark tours returning to Rogers Centre. An extra mark for the transition of Rogers Centre from stadium to ballpark. An extra mark for the brand-new Hall of Excellence and the promise of more members joining shortly. (Vote Tom Henke!) Final Thoughts The 2026 season for the Toronto Blue Jays has definitely been a disappointment on the field. However, Rogers Centre remains a venue that is changing with the fan experience in mind. Taking in a Blue Jays game while in Toronto is part of the city life and fans won’t be disappointed. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Dodger Stadium 1000 Vin Scully Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012 Map It Los Angeles Dodgers website Dodger Stadium website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 56,000 Sho-Time At The Ravine Upon their arrival in 1958 from Brooklyn, the Dodgers would play their home games at the L.A. Coliseum until 1961. Native Angelinos were quick to embrace the Brooklyn transplants, as over 78,000 attended the Dodgers first-ever home game at the Coliseum. But not all of Los Angeles would embrace the former Flatbush Bums arrival, particularly when it came to the controversy leading to the construction of Dodger Stadium. When the dust finally settled, Dodger Stadium would officially open on April 10, 1962. The Dodgers would draw over 2.75 million fans in their gleaming new home. Year in and year out, Dodger Stadium features the highest attendance figures in all of baseball, with daily crowds of over 40,000 being the norm. Over the years Dodger Stadium has had many memorable moments such as Shohei Ohtani’s historic 40-40 feat via the walk-off grand slam, Kirk Gibson’s epic Game 1 walk off homer against Dennis Eckersley in 1988, their sweep of the Yankees in the 1963 World Series, Freddie Freeman’s walk-off grand slam in Game 1 of the 2024 World Series and most recently his 18th inning walk-off in game 3 of the 2025 World Series. Before the 2026 season, the Dodgers teamed up with the UNIQLO brand, and on the eve of Opening Day, UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium was officially christened. The deal marks UNIQLO's first major sports partnership in the United States. The company came into the agreement with an awareness of what the Dodger Stadium name means to people in L.A. and did not want to take that away altogether. Dodger Stadium is the third oldest yard behind only Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. Despite being the third oldest big league park, Dodger Stadium, affectionately referred to by blue-clad locals as Blue Heaven On Earth, is hardly referred to as a classic. Dodger Stadium maintains a truly unique identity as marked by its signature pastel-colored seating palette. Food & Beverage 4 Though Farmer John is no longer the hot dog provider after being synonymous with Dodger Baseball for so many years, the famous Dodger Dog remains on the menu now provided by Papa Cantella. Kosher hot dogs and sausages are also available through their stand located in the right field section of the outfield plaza. Some of the most noticeable dining options include specialty burgers from The Habit, as well as a fried chicken bucket with biscuits and mashed potatoes enough to feed two. Some of my favorite dining choices are on the left field side of the outfield plaza. The Smoked Brisket Sandwich and Burnt End Nachos are available at the Think Blue Barbecue stand. The brisket in each item is smoked overnight, with the sandwich topped off with coleslaw, providing fans with one of the tastiest items in the yard. Another favorite of mine that was added this season is the PB&J Smashburger Lunch Box combo. If you happen to bring a big appetite with you, Think Blue Barbecue also has an MVP Platter with burnt ends, pulled pork, hot links, coleslaw, potato salad, and jalapeno cornbread. Not only is this one of the tastier items throughout the park, but it's also big enough to feed two to three heavy hitters. Next to the Think Blue Barbecue stand is the Dueling Dogs featuring a bacon-wrapped dog and a visiting team-themed dog. Dining areas were recently added to the outfield plaza. Fans dining in the plaza can watch the game on the new outfield plaza screens with scoreboards providing live stats. One of the more noticeable additions to the Dodger Stadium food lineup is The Slugger. The much talked about addition to the Dodger Stadium food lineup is a 16-inch jalapeno cheddar dog topped with corn relish, white cheddar sauce, cilantro crema, and tortilla chips with French fries. Dodger Stadium - The Slugger, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey As an organization in a city with a diverse cultural fanbase, rotating food selections can vary throughout certain games especially on “theme nights” such as Salvadoran, Mexican, Japanese or Filipino heritage nights. Atmosphere 5 It all starts as you enter through the grand entrance to the newly enhanced outfield plaza. As you enter the plaza, you are greeted by two legendary statues, Jackie Robinson and Sandy Koufax. Once past the statues fans will notice two lines that lead to replicas of the 2024 and 2025 World Champions ring and trophies, two of the more popular photo spots for the 2026 season. Back-to-Back Champions, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Pregame entertainment in the outfield plaza varies each game with in-game DJ’s blasting beats to performances from various cultural performers. The festivities continue inside the stadium as the pregame hype team keeps the vibes flowing. For a team as storied as the Dodgers, it may seem a bit too much particularly for an older fanbase that may prefer a more traditional muted and subdued setting. As fans roam the outfield plaza one thing they will notice are historical displays paying tribute to significant figures in Dodger history dating back to their beginnings in Brooklyn. When not fully paying attention to the action on the field, some of the best views of the city, be it the San Gabriel Mountains beyond the outfield or the downtown skyline, can be seen from the top deck and reserve levels. Neighborhood 3 Several nice walking trails along with pregame picnic areas on the grounds of Elysian Park are outside Dodger Stadium and provide some of the natural scenery beyond Dodger Stadium. Aside from Elysian Park’s picnic areas and the scenery it provides the yard, the surrounding area does not offer a ballpark village with pre- or post-game entertainment or dining options that fans have become accustomed to in some of the post Camden Yards era venues. However, The Shortstop, a local dive bar not far from the stadium, is a favorite among Dodger fans. Chinatown and Downtown L.A. are also a short drive from the yard and offer several pre- and post-game dining options. Fans 5 Yearly crowds of over 3 million plus are the norm at Dodger Stadium. With the team coming off the excitement of back-to-back championships and in spite of rising ticket costs, for the second year in a row the Dodgers have crossed the 4 million mark in attendance. The home nine’s current run of 14 consecutive post-season appearances has done nothing to dull the enthusiasm of the Dodger Blue Faithful. Dodger Blue runs deep throughout many Angeleno’s hearts and throughout Southern California as they are a loud and passionate bunch. The Dodgers, like their purple and gold counterparts at the Crypto.com Arena, can attract many a Hollywood crowd. Dodger blue and white are the colors you see decked among the fans who proudly show their passion. Though some are there to stargaze or “to be seen,” noted by a particular outfielder from an organization that wins an occasional world championship every hundred plus years. As with any L.A. sporting event, Dodger fans are very passionate about their Boys In Blue, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by certain rival players. Access 3 The recent enhancements to Dodger Stadium have significantly improved access throughout Dodger Stadium. Unlike years past, fans can enter through any entrance and are also free to roam throughout each level of the stadium. Additional elevators have been installed on the left and right field corners of each concourse , as well as additional escalators and stairs in the expanded exterior concourse. A pedestrian walkway atop the pavilions, enhanced ADA viewing areas, and a social area overlooking the outfield plaza improve the updates. The renovations also included more restrooms to each of the two pavilions. Because Dodger Stadium attracts nightly crowds of over 45 and 50 thousand plus fans, expect plenty of congestion throughout the concourses in each level. If you choose to drive to the game, five entrances lead to the vast parking lot, which can accommodate up to 16,000 vehicles. Unless you plan on entering through the outfield plaza, it’s still a good idea to research your seat location so you have a good idea where you should park. You will also want to purchase parking ahead of time on your mobile app to help reduce entry time; $40 if purchased in advance, $45 at the gate. Various roads lead to Dodger Stadium which can be accessed by the 5, 110, or 101. Because of its proximity to downtown Los Angeles and the fact that most of the natives rely on their vehicles to get around this sprawling city, you will want to allow yourself more than ample time to drive to the stadium if you want to be at your seat by the first pitch. There’s a reason why Dodgers fans have a reputation, albeit an unfair one, as late arrivals. Because the games are regularly packed with over 50,000 plus fans, accessibility can be slow. Some nights, exiting the stadium lot can take up to 2 hours. Another transportation option is the Dodger Stadium shuttle, which runs from outside the west main entrance at Downtown Union Station beginning 2.5 hours before game time. Union Station can also easily be reached by light rail via the MTA through the Red, Purple, and Gold lines Return on Investment 3 Coming off another memorable championship season, along with arguably the game’s most popular player, comes the price of success. When attending a game at The Ravine, expect a significant dent in your wallet just from the ticket prices alone. Single game ticket prices start at $38. If you should be fortunate, for games against rival teams such as the Giants, Padres, and Angels, prices start at $53. On nights when certain promotional giveaway items are distributed, expect the lowest price to start in the triple digits. On certain nights when popular themed items such as Hello Kitty or One Piece themed items are the promotional giveaway, prices can start north of $200 and possibly close to $300. Those Shohei Bobbleheads and replica World Series players' rings are just some of the most sought-after items fans clamor for. There’s no way around it. Attending a Dodgers game is not economical. Then again, you can say the same thing about most vacations. But as the Dodgers continue their drive toward a third straight world championship, the ROI of attending a game at one of MLB’s most historic ballparks just may be worth the significant price hike. If you’re fortunate, you may even walk away with one of those prized giveaways. Extras 5 Tributes to Big D, Jackie and Campy, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey In past years Dodger Stadium did not offer much regarding displaying their storied history. That recently changed with the outfield plaza enhancements most notably in both pavilion areas. Fans can view memorabilia and displays paying tribute to Dodgers legends and sit in old stadium seats. Gold Glove Awards can also be viewed below the left field pavilion. Fans entering through the Top Deck entrance will walk through the Retired Numbers Plaza featuring statues of the iconic red numbers from the Dodgers uniforms of each Dodger who had the honor of having their number retired, including recently retired number 34 belonging to the late former legendary pitcher and longtime fan favorite Fernando Valenzuela. The most recent addition to the outfield plaza is a mural honoring former Dodgers Glenn Burke and Billy Bean. The mural was unveiled prior to a June Pride Night ceremony in remembrance of the two baseball trail blazers for the LGBTQ community. Honoring Glenn Burke and Billy Bean, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts Nine Time World Champions, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey With the 2026 post-season just around the corner, the expectations for the Dodgers to repeat as World Champions for a third consecutive season are sky high. Now in its 64th year of service, from Gibby to Freddie, what exciting and historical moment will happen next at Chavez Ravine?

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Lynx Field 1601 Washington Rd Westminster, MD 21157 Carroll Lynx website Lynx Field website Year Opened: 2026 Capacity: n/a The Lynx Have A Home Carroll Community College began its life not as an independent institution, but as a branch campus of Catonsville Community College (now known as the Community College of Baltimore County-Catonsville). In 1992, the Maryland Higher Education Commission directed the campus to begin the process for achieving degree-granting status, and in 1993, Carroll Community College officially became its own accredited, two-year, degree-granting institution. Its campus is located in Westminster, MD, the county seat of Carroll County. In a significant recent development, Carroll has also embraced a new chapter in its history by adding intercollegiate athletics in 2019. The program started with men's and women's soccer and cross country and has since expanded to include additional sports like volleyball, track & field, and golf. The Lynx compete in the NJCAA Region 20 and the MD JUCO Division 1 Conference. On September 17, 2026 the college had a grand opening of the James D. Ball Athletic Complex, named in honor of Carroll’s President Emeritus Dr. James D. Ball. Food & Beverage 1 There was an ice cream truck parked nearby at the closest academic building. It is unknown if the facility will continue to have options at matches. There is a nice area for food offerings if they choose to. Even if there are no plans for more food options, the close proximity to the campus food operations makes us give them a little credit here. Atmosphere 3 Only the first phase of this new facility is ready in 2026. This includes a FieldTurf synthetic playing surface and a 400-meter, eight-lane regulation running track. The track is not even lined yet, so the blue coloring has a weird Boise State kind of vibe right now. Seating is either at a couple of small stands on the far side of the field or on the sloping hill on the home side. There was a general buzz at the game we attended, which was the first at the facility. Will that continue is hard to answer at this point. Most fans will likely be family or friends as the commuter school is not likely to have a large amount of students who attend matches. Neighborhood 3 Westminster, being a far suburb of Baltimore, is in a pretty traditional suburban setting. Baugher’s Restaurant and Farm Market is located near town and is one of the best family-type restaurants around, and offers no better place to buy fresh produce. Downtown Westminster is also not far away. Here you can find some good choices, such as O’Lordan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant and Maggie’s. Fans 3 This is truly a friends and family-only type of sports venue. There was a fairly large amount of people attending the grand opening, but we wonder how many will be there on average match days. Access 4 Route 140 is the main route from the Baltimore area towards Westminster, and it stems from the end of Baltimore’s I-795. Access to Baltimore, Washington D.C., and central Pennsylvania is fairly easy. The college is an easy find south of the main part of downtown. There should be plenty of parking near the field. Return on Investment 5 There is no price to attend games at this point in time. Extras 2 The blue unlined track stands out right now and even when lined should make a nice Lynx blue statement. There is a nice outdoor auditorium next to the field. Final Thoughts Lynx Field at the James D. Ball Athletic Complex is a fine start for a relatively new athletic program to have as its centerpiece.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Brown Field 1009 Union St Valparaiso, IN 46383 Valparaiso Beacons website Brown Field website Year Opened: 1919 Capacity: 5,000 Valpo Beacons Shine at Brown Field The Valparaiso football team has played on the same site since 1919. Brown Field has changed over the years for the Beacons, who are members of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and the Pioneer Football League. Still, the atmosphere on Saturday afternoons has remained the same. ​ The 5,000-seat stadium grandstand was last remodeled in 1986, and until 1969 featured a baseball diamond. The stadium features an 8-lane track, lights, a concession stand, and a small section of seating for the away fans. The stadium originally opened as Athletic Field, but was renamed to honor Henry Baker Brown, the university's founder and president from 1873-1917, who led the university in acquiring the property. Valparaiso won its first game, a 26-0 victory over Chicago YMCA College in 1917. ​ The team won seven conference titles between 1945 and 1969 and two Pioneer League titles in 2000 and 2003. Valp appeared in one bowl game in 1951, a 47-17 loss to La Crosse State in the Cigar Bowl in Tampa, Florida. ​ Food & Beverages 2 ​The stadium has one concession stand underneath the home grandstand. The items are not varied and include hot dogs, brats, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, candy, chips, fountain drinks, beer, and hard seltzers. During heavily attended games, lines get long, with wait times even longer. A ticket to the endzone premium area includes a wider variety of beer, hard seltzers, and wines. They include varieties from Half Acre, Miller Lite, and Kendall-Jackson wineries. ​ Atmosphere 3 ​Valpo fans arrive well before kickoff and set up tailgating spots close to the venue in the open grass parking lot or the shaded areas closer to the stadium. Our visit was for homecoming against rival Butler University, and a larger crowd packed the grandstand, while many others stood up in the shaded area near the endzones. ​ The stadium’s grandstand is all general admission, and the best views are closer to the press box. The lower seats are partially blocked by the players, cheerleaders, and players' tent. However, a packed stand creates a lot of excitement from the school’s mascot meeting and greeting fans, cheerleaders drumming up the crowd, and fans singing after every Valpo touchdown. ​ An electric scoreboard is located in the northeast corner of the stadium. There are a few portable restrooms, but the better ones are inside the Athletics-Recreation Center just outside the main entrance. An 8-lane track surrounds the field, further placing spectators from the action on the field. Fans pack the grandstand during the Homecoming game, photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 5 ​Valparaiso is about 30 minutes from the Indiana Dunes National and State Parks. This charming city boasts a vibrant downtown brimming with attractions, locally owned shops, and diverse dining options, all conveniently within walking distance of one another. ​ The downtown square offers a collection of amazing eateries, shops, and great places to drink craft beer. The streets are packed with people, enjoying dinner and drinks on outside patios. There is a selection of retail shops that sell olive oil, wines, fresh cheese, meats, and homemade sauces. The colorful and pleasant main street is definitely worth walking to check out the many selections of restaurants. ​ Don Quijote is legendary for its Spanish cuisine. Stack's Bar and Grill is a casual, library-inspired setting. 150-plus beers on tap, plus cocktails, wine, and shots. Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille is an American restaurant & bar serving burgers, pizzas & local brews in an airy, industrial setting. Serrano's Mexican Grill is a relaxed Mexican restaurant with burritos, tacos, fajitas, and drinks. ​ Fans 3 ​The stadium swells for Homecoming, and it would be hard to feel a little school spirit. The fans sing “Chelsea Dagger” in unison after every score, and stomp their feet against the grandstand on third down. This may or may not be the case for other football games during the season. The team mascot Beacon makes his way around the stadium, photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Access 3 ​The stadium is on campus and easily accessible through downtown or SR-49. The stadium has two entrances at either side of the home grandstand, and certain areas can get crowded during heavily attended games, such as homecoming or games against rivals, Butler Bulldogs. ​ Return on Investment 3 ​Individual tickets are $14 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under; all seating is general admission. There is no box office at the venue, and tickets must be purchased digitally through a scan code. Another ticket option is the premium end zone section that includes food, a cash bar of beer and wine, and pre-game talk from the coach. The price is $45. ​ Parking is free for all games, and concession items range from $3.50 for popcorn to $8 for a beer or hard seltzer. The team does not sell merchandise at the games; the best bet would be to purchase these items at the university gift shop. ​ Extras 3 ​The stadium earns a point for a festive atmosphere for Homecoming, along with the Victory Bell and Tower that have been a part of the university since 1956. A third point is for the use of the restrooms in the basketball arena, where fans can also shake hands with players who make their way to and from the stadium and into the locker room. There is plenty of tailgating fun before and after the game, photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts ​Brown Field is not the most aesthetically pleasing college football stadium, and the atmosphere feels more like a high school football game. However, Valparaiso is a beautiful small town, and visiting a Beacons game is worthwhile when in the area. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 CCBC Essex Stadium Turf Field 7201 Rossville Blvd Baltimore, MD 21237 CCBC Essex Knights website CCBC Essex Stadium Turf Field website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 3,000 A Knight At The Turf One of the largest colleges in Maryland is largely unknown outside of the area. The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) has an annual enrollment of greater than 72,000 students. Created in the 1990s by a merger of Essex Community College, Dundalk Community College, and Catonsville Community, the new college kept each of those three main campuses, along with a bevy of extension campuses around the suburban Baltimore area. The three colleges shared a common board of trustees for years but operated independently. Essex, Dundalk, and Catonsville have each kept their own distinct athletic identity. CCBC Essex began in 1957, operating out of nearby Kenwood High School. CCBC Essex has one of the top-rated associate nursing programs in the region. The school mascot is the Knights and they play nine sports. Essex has won nine NJCAA national championships including the 2004 Men’s Lacrosse Championship. They are a member of Region XX of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference, CCBC Essex has had over 100 NJCAA All-Americans. The soccer program runs out of the Stadium Turf Field. The Knights have been very successful program. he 3,000 seat stadium hosts lacrosse, soccer, and track and field events, for the junior college, high school and recreation levels. In addition, the field is lined for and plays host to a variety of football contests as well. The field is home to CCBC Essex men’s and women’s soccer and men’s lacrosse. Food & Beverage 1 There are no food options. Atmosphere 1 Most matches like the one we attended are men's and women's doubleheaders. Expect the same atmosphere for either match. The stadium is located a pleasant walk into the woods back of the baseball field. It is a fairly large stadium for such a small program so you will not have an issue getting a good seat for matches. There is a simple scoreboard and a nice PA system but don't expect much else. It is a simple affair. Neighborhood 3 CCBC Essex is a suburban community college with its main neighbor being the sprawling Franklin Square Hospital. You will have to venture a bit far from campus for any food or drinks. One of my favorites local spot is Pizza John which is a bit further away in Middle River. This extremely popular pizza joint has some pretty good, albeit a bit greasy pizza. And greasy does not equate to being a bad thing. Just expect very large crowds on Friday and Saturday nights. Closest to campus is the shops and restaurants near White Marsh Mall. We are very fond of the IKEA cafeteria for some Swedish meatballs. Red Brick Station Restaurant & Brew Pub is a very good restaurant on the Avenue at White Marsh. Also, look at Ledo’s Pizza near the Lowe’s store. Their square pizza is very good, and a pretty good value. Fans 2 The attendees at most matches are family members or other athletes. There may be a few residents who attend the games. Access 4 CCBC Essex is located just off of both the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and I-95. The quickest and best way to access campus is to exit off I-695 at either the Philadelphia Road or US-40 exit and find your way east to Rossville Boulevard. Directions should be easy to follow but also follow signs for Franklin Square Hospital. There is plenty of free parking on the campus. If classes are in session you may expect to park a bit further away from campus. Return on Investment 5 The games are free to attend. That, along with the free parking, means that you can attend a good-level JUCO program at no cost. . Extras 2 There are a few plaques around the little park-like setting of the athletic fields that honor student-athletes from Essex that has passed away. Walk around campus and see the solar panels that have been added to many parking areas on campus. All of the CCBC campuses have added these and expect to get more than a quarter of their electricity from solar. This 5.1-megawatt project is expected to generate 6.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year and joins the 16.1-megawatt array at Mount St. Mary’s University in an effort by local colleges to expand solar usage. Final Thoughts The CCBC Essex Stadium Turf Field serve as a decent venue for sports and is located in a pleasant tree lined setting. It makes for a good spot for a visit.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 M. M. Roberts Stadium 118 College Dr Hattiesburg, MS 39406 Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles website M. M. Roberts Stadium website Year Opened: 1932 Capacity: 36,000 Welcome to the Rock A lot has changed around Southern Miss football in the last few years. The move to the Sun Belt Conference in 2022 ended a 27-year run in C-USA and placed Southern Miss in a league filled with regional opponents, familiar names, and shorter road trips. Four years later, the Sun Belt no longer feels new, but change has continued around the program. That change now extends to the stadium itself. In September 2026, Southern Miss announced a 10-year naming-rights agreement with Tupelo, Mississippi-based Renasant Bank, officially changing the name of M. M. Roberts Stadium to Renasant Stadium. It is the latest name for a building that has stood in the middle of the Southern Miss campus for nearly a century. But regardless of what name appears on the outside, generations of Golden Eagle fans have always known this place by a much simpler name: The Rock. For a mid-major football program at a university of roughly 14,000 students in the Pine Belt of southern Mississippi, Southern Miss has built a pretty storied football history of its own. Since the program began in 1912, the Golden Eagles have won eight conference championships, including five during their time in Conference USA. Southern Miss has also made more than two dozen bowl appearances and won back-to-back Small College National Championships after undefeated seasons in 1958 and 1959. In addition, the program has produced more than 100 players who went on to play in the NFL, including two Pro Football Hall of Famers, quarterback Brett Favre and punter Ray Guy. Southern Miss football was born in 1912 when the college was known as Mississippi Normal College and its teams were known as the Normalites. In those early years, Southern Miss played its football games at Kamper Park, a public park just south of campus where Hattiesburg Zoo is located today. Like the stadium, the university and its athletic teams have gone by several names over the past century. The school became Mississippi State Teachers College in 1924, with its teams eventually known as the Yellow Jackets, before becoming Mississippi Southern College and adopting the Southerners nickname. The school became the University of Southern Mississippi in 1962, and its athletic teams remained the Southerners until finally adopting the Golden Eagles nickname in 1972. Since 1932, Southern Miss football has been played on campus at the stadium everybody calls The Rock. The original stadium was known as Faulkner Field, named for local businessman L. E. Faulkner. Much of that original structure was built with the help of Southern Miss students and football players, who helped haul materials and pour concrete during construction, which is how the venue got its nickname, The Rock. The stadium later underwent a massive renovation and expansion during the 1970s; it was dedicated M. M. Roberts Stadium in 1976 in honor of Southern Miss alumnus and longtime supporter M. M. Roberts. For the next 50 years, M. M. Roberts Stadium was the official name attached to one of the most recognizable buildings in Hattiesburg. In 2026, another chapter began when it became Renasant Stadium. The name has changed. The conference has changed. The stadium itself has changed considerably over the last four years. But The Rock is still The Rock. Food & Beverage 3 The main concession stands throughout The Rock are branded “Eagle Bites,” and the selection remains fairly basic. Depending on the stand you choose, you'll find hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken tenders, foot-long corn dogs, French fries, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, candy, and other snacks. Prices have increased quite a bit since my last visit. Chicken tenders are $10; hamburgers and nachos are $8; a foot-long corn dog is $7; and hot dogs, roasted peanuts, and French fries are $5. A 32-ounce souvenir Coca-Cola cup costs $10 and includes free refills, while bottled water and Powerade are $6 and Smartwater is $7. Alcohol is also available throughout the stadium. A 16-ounce domestic beer such as Miller or Coors costs $10, while premium beer runs $12. Southern Miss also offers Southern Sky, a Southern Miss-branded beer from Hattiesburg's Southern Prohibition Brewing, available at select stands. Alcohol sales end after the third quarter, and purchases are limited to two alcoholic beverages per person. The selection here isn't anything particularly elaborate, and most of what you'll find is standard stadium food. However, Southern Miss has made improvements to the concession experience in recent years, including renovated stands, additional points of sale, and grab-and-go locations designed to keep the lines moving. For the best value, the $10 souvenir cup with free refills isn't a bad option, especially during an early-season game when temperatures in Hattiesburg can still be well into the 80s and 90s. Overall, the concessions get the job done, but expect typical modern stadium prices. Atmosphere 3 College football Saturdays in Hattiesburg begin long before kickoff. Tailgating is scattered throughout campus, with alumni and longtime fans generally setting up on the south side, while students and fraternities congregate around Spirit Park on the north side of the facility. Spirit Park serves as one of the centers of pregame activity, with food, music, and other events leading up to kickoff. About two and a half hours before the game comes one of Southern Miss's best traditions, the Eagle Walk. The football team makes its way around The Rock toward the locker room accompanied by the cheerleaders, Dixie Darlings, fans, and the Pride of Mississippi Marching Band. Known simply as "The Pride," the band provides much of the soundtrack during a Saturday at The Rock. After the Eagle Walk, the band makes its way through Spirit Park before entering the stadium, where the fight song, stand tunes, and a halftime performance remain a major part of the Southern Miss game day experience. The east side of the stadium also serves as something of an outdoor Southern Miss football museum. Banners recognize past players, coaches, championships, and bowl appearances. Another longtime tradition is the painting of the Little Rock on the south side of campus, which students decorate with messages relating to that week's opponent. Seymour, the Golden Eagle mascot, is also a constant presence around the stadium. One of the biggest additions in the last few years has been DJ Kujho, who has become a familiar part of Southern Miss games and now serves as the in-stadium DJ for football games. Located right in the east side student section, Kujho keeps the music going during breaks, as well as frequently calling for The Rock to "Get Loud." Combined with the Pride of Mississippi, his presence gives the stadium a nice mixture of traditional college football and a more modern game day atmosphere. Once inside, it is easy to understand how the stadium got its nickname. The Rock is a massive concrete structure that rises almost straight into the air. Two-level grandstands line both sidelines, with the upper and lower decks separated by concourses underneath the bleachers. However, most of the stadium has traditional aluminum bleacher seating, giving it the feel of an older stadium. The biggest change to the stadium's appearance came in 2008 when Southern Miss enclosed the south end zone with nearly 4,000 additional seats, suites, and premium areas. The Touchdown Club provides a climate-controlled space with televisions, food, a full-service bar, and covered chairback seating overlooking the field. The north end zone is anchored by the football operations facility and video board. And while the east side has the Eagle Club, on the west side the press box also provides premium seating, a full spread of food and drinks, and more. Southern Miss football history is visible throughout the stadium as well. The retired numbers of Brett Favre (#4), Ray Guy (#44), and Reggie Collier (#10) are recognized inside The Rock, while the program continues to embrace the Nasty Bunch nickname made famous by some of its great defenses. The stadium's biggest drawback is also a product of its design. Because the grandstands are so tall, an average crowd can make The Rock look half-empty. Fans also tend to scatter throughout the stadium, leaving entire pockets of bleachers empty even when attendance is respectable. But put more than 30,000 people inside and the building changes considerably. The Golden Eagles' game against Mississippi State drew 33,485 fans in 2025, while the game versus Jackson State brought another crowd of more than 32,000 the following week. The concrete holds sound surprisingly well, especially at night. With the Pride playing, DJ Kujho working the student section, Seymour roaming the sidelines, and fans packed into those steep concrete grandstands, a full Rock remains one of the better atmospheres among college football's mid-major programs. Neighborhood 4 Hattiesburg, or "The Burg" as it's often called, is a city of about 50,000 people, so it has most of the amenities of a larger city while still retaining some of the feel of a college town. One notable difference from places like Starkville or Oxford is that Hattiesburg's restaurants, bars, and entertainment aren't concentrated in one district, but instead are spread throughout Midtown, downtown, and other parts of the city. Several popular spots are located close to campus, including Brewsky's and 4th Street Bar. If you're looking for a hole-in-the-wall filled with vintage Southern Miss memorabilia, 4th Street Bar is worth a stop. Alternatively, about a mile down 4th Street you'll encounter a few local restaurants such as Stricks BBQ, Mercury Pizza, Patio 44, and Art of Roux, a favorite New Orleans-themed po-boy stand in a gas station. Other options include Keg & Barrel, Porter, and Hattiesburgers, which are local hangouts closer to downtown. Hattiesburg also has no shortage of local restaurants. Crescent City Grill, Chesterfield's, Ed's Burger Joint, and Murky Waters BBQ are among the longtime favorites, with plenty of additional options scattered around midtown and downtown. There is also quite a bit to do away from football. The Hattiesburg Zoo is only a few minutes from campus, while downtown you'll find one of the city's quirkiest attractions, the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum. Tucked inside an alley near the historic Saenger Theater, the tiny museum changes themes throughout the year. Visit during October and both the Pocket Alley and Hattiesburg Zoo usually get into the Halloween spirit. For shopping, Turtle Creek Mall has most of the familiar chain stores, but a more unique Hattiesburg stop is The Lucky Rabbit, located downtown. This massive vintage and antique marketplace is filled with just about everything imaginable, including old Southern Miss shirts, signs, and memorabilia. Outdoor enthusiasts also have the Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile paved trail that runs directly beside the Southern Miss campus and is popular for biking, running, and walking. In addition, just south of town is Paul B. Johnson State Park, which offers camping, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor recreation. Hattiesburg doesn't have one traditional strip where everything revolves around the university. Instead, Southern Miss is part of a larger city with several distinct areas to explore, giving visitors plenty to do before and after a game at The Rock. Fans 3 Southern Miss has a dedicated fan base that has experienced some of the highest highs and lowest lows imaginable over the years. Older fans remember the glory days when players like Brett Favre and Reggie Collier suited up for the Golden Eagles, when Southern Miss regularly played programs like Alabama, Auburn, Ole Miss and Florida State, and when Jeff Bower led the program through 18 consecutive winning seasons. Those same fans also endured the 2012 and 2013 seasons, when Southern Miss went a combined 1-23, including a school-record 23-game losing streak. There is also a strong connection between the university and Hattiesburg itself. Unlike many smaller college towns, Hattiesburg is large enough that plenty of Southern Miss graduates remain in the area after graduation. The university also draws heavily from south and central Mississippi, putting a large portion of the alumni base within an easy drive of The Rock. The move to the Sun Belt Conference in 2022 has also been a good geographic fit. Instead of a conference filled with far-flung opponents, Southern Miss now shares a league with regional programs such as South Alabama, Louisiana, Troy, and Louisiana-Monroe, making it much easier for visiting fans to make the trip to Hattiesburg. Attendance still fluctuates considerably depending on the opponent and how the Golden Eagles are playing, but there is little question the fan base will show up for the right game. In 2025, Mississippi State drew 33,485 fans to The Rock, the eighth-largest crowd in stadium history, and Jackson State brought another crowd of 32,011 the following week. The 2026 home opener against Alcorn State drew 26,246 despite temperatures reaching 90 degrees. The Golden Eagles' student section remains one of the more energetic areas of the stadium, especially when Southern Miss is playing well. One of its most recognizable traditions comes after halftime, when students unveil a giant "Here Comes the Nasty Bunch" banner across the section, paying tribute to the famed Southern Miss defenses that helped define the program during some of its best years. Southern Miss may not fill its 36,000-seat stadium every Saturday, but there remains a loyal core of Golden Eagle fans who have stuck with the program through conference changes, coaching changes, winning seasons, and some historically bad ones. When Southern Miss gives them something to get excited about, The Rock can still fill up in a hurry. Access 4 There is a reason Hattiesburg is nicknamed the "Hub City." Located roughly 90 minutes from the Mississippi Gulf Coast, New Orleans, Jackson, and Mobile, the city is one of the more accessible college football destinations in the region. Southern Miss is also easy to find, sitting at the busy intersection of Highway 49 and Hardy Street, with The Rock rising above the north side of campus. Getting to campus is easy; parking once you arrive can be the frustrating part. Southern Miss has paid and permit lots scattered throughout campus, and most of the spaces closest to The Rock are reserved on game days. Parking regulations are also enforced around campus, including areas near the Longleaf Trace, where cameras and signage make it clear that trail parking should not be used as a way to access campus for football games. There are still some free options if you're willing to walk. Free parking can usually be found south of the sorority houses. Several businesses along Highway 49 across from the stadium also offer paid game day parking. Driving around campus can also be a little confusing for first-time visitors, as several streets are one-way and also because traffic patterns change around The Rock before and after games. The good news is that Southern Miss has a relatively compact campus, so once you're parked, getting around on foot is fairly easy. The Rock itself is also easy to navigate for a stadium of its age. The concourses are wide, and recent concession upgrades have added more points of sale, such as grab-and-go locations, helping with some of the congestion during bigger games. Overall, getting to Hattiesburg and finding Southern Miss couldn't be much easier. Just have a parking plan before you arrive, because finding somewhere to leave your car without paying can sometimes be the most difficult part of the day. Return on Investment 4 Tickets generally aren't difficult to find at The Rock, although buying directly through Southern Miss can be a little pricey depending on the opponent and seat location. For many games, the secondary market can offer cheaper options, sometimes in the $15-$25 range, though rivalry games and games against big-name programs will naturally cost more. To someone unfamiliar with things, Southern Miss might look like a lower-tier FBS program based solely on some of its recent seasons. NIL, the transfer portal, conference realignment, and the widening financial gap in college football haven't necessarily been kind to programs like Southern Miss. But judging the Golden Eagles only by the current college football landscape ignores a lot of history. For a mid-major program, Southern Miss has a tradition that few comparable schools can match. This is a program that won consistently for decades; produced players such as Brett Favre, Ray Guy and Reggie Collier; won conference championships; regularly appeared in bowl games; and wasn't afraid to play some of the biggest programs in the country. There was a time when packing The Rock was an every-week occurrence. You can still see attempts to preserve that history throughout the stadium, from the retired numbers and Nasty Bunch references to the banners recognizing former players, bowl teams, and championships. Add in generally affordable tickets on the secondary market, a relatively inexpensive city to spend the weekend in, and more than 90 years of history inside The Rock, and Southern Miss remains a worthwhile college football experience for the price. The Golden Eagles may be trying to find their place in a rapidly changing sport, but a Saturday at The Rock still gives you a glimpse of what made Southern Miss football matter long before NIL and the transfer portal changed the game. Extras 3 The Southern Miss campus is worth exploring before kickoff; it's small enough you can see most of the major landmarks in less than an hour, while still having the oak trees, brick buildings, and green spaces you'd expect from a traditional Southern college campus. Some of my favorite stops include the All-American Rose Garden and the giant Golden Eagle sculpture near the front of campus. Also check out the historic Roberts Schoolhouse, a one-room schoolhouse dating back to the late 1800s, or walk through the center of campus through the Hub and see where a young Jimmy Buffett could once be found playing guitar during his days as a Southern Miss student in the 1960s. A historical marker stands there now. My favorite part of campus, however, remains the Eagle Walk, and it's deserving of an extra point all by itself. Come through about two and a half hours before kickoff and you'll see the Golden Eagles make their traditional walk into the stadium behind the Pride of Mississippi. The walkway they follow along the east side of The Rock is lined with banners honoring former Southern Miss players and coaches, along with the program's bowl appearances and championship history, including the undefeated 1958 and 1959 Small College National Championship teams. Another plus goes to the football history associated with The Rock. Not many programs, especially outside of college football's traditional powers, can claim two players who became two of the most influential ever at their respective positions. Brett Favre went from Southern Miss to a 20-year NFL career that included three consecutive MVP awards, a Super Bowl championship, and induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Then there is Ray Guy – the former Southern Miss punter spent 14 seasons with the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, won three Super Bowls, made seven Pro Bowls, and became the first pure punter inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Guy remained a familiar presence around Southern Miss football until his death in 2022, and his legacy remains everywhere around The Rock, including Ray Guy Way on the north side of the stadium. Southern Miss may not have the sprawling campus or endless monuments found at some larger college football destinations, but there is plenty of history packed into a relatively small area. Take some time to walk around before kickoff; much of the story of Southern Miss football can be found just outside The Rock.

With the heightened interest in the sport and with the WNBA playoffs just starting, it’s time to share our ranking of the WNBA Arenas. The league had two new teams begin operations this 2026 season: Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo. We visited the Tempo but did not make it Portland this summer. One team, the Connecticut Sun, played their last season. Disappointingly to those in the Northeast, the team was sold, will move to Houston and rebrand as the Comets. While some arenas are shared with brethren NBA, G-League, or NHL teams, others are shared with college teams or played in an arena hosting various concerts and other entertainment events throughout the year. Rankings are based on our patented FANFARE system, which evaluates food and beverage, gameday atmosphere, neighborhood, fan support, access (both inside and outside the venue), return on investment, and a bonus category for anything that falls outside the standard criteria. When stadiums earn identical scores, the Stadium Journey Council of Elders steps in to break the tie. To read each full review, simply follow the link for the corresponding ballpark. Our list may vary from your opinion and many may not agree. Please let Stadium Journey know your opinions on our various Social Media outlets. How is your list different from ours? What do we agree/disagree on and why? Moda Center – Portland Fire (No Review) Stadium Journey needs your help!! If you are interested in writing a review of the new team in Portland, please contact Stadium Journey! 14. College Park Center - Dallas Wings – 3.14 Lloyd Brown - The Wings have one of the more enthusiastic fan bases in the WNBA. They show up early and cheer the team on even during the pregame warmups. Most of them are wearing the blue and neon green colors of the team. The pregame introductions give the fans another opportunity to energize the Wings players. 13. Gateway Center Arena - Atlanta Dream – 3.29 Lloyd Brown – Dream games are filled with scoreboard shout‑outs recognizing the many groups in attendance, and every break in the action features fan‑participation games that keep the crowd engaged. It creates a real connection between the team and its supporters. In close games, the fans become the team’s ‘sixth player,’ generating so much noise that visiting teams struggle to communicate on the court. 12. Mohegan Sun Arena – Connecticut Sun – 3.57 Paul Baker - 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. 11. Wintrust Arena - Chicago Sky – 3.57 Lloyd Brown - Wintrust Arena, home of the Chicago Sky, is a worthy home court for a championship team. It is a shiny arena, with excellent views of the game action from any of its seating areas. It features a wonderful audiovisual package, with a huge center-hung video scoreboard. 10. CareFirst Arena – Washington Mystics – 3.86 Gregory Koch - The Washington Mystics are drawing sellout crowds to the CareFirst Arena nearly every game and seem to be outgrowing their home there very quickly. Someday soon, they may move back to Capital One Arena, but for now, a Mystics game at CareFirst is a great experience. 9. Michelob Ultra Arena - Las Vegas Aces – 3.86 Lloyd Brown - We’re betting you are going to have a great time at a Las Vegas Aces game at the Michelob ULTRA Arena. Terrific basketball, Vegas-style entertainment during the breaks, and easy access to food, drink, and gambling add up to a very entertaining evening! 8. Mortgage Matchup Center – Phoenix Mercury – 3.86 Meg Minard - The Phoenix Mercury are one of the WNBA's most iconic franchises, representing Phoenix, Arizona. As one of the eight original teams when the WNBA launched in 1997, the Mercury have played an important role in the league's growth and success over the past three decades. 7. Coca-Cola Coliseum - Toronto Tempo – 4.00 Dave Cottenie – One of the two expansion teams in 2026, right out of the gates the Toronto Tempo have acquired a solid following making tickets difficult to come by. The gameday atmosphere at Coca-Cola Coliseum is solid for the first season. It will be interesting to see if the Tempo can maintain their following and force themselves into a larger venue. 6. Crypto.com Arena - Los Angeles Sparks – 4.00 Andrei Ojeda - Sparks fans are a different crowd than the Lakers faithful. The audience skews younger and they show up in full force. You get the sense they’re here for the pure entertainment of the game, not the celebrity‑driven scene associated with the purple‑and‑gold, where fans often come to be seen. It’s a refreshing change for everyday fans who simply want to enjoy basketball. 5. Target Center - Minnesota Lynx – 4.14 Lloyd Brown - The Lynx are the top cats of the Twin Cities, as they have won multiple WNBA championships over the years. The stands fill as quickly as the Target Center doors open, as fans do not even want to miss the warmups Be sure to look up at all the various championship banners the Lynx have earned at the Target Center over the years. It is a great way to get fired up before the game even starts. 4. Barclays Center – New York Liberty – 4.14 Paul Baker - It’s been a long time since New York City has seen a hoops title, and fans are showing their appreciation to the Liberty with unprecedented support. Brooklyn sports fans are proud to call this squad their own, and you can expect to see the team supported with open arms and full throats when you visit the Barclays Center. 3. Gainbridge Fieldhouse - Indiana Fever – 4.29 Marc Viquez - A Fever game feels more aligned to an Indiana Pacers game. A variety of fans walk throughout the concourse and the seating bowl in support of their WNBA team. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse is ideal for accommodating the newfound fan base that has made their way downtown. 2. Climate Pledge Arena - Seattle Storm – 4.29 Marc Viquez - Climate Pledge Arena is a building that stands out among the rest of the WNBA and the nation. The interaction with fans and the team provides an ideal atmosphere for a first-time visitor, and the neighborhood is worth spending a few hours at before or after the game. When you add free mass transportation to the game, visiting the building is a must in Seattle. 1. Chase Center - Golden State Valkyries – 4.57 Chris Green - Game day at Chase Center for the Golden State Valkyries easily stands up to any sporting experience in the San Francisco Bay Area, and may very well be one of the best in the WNBA. The fans here are incredible. The vibes are unmatched. The team has been wholly embraced and will now be a fixture for years to come. If you’re interested in contributing a review to Stadium Journey, we’d love to hear from you.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 CCBC Catonsville Stadium Field 800 S. Rolling Road Baltimore, MD 21228 CCBC Catonsville Cardinals website CCBC Catonsville Stadium Field website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 2,000 Cardinals Soccer One of the largest colleges in Maryland is largely unknown outside of the area. The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) has an annual enrollment of greater than 72,000 students. Created in the 1990s by a merger of Essex Community College, Dundalk Community College, and Catonsville Community, the new college kept each of those three main campuses, along with a bevy of extension campuses around the suburban Baltimore County area. The three colleges shared a common board of trustees for years but previously operated independently. Essex, Dundalk, and Catonsville have each kept their own distinct athletic identity. CCBC Catonsville began in 1957, operating out of nearby Catonsville High School. The college is located on the site of the historic Knapp Estate. There is still the manor house of the estate, as well as ruins of various historic buildings scattered around the hilltop campus. The school mascot is the Cardinals and they play ten sports. They are a member of Region XX of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference. The soccer program runs out of the simply named "Stadium Field" which is next to the school's baseball field and tennis courts. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food options at or near the stadium field. You are free to bring your own food. Atmosphere 2 There is not much else in terms of atmosphere as it is a JUCO level soccer match. The team does have a PA announcer and that is about it. The stadium field has been newly turfed as of fall of 2017. The lighted field is fenced in with seating for 2000 and can accommodate soccer, football, men’s and women’s lacrosse, and other activities. The field is a regional site for the Baltimore County Public School system and the area recreation council. Most matches like the one we attended are men's / women's doubleheaders. The atmosphere is the same for both. Neighborhood 3 CCBC Catonsville is a suburban community college with its main neighbor being the high school and nearby University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). You will have to venture a bit far from campus for any food or drinks. Downtown Baltimore is roughly a 15 to 20-minute drive down I-95. Catonsville's main street, Frederick Road, is filled with many food and drink options. Nearby Arbutus will also be a good source of options. We like Sorrentos in the downtown section of Arbutus for a good sub or cheesesteak before the game. Fans 3 The attendees at most matches are family members or other athletes. There may be a few local residents who attend the matches. Students generally do not seem to attend matches as it is such a commuter campus. The fans in attendance are knowledgeable and friendly to visitors. Access 4 The CCBC Catonsville campus is easy to access, as it is located off Route 166 / Exit 47B of I-95. There is plenty of free parking on the campus. If classes are in session you may expect to park a bit further away from the field. Return on Investment 5 The games are free to attend. That, along with the free parking, means that you can attend a good-level JUCO program at no cost. . Extras 2 Walk around campus and see the solar panels that have been added to many parking areas on campus. All of the CCBC campuses have added these and expect to get more than a quarter of their electricity from solar. This 5.1-megawatt project is expected to generate 6.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year and joins the 16.1-megawatt array at Mount St. Mary’s University in an effort by local colleges to expand solar usage. There are many banners and plaques scattered around inside the nearby Jack Manley Wellness and Athletic Center displaying the various personal and team accomplishments of Cardinals athletes. Final Thoughts The CCBC Catonsville Stadium Field is a basic pleasant soccer facility located in nice park-like setting. Although nothing fancy, it is a nice little stop for a sports fan traveling along the I-95 corridor.

Photos by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Blaik Field at Michie Stadium 700 Mills Rd West Point, NY 10996 Army Black Knights website Blaik Field at Michie Stadium website Year Opened: 1924 Capacity: 36,000 The Greatest Gameday in America There are few college football experiences that feel quite like a trip to West Point. Michie Stadium is home to Army-West Point football team. The stadium is located on the United States Military Academy campus overlooking the Hudson River. This location creates a setting that is unlike most college football venues. Michie Stadium opened in 1924 with a capacity of 16,000. Today, after the completion of the $170 million renovations to the East Stands completed prior to the 2026 season, the stadium seating capacity is 36,000. The official name of Michie Stadium is Blaik Field at Michie Stadium. The stadium is named after a West Point Cadet, Dennis Michie. He started the football program by organizing, managing, and coaching the first football team in 1890. Unfortunately, the cadet would lose his life, six years after he graduated, when he was killed during the Spanish-American War. This is the history contained within Army-West Point football. It predates the Spanish-American War. In 1999 the field was named after Earl “Red” Blaik, who coached Army to 3 consecutive national titles from 1944-46. During their time at Michie Stadium, Army has won three national titles (1944, 1945 and 1946). The Cadets March Into Michie Stadium. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Food & Beverage 4 The recent renovation not only added to the physical structure of Michie Stadium; the food and beverage took a noticeable step forward this season. On the new east stands, The Noto Family Cadet Concourse will offer you a wide variety of food options from steak frites, burgers, hot dogs, pretzels and tacos. There are also loaded nachos and a place where you can buy house- smoked BBQ at the smokehouse which sits on the 200 level of the east stands. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere at Michie Stadium is one of the most unique in college football. Located on the grounds of West Point with the Hudson River and surrounding mountains as the backdrop, the setting alone makes attending an Army football game feel different from a typical Saturday at a college stadium. The military presence is noticeable throughout the game, from the cadets in the stands to the traditions and pageantry that are built into the experience. Many fans arrive early to watch the Cadet Review on “The Plain”. A full-dress cadet parade takes place three hours before every home game, weather permitting. Other fans opt to explore areas of the campus such as Fort Putnam, one of a series of forts and redoubts which date all the way back to the Revolutionary War. Things really get going about a half hour before kickoff. If visiting Michie Stadium for the first time, you will want to be in your seat to witness the pregame show the Army puts on. To begin, the Cadet Regiment marches onto the field. Over 1,000 cadets take the field in formation to accompany the Cadet Glee Club and Army Band in the playing of the national anthem. The highlight for many fans comes next, as several Cadet Paratroopers jump from a helicopter, delivering the game ball and flags to Michie Stadium. Once the parachuters arrive, the Army football team takes the field, accompanied by the Army Rabble Rousers, mascots, American flag, and the week’s unit flag. As the team takes the field, they head over to the cadet seating section, where the team and fans salute each other before the game begins. The Corps of Cadets brings a lot of energy to the stadium, especially during pregame ceremonies and throughout the game. The student sections create plenty of noise, while Army’s traditions give the atmosphere a strong sense of pride and history. The atmosphere is less focused on the massive tailgating scene you might find at some of the biggest college football programs and more centered around the military traditions, the cadets, and the connection between West Point and the football team. Overall, Michie Stadium provides an atmosphere that is difficult to replicate. The combination of college football, military tradition, the historic West Point setting, and the Hudson River views make it a memorable place to watch a game. The Army Mascot at Michie Stadium. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 2 The neighborhood that Michie Stadium sits in is not your typical college football setting. Located along the Hudson River, the stadium is surrounded by scenic views and military buildings. The area has a strong sense of history and amazing views of the Hudson River. If you are looking for some food or possibly a drink, there aren’t many restaurants that are nearby, Highland Falls and Fort Montgomery would be your closest options unless you venture to other communities across the Hudson River. The lodging in the area is scarce, if you want to stay nearby, there is a Holiday Inn express & Suites West Point in Fort Montgomery and The Fairbridge Inn Suites at West Point in Highland Falls. If you want a little luxury and history in your stay, then The Thayer Hotel at West Point provides views of the Hudson River and the United States Military Academy. The hotel opened in 1926 and has hosted US Presidents, world leaders, and celebrities. West Point is a gateway to New York’s Hudson Valley Region, for the outdoors; Bear Mountain State Park is a place to visit especially if you are there for fall foliage. Near the Academy, you can explore the West Point Museum with a free collection of military artifacts, weapons, and historical items like WWII memorabilia. Fort Putnam would be another place to visit; it is under the West Point Museum authority and is seasonal. Fans 4 The fans at Michie Stadium bring unique energy to the game day atmosphere. There is a strong pride throughout that you feel, with the cadets, alums and military families. The fans are passionate yet respectful and you notice a true sense of tradition throughout the stadium. What makes the fan experience standout is the connection between the cadets and the football program. Overall, the fans provide a passionate, patriotic and welcoming atmosphere that makes attending an Army game at Michie Stadium a great experience. Field Level View at Michie Stadium. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Michie Stadium is located on The United States Military Academy in West Point, NY. The campus is about 50 miles north of New York City, about an hour’s drive depending on traffic, and roughly 45 minutes away from Newburgh, New York. Most fans will arrive by car, as public transportation options are limited. The Palisades Parkway, Interstate 87, and Route 9W will be your three major roadways to access Michie Stadium. West Point is an active military base, planning for extra time would be a good decision to clear the security checkpoints while arriving on the grounds. Return on investment 3 Michie Stadium provides a memorable experience for fans who appreciate tradition and the atmosphere of college football. The opportunity to watch the Army compete in a historic setting, along with the pregame festivities and military traditions, adds value to the overall visit. Ticket prices to Michie Stadium will cost you between 45 and 80 dollars if purchased through Army Athletics directly, and roughly $60 through a third-party website for conference games. If you are looking to spend a little less money, nonconference games offer greater value. Beat Navy Tunnel at Michie Stadium. Photo by Justin Cayea, Stadium Journey. Extras 5 One of the things that makes Michie Stadium stand out is everything that happens beyond the football game itself. The Army Mule, Ranger III, is a major part of the West Point experience and adds a unique tradition that you simply don’t get at most college football stadiums. The presence of the cadets also makes the atmosphere feel completely different from a typical Saturday game, with their formations, traditions and energy throughout the day. The marching band adds another layer to the experience, providing plenty of music and pageantry before and during the game. It all comes together to create an atmosphere that feels distinctly like Army and West Point. The stadium’s location is another major bonus. Sitting right along the Hudson River, Michie Stadium offers beautiful scenery and views that make the trip feel more than just attending a football game. Between the cadets, marching band, Army Mule and the Hudson River backdrop, there are plenty of memorable extras that make a visit to Michie Stadium unique. Final Thoughts Michie Stadium is one of the most unique experiences in college football. From the moment you arrive, the military tradition and history of the academy are impossible to miss. The surrounding Hudson River and Hills, and historic West Point creates one of the best backgrounds in college football. The atmosphere is more than just a football game, it’s a combination of college football, tradition, pageantry, and the pride of the Long Gray Line with the Corps of Cadets, Army traditions, and a historic setting surrounding the stadium. Attending a game at West Point offers a unique experience for any college football fan. Although the stadium may not have the bells and whistles that other college stadiums have today, Michie Stadium is one to check off the bucket list for anyone who loves college football. “When I want an officer for a secret and dangerous mission. I want a West Point football player.” –Gen. George C. Marshall

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Dail Soccer Field 2495 Cates Avenue Raleigh, NC 27606 North Carolina State Wolfpack website Dail Soccer Field website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 3,000 Leader of the Soccer Pack Dail Soccer Field has a capacity of 3,000 and is the home of the NC State men’s and women’s soccer teams. The stadium was built in 2008 in the heart of NC State’s campus. In 2011, Dail Soccer Field received several upgrades including seat back chairs in certain sections and bleachers behind the goals. A new brick façade was also added, as well as a press box, a new fan entrance, and a free-standing locker room and team meeting building in the southeast corner of the stadium. . Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand at Dail Stadium, located by the entrance to the right of the bleachers. The menu here is decent, but not great. Hot dogs ($5.99) and nachos ($6.79) are really the only things sold here that could pass for meals. Hot pretzels are $7.29 and you can add a cheese cup for $2.50. Popcorn will cost $6.49, peanuts $4.99, and candy $4.29. Howling Cow ice cream, made on campus by the NC State dairy farm, costs $4.35 and is a popular option, while frozen lemonade costs $6.79. Bottled water, soda (Coca-Cola products) and Powerade are available from between $4.99 and $5.99. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at Dail Soccer Field is outstanding except for one aspect - the large running track surrounding the field that puts fans a good distance away from the action. Most seating is along one sideline and a mix of chairbacks and bleachers. There is some seating at field level behind the goals typically used by the student section known as the Red Terrors - more on them later. A howling wolf sound heralds the kickoff and gets fans pumped up and ready to go. As is typical of professional soccer, but rare for college soccer, much of the energy and atmosphere here comes from the fans, especially the students. More on that in the fans section in a bit. Neighborhood 4 Since Dail Soccer Field is located on campus, there is not much to do within walking distance of the stadium However, there are a couple of places within a short drive. If you are looking for something quick before or after the game, Cook-Out is the place for you. It is located down the street from campus on Western Boulevard and is famous for its “trays” which feature a main item (burgers, chicken, or barbecue), two sides, and a drink for less than $8. Amedeo’s Italian Restaurant is also located on Western Boulevard across the street from campus and was started by a former Wolfpack football player. There is a large variety of NC State memorabilia located throughout the restaurant, and their Italian food is some of the best in the area. Fans 5 NC State draws several thousand fans to a typical home game, nearly filling Dail Soccer Field. All of the fans bring the energy, beginning before the match even starts when they shout "Red" in "The rockets' red glare" during the national anthem. The loudest supporters are the student section known as the Red Terrors. They stand in the bleachers behind whichever goal the Wolfpack are shooting at and make as much noise as possible behind the opposing goalkeeper, similar to a Supporters' Section at the professional level. They shoot off smoke before the match and after every Wolfpack goal. At the beginning of the game and at halftime, they will march along the track to the goal NC State is shooting at, in order to have the maximum impact on the other team. Access 4 Dail Soccer Field and the NC State campus are easily accessible from both I-40 and I-440, though it may take longer for weekday evening games at rush hour. Parking is available in the Coliseum Garage right across the street from the stadium. Other than the rare weekday afternoon game, there is no cost to park here. Restrooms are available at the top of the concourse. They can get crowded at halftime but are mostly sufficient for the crowds. The narrow concourse at the top of the seating area can get cramped at halftime and after the game, but is small enough that it still shouldn't take more than a minute or two to get where you need to go. Return on Investment 5 Admission to NC State soccer games is free, parking is usually free, and concessions are affordable. Considering this is already one of the top college soccer experiences in the country, that is an outstanding value. Extras 3 Check out the distinguished numbers display on the concourse, NC State's equivalent of retired numbers, honoring some Wolfpack soccer greats. There is a team store tent just inside the entrance selling NC State merchandise. A third and final star here for the Red Terrors student section, one of the best in the country. Final Thoughts Dail Soccer Field is a top-notch college soccer venue. With great fans, great on-field play, and free admission, fans in the Raleigh-Durham area will definitely want to head here to check out a game.

The American Association is one of the independent MLB Partner Leagues that fill in the gaps across the continent not covered by affiliated baseball. Founded in 2005, the league’s dozen teams stretch geographically in a midwestern corridor from Manitoba to Texas. The level of play in the circuit is generally comparable to the High-A level of affiliated ball. The league has seen steady growth over its existence, moving from smaller cities into major metropolitan areas and larger, more modern ballparks. When the minor leagues reorganized before the 2021 season, the St. Paul Saints were chosen to move to the International League. A new franchise is scheduled to join the AA for the 2028 season in Blaine, MN. But, if there is one thing that is constant in Indy ball, it is change. Two of the teams, the Cleburne Railroaders and the Kane County Cougars, are rumored to be headed to the National Association of Professional Baseball (formerly the Frontier League) for the 2027 season. What this means for the remaining ten teams in the league remains to be seen. At Stadium Journey, we’re not concerned with that sort of stuff. We’re focused on the ballpark experience for you, the visiting fan. So, our correspondents have criss-crossed the continent, evaluating all aspects of all 12 teams’ gameday presentation to give our readers the inside scoop on the good, the bad, and the different. After researching and grading all the parks, we do what we do best: we rank them. The ballparks are all ranked here according to Stadium Journey’s patented FANFARE system, which ranks facilities according to their Food and beverage, gameday Atmosphere, surrounding Neighborhood, Fan support, Accessibility, Return on investment, and an Extra category for anything not covered by the other six categories. When two or more ballparks are tied, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is convened to break the deadlock. Without any further ado, we are proud to present Stadium Journey’s ranking of the ballparks of the American Association for the 2026 season. 12. Lewis and Clark Stadium – Sioux City Explorers 3.00 Paul Baker - Lewis and Clark Park is a small-town ballpark that is in danger of being passed by, even by the independent American Association. As the league continues to move into newer ballparks in larger cities, small cities like Sioux City are in danger of losing their teams. 11. Wisconsin Brewing Company Park – Lake County Dockhounds 3.00 Paul Baker – The developers of Wisconsin Brewing Company Park made many bold choices when designing this multi-purpose park. Unfortunately, the result was a bland facility with a less than ideal setup for any of the sports it was designed to host. 10. U.S. Steel Yard – Gary SouthShore RailCats 3.00 Eric Hasman – U.S. Steel Yard is a really nice ballpark and plays really big (lots of triples). Even though it is not located in the best of neighborhoods, it is safe and a place any ballpark enthusiast should see. 9. La Moderna Field – Cleburne Railroaders 3.14 Michael Davis – La Moderna Field is the cornerstone of future development around Cleburne, and has the potential to keep professional baseball in the city for years to come. While Cleburne, Texas may not be a tourist hot-spot, what it does have is an immaculate ballpark for any baseball fan. 8. Sioux Falls Stadium – Sioux Falls Canaries 3.29 David Welch – Sioux Falls Stadium, a.k.a. The Birdcage, captures much of what is great about baseball in small cities: a mix of history, quirkiness, and community spirit. The Canaries identity ties the present to more than a century of local baseball tradition, while touches like the strikeout zip line, dual mascots, and the interactive PA announcer are a bit of a break from the traditional stadium experience. 7. Legends Field – Kansas City Monarchs 3.29 Marc Viquez - Legends Field has transitioned from a normal ballpark to one that has nice little touches of comfort, history, and fan conveniences. There is a great food selection, creative game promotions, and plenty of merchandise for fans to make it a night at the ballpark. 6. Franklin Field – Milwaukee Milkmen 3.29 Marc Viquez - Franklin Field is not your ordinary baseball stadium. It blends in well with the neighborhood, and it will only be challenged by the imagination of its architects. The enthusiasm of the game day staff dressed as milkmen, and the numerous dairyland themes make for an alternative to watching professional baseball in Milwaukee. 5. Newman Outdoor Field – Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks 3.57 Paul Baker - Ballparks like Newman Outdoor Field and cities like Fargo are the backbone of minor league baseball. Boasting affordable prices, a friendly atmosphere, and a comfortable, fun place at which to watch a game, a trip to North Dakota is a worthy Stadium Journey for any baseball fan. 4. Northwest Medicine Field – Kane County Cougars 3.57 Marc Viquez - Northwestern Medicine Field is an older minor league ballpark with a main concourse that does not wrap around the ball field. However, the atmosphere is festive with food trucks, lawn seating down both foul lines, a KidZone behind right field, and three wooden party decks for large groups. Plus, plenty of food and beverages to keep fans of all ages satisfied. 3. Haymarket Park – Lincoln Saltdogs 3.71 Paul Baker – Haymarket Park is a nice facility located close to both downtown Lincoln and the University of Nebraska campus. Visiting fans will enjoy the ballpark’s mix of small-town atmosphere and modern amenities. 2. Impact Field – Chicago Dogs 4.00 Marc Viquez - Impact Field is a fantastic-looking stadium and pushes boundaries for stadium design and aesthetics. The Dogs provide a lot of fun and excitement with their branding, ticket pricing, and promotional nights. It has the potential to be one of the best in all the MLB Partner Leagues. 1. Shaw Field – Winnipeg Goldeyes 4.14 Marc Viquez - The Winnipeg Goldeyes are a class act in the world of independent league baseball. The crowd support, enthusiasm, friendly staff, and all-around great time are what make Shaw Park a great investment for your ballpark dollar.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Mortgage Matchup Center 201 E Jefferson St Phoenix, AZ 85004 Map It Phoenix Mercury website Mortgage Matchup Center website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 18,422 X-Factor The Phoenix Mercury are one of the WNBA's most iconic franchises, representing Phoenix, Arizona. As one of the eight original teams when the WNBA launched in 1997, the Mercury have played an important role in the league's growth and success over the past three decades. Success has long been part of the franchise's identity. The Mercury have captured three WNBA championships (2007, 2009, and 2014) while building a passionate fan base along the way. Attending a Mercury game is about more than basketball. Between the action on the court, fans enjoy interactive contests, energetic dance performances, booming music, t-shirt launches, and one of the more enthusiastic crowds in women's professional sports. The team's name complements its NBA counterpart, the Phoenix Suns. While the Suns name draws inspiration from Arizona's intense sunshine, the Mercury take their name from the planet closest to the sun, a fitting tribute to one of America's hottest major cities. The Mercury play their home games at Mortgage Matchup Center in the heart of downtown Phoenix. The venue serves as the home of both the Mercury and the Suns while also hosting concerts, WWE shows, boxing, the WNBA Commissioner's Cup, and more. Phoenix Mercury Introductions, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Since opening in 1992 as America West Arena, the facility has hosted numerous professional sports teams, including the NHL's Phoenix Coyotes, the ECHL's Phoenix RoadRunners, the IFL's Arizona Rattlers, and professional indoor soccer clubs. The arena has undergone several name changes and major renovations, most notably in 2003 and 2020, helping it remain one of Arizona's premier sports and entertainment destinations. Food & Beverage 4 Mortgage Matchup Center offers an extensive selection of food and beverage options, though fans should be prepared for higher-than-average prices. The arena's signature concession stands, the 480 Grill, 520 Grill, 602 Grill, and 623 Grill, are named after Arizona area codes and serve traditional stadium fare such as hot dogs, nachos, chicken tenders, French fries, pretzels, and popcorn. Fans looking for local favorites can stop by Spinato's Pizzeria for pizza, while Wetzel's Pretzels remains one of the arena's most popular destinations. Other notable options include Big Chicken, featuring its signature chicken sandwich and Uncle Jerome's Nashville Hot Sandwich; Tostitos Cantina, known for its Walking Tacos; Gorilla Grill for burgers and grilled classics; Los Soles Taqueria for tacos, tamales, and nachos; and Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, a well-known Arizona-based burger chain. Several Grab & Go stations are located throughout the concourse for fans seeking a quick purchase. In addition to beverages and snacks, these kiosks feature a $2 Value Menu with items such as hot dogs, chips, bottled water, and ice cream sandwiches, one of the building's best bargains. The concourse is also lined with bars and alcohol kiosks, including the Grey Goose Bar, Footprint Champions Bar, and Hornitos Bar. These gathering spots are especially popular before tip-off. Concession stands offer Coca-Cola products and a selection of domestic and craft beers, though prices remain steep. One money-saving tip: the main entrance lobby includes a hydration station where guests can refill an empty water bottle free of charge. Atmosphere 4 The Phoenix Mercury provide a fan-friendly game-day experience highlighted by strong fan engagement and excellent sportsmanship on the court. Fans can view the seating bowl from the entry area behind a huge lobby bar. The open concourse includes two corner bar areas with drink rails and stools overlooking the court. The arena features two seating levels separated by suites and a club level. Most lower-bowl sections extend to Row 28, with fans entering around Row 19 and walking either up or down to their seats. Sightlines are excellent throughout the venue, with center-court Sections 114 and 115 offering some of the best views. For most Mercury games, only one side of the upper deck is open, creating a more intimate atmosphere. Attendance surges for marquee matchups, particularly when the Indiana Fever come to town, often resulting in the entire upper level being used. A high-definition center-hung scoreboard hangs above center court, providing clear replays, statistics, and game information without distracting from the action. Additional video boards above the baskets and along the sidelines ensure game information is always visible, while player statistics are displayed throughout the contest. The arena also deserves credit for providing closed captioning on all four ribbon-board corners. Mortgage Matchup Center Closed Captioning, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Entertainment remains constant from tip-off to the final buzzer. The Mercury's Hip Hop Squad energizes the crowd with cheerleading and on-court performances during breaks in play. Fans can also expect t-shirt tosses, interactive contests, dance cam appearances, and the popular "Who's in the House?" segment highlighting notable guests. One aspect visitors should be prepared for is the volume. Music and sound effects are played at a consistently high level, which helps create energy but may overwhelm some guests. Those sensitive to loud noise may want ear protection or noise-canceling headphones. The arena's temperature is refreshingly cool, but fans who chill easily may want to bring a light jacket or sweater. Neighborhood 5 Downtown Phoenix has a plethora of places to eat, drink, visit, and sleep. Two relatively new dining restaurants nearby are Blanco Cocina + Cantina (Mexican) and The Ainsworth (upscale American restaurant and lounge), and a Tom’s Watch Bar recently popped up near the MM Center. Old favorites like Majerle’s Sports Grill, The Arrogant Butcher, Crown Public House, and The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub are still excellent selections. If you just want a beer pre or post-game, visit the Whining Pig. Craft beers in cans, bottles, and on draft, mead, wine, and cider are much more affordable here than in the arena. Other things to visit near the arena are the Arizona Science Center, the Phoenix Police Museum, Heritage & Science Park/Historic Heritage Square. The Phoenix Convention Center is just two blocks from the Footprint Center. The MLB Arizona D-backs is another sports team to visit in downtown Phoenix during the WNBA season. Occasionally, you can attend a D-backs and Mercury doubleheader. Several places to stay within walking distance of the arena include the Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Downtown, Hyatt Regency Phoenix, Renaissance Phoenix Downtown, Courtyard by Marriott Phoenix Downtown, or Home2 Suites by Hilton Phoenix Downtown. The Hampton Inn and Suites is about five blocks away and may be more affordable than the others. Fans 4 X-Factor is the official name of the Mercury's fan base and supports group, and they help create an energetic atmosphere from start to finish. Fans are welcoming, friendly, and respectful, while providing enthusiastic support throughout the game. One of the team's traditions has supporters standing until the Mercury score their first basket, and dedicated fans often begin lining up outside the arena more than 30 minutes before the doors open. Once the game starts, most spectators remain engaged in the action and stay through the final buzzer. The Mercury have consistently drawn strong crowds by WNBA standards, averaging around 11,000 fans per game over the past decade and routinely ranking among the league's better-supported franchises. Access 5 Getting to and around Mortgage Matchup Center is relatively easy. The best option is the Valley Metro Light Rail, with game tickets including free rides. Use the Washington/3rd Street or Jefferson/3rd Street stations, depending on your direction of travel. The light rail even stops at Sky Harbor Airport. Drivers will find the arena conveniently located near I-10 and I-17. Parking is available in numerous nearby garages, though event rates can be expensive. Expect to pay roughly $15 to $30, with premium locations costing more. The Jefferson Street Garage, adjacent to the arena, typically charges about $20. The plaza outside the main entrance offers ample seating, making it an ideal gathering place before the game, a feature more venues should emulate. Upon entering, fans pass through walk-through security scanners, and bags may be inspected. Security staff are friendly yet thorough. The arena follows standard NBA bag policies, permitting bags up to 14" x 14" x 6" without requiring them to be clear. The concourse was widened during the 2020 renovation, creating a comfortable flow of pedestrian traffic. Restrooms are plentiful and remain clean throughout the game. Return on Investment 3 Single-game tickets start at around $28, though Ticketmaster fees can push the total cost to more than $40 for an entry-level seat. Premium seats can exceed $150. Tickets are mobile-only and accessible through the Phoenix Mercury app, which links directly to Ticketmaster. A nice perk is that game tickets include access to Valley Metro Light Rail service, allowing fans to avoid downtown parking costs. While ticket prices are slightly higher than those at other WNBA venues, the included transit benefit helps offset the expense. Fans who choose to drive should expect to pay approximately $15 to $30 for parking in nearby garages and lots. The Mercury enhance the game-day experience with a variety of ticket packages, giveaways, and theme nights throughout the season. Promotions include Buy One Get One Free offers, specialty jersey packages, fan sweepstakes, cultural celebration nights, and Fan Appreciation events. Be sure to check the Mercury website before purchasing tickets. Concessions are plentiful but carry premium arena pricing, with food and beverage costs generally running higher than at many WNBA venues. Extras 2 Easy access via Valley Metro Light Rail is a major plus and helps distinguish the Mercury game-day experience from many other WNBA venues. Fans are also reminded of the franchise's rich history by the three championship banners (2007, 2009, 2014) hanging overhead, along with Diana Taurasi's retired No. 3 jersey, the first in team history. Final Thoughts Attending a Mercury basketball game is an enjoyable afternoon/evening out. If you haven’t been to the arena in a while, come check out some summer hoops at Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix.

Photos by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 ONT Field 9375 E Riverside Dr Ontario, CA 91761 Map It Ontario Tower Buzzers website ONT Field website Year Opened: 2026 Capacity: 6,500 Ontario’s Latest Buzz Ontario, California is the gateway to the Inland Empire. Located approximately 45 minutes east of Downtown Los Angeles, Ontario is no stranger to hosting professional sporting events. Through 1980, the Ontario Motor Speedway, once located where the current Toyota Arena sits, was the site of various NASCAR, NHRA and Formula One racing events. Over the years, Ontario has been a passing ground for future Los Angeles Clippers and is currently the home to the Ontario Reign, the minor league affiliate for the Los Angeles Kings. In 2024, the City of Ontario announced a new minor league partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers with ground breaking during the same week the Dodgers were capturing their first of back to back championships. The excitement of a new ballclub finally came to fruition as ONT Field officially opened on March 21, 2026 with an official capacity of 6,500. Food & Beverage 4 Aside from your usual ballpark staples of hot dogs, pizza, chicken tenders and burgers, ONT Field has a plethora of ethnic food options from Mexican, Asian and even Greek. Mexican options range from birria burritos to your usual tacos and gameday nachos and cheese. An always popular Greek food item is the gyro pita. If you’re in the mood for some Asian fare, teriyaki chicken and pork belly ballpark bao buns are also available. An outdoor bar in the outfield area known as the Baggage Hall is available for fans to hang out and enjoy their favorite libations, featuring domestic Coors/Miller brand brews along with other craft choices. This way to the Baggage Hall, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey A permanent dedicated ice cream stand is also located next to the Baggage Hall serving up a variety of ice cream flavors and both traditional and waffle cones. Along with that favorite summer time frozen treat, assorted candies along with kettle corn, cotton candy and the timeless Cracker Jack are also available. Atmosphere 5 The moment you set foot inside ONT Field a literal towering buzz is felt. With staff dressed as airport attendants and the nods to the aviation industry and nearby Ontario Airport paired with undoubtedly the most up to date Single A facility throughout the MiLB circuit, the game day atmosphere at ONT Field is lifted several levels above your usual Single-A experience. Its affiliation to the back-to-back defending World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers, with numerous reminders throughout the yard, including that of Dodger Stadium’s iconic hexagon shaped score/video board has certainly added a Major League flavor to the game day atmosphere. Mini Dodger Stadium video and scoreboard, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 The surrounding area is a work in progress. Scheduled for completion come late October, the adjacent Ontario Sports Empire will be the largest mixed-use sports complex of its kind west of the Rocky Mountains. With 20 multipurpose fields, 14 youth diamond fields, 8 full-size diamonds, 4 football/rugby fields, and 2 championship fields, the venue is built to accommodate regional and national tournaments as well as local games. The OSE is another latest addition to the ever growing Ontario entertainment landscape. Your best bet for pregame dining would be along Euclid Avenue in Ontario Town Square. A slew of hotels are near the airport 3 - 6 miles away. Fans 5 The overwhelming buzz of support for the Buzzers has been evident during the franchise’s inaugural season as Buzzers fans have frequently packed the yard in droves. The excitement of a new franchise affiliated with the Dodgers along with a community whose sports identity continues to grow has contributed greatly to the huge fan support. The stands are consistently filled with both Buzzers and Dodger Blue sprinkled in with some of that bright gold shine that compliments the blue perfectly. View from the outfield view, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Access 4 ONT Field provides plenty of onsite parking with major freeway access close by. Ontario International Airport (ONT) is just six miles from the ballpark. Fans flying in for a visit and staying at a local hotel, can use the GOAT (a free shuttle with transfers between the airport, hotels, and key destinations in Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga) to get to ONT Field. Inside the stadium you will experience the only Single-A facility and possibly the only minor league facility where fans can roam the concourse throughout the entire stadium while not missing any of the action. Several standing room spots can be found throughout the concourse as well as above the outfield walls of certain areas, giving fans the opportunity to experience the game from various different areas. Return on Investment 3 Though tickets can start off at $5 for Tuesday night games and $14 standing room only tickets give you access throughout the yard, the prices can get a bit steep for a minor league experience as tickets closer toward the dugouts and home plate can run as much as $40. Party suites are also available for a premium price. Without a doubt, the affiliation along with the excitement of a first year franchise tied to the Dodgers brand has given the Buzzers the opportunity to charge some premium prices. Because of the excitement surrounding the Buzz, the ROI has not seemed to dull the power of the buzz. Extras 4 Because of its affiliation with the Dodgers, there will be some noticeable tributes to the parent club and its history, including a mural of Fernando Valenzuela and highlights of the parent club’s historic moments, including Joe Davis’ most recent call of Freddie Freeman’s 2004 walk off grand slam, “GIBBY MEET FREDDIE !”. Fernando Valenzuela mural, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Aside from tapping into its Dodgers affiliation, the outfield concourse has a playground for the little ones that includes a vintage plane model and a mini water park. When a home run is smashed by the home team, a dazzling light display from the aircraft along with some waterworks are set off. Vintage airplane model, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Keeping with the aviation theme of the organization, certain areas of the pedestrian concourse are outlined in the fashion of an airport runway. If that’s not enough, inside the team store is an actual live ONT Airport board that provides live updates of arriving and departing flights from the nearby airport. Outfield concourse, 418 feet from home plate, Photo by Andre Ojeda, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts The inaugural season of the Ontario Tower Buzzers and the enthusiastic buzz in the ONT and surrounding Inland Empire has created an impactful buzz in a growing community not far from Los Angeles. A community with the renowned Ontario Mills Mall and a potential starting point for hockey and baseball players for two of Los Angeles’ most prominent sports franchises, the success of the first year Tower Buzzers all but ensures the strong impact of the present and future professional sports community of Ontario.

Photo Created by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey With black, hot pink, gray, and white branding designed to “punch somebody in the face,” the Gering Sugar Beets are preparing to bring a bold new identity to Independence League Baseball. The Sugar Beets are owned by Jeff Dobish and will make their debut at Oregon Trail Park Stadium in the summer of 2027. The club’s name connects directly to the agricultural heritage of the Gering, Nebraska area, where sugar beet farming contributes over $130 million annually to the state. However, its branding and colors are designed to attract attention. “I wanted something that could morph,” Dobish said. “We wanted to make sure that we had something solid, that was good, and that color scheme that we have is, no pun intended, hitting a home run.” The team’s name initially received mixed reactions. Some residents questioned the unusual choice, but Dobish believed the agricultural connection gave the club a natural identity. “A sugar beet is not the most attractive vegetable on the planet,” he said. “But it made sense. We wanted to hit the mark with the agricultural side of it.” Stem Creative developed the mascot Rooty, a friendly, approachable character wearing sunglasses and a backward hat, designed to appeal to young fans and stand out among hundreds of other baseball logos. The team will wear six uniforms during its inaugural season, designed by Triton, featuring a dye-sublimation design on knicker-style pants. Zephyr designed the caps, including solid pink, solid black, white with a pink brim, and pink with a black brim. The team's branding and wordmark were created by Stem Creative. Dobish grew up in Victoria, British Columbia, and is a former junior hockey player in the Western Hockey League. However, Baseball caught his attention after his son played summer collegiate ball. He fell in love with the stadium atmosphere and live entertainment. A few years later, he founded the Canyon County Spuds of the Expedition League. He and his family invested heavily in the community and developed relationships with local business and civic leaders. Unfortunately, league instability forced the franchise to relocate to Casper, Wyoming, where it continues today in the Independence Baseball League. “It’s something you build,” he said. “It’s heartbreaking at the same time, but to see that he’s taking care of Casper and doing really well is pretty cool.” Dobish wants Sugar Beets games to become affordable family destinations, particularly on weeknights when baseball competes with dinner and other activities. Games at Oregon Trail Stadium will begin at 6:35 p.m. A free children’s baseball clinic will be offered every night, giving young fans the chance to throw, catch, run, and hit with Sugar Beets players. Non-starting players will greet fans at the entrance and take photographs. The food quality will be a central part of the stadium experience. Dobish and his family have a background in the restaurant business and plan to renovate the stadium kitchen at an estimated cost of $25,000 to $30,000. The menu will feature fresh, affordable ballpark staples, including upgraded burgers, chicken fingers, fries, nachos, and specialty condiments. Dobish wants families to feel they can skip cooking dinner and eat at the stadium without facing major-league prices. “We have to make it so that people can come to the ballpark,” Dobish said. “If we can get them to skip dinner at home and eat at Oregon Trail Park Stadium, then we’re doing our job.” The Sugar Beets plan to support local causes through programs such as the Battle of the Credit Unions, a charity jersey auction, and a food drive in which area credit unions compete to collect nonperishable goods for local food banks. Fans who donate food will receive complimentary game tickets. The team plans to partner with Vet Tix to provide tickets for military members and recognize veterans, first responders, medical professionals, and emergency personnel. Players will participate in reading programs, food-bank initiatives, youth baseball events, and other local activities. Other promotional nights will include First Responders/Hero and Agriculture & Harvest Nights. Adult tickets will start at $8. “Wins and losses mean nothing to me,” Dobish added. “What really means the most to my wife and me is the culture that we can create.” Season-ticket reservations, merchandise, sponsorship opportunities, host-family information, and player opportunities are expected to be available through the team’s website, and online ticketing and merchandise plans are scheduled to launch around the first week of October. The Sugar Beets are still more than a year away from their first pitch, but Dobish believes the foundation is already being established. He hopes to combine sharp branding, sound marketing, and affordable entertainment. “This is Gering’s team. I’m just the one who’s responsible for running it.” ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

It's time to spotlight the ballparks that define Triple-A baseball in the International and Pacific Coast Leagues. Some are cornerstone stops on the baseball road-trip circuit, while others are known for their striking downtown skyline, spectacular mountain backdrops, or distinctive local character. Many of these venues hosted the Triple-A All-Star Game before the event was discontinued in 2019, and several have welcomed Major League exhibition games over the years. Three have even served as home venues for MLB clubs during regular season play. Don’t cheat. What are the three? Las Vegas Ballpark will host the 2026 Triple-A National Championship game Saturday, September 26, 2026. Stadium Journey rankings are based on our patented FANFARE scale, which evaluates each venue across seven key categories: 🍔 Food & Beverage Options 🎉 Game Day Atmosphere 🏙️ Surrounding Neighborhood 🙌 Fan Support 🚗 Access (inside and outside the park) 💸 Return on Investment 🧩 Extras - Unique features that don’t fit neatly into the other categories or deserve additional acknowledgement When two or more ballparks earn the same score, the Stadium Journey Council of Elders steps in to break the tie with their seasoned insight. To dive deeper into each stadium’s review, just click the link associated with the team’s name. Enjoy the rankings - and see where your favorite ballpark lands! Every ballpark traveler sees things a little differently, so we don't expect everyone to agree with our rankings. Tell us what you think on any of Stadium Journey's social media channels. How does your Top 30 compare to ours, and which parks deserve a higher or lower spot, and why, in your view? ** Be sure to stay through the end of the ranking, where we share the three Triple-A ballparks that have served as home venues for MLB teams during regular-season play. 30. PNC Field – Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders – 3.14 (Int’l) Gregory Koch - Minor League Baseball has been played in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania metropolitan area since 1989, when a team then known as the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons arrived from Maine, playing in the International League. The team plays its home games at PNC Field in Moosic, rather than in Scranton or Wilkes-Barre. The renovation PNC Field underwent in 2012 has really done it a lot of good. Architecturally, the stadium has seen massive improvements. 29. NBT Bank Stadium - Syracuse Mets – 3.29 (Int’l) Dave Cottenie - What the future holds for the new branding of the Syracuse Mets remains a mystery. That being said, it is definitely a positive for Syracuse baseball to have its own identity and some fresh branding at NBT Bank Stadium. In the meantime, it is still a decent experience that fans should not sleep on. 28. The Ballpark at America First Square - Salt Lake Bees – 3.29 (PCL) Sean MacDonald - As with any ballpark in Utah, a mountain backdrop is essential and deserves recognition, as does the facade out front. The Ballpark at America First Square is the initial step in what promises to be an intriguing question - can a minor league stadium be the centerpiece of a suburban development? As time passes, the area will improve and we expect adjustments that will make this a more attractive sports destination. 27. Fifth Third Field - Toledo Mud Hens – 3.29 (Int’l) Meg Minard - Fifth Third Field is an admirable AAA park, located right downtown, with ornate gates, ample concourse room, plenty of between-inning entertainment, and good baseball. The ballpark’s downtown setting creates a walkable neighborhood built around baseball, bars, restaurants, and renovated historic buildings. 26. Greater Nevada Field - Reno Aces – 3.43 (PCL) Andrew Maurins - A game at Greater Nevada Field represents a solid all-around value for what a ticket through the gate will get you. Minor quibbles with parking and concession lines are made up for with a high degree of interactive entertainment and a great selection of high-quality concessions. 25. Constellation Field - Sugar Land Space Cowboys – 3.43 (PCL) Eric Moreno - Constellation Field takes its place among the great minor league parks in Texas, right up there near the top. It’s a great venue for fans, with a ton of options to make sure everyone has a good time. Sugar Land is also a sneaky good place to have a weekend getaway – it’s far enough removed from the hustle and bustle of Houston, but has enough amenities to ensure a good time. 24. Louisville Slugger Field - Louisville Bats – 3.43 (Int’l) Marc Viquez - Louisville Slugger Field is situated in a part of town that is walkable to restaurants, bars, and distilleries, along with other sporting venues. It offers beautiful views of the city skyscrapers, bridges, and neighborhood buildings, and is packed with plenty of history behind its enclosed walls. 23. Harbor Park - Norfolk Tides – 3.57 (Int’l) Gregory Koch - Harbor Park takes its name from Hampton Roads, the natural harbor that divides the region of the same name in two and is located just minutes from the stadium. Fans can see ships of all sizes going up and down the Elizabeth River beyond the outfield fence, from small craft to large ships. 22. Gwinnett Field - Gwinnett Stripers – 3.57 (Int’l) David Welch - Gwinnett offers a decent minor-league baseball experience that is entertaining, while keeping the game on the field as the focus of the experience. For the Braves, having their AAA franchise located so close provides some operational advantages when it comes to roster management. 21. Sutter Health Park – Sacramento River Cats – 3.57 (PCL) David Hegler - The Sacramento River Cats have played on the banks of the Sacramento River in Sutter Health Park since 2000 and have been developing talent for Bay Area teams ever since. Sutter Health Park has rarely strayed from its original capacity of just over 14,000 with more than 10, 600 seats and large sections of grass to sit on by the outfield as mainstays in the ballpark’s configuration. 20. Werner Park - Omaha Storm Chasers – 3.57 (Int’l) James Hilchen - When baseball fans hear Omaha, they usually think College World Series, but don’t sleep on Werner Park and the Omaha Storm Chasers. The ballpark has a lot to offer. From some great food and drink to a relaxed and fun baseball atmosphere, Werner Park is definitely worth a look. 19. Dell Diamond - Round Rock Express – 3.86 (PCL) Eric Moreno - Even though it is 25+ years old, Dell Diamond still looks modern. There are tons of nods to baseball’s past, which is both intrinsic and essential to the sport. There is not a bad sightline in the stadium, and it has enough amenities and extras to keep everyone (e.g., young fans) entertained and engaged. 18. Southwest University Park - El Paso Chihuahuas – 3.86 (PCL) Meg Minard - If you savor the social aspect of visiting minor league ball games, the El Paso Chihuahuas have you covered. With plenty of activities and entertainment outside of the ballgame, a host of food and beverage choices, and a slew of promotion days, fans will enjoy themselves at the ballpark. 17. Cheney Stadium - Tacoma Rainiers – 3.86 (PCL) James Hilchen – Fans will be impressed with the stadium and the game presentation the Rainiers staff puts together on a nightly basis. There are some unique factors that make a visit to Cheney Stadium well worth your time, e.g., the light towers were reclaimed from Seals Park in San Francisco ( the stadium the San Francisco Giants initially played in when relocating from New York). 16. VyStar Ballpark - Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp – 3.86 (Int’l) David Welch - Jacksonville does an outstanding job making an evening at the ballpark well worth the experience no matter if you attend for the game on the field, the entertainment aspect of the atmosphere, or any combination of the two. 15. Las Vegas Ballpark - Las Vegas Aviators – 4.00 (PCL) Lloyd Brown - Las Vegas Ballpark fits in seamlessly with its surroundings. The two backdrops to the park are the Red Rocks Mountains on one side and the lights of the Las Vegas Strip on the other. The exterior of the park and many of the interior elements come in hues of burnt orange and rust red. This reflects the colors of the mountains in the distance but is also suggestive of the brilliant sunsets the area experiences. 14. Polar Park - Worcester Red Sox – 4.00 (Int’l) Paul Baker - Polar Park is a bandbox, with precious little foul territory and fans right on top of the action. There are numerous social gathering areas throughout the ballpark that all fans can access, giving the park a community feel and a lively buzz during games. 13. Principal Park - Iowa Cubs – 4.00 (Int’l) James Hilchen - Des Moines is an underrated city with a great downtown scene. The location of the ballpark is in a perfect location for entertainment before and after the game. Inside the gates is a great place to sit back and watch a game while taking in some great views and a litany of good food and drink options. 12. Sahlen Field - Buffalo Bisons – 4.00 (Int’l) Dave Cottenie - Sahlen Field is the largest stadium in MiLB, even after a reduction in capacity. The exterior of Sahlen Field is attractive enough for a concrete structure with marble inlets to give it some style. Outside the third base side, there is a large square, which is perfect for meeting others before the game. 11. AutoZone Park - Memphis Redbirds – 4.14 (Int’l) Lance Sutehall - AutoZone Park was an expensive state-of-the-art stadium when it opened at the turn of the millennium. That may have been a good investment as the venue is still a great place to spend an evening in Memphis. 10. Huntington Park – Columbus Clippers – 4.14 (Int’l) Paul Baker - Huntington Park has many elements that you won’t find anywhere else in the minor leagues, and while you may debate their effectiveness, there’s no denying that this is a quality minor league facility. 9. ESL Ballpark - Rochester Red Wings – 4.29 (Int’l) Dave Cottenie - The Rochester Red Wings are one of the oldest franchises in Minor League Baseball and a cornerstone of the International League. Taking in a Red Wings game is everything that is great about Minor League Baseball in a simple, satisfying package. 8. Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark - Oklahoma City Comets – 4.43 (PCL) Terry McCutchen - With the low cost of tickets and ample free parking in and around the stadium, the cost of attendance is well within the budget of any baseball fan. Add the fact that concessions are on the lower end of pricing for stadium for food and drinks, and attending Comets games at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark is an economical entertainment option. 7. First Horizon Park - Nashville Sounds – 4.43 (Int’l) Dave Cottenie - First Horizon Park is one of the best ballparks in all of Minor League Baseball. Not only does it offer an easy 360-degree path around the park on the inside, but there is also an easy path on the outside. The centerfield gate, right by the parking garage, offers a bronze statue of Track and Field Coach Ed Temple, who coached 23 Olympic medalists and 40 Olympians. 6. Victory Field - Indianapolis Indians – 4.43 (Int’l) Marc Viquez - Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis remains one of the premier spots to enjoy a minor league baseball game in the country; its design, setting, minor improvements, and simplicity continue to attract fans throughout the season. The team has been an institution in town since 1902 and has a stadium that is synonymous with baseball in Indianapolis. 5. Durham Bulls Athletic Park - Durham Bulls – 4.57 (Int’l) James Hilchen - Much like the iconic Green Monster and Fenway Park in Boston, DBAP has its own Blue Monster. The ballpark’s left field wall measures 32-feet high. It has both a manual scoreboard as well as the main video board for the stadium embedded in it. There is seating above the blue monster and many people take advantage of the opportunity of the unique view. 4. RGCU Field at Isotopes Park – Albuquerque Isotopes – 4.57 (PCL) James Hilchen - Albuquerque has a rich baseball history. The Dukes were a Dodgers affiliate for decades, and the list of players who came through Albuquerque reads like a who’s who of Dodger lore. The Isotopes have been affiliated with the Marlins, Dodgers, and now the Rockies, but you’ll still see a huge Dodgers representation amongst fans. They are a knowledgeable bunch and know the game and the players. 3. Coca-Cola Park - Lehigh Valley IronPigs – 4.57 (Int’l) Steven Kee - The fans proudly wear the IronPig colors and various alternate theme caps and shirts during games. It also helps when you are affiliated with the nearby Philadelphia Phillies, but there are more reasons why people come out to games. The food, promotions, fireworks, and value are many reasons the Pigs rank number one in minor-league baseball. 2. Truist Field – Charlotte Knights – 4.57 (Int’l) Gregory Koch - Truist Field is a gorgeous baseball stadium, and a Charlotte Knights game is a fun atmosphere from the moment you walk into the ballpark. The stadium has a 360-degree concourse, and the field is visible from everywhere on it except when it passes behind the home plate club and the batter's eye in centerfield. 1. CHS Field - St. Paul Saints – 4.71 (Int’l) James Hilchen - The Saints have given fans every reason to turn out and they certainly do. The fact that the team meets the expectations of regular fans above and beyond fielding a decent team makes the fans even more loyal, especially now with the Twins affiliation. As such, they are always engaged in the game and promotions, which makes the atmosphere even better. ** Sahlen Field hosted the Toronto Blue Jays during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Sutter Health Park currently serves as the temporary home of the Athletics as they await the opening of their new ballpark. Las Vegas Ballpark joined the list in June 2026 when it hosted a six-game Athletics homestand, giving Las Vegas fans a preview of their future Major League team.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Tucker Stadium 1105 N Peachtree Ave Cookeville, TN 38501 Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles website Tucker Stadium website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 12,000 The Eagles Have Landed The Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles recently completed a $60 million renovation of Tucker Stadium, completely rebuilding the west side of their football venue. Changes included adding chairback seating, drink rails, club seating, luxury suites, and all-new concessions. The project also included a 40,000-square-foot football operations center; renovations began in 2024 and were completed in time for the 2026 season. So far this season, the Golden Eagles have struggled to fill the new west side to capacity, but attendance should increase over time, as fans start to learn more about this new gem in Cookeville, Tennessee. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage scene at redesigned Tucker Stadium lacks little, if anything. There are a slew of food trucks on offer behind the east stands (visitors side), which were doing brisk business during my most recent visit. But the west side is where the concessions really shine, with options ranging from Bojangles’, Pizza Hut, Auntie Anne’s, and Crumbl Cookies to more traditional fare such as hot dogs, brats, nachos, popcorn, ice cream, coffee, and fries. As an example of the prices, a personal-sized Pizza Hut pizza or 4-piece Bo Supremes is $10, Pizza Hut bread bites or a Bo chicken sandwich is $8, nachos with cheese are $6, and popcorn is $4. Beverages include beer, hard seltzer, and hard cider for the 21 and up crowd, with dirty sodas, tea, milkshakes, and Coke products for everyone else. Alcohol is $9, or you can spend $10 on a souvenir cup to get free refills on soda. Regular-sized sodas and bottled water are $4 each. Atmosphere 5 The Golden Eagles pull out all the stops when it comes to football at Tucker Stadium. That includes an artillery gun in the north end zone to celebrate Eagle touchdowns, a great mascot, and fireworks after the game, win or lose. There are also scoreboard games and various recognitions, as well as a fabulous band with almost 200 members. Thanks to a huge purple and gold banner marking their location on the visiting side, the band is visible all game long near the student section. There is also a great tailgating scene across the street from the west stands. The seats on the home side, while more expensive to sit in, are also super comfortable, consisting mostly of purple bucket-style individual chairback seats, with a few rows of chairback benches at the top of the concourse. More importantly, there are also drink rails at the top of the lower level, near the concession stands, so you can eat and drink your food without having to take it back to your seats – this is a major plus which keeps you from having to bump elbows with your neighbors while you eat. The stands on the east side are metal bleachers without backs. Neighborhood 4 There is plenty to do in a town the size of Cookeville, TN, with myriad restaurants and hotels near the football venue. Two great food options are Crawdaddy’s Public House, featuring New Orleans-inspired dishes such as jambalaya and po’ boys, and Red Silo Brewing Company (if you are into microbrews). Hotels nearby include well-known chains such as Holiday Inn or La Quinta. Attractions in the area include the Cookeville Depot Museum, a national historic site which preserves the depot of the old Louisville & Nashville Railroad. There are also several parks in the area, as well as Mean Mel’s, a live music venue that also offers comedy shows, trivia, karaoke, and even dancing lessons. Fans 2 The fans at Tennessee Tech football games are passionate, but unfortunately the crowds are not very large at present. As mentioned above, the gorgeous west side is mostly empty, while the opposite side is only about half full. While the amenities are much nicer on the west side, tickets there are more expensive, so most fans opt to sit on the visitors side instead. Access 3 Parking is free at Tucker Stadium, which is a plus, but you may have to walk a bit depending on how early you arrive. The main parking lot is the Hooper Eblen South/Main Lot, located between Tucker Stadium and Eblen Center, Tennessee Tech’s basketball arena. You can also park a little further away near the school’s baseball field, Bush Stadium. One potential challenge is that will call and ticket purchasing are combined, leading to long lines. These windows are located on the west side of the venue with only two cashier windows available, so be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time if you don’t want to risk missing kickoff. There is also ongoing construction at the present time behind the east side of the stadium, so be mindful of that if you visit the food trucks. That particular issue should resolve itself, however, in the next several months. Return on Investment 5 Despite the potential access issues and small crowd, I would definitely recommend visiting Tucker Stadium for a Golden Eagles football game. I would also suggest you spend the extra dough to buy seats on the west side; the comfort and upscale concessions you’ll find there are worth the extra cost. Extras 4 During the game, you will often hear the Tennessee Tech PA announcer say, “All right, Golden Eagles Nation, it’s not first down, it’s not second down, it’s thiiiiiiird down. Get loud, let’s hear ya!” There are also two team gear stands at the facility, the main one being a trailer down on the track; the other is a satellite stand on the west side concourse. Either location will provide you with plenty of options to rep the purple and gold. Final Thoughts Tucker Stadium is a great find on the college football scene. While this may not be a destination many college football fans had considered in the past, the recent renovations have made this venue top notch. Make time to visit Cookeville soon – go Eagles!

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews 1505 Tank Town Rd Matthews, NC 28105 Charlotte Independence website Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 5,000 Come On You Boys in Blue The Charlotte Independence are a professional soccer club competing in USL League One. Founded in 2014, the team acquired the USL Pro franchise rights from their predecessor, the Charlotte Eagles, who have since moved to USL League Two. The club’s name and crest draw inspiration from the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, featuring the year 1775 and Captain James Jack, who is said to have carried the declaration to Philadelphia. In his honor, the team is affectionately known as The Jacks. The Independence have called several stadiums home over the years. The club opened its inaugural season at Transamerica Field on UNC Charlotte’s campus, with some matches also played across the state line at Winthrop University’s Eagle Field. From there, the club moved to Ramblewood Soccer Complex, but in recent years the Independence have split their home schedule between their Uptown Charlotte home, American Legion Memorial Stadium, and the suburban Mecklenburg County Sportsplex in neighboring Matthews. Food & Beverage 3 Food options are somewhat limited, with a single food truck and a concession stand offering salted, cinnamon, and garlic parmesan soft pretzels with cheese sauce, along with fresh-squeezed lemonade. Cotton candy, popcorn, and chips are also available. The food truck does provide a more extensive menu that goes beyond typical stadium fare and helps elevate the overall offering. Alcohol options are limited but provide some variety. Available beverages include hard seltzers, White Claw, and cans of typical domestic beers. Bottled Coke products are also available. Atmosphere 3 Mecklenburg County Sportsplex is a beautifully designed soccer facility featuring split stands, with locker rooms and club seating located above the seating areas. One drawback, however, is that soccer is a sport played in nearly all weather conditions, and there is no protection from the elements for fans looking for relief from the sun or rain. A large video board sits at the north end of the pitch, displaying a live feed of the match with the score and game clock across the bottom. It also features graphics for goals, corner kicks, substitutions, and cards shown during the match. The seating configuration places fans right on top of the action. Many supporters choose to watch from along the rail at the front of the walkway, creating an intimate viewing experience despite the venue’s smaller crowds. Neighborhood 3 Mecklenburg County Sportsplex is located in suburban Matthews, North Carolina, about 15 miles southeast of Uptown Charlotte. Surrounded by athletic fields, open space, and residential neighborhoods, the complex provides a much different atmosphere than the club’s home in Charlotte. The area is designed primarily as a destination for sports rather than a place where fans can gather before or after matches at nearby bars and restaurants. The typical experience is that visitors arrive by car, attend the match, and leave. The location does benefit from its proximity to downtown Matthews, a community with small-town charm and a growing local scene. Breakman’s Coffee & Supply, a train-themed coffee shop, serves as a community gathering space, while Carolina Beer Temple has become a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts, with its extensive rotating tap list. Nearby parks and trails also add to the appeal of the area. However, the lack of walkable entertainment directly surrounding the Sportsplex limits its ability to become a true soccer destination. The setting works well for attending a match, but compared to the energy and convenience of an Uptown Charlotte location, the suburban environment presents challenges in creating a complete matchday experience. Fans 2 Since 2022, when the Independence self-relegated from USL Championship to League One, attendance has steadily declined, dropping from a high of approximately 2,300 fans per match to an average of fewer than 800. While multiple factors likely contributed to the decline, it has coincided with the arrival and growth of Charlotte FC, which has clearly drawn attention and support away from the League One side. The club currently averages just over 800 fans per match, ranking just above expansion side Corpus Christi FC. The Independence’s suburban location appears to impact attendance, as nearby fans have limited opportunities to walk or use public transportation to attend matches. Access 3 Matthews, North Carolina, is located in the southeast corner of Mecklenburg County, just off Charlotte’s I-485 outer loop. The location provides convenient access from the eastern suburbs, though it is less convenient for those traveling from the western side of Charlotte via I-77 or I-85. Parking is located directly outside the stadium entrance, providing a short walk from your car to the stadium gates. First-time visitors must also create an account with Vivenu, the club’s ticketing platform. While not an unusual requirement, it adds an unnecessary step to the entry process. Seating is limited to one side of the pitch, which makes sense given the typical crowd size. However, supporters standing along the front rail can occasionally block the walkway, making it difficult for fans to move from one end of the seating area to the other. Return on Investment 2 Charlotte Independence matches at Mecklenburg County Sportsplex begin at $16, while matches at American Legion Memorial Stadium are priced at $10. It feels unusual that the same club offers different ticket prices depending on the venue, especially when the more expensive option lacks some of the benefits of the Uptown location. Parking can also impact the overall value. While there is abundant parking available, the $10 fee feels high given the suburban location and the lack of alternative parking options nearby. Concessions here are fairly priced, however, especially considering the quality and variety offered by the food truck. The food options provide good value, but the overall matchday experience does not quite justify the higher ticket price. Extras 2 The “First Horn of Lake Norman,” Melvin Morrison, is part of every Independence match, regardless of location. The ringing of the Freedom Bell is another nice tradition used to open matches and celebrate goals. While these traditions provide some unique identity, the venue lacks many additional amenities or features that would enhance the overall matchday experience. Final Thoughts Mecklenburg County Sportsplex is a great venue that checks many boxes from a facility standpoint, but struggles to capture the energy of a top-notch professional soccer experience. The complex offers fans modern amenities and an intimate setting that puts them close to the action. However, the move from Uptown Charlotte creates a much different matchday experience – one that feels more like attending a tournament or community event than a professional soccer match. The Charlotte Independence has a solid home at the Sportsplex, but the challenge is creating an experience that draws fans for more than just the match itself. Even when Charlotte is near the top of the table, the club continues to struggle to draw fans. With limited food and entertainment options nearby, declining attendance, and competition from Charlotte FC, the club faces an uphill battle in building consistent excitement around its alternate home in Matthews.

Photos by Andrew Kulyk and Sean Rowland, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 PK Park 2760 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Eugene, OR 97401 Eugene Emeralds website PK Park website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 4,000 A New Chapter in Ems Baseball The city of Eugene may be best recognized for two things: The University of Oregon and a storied track and field history. Little known outside of the Pacific Northwest is the lone professional franchise in the city, the Eugene Emeralds. Dating back to 1955, the Ems have had a storied history, much of it spent in the single-A Northwest League. A true relic in the ballpark world, Eugene played in Civic Stadium, a WPA facility that was configured for baseball only in the late 1960s. Since then, the venerable wooden ballpark would be home to summer baseball in the Emerald City, and the rare structure was admired by old-timers and ballpark enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the place started deteriorating quickly, and the Ems made a controversial decision. With the University of Oregon restarting their baseball program at a new on-campus facility, Eugene sadly moved away from its long time home after the 2009 season. Civic Stadium still stands (barely) and a grass-roots campaign, Friends of Civic Stadium, is trying to keep the place alive. In the meantime, the Emeralds are looking for their first league title since 1980, as they have now spent the last several years across town in PK Park. While the Ems are clearly a second tenant with the stadium’s focus and visuals centered on the Ducks, it is still a beautiful park in which to watch baseball. Food & Beverage 4 While there is only one main concession stand at PK, there are several side carts with decent options and a somewhat hidden spot featuring many choices. Down at field level near the picnic area known as “Levi’s Landing,” the nearby stand is open to all fans and not just reserved for those at the landing. The lines are much shorter and the offerings are the same, with a few bonus items like a grilled BBQ chicken sandwich ($7.75) or an avocado turkey burger ($8.00). Playing up the Sasquatch theme, a few Jack Link’s jerky choices are available, too. For the best value on these generally high food prices, head to the Ems Shack, where $8 is enough for a meal, as both the Thai ginger chicken wrap and the Southwestern wrap are very good (they are available in a bowl, too). As for beer, you are in Oregon, where it is nearly a crime not to drink a local craft brew. Eugene has an abundance of great breweries to try, as draft products from OakShire, Ninkasi and GoodLife are all on tap. Despite being in the confines of a single-A ballpark, be sure to have lots of cash on hand, with a small craft beer costing $7 and the large premium running $9. Atmosphere 4 At PK Park, it is blatantly obvious who this ballpark caters to: the University of Oregon. Logos and wordmarks from the well-funded university are splashed all over the stadium, and while aesthetically it looks good, the Emeralds have been relegated to a second tenant. A few touches try to change that (like the Sasquatch peering from outside the women’s bathroom), but in the end, there is a real shadow from Autzen Stadium in the distance. With that being said, PK Park is a really nice baseball stadium and a great place to watch the Emeralds. Instead of spreading out the seating bowl, all of the forest green chairbacks are located between the bases in a steeply pitched set-up that features excellent sightlines. Adding to the ambiance is a nice looking wooden roof that covers most of the seats. While the Emeralds play baseball in the dry season, there are still some nights this roof comes in handy. The outfield does not have much of a visual; however, the scoreboard sits on a pair of snazzy lightpoles that are incorporated into the design. For games starting in the early evening, it is hard to see the numbers on those boards, as the setting sun shines directly upon them. The baseball atmosphere in the park is decent with the frequent (almost too frequent) playing of an old-school organ. The highlight of attending an Emeralds game is their hilarious green mascot, Sluggo. For the good mascots, they are able to entertain the young ones during the game. Sluggo, does well to entertain everybody, and I found myself laughing several times at his antics. Just search YouTube for some of his best work, but the move of the night for me was seeing him throw water balloons into the visiting team’s dugout. Neighborhood 3 Oregon’s second largest city is located in the southern end of the Willamette Valley. Similar to the rest of the state, Eugene is full of people who love the outdoors, and opportunities are plentiful with many biking paths, along with spots to run, hike, raft or climb. The Emerald City is also very green and environmentally-conscious. Walking around town, you are sure to see some interesting people, as this is a quirky and eccentric place to visit. With the nearby University, the center of Eugene has a large college town feel, and there are several places to enjoy a drink or bite to eat. On the other side of the Willamette River, PK Park can be found in a separate university athletic complex. In the Barlow neighborhood, this section consists of Autzen Stadium, Pape Field and pavement, lots and lots of pavement. Parking lots for the football stadium make up much of the area, and this leaves PK Park a little soul-less in terms of the neighborhood. With downtown a few miles away, this side of the river contains Alton Baker Park, which includes a children’s museum. For food, check out the O Bar and Grill. Fans 3 Similar to other Northwest League teams, the Emeralds only average a few thousand fans, and on the night I attended, about half of the park was full. Ducks apparel outnumbers those wearing hats or shirts with the Emeralds logo on them. Despite what seems like a generic approach to the Ems, the crowd is quite lively and they are into the game. Along with good support, little things like clapping at the result of a helpful second strike gives the perception that these fans care about their players and the game. Access 3 I-5 is the north-south highway that connects the major cities in Western Oregon, and this interstate leads right into Eugene. While getting to the ballpark from downtown is simple, it is a little awkward coming from the north, as drivers have to backtrack a bit after getting on I-105. The best directions are to just follow the well laid-out signs and arrows for Autzen Stadium, and that will lead you right to PK Park. Because of the football stadium, parking is abundant, but I was surprised at how far the actual lots are from the ballpark. I did not expect having to walk 5-10 minutes for a stadium with so much parking. Instead, the new soccer stadium gets the luxury of being next to the main lot. Another gripe is driving through the uneven and bumpy gravel lot. Inside, concourses are open and wide, with plenty of room to walk around. Though there is just one set of bathrooms, the space is quite large. In fact, women often comment how incredibly large the bathroom is. Just watch out for that Sasquatch! Return on Investment 4 Prices for the most part are reasonable for this level of baseball and the location. Most tickets cost $10, while the parking is a $3 charge. The exception is the aforementioned concession prices, which are surprisingly high, and I didn’t appreciate the little charges (like $1 for a cheese cup or $3 for a pickle). Otherwise, there is certainly value to an Emeralds game, and a visit to PK Park is well worth it. Extras 1 A few years ago, the Emeralds brought on the excellent design company Brandiose to re-brand the team. What followed was a terrific new logo and scheme that focused on Eugene’s eccentricities, along with their nature as an outdoor city. The green coloring and Sasquatch-based logo really spoke to the Emeralds and the team has run with this change, continuing to execute great ideas and promotions. This is not necessarily worth a bonus point, but it should be noted that PK Park has FieldTurf. While, the surface is important for a rough climate like in the Pacific Northwest, it just seems strange to watch players slide on fake grass and fake dirt. Final Thoughts While the most authentic experience at PK Park may be an Oregon Ducks baseball game, the Eugene Emeralds have done their best to set up shop at their relatively new home. With one of the best mascots in baseball and a terrific modern field, the Ems continue to produce a good experience for fans during the summer.

Photos by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Providence Park 1844 SW Morrison Portland, OR 97220 Portland Timbers Providence Park Year Opened: 1926 Capacity: 25,218 Taking the Timbers to the Top “It’s a fantastic place to play. These environments didn’t exist when I played…Portland is among the top of the list of great environments…this is what soccer should be like.” – Robin Fraser The Portland Timbers game experience is unparalleled in MLS. Without a doubt, this is one of the best experiences any sports fan will have in America, let alone MLS. After recent stadium expansions and enhancements, the transformation of Providence Park from a former baseball field into a top-tier soccer establishment is complete, and the results are breathtaking. A vaulting sideline seating expansion that added multiple levels of seats and concessions for fans provides some of the best views in the stadium, and a new fan store near the main entrance provides fans a perfect place to gear up before matches. Add to that the biggest crowds and the loudest environment in the league, making this a perfect place to watch MLS at its best. Food & Beverage 4 Food and drinks at Providence Park are exceptional, but the prices tend to be higher than other soccer stadiums. There is a wide variety of options, however, something one would expect a sports stadium in Portland to have. Fresh food and cold beer are the name of the game here – beer ranges from $9 to $10.50, while water and soda run $4.75 to $5.50. A hot dog costs $6.25 while a veggie salad can be purchased for $10.50. Chicken tenders with tater tots cost $11, a cheeseburger runs $10.50, and the increasingly popular Impossible Burger costs $12. Ice cream bars are also available for $5, while Tillamook dairy items can be found all over the stadium. Atmosphere 5 During Portland Timbers games the stadium is rocking the entire game – fans cheer with every goal, and smoke fills the end zone. The facilities are clean, plentiful, and you never have to wait longer than needed. From the moment you walk up to the outside entrances of the stadium you feel the energy. The outside of the former baseball stadium still sports the old marquee letters for game days, while the new east side entrance on the corner of 18th and Morrison sports light up letters that read ONWARD ROSE CITY as the night darkens. All throughout the stadium the colors and the feel of the city are echoed, while natural wood is used in various places to give you a true Pacific Northwest feel. The main thoroughfares and walkways throughout the concourses are also well lit and clean, meaning you don’t have to worry about getting lost. Neighborhood 5 Providence Park is located right in the middle of shopping, dining, and everything Portland. Like the majority of the city, the stadium is within walking distance to anything you want. Situated in the historic Alphabet District, this soccer stadium is perfect for those who also like to enjoy the city in which it is located. Just blocks away from Providence Park are Park Lake Suites & Inn and Hotel deLuxe. Blue Star Donuts, Von Ebert Brewing, Multnomah Whiskey Library, TILT, and countless more restaurants are also nearby to satisfy every palate possible. And if you are looking for something to do, Portland has it – you are only an hour away from Mt. Hood and beautiful national park scenery, as well as the Columbia River Gorge. You are also not far from the International Rose Test Garden or Pittock Mansion. Fans 5 Before the start of the 2019 season the Timbers had the distinction of selling out every single MLS home game in the team’s history, including playoffs. That stat alone should help one understand how loyal the fans in Portland are. The wait list for season tickets is upwards of 10,000, and interest continues to grow. The north end zone is where the fan zone is located. Here, the Timbers Army sing, chant, and yell the entire game. Whenever a Portland goal is scored, the Army erupt with green smoke filling the air. The rest of the fans in the stadium are also as passionate about the Timbers as possible. Each fan seems to have a favorite player, and they know the team better than anyone else. The stadium is also filled with the youngest fans, as families find Timbers games perfect for bringing out the kids for a night out in Oregon. Every kind of fan can be found here, from the diehard loyalists from the team’s USL days to the visitors passing through. Access 3 The biggest downfall at Providence Park is the lack of on-site parking. The venue does not feature a parking garage or any parking lots, as it is located literally right in the middle of a commercial and residential neighborhood. However, various parking lots in the area offer their spaces up to fans attending games. The big push here in Portland is the use of public transportation – several bus lines take you right to the stadium’s neighborhood. In addition, many fans choose to make a night of their game visit, spending the afternoon and evening shopping and eating at local restaurants before walking to the game. Getting to the stadium is easy as signs help direct you to the facility when you exit off I-405, and Providence Park itself is located just blocks from the highway, just off of W. Burnside Street. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Portland Timbers games range from $41 on up, depending on the matchup. The team sells single game tickets through SeatGeek, so some tickets may be available at under the face-value price, though most games are face value or higher. The price, however, is easily worth it as experiencing a game in Portland is well worth the money spent. Without a doubt this is one of the top experiences in America for sports, let alone MLS. The stadium is beautiful and very intimate, meaning you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action no matter where you sit. The fans make the game day experience extra special too, thanks to their hardcore loyalty and love of the Timbers. Extras 5 After each Timbers goal and/or clean sheet, Timber Joey uses a giant chainsaw to slice off a piece of pine tree in front of the Timbers Army. During the game, he also wanders around the sidelines of the pitch interacting with fans as the team’s unofficial mascot. Timber Joey, Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey The new east seating area features several art installations throughout the concourses, adding to the local history and connection of the stadium. In addition, the stadium also features several banners hanging from the rafters, showcasing the history and successes of the Timbers and their stadium-mates, the Portland Thorns. After every Timbers game the players who scored goals come over to the supporters’ side and hold up the slices of wood cut by Timber Joey in triumph to celebrate with the home fans. Also, before games there are plenty of home fans who meet up at various local bars and restaurants before kickoff to get ready for the match. Final Thoughts Timbers games are what make the MLS shine. Akin to the game day experiences in Orlando, Seattle, and other successful cities in the league, the Timbers have made their home one that is inviting for fans and electric to experience. This is the model experience for soccer in America, and anyone who visits will tell you it is on par with some of the best stadiums overseas. Without a shred of doubt, the Portland Timbers have made their home a shining beacon for sporting excellence in North America, something that should not be missed if you’re in the Pacific Northwest.

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

It's time to spotlight the ballparks that define High-A minor league baseball across the Midwest, Northwest, and South Atlantic Leagues. Some stadiums are timeless classics, others are newly constructed or only a few years old, and some have recently undergone significant renovations. One new High-A ballpark debuted in 2026, the Hillsboro Hops Ballpark, while one former team returned to affiliated ball, the Frederick Keys, who previously played in the Draft League. We congratulate the Quad City River Bandits for their 2026 Midwest League Championship, the Winston-Salem Dash for the SAL Championship, and the Vancouver Canadians for winning the 2026 Northwest League Championship. Stadium Journey rankings are based on our patented FANFARE scale, which evaluates each venue across seven key categories: 🍔 Food & Beverage Options 🎉 Game Day Atmosphere 🏙️ Surrounding Neighborhood 🙌 Fan Support 🚗 Access (inside and outside the park) 💸 Return on Investment 🧩 Extras - Unique features that don’t fit neatly into the other categories or deserve additional acknowledgement When two or more ballparks earn the same score, the Stadium Journey Council of Elders steps in to break the tie with their seasoned insight. To dive deeper into each stadium’s review, just click the link associated with the team’s name. Enjoy the rankings - and see where your favorite ballpark lands! Our list won’t match everyone’s, and that’s okay. We’d love to hear what you think. Share your take with Stadium Journey on any of our social media channels. How does your list stack up against ours? In your view, where do we line up, and where do we miss the mark? Hillsboro Hops Ballpark – Hillsboro Hops (No Review) Stadium Journey needs your help. If you are interested in writing a review of the new ballpark in Oregon, please contact Stadium Journey! 29. AdventHealth Stadium - Rome Emperors – 3.00 (SAL) Gregory Koch - Rome, GA, has been home to minor league baseball since 2003, when the Macon Braves relocated to the city to become the Rome Braves. The team moved into AdventHealth Stadium, where they continued competing in the South Atlantic League. Following the 2023 season, the Braves rebranded as the Rome Emperors, with the logo being an emperor penguin in the outfit of a Roman emperor. 28. Gesa Stadium - Tri-City Dust Devils – 3.00 (NWL) Matt Finnigan - With great views and reasonable costs, a game at Gesa Stadium enables fans to enjoy baseball in a unique setting that does not break anyone’s bank. The ballpark is clean, well-maintained, and well worth a visit. 27. PK Park - Eugene Emeralds – 3.14 (NWL) Sean Rowland - While the most authentic experience at PK Park may be an Oregon Ducks baseball game, the Eugene Emeralds have done their best to set up shop there. With one of the best mascots in baseball and a terrific modern field, the Ems continue to produce a good experience for fans during the summer. 26. Classic Auto Group Park - Lake County Captains – 3.14 (MWL) Marc Viquez - Classic Park features a nautical theme, evident throughout the concourse with mini-boats, concession stands named Castaway’s Bar and The Galley. The stadium is one mile from Lake Erie, where many ships lie shipwrecked underneath its deep waters. However, there are a few quirks that make it stand out from the average ballpark around the league. 25. Dozer Park - Peoria Chiefs – 3.14 (MWL) Michael Rusignuolo - Dozer Park is a decent place to catch a game if you find yourself in Peoria. Like its host city, it neither hits the heights nor delves the depths, but finds a pleasant middle and stays constant in it. 24. Heritage Financial Park - Hudson Valley Renegades – 3.29 (SAL) Greg Venuto - Heritage Financial Park is a solid venue to take in minor league baseball. The scenery is picturesque, the ballpark is cozy and the new improvements make it even more worthy of a stadium journey. And there’s always a chance to witness a future NY Yankee. 23. Bowling Green Ballpark - Bowling Green Hot Rods – 3.29 (SAL) Marc Viquez - Bowling Green Ballpark is a serviceable ballpark that offers all the amenities for fans. The wrap-around concourse offers fantastic food options, activities for children, drinks for adults, and gorgeous views from multiple vantage points. It is a great spot to check out a game when you are on your way between the Triple-A ballparks in Louisville and Nashville. 22. ABC Supply Stadium – Beloit Sky Carp – 3.43 (MWL) Marc Viquez - The history of baseball in Beloit almost came to an end, but the construction of ABC Supply Stadium helped save the franchise from relocations or being ousted by Major League Baseball. It is located in a beautiful setting in Beloit and has a charm that is not found at many minor league stadiums across the country. 21. Nymeo Field At Harry Grove Stadium - Frederick Keys – 3.57 (SAL) Richard Smith – The Frederick Keys and their staff go out of their way to make Harry Grove Stadium a place where both casual and hardcore baseball fans can be entertained and enjoy a quality game experience. 20. LMCU Ballpark - West Michigan Whitecaps – 3.57 (MWL) Meg Minard - It could be easily said that a West Michigan Whitecaps game is a party with a baseball game going on. It’s an affordable way to spend a fun afternoon or evening. And with major upgrades underway, LMCU Ballpark is being transformed into a state-of-the-art venue that fans will enjoy for years to come. 19. Fluor Field - Greenville Drive – 3.71 (SAL) James Clotfelter - The Greenville Drive, the High-A affiliate of the Red Sox, has called Fluor Field home since its gates opened in 2006. Paying homage to their major league affiliate, Fluor Field shares many of the same dimensional characteristics as Fenway Park. The Drive front office has made a continued investment in the stadium since its inauguration, maintaining the standard of one of the best High-A experiences in the country. 18. Funko Field at Everett Memorial Stadium - Everett AquaSox – 3.71 (NWL) Lloyd Rothwell - Fun and affordable, entertaining baseball. Visitors to the Pacific Northwest should definitely add Everett Memorial Stadium to their travel itinerary. 17. Veterans Memorial Stadium - Cedar Rapids Kernels – 3.71 (MWL) James Hilchen - Veterans Memorial Stadium isn’t anything fancy, but it provides everything you need to enjoy a fun baseball experience. If you are a ballpark fanatic, don’t sleep on this one. 16. Daniel S. Frawley Stadium - Wilmington Blue Rocks – 3.71 (SAL) Dave Cottenie - With an excellent acknowledgment of Delaware baseball and sports history, the Wilmington Blue Rocks have put together a good presentation of minor league baseball. Judy Johnson Field @ Daniel S. Frawley Stadium is a solid home for the team and offers plenty for fans. The popularity of the Mr. Celery character is curious and seems pretty organic. It is just something that needs to be seen in person to fully understand. 15. HomeTrust Park - Asheville Tourists – 3.86 (SAL) James Clotfelter - HomeTrust Bank Park is an old-school ballpark filled with quirky features, from the oddly high outfield wall to the giant grassy hill beyond the outfield. Together, these elements give the stadium a unique, cozy feel that is difficult to replicate in a modern ballpark. 14. ShoreTown Ballpark - Jersey Shore BlueClaws – 3.86 (SAL) Matthew Collins - Bruce Springsteen once said “Down the Shore Everything’s Alright,” and the same can be said about the experience at a Jersey Shore Blue Claws game. If you’re visiting the shore for a week, a day, or the summer, be sure to catch a game in Lakewood. 13. Maimonides Park - Brooklyn Cyclones – 3.86 (SAL) David Welch - The passion Brooklyn has for baseball creates a fun and knowledgeable baseball community. Partnered with the work the Cyclones do in meshing fans with fun, and the carnival atmosphere from neighboring Luna Park midway and the Coney Island boardwalk, baseball at Maimonides Park is one of the true gems in minor league baseball. 12. Avista Stadium – Spokane Indians – 4.00 (NWL) Meg Minard - Seeing a game in such a historic venue and having a fabulous customer service atmosphere makes attending a game here well worth the price of admission. 11. Truist Stadium - Winston-Salem Dash – 4.00 (SAL) Paul Baker - North Carolina is a state which contains no shortage of minor league ballparks, some of which are undoubtedly among the best in the country. While Truist Stadium is not as new and shiny as some of the other ballparks in the state, it remains a fantastic place to take in a ballgame and should absolutely be on your to-do list should you find yourself in the Tar Heel State. 10. Day Air Ballpark – Dayton Dragons – 4.00 (MWL) Paul Baker - Support for the Dragons in Dayton remains strong. Often cited as an example of a ballpark that spurred economic growth in an urban neighborhood, Day Air Park continues to be the center of activity in downtown Dayton. Recent and planned improvements will ensure the ballpark’s viability for another quarter century and beyond. 9. Jackson Field - Lansing Lugnuts – 4.14 (MWL) Meg Minard - Catching a Lansing Lugnuts game is a highlight of any visit to this capital city in the spring and summer. The Lugnuts deliver a fun, family-friendly baseball experience at Jackson Field at an affordable price. 8. Neuroscience Group Field - Wisconsin Timber Rattlers – 4.14 (MWL) Michael Rusignuolo - With well thought-out renovations and an attention to detail and customer service, Neuroscience Group Field is a great park to visit and is exceptional in nearly every area. The "Ballpark Of The Year" title was fairly won, and Neuroscience Group Field is a standout in nearly every way, if only held back by the price tag and its airport-adjacent location. 7. First National Bank Field – Greensboro Grasshoppers – 4.14 (SAL) Gregory Koch - First National Bank Field is a gorgeous, modern stadium with all the amenities one might expect of a newer ballpark. The Greensboro Grasshoppers have a loyal fan base and put on an outstanding gameday experience. Baseball fans in North Carolina will definitely want to hop on down here to check out a game. 6. Four Winds Field - South Bend Cubs – 4.29 (MWL) Dave Cottenie - 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 experiences a fan could ask for in minor league baseball. 5. Fifth Third Park – Hub City Spartanburgers – 4.29 (SAL) Michael Rusignuolo - Fifth Third Park opened its doors in 2025 for the team's first home opener. (And if the name gives you deja vu, you're not imagining it: Fifth Third Bank currently has naming rights for at least seven sports venues across the country.) The new Fifth Third Park provides an exceptional home for the Spartanburgers, shining especially brightly with its concession options and attention to the little things. 4. Modern Woodmen Park - Quad Cities River Bandits – 4.29 (MWL) James Hilchen - The view from Modern Woodmen Park qualifies as one of the best in baseball. The view of the Mississippi and the Centennial Bridge is just as amazing. The view at night with Centennial Bridge lit up is worth the price of admission by itself. 3. Parkview Field - Fort Wayne TinCaps – 4.43 (MWL) Dave Cottenie - For nearly two decades, Fort Wayne has been opening the eyes of baseball fans, as Parkview Field is one of the top venues in minor league baseball. The TinCaps experience and the Johnny Appleseed motif are ones that baseball fans from all over must experience. It is apple-solutely fantastic! 2. Dow Diamond - Great Lakes Loons – 4.43 (MWL) Meg Minard – The Great Lake Loons stadium and game day experience rank among the best in minor league baseball, thanks to exceptional accessibility, a courteous and welcoming staff, affordable pricing, and enjoyable (not forced) entertainment. 1. Nat Bailey Stadium - Vancouver Canadians – 4.57 (NWL) Stadium Journey - While the actual baseball being played on the field may not be Major League quality, Nat Bailey Stadium offers a first class experience for fans of all ages. It is an enjoyable and affordable way to spend an evening in Vancouver. The fun factor cannot be beaten, and wandering around the stadium gives spectators a sense of childlike joy.

Photos created and designed by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey It’s a cold winter’s night, with lines full of cacophony from the fans, and the action on the floor is palpable. Cheers echo off the wooded seats and bounce off the steel beams, and chants of a score are equal to the roar of a victory. However, the squeak of the sneaker is repelled by the grind of the roller skate. The game is roller polo, and it was the first love in the state before basketball. Indiana was gripped with “polo fever” in 1903. The sport blossomed like a tulip and attracted the attention of entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the sport. They built beautiful palaces, attracted top talent, and created a movement that filled the newspapers from Indianapolis to Fort Wayne to Terre Haute. Once the sport reached its peak, it swiftly fell from grace. What led to its rapid decline and eventual obscurity within a single generation? Maybe the old newspaper articles hold the story of a sport that seemed destined for greatness, if only for a brief time. Roller Polo is hockey on roller skates for today’s audience. However, there were differences. There were five players: two rushers, one halfback, one center, and a goalkeeper. They played on a wooden regulation rink of 80 feet by 40 feet with curved wooden sticks, shin guards, and a goalpost. Each game would be split into three 15-minute periods. The sport was first introduced in the United States from England in the early 1880s and received a second wave of popularity in Indiana in the late 1890s, thanks to M.C. Henley and a few others in Richmond. They formed a polo team, and soon, other cities began holding exhibitions of the new sport. In 1901, the Western League was formed and operated with three clubs. Around the same time, polo leagues back East were not as popular, and local polo magnates decided to entice them to Indiana with high salaries. Soon, the Western League became a professional entity for its second season, with the best players earning double $50 a week. One of these players, Frank Woedtke, was paid $110 to play for Anderson. The quick success of the sport attracted entrepreneurs who suddenly became polo magnates. They formed the six-team Central Polo League for 1903-04. These men built or converted existing buildings into polo rinks to house their new investments. There would be 12 teams, from Terre Haute to Richmond and Fort Wayne to Logansport, to satisfy the masses. Several new polo rinks were constructed to cash in on the popularity of the sport in 1903. Kokomo built a 3,000-seat building and called it “The Alhambra”; Indianapolis constructed a 3,500-seat auditorium, the Terre Haute Coliseum offered over 2,000 seats, and the Lafayette Coliseum had a capacity of 5,000. Anderson opened the Apollo Rink, and Fort Wayne opened The Princess Rink. They all offered modern conveniences: electric lights, steam heating, and unobstructed views of the game. When leagues began play in November of 1903, the fans packed many rinks to see what the Indianapolis News described as “the vim and fire that characterize polo are to be found in no other game. Its excitement is nerve-racking, and as it is 'reasonably' dangerous, it appeals to the hearts of Americans.” The same newspaper filled the sports section with "Polo Dope" with box scores, statistics, stories, and recaps from all over the state. Next to this data would be advertisements for that evening's game, costing 50 cents for a box seat and 25 cents for general admission. In Richmond, local businesses closed during matches, and employers bickered that employees spent the workday talking about previous or future games. Theater performances in Elwood closed during games, city council meetings were held an hour early on game nights, and many cities hosted amateur matches before the main event at home rinks. It was reported that over a million tickets were sold to polo games, and Marion attracted 140,000 fans for 45 home games. 12 teams took to the rinks in 1903 in Indiana and Illinois. Before the start of the 1904-1905 season, both leagues knew that they no longer could afford to pay top dollars for players, but team managers wanted the best athletes to draw crowds. The Central League paid reasonable salaries, drew crowds, and made money, but the Western League paid exorbitant salaries, drew crowds, and made a small profit. They decided to impose a $265 weekly salary limit, much to the chagrin of its players. Meanwhile, Central decided to do away with its $175 weekly limit and pay top dollars for players. Fort Wayne then announced they would pay $75 per star to join their club. Many players refused to take a pay cut and signed with the Western League. The Central had filled its 7-man roster and was in fine shape as its season approached. The Richmond Quakers were not happy with the salary limit and wanted to raise it to secure better players. The team almost left the league in dispute; they had the money to sign better players, but couldn’t based on league rules. Quakers president Micajah C. Henley explained his thoughts. “High salaries ought to bring the best players, and the best players will bring the best crowds. The salary limit seems reasonable, but until there is assurance that every team in the Central League will not try to get players in the Western League, there is danger. We must outbid them.” The 1904-05 season started for both leagues, but whatever peace was made between the two leagues was shattered when the Indianapolis Indians left the Western League for the Central League early in the season. The reason was that the Marion Royals allowed Long John Wiley to sign with Lafayette Sycamores instead of them. This led to all Western clubs posting a forfeit of $1000 to finish the season to discourage any other club from jumping over to the Central. When Elwood failed to post, they were having trouble signing players, and they announced that they were ceasing operations. Elwood sold two players to Kokomo of the Central for $1,000, which was a direct violation of the agreement between the two leagues. Both players should have been sent to teams in the Western League. “While we realize that a war over players at this time would be a bad thing for both organizations, we will do everything in our power to prevent it,” said Foor. “I do not think we stand to lose by it as much as the Western League. We are not looking for trouble and will make any reasonable concessions to prevent a clash, but if a fight is necessary, we can stand it.” Daily newspapers had plenty of photographs of polo players of the era. The rest of the month, the magnates of the Western Loop tried in vain to add two more clubs. They suggested a new one in Indianapolis and contacted Cincinnati Reds management to operate a team. In the meantime, both leagues continued talks of consolidation, but the Central League did not want to add all four teams from the West. The four-team Western League continued to struggle financially. Richmond lost $1,200, and only Marion made money. Anderson had only four players on its roster, and other members were unwilling to give players to strengthen the club. League president Norton had this to say about the situation. “This fight has not only been expensive to both leagues but has also injured attendance. I believe that we are both ready to quit.” The Western loop would cease operations on January 16. Whether it was the fighting between the two leagues that was printed in the daily newspapers, the switching of players, the promises of new teams, or the same four teams playing each other, interest sagged, causing management to call it quits. A few days later, Anderson and Marion joined the Central League, while Richmond and Muncie closed shop. With the polo war over, you think the Central League would see smooth sailing for the rest of the season. It was not the case; clubs were shedding money, attendance had fallen, and there was still fighting over players’ rights. In many cities, the sport’s popularity was fading quickly, and managers of each rink were looking to get out of the polo business. The league would end one week earlier when Lafayette chose not to finish the season and awarded the pennant to Danville, who finished the season in first place with a 59-32 record. The Central League would start a third season, but there was concern with salaries; the profits were no longer large enough to pay $300 a week for players. Two new polo leagues, the Interstate and National League, opted for amateur players and paid them $25 weekly. Danville president William Foor, who owned three clubs in these leagues, said it cost him less to operate them than his Danville team. “The managers and owners of these clubs are not reaping a harvest, but they are making money.” All one had to do was open up the newspaper to see if there was a game that night. Unless salaries were cut under $200 a week, there was no chance of reviving the league for a third season. Another argument was that the public was losing interest in roller polo, according to the Fort Wayne News. “The crowds toward the end of the season grew smaller and smaller until the general public gave open evidence of its impatience with the sport and stayed away.” An eight-team league, minus Terre Haute—whose owner opted to transform his rink into a vaudeville theater—launched its 1905-1906 season on October 23. Teams were scheduled to play 3 to 4 games a week, with Sundays off, and player salaries were slashed to $50 for star athletes and $200 per week for the entire roster. The opening night crowds drew 1,500, but it was apparent from fans and reporters that the type of polo was slightly above amateurism. An elderly man in Anderson called it “punk” and said he had seen better play in local leagues, and one reporter said the following. Attendance figures fluctuate from as high as 2,000 in games in Indianapolis to as low as 500 for contests in Fort Wayne. Many of the best players held out for higher salaries and refused to participate in the league. On February 11, 1906, Fort Wayne played its last game due to heavy financial losses. The Lafayette franchise shifted to Champaign, Illinois, but folded three days later due to poor attendance. Logansport players decided to finish the season despite not being paid. Only Kokomo made a profit, and Danville, Indianapolis, and Marion were ready to quit. The season ended with the top four clubs participating in a post-game series. The winner would receive the Hennings Cup, created to award the champion of the Western League, and be in storage at the Hotel Anderson. Despite some of the largest crowds in recent months, including 3,000 for the final day in Kokomo, a champion was not crowned. Danville and Indianapolis were 2-1 heading into the final day and were expected to play for the cup, but the last-minute change forced Kokomo and Marion to play one another, resulting in all four teams with an even 2-2 record. A $100 prize was divided evenly among all players, leading to a majority of them boarding trains the next day to head back east to start the New England leagues. Fans no longer looked at the game as being “on the square,” and that gamblers were heavily involved with games in Anderson, perhaps elsewhere in the league. There would be no fourth season for the Central League for 1906-1907. Team pictures were taken with uniforms and equipment, highlighting the styles of the time. Soon, managers moved on to other business ventures, and players returned home to New England. The ornate rinks that were created for the game went on to hold roller skating sessions and basketball games, and eventually were razed or lost by fire. Business and attendance were more profitable for roller skating sessions throughout the week and on weekends. Indiana had been cured of its “polo fever,” and though there were revivals of the game, it would be played sporadically until 1958; it never reached the zenith it had during the 1903-1904 season. It had a good run of 4 years in small and large markets in the state. However, one has to believe that with better efforts by league managers and players, maybe it could have lasted a little bit longer. The tale of the two polo leagues is a reminder that some things never change in American sports. Salaries, operational costs, competition for players, and rapid expansion have killed many leagues this past century and will continue to do so in the future. If roller polo had been allowed to grow organically without competition for players and high salary demands, who knows, it might have had a chance. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Sodexo Field 40 University Drive Rindge, NH 03461 Franklin Pierce Ravens football website Sodexo Field website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 1,000 Football with an Extra “H” Franklin Pierce University is a private liberal arts college located in the small town of Rindge, New Hampshire. Founded in 1962, the school is named after New Hampshire resident Franklin Pierce, who was the 14th President of the United States. Today, the campus has an enrollment of over 1,700 students who study in 25 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs. Among the school’s notable alumni is famed animal behavior researcher Temple Grandin. Franklin Pierce has had some athletic success over their history. The women’s soccer team has won five national championships, and the men’s soccer team has won three national titles of their own. The Ravens compete in the Northeast-10 Conference, a Division Two association consisting of teams located throughout New England and New York. Franklin Pierce first sponsored football in 2012, competing in the Collegiate Sprint Football League from 2013-2017. For those who are not familiar with Sprint football, it is played with identical rules as regular college football, but all players must weigh under 178.0 pounds. After a transitional season, the Ravens joined Division Two. Over their first four seasons in D-2, the Ravens have posted a record of 7-34. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small tent located to the north of the main grandstand. The concessions are staffed by Franklin Pierce's other athletic teams, with proceeds going towards their operations. On the night of Stadium Journey’s visit, the men’s hockey team was working the concession stand. There’s a basic menu featured here, with freshly grilled hot dogs and burgers, assorted candy and chips, and cans of Pepsi products making up the entire menu. On the plus side, no item costs more than four dollars. You can purchase a combo meal featuring a dog or burger with a bag of chips and a drink for just five or six dollars. Atmosphere 3 Franklin Pierce is a small school in a small town. So, you may be surprised by the support and game day atmosphere here at Sodexo Field. There’s a fairly active tailgating scene here at Franklin Pierce, highlighted by the party tents located atop the hill on the north side of the facility. Fans who purchase these tents can simply pull right up to their tent, pull out their gear, and start the party while the game goes on below them. For those of us who cannot afford a season pass in the VIP section, a Ravens game at Sodexo Field is still a pretty entertaining way to spend an afternoon or evening. There’s a good turnout from the student body, who are into the game and boisterous in their support. The Raven’s marching band sets up shop on the berm at the north end of the stadium, and the cheer and dance squads keep the energy up throughout the game. You may even see Rocky the Raven roaming the sidelines. A small scoreboard in the northwest corner of the facility provides basic game information. While there is a lot of fun to be had at a Ravens game, there are some parts of the game day experience that hold down the score a bit. One of these things is the lack of unobstructed views at the facility. Fences surround the field, with windshields tied to all these fences. The presence of the fences, the teams and tents on the sidelines, and the combination of fans standing along the fence and the foot traffic in front of the grandstand throughout the game make it difficult to see everything unless you’re one of the lucky fans sitting in the top few rows of the tiny grandstand. Another aspect in which the Ravens gameday experience struggles is the sound system. The music is played at a modest volume, while the PA announcer tends to scream his way through the game. Fans noted that music was played whenever a player was down on the field injured, which is a definite breach of etiquette at most venues. Neighborhood 1 Franklin Pierce University is a self-contained campus located in a rural area of a small town. There’s not a whole lot in the immediate area of the campus that will attract visiting fans. Emma’s 321 Pub and Kitchen provides solid bar food and draft beer, and Hometown Diner is another great option for a hearty breakfast before heading over to watch some football. Lodging options nearby include the Monadnock Inn, Woodbound Inn, and the Benjamin Prescott Inn. Attractions near Franklin Pierce include Monadnock Mountain, which features miles of hiking trails to its summit. Tourists flock to this part of the country every fall to take in the breathtaking colors of the fall foliage. A Franklin Pierce football game could be a fun part of a weekend of leaf-peeping. Fans 3 Stadium Journey visited Sodexo Field on a beautiful September Saturday night with a reported crowd of 345 in attendance. This appears to be a representative crowd. What the Franklin Pierce crowd may lack in quantity, it makes up for in quality. The fans, made up of friends and family of the players, along with a sprinkling of locals, are energetic and strong in their support of the home team. There’s also a good amount of sportsmanship on display and respect for the visitors. The student body shows up in good numbers, cheering on their classmates and filling the berm with noise. As mentioned earlier, it’s a fun, laid-back time. Access 3 Franklin Pierce University is located in the small town of Rindge, New Hampshire, a town with just over 6,000 residents in the southwestern part of the state. Sodexo Field is at the southern edge of the campus, adjacent to Pappas Field. Driving is the only way you’ll get to this rural campus, with the nearest highway about 20-30 minutes away. State Routes 119 and 202 will get you near campus. Parking is available near Sodexo Field, with the lots adjacent to the facility reserved for season ticket holders and VIPs. Other fans will need to utilize the lots around campus. Just be ready to deal with some hills as you approach the stadium. Seating consists of a small grandstand on the east (home) side of the field and a small set of bleachers on the west (visiting) side. All seats are metal bleachers without backs. Additionally, there is standing room on three sides of the field. Unfortunately, some fans choose to stand at the fence right in front of the grandstand, obstructing the views of fans in the first few rows of the bleachers. Fans requiring special access will be disappointed with the lack of accessible locations. Many fans choose to bring their chairs or blankets and sit on the large hill at the north end of the facility. With the tailgating tents behind you and the band next to you on the berm, this might be the best place on the grounds to watch the action. The grounds are well-manicured, with paved sidewalks leading to all areas of the facility. Small restrooms are located on the ground floor of the press box building behind the main grandstand, with port-a-johns located around the facility to help with wait times. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Ravens football games are priced at ten dollars for general admission seating, with seniors and children admitted for five dollars. Franklin Pierce students are admitted for free. Parking is free of charge in the lots around the athletic fields (just be ready to climb some hills). Concessions are very reasonably priced, visiting Sodexo Field, an affordable entertainment option for local sports fans. Extras 1 Banners honoring Franklin Pierce’s national champion soccer teams are hung on the façade of the press box, as well as on the windshields on the far side of the field. While this does not earn an extra point, a Stadium Journey reader, who is a Franklin Pierce alumnus, pointed out that the name of the field is spelled wrong in the facility’s entryway. As you enter the field, look at the welcome arch above your head. Sodexo Field is spelled “Sodexho,” which is the former spelling of the sponsoring company. Sodexo, a French food service and facility management company, dropped the “H” from its name in 2008 because, in certain languages, an “X“ followed by an “H” is difficult to pronounce. A decade and a half later, the misspelled sign remains. The scoreboard, meanwhile, has Sodexo spelled correctly. It’s one of those things you can’t unsee once you see it. Final Thoughts Sodexo Field is typical of other small school facilities in this part of the country. While it may be small, there is a lot of fun to be found here in the foothills of New Hampshire. Just be ready to climb, and please excuse the spelling. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Highbury Canco Arena @ Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre 249 Sherk Street Leamington, Ontario N8H 4X7 Canada Leamington Flyers website Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 2,500 Ketchup War in the Tomato Capital The Ketchup War was an actual thing. For 100 years, there was a Heinz plant in the Tomato Capital of Canada, Leamington, Ontario. In 2013, when Heinz announced they would no longer produce ketchup in Leamington, jettisoning some 700 jobs, competitor French’s stepped in and filled the void. With the aid of social media, the Ketchup War was on, and the battle for shelf space in grocery stores was real. Throughout all of this, the Leamington Flyers played hockey. Established in 1954, the Flyers began at the Junior B level, dropping to Junior C from 1968 to 1992. Success was found in Leamington with Schmalz Cups as Junior C Champion in 1970, 1972, and 1980, to go with 7 league titles. The Flyers jumped up to Junior B in 1992 and went on to win a Sutherland Cup as Junior B Champions in 2023. Immediately following this, the Flyers made the bold move to make another step up to the Junior A level and the Ontario Junior Hockey League. The relative isolation of Leamington in the OJHL makes the move bold, as the closest opponent is over four hours away. The team is owned by Jason Melo, Craig Mahon, Dan Jancevski, David Halliwell and Cam Crowder. Flyers alumni include T.J. Brodie, Tim Gleason, Steve Ott and Zack Kassian. Home for the Flyers is the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre. Built as an aquatic centre in 1985, the Recreation Centre is a community hub that now features two ice pads and community rooms as well as the swimming pool. Naming rights are held by Nature Fresh Farms, a local greenhouse farming operation. The Highbury Canco Arena is the larger of the two ice pads and home of the Flyers. Food & Beverage 3 Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre has a snack bar-style concession that is between the two ice pads. Run by the local Kinsmen, the Kinsmen Kanteen concession proceeds are donated to local charities. The typical items are found here, including burgers, fries, hot dogs,, and nachos. Soda and candy are also here, and Slush Puppies are quite popular. In the northeast corner of the arena, a beer tent stands selling products from the nearby brewery, Brookston Oaks. Atmosphere 3 The exterior of Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre is fairly attractive with light brick and blue accents. The main entrance is from the parking lot on the west side, which offers a canopied entrance. Inside the recreation centre, there is a large atrium that functionally joins the two arenas with the swim complex. It is bright and attractive and features a cute box office structure in between the stairs that go up to Highbury Canco Arena and down to Unico Arena. In the atrium, curious fans will find a few trophy cases as well as torches from the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and 2015 Toronto Pan Am games. Fans will ascend the stairs to the Highbury Canco Arena and are greeted at the entrance with portraits of local products who have reached the highest levels of hockey, including Tim Hrynewich, Pat Ribble, Kirk Bowman, Randy Manery, Brad Selwood and Darren McCarty. A special place is held for Olympian Meaghan Agosta. Inside the arena, the ice is north-south oriented with a full 360 walkway behind the seating bowl. The retired number 2 of Meaghan Agosta hangs above the doors. Only the most recent championship banners hang along the east side of the arena, including the 2023 Sutherland Cup banner. There is no hint of the Junior C days. There are also some trophy cases in the arena for local hockey teams. The seating bowl consists of six rows of maroon, plastic, arena seats. The sightlines are strong in Highbury Canco Arena, and there are rails behind the seating, perfect for those fans who prefer to stand for the game. Fans should beware of stickers on seats or standing room spots reserving places for season ticket holders. The game-day production in Leamington is fairly simple. The sound system is very good, and the PA announcer is clear and easy to understand. A pair of flag bearers lead the Flyers on the ice and stand with the players during the national anthem. Neighbourhood 3 Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre is located in the town of Leamington. It has a population of just over 29,000. There are a few options for pre- or post-game food and drink that will require a short drive to get to. Some options include Moonlight, Imperial Diner, Rays Ribhouse, and Augusto’s Grill. Leamington has a few solid Mexican restaurants also, including Cancunsito and Salsa Caliente. The Leamington Flyers are the only game in town. For other sports options, fans will need to head to nearby Windsor, where the Windsor Spitfires are king. Other tourist options in Leamington include Point Pelee National Park, Seacliff Park and Beach, and The Bank Theatre. For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Quality Inn is a good option. Fans 4 Assessing fans in the OJHL can be a challenge as there are few outlets that compile attendance figures. At the game that was reviewed, the home opener for the 2026-27 season, the Flyers welcomed over 660 fans. This is not far off what they averaged in the previous season. It is fair to say that the Flyers rank in the top third of the OJHL with regard to attendance. The fans in attendance are definitely loud and proud, many bringing noisemakers and air horns to aid in their cause. Access 4 Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre is located in the town of Leamington. With a population of less than 30,000, traffic should not be an issue, and getting to the arena should not be difficult. The arena is approximately 3 km south of the confluence of Highways 3, 33, and 77. Obviously, driving through town will be necessary but should not present a challenge. There is plenty of parking at the rec centre at no cost. For fans who wish to take public transit, there is an LTGO On Demand Transit system. Fans should consult the LTGO website for details. Getting around the arena is not difficult after the initial set of stairs. The washrooms are adequate for the venue, both in Highbury Canco Arena and in the atrium. Fans should note that the arena is quite cold and should dress accordingly, especially early in the season. Fans should also be aware of stickers on seats and in standing room spots reserving them for season subscribers. Return on Investment 5 OJHL hockey is very affordable, and the Leamington Flyers are no different. Flyers tickets are $15. Tickets for students and seniors are $13, and $6 for kids. Tickets are available at the door or online before the game. Parking at Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre is free, and concession prices are good. The Flyers provide a good game-day atmosphere, and the fans in Leamington add to the experience. It all adds up to a great time for a very reasonable price. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Flyers as the only game in town in Leamington. An extra mark for the successful jump the Flyers have made from the Junior B to Junior A level. An extra mark for the Flyers being successful in the face of the relative isolation from the rest of the OJHL. Final Thoughts The Tomato Capital of Canada is ripe with hockey atmosphere! The Leamington Flyers are a solid member of the OJHL, and their home, Highbury Canco Arena @ Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre, is a great spot to catch some junior hockey. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Bob Waters Field at E. J. Whitmire Stadium 291 Catamount Rd Cullowhee, NC 28723 Western Carolina Catamounts website Bob Waters Field at E. J. Whitmire Stadium website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 13,742 Mountain Cats On The Attack Western Carolina University lives up to its name, as it is the westernmost campus in the North Carolina University System. It was founded in 1889 and now serves nearly 12,000 students. The school is particularly known for its computer sciences and liberal arts programs. It is also famous for preserving the mountain heritage of the region. The home of the Catamounts is the on-campus Bob Waters Field at E.J. Whitmire Stadium. Bob Waters was the winningest coach in Western Carolina history and served as athletic director for the school. E.J. Whitmire was a longtime member of the school’s Board of Trustee’s. The stadium originally opened in 1974 and has a capacity of 13,742. It has gone through numerous upgrades over the years. However, the stadium has really been transformed over the 2024-2025 off seasons and opened the 2026 season with a radically different facility. A new multi-story skybox was added to the western side of the field, which formerly served as the visitor’s side of the stadium. As a result of this massive addition, the western side of the field is now the home side of the facility, and the east side of the stadium now is the visitors seating. The skyboxes include a Hospitality Level with enhanced concessions and premium rooftop seating. Additional upgrades to the stadium include new lighting, a state-of-the-art videoboard and a new field turf surface. Western Carolina has fully dedicated the west side of the stands for its alumni, fans and major donors. To improve its home field advantage, it has left both the Catamount student body and the Pride of the Mountain’s Marching Band in the east stands. This effectively cuts down on the support/noise the visiting team’s fans can generate during a game. The stadium retains both the Ramsey Regional Activity Center at the south end of the field and the Jordan-Phillips Field House at the north of the field. This preserves both a hospitality deck and a scoreboard that overlooks the north end zone and the team locker rooms in the Ramsey Center. Food & Beverage 3 There are concession stands on both the east and west concourses of E.J. Whitmire Stadium, plus enhanced concession areas in the new skybox area. A food truck court is located at the north end of the stadium offering additional food selections. These trucks include Kona Ice, Wood Fried Grill, Glazed and Infused Donuts, Dragon Pit BBQ and Burgers, J &K Lemonade, Depot Pizza and Cat Daddy’s Creole Cuisine. The main concession stands carry hot dogs ($6), personal-sized pizza ($10), nachos w-cheese ($9), jumbo pretzels ($5), popcorn ($4), chips ($4), candy ($4), and Bojangles sandwiches ($7). Drink selections include Pepsi brand sodas ($6), Gatorade ($5), Sunset Slush and Bojangles sweet tea ($5) and bottled water ($4). Alcohol sales are available at designated stands for patrons over the age of 21. ID’s must be presented, and there is a two-drink limit per purchase. Brands include Michelob Ultra, Coors Light, Hazy Little Thing IPA, Paws Pilsner and Barefoot Pinot Grigio. Credit cards are preferred, but there are also cash-only drink and snack stands available. Atmosphere 4 While a game at E.J. Whitmire Stadium does not create the buzz of a 60,000-seat stadium, it more than makes up for it with a beautiful natural setting, rabid fans and a welcoming spirit for visitors. They’ve even painted purple cat paws on the streets on the campus to guide you to the stadium. They are also very proud of the newly upgraded facilities and are eager to show visitors around their new football home. The tailgating scene is quite active throughout the WCU campus. In addition to the fan tailgates, the Greek organizations, school clubs, alumni, and other school organizations also sponsor tailgating activities. The student section really leads the gameday atmosphere, as they all seem to be armed with thunder sticks. The student section is strategically located immediately behind the visiting team’s sideline, making it difficult for the team to communicate. The WCU band is also located on the visitors’ side of the field, doing their part to make communications difficult for the visiting squad. Neighborhood 3 Western Carolina University is in Cullowhee, NC, an unincorporated area of Jackson County, NC. There are no hotels, restaurants or attractions in Cullowhee, except for the on-campus theatre and the Mountain Heritage Center museum. The closest services can be found seven miles north of Cullowhee via Highway 107 in the town of Sylva. Restaurants in Sylva include O’Malley’s Pub and Grill, El Patron Mexican Restaurant, the Lazy Hiker Brewing Company and Forager’s Canteen. Hotels in Sylva include the Holiday Inn Express-Sylva and the Western Carolina Comfort Inn. Other than the fall foliage, the nearest attractions to Western Carolina University are Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort in Cherokee, NC. and the Great Smokey Mountains National Park. The city of Ashville is less than 60 miles east of Cullowhee. Fans 4 The WCU fanbase is mostly made up of WCU alumni, the students and faculty of the school and townspeople from area communities. Western Carolina has led the Southern Conference in attendance for several years and ranks 20th in the country in attendance for schools at the FCS level of competition. The stands are a sea of purple and gold for every home game. The Western Carolina mascot, Paws, does a great job in keeping the fans enthused throughout the games. He is assisted in keeping the fans involved by the 500-member Pride of the Mountains Marching Band. Access 4 Whitmire Stadium earns our midrange score for access due to its relatively isolated location in the mountains and its long distance from any interstate. However, the state highways and local roads leading to the campus are well maintained. You can also expect heavy traffic on any of the roads in the area during the peak of fall foliage season. Gameday parking for non-students and visiting fans is in the HHS Commuter Parking Lot located across Highway 107 from the WCU campus via Little School Road. Free shuttles begin running between the campus and the satellite parking area two hours prior to kickoff. The Ramsey Center behind the south endzone is the on-campus pickup/drop-off location. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices are $23 for General Admission for adults and $18 for children. Bench Back Reserved and Bleacher Reserved tickets are $32 for adults and $22 for children. Parking at Western Carolina games is $15 for advance purchases and $20 on gamedays. Concession prices are in line with what most college concession charge. Merchandise stands are located on both sides of the stadium, as well at the school bookstore, which is open on Saturdays when a home game is scheduled. However, lodging can be very expensive during the fall foliage season in late September and early October. You might want to consider staying in Clayton, GA for lower prices and not too long of a gameday drive the rest of the way up to Cullowhee. Extras 5 So… what’s a Catamount? A Catamount is any type of wild cat such as a cougar, lynx or a bobcat. These types of cats are found in the mountains surrounding the WCU campus. Western Carolina is the only college football team in the country using Catamounts as its nickname. Western Carolina has two rivalry games each season. They play Appalachian State University with the winner taking home the Old Mountain Jug and they play East Tennessee State University in the Blue Ridge Border Battle. WCU has a victory bell which can be transported to both home and away games. It is rung after wins and scores by the Catamounts. The school offers an excellent yearbook, Extra Points, which includes information on every Catamount player, articles on the history of E.J Whitmire Stadium, a section on the various spirit squads, and profiles of the opposing teams that will be battling the Catamounts that season. The beauty of the mountains surrounding the Western Carolina campus at their peak of fall foliage season is absolutely an extra. Final Thoughts The Catamounts have plenty to roar about in their newly upgraded mountain lair. There is so much more to brag about now than just a pretty place to play football amid the gorgeous fall foliage!

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Clover Park 525 NW Peacock Blvd Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 Map It St. Lucie Mets website Clover Park website Year Opened: 1988 Capacity: 7,347 Mets Territory - Port St. Lucie The Single-A St Lucie Mets play their baseball games at the newly renovated Clover Park in Port St Lucie, FL. Clover Park is better known as the spring training facility of the New York Mets. As soon as you see the ballpark (even before entering the parking lot), you know you are in Mets territory. The vibrant shades of Mets orange and blue decorate the exterior of the building, Mets signage and championship years are displayed, and former Mets greats have billboard-sized posters on the outer walls. A palm tree-lined plaza contains plaques with a brief bio for many famous Mets players. And the Mets prominence continues in the interior of the ballpark. Pictures, photos, and murals line the corridors, and the organization painted the cement walls with the likes of David Wright, Jose Reyes, and others. New York Mets retired numbers and championship banners line the façade of the press box. Clover Park Press Box, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Clover Park opened in 1988 and has gone by various names based on sponsorship, but it has always been the Mets home. The stadium holds 7,160 for spring training, but that number is greatly reduced for the Single-A St Lucie Mets games as portions of the seating area are closed off in the summer. The St Lucie Mets originated in 1988 and are members of the Florida State League (FSL). They have won the FSL championship six times, most recently in 2022. Notable alumni include Pedro Martinez, Jacob deGrom, and Mike Piazza. Visitors and fans have a fun time catching a Mets minor league game at Clover Park. Food & Beverage 3 One concession stand is open for the St Lucie Mets games, and that’s enough. An additional cocktail cart is open if you all want is an adult beverage. Another cart selling lemonade and frozen Italian ice is also on hand. The Home Plate Grill concession stand offers the basics: chicken tenders & fries, grilled chicken sandwiches, burgers, Nathans hot dogs, and Italian sausages ranging from $4.75 - $8.50. Gluten-free buns are available on request. For healthier food, fans can purchase cauliflower pizza or a garden salad. Snacks include popcorn buckets, peanuts, pretzels, Cracker Jack, ice cream, and chips ($3 - $5). Beverages include Coca-Cola brand sodas, bottled water, and traditional domestic beer brands like Michelob Ultra and Budweiser. Atmosphere 3 Palm trees, a few benches, and plaques of many retired Mets greats line the main entrance plaza. The plaza has an impressive 9/11 memorial created from a piece of steel from the World Trade Center. Clover Park 9/11 Memorial, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Seating is two levels of traditional blue fold-down stadium seats. Most have cup holders. The rows do not have a lot of legroom between them. The third baseline has tables and chairs. Some seats are covered and not used during the FSL season, and the paths to the outfield concourses are blocked off. A medium-thick net extends down both baselines; there’s no place to sit net-free for the Single-A games. For the most part, they don’t play music over the announcer. The game day staff mostly play music between batters and innings (not pitches), except towards the end of the game when they annoyingly play it between almost every pitch. The music volume is louder on the second level. If you like jamming with the tunes, that’s the area in which to sit. Sit in the first level if you want to enjoy the sounds of the game. The scoreboard shows the name of the player at bat and his stats, the team line-up, and the line score. The game day staff provides the traditional minor league between-inning activities like trivia contests and a smile cam. Trees adorn the area behind the outfield fence, providing a pleasant view. The St Lucie Mets dugout is on the third base side. Both bullpens are behind the left field fence. Neighborhood 3 Several chain hotels, restaurants, and shopping are a mile+ from Clover Park. Places to stay include a Hampton Inn, SpringHill Suites, Holiday Inn Express, and more. Shop around as prices differ. A shopping mall is a mile away and has plenty of choices for eating before or after a game. Thirteen or more restaurants are in the area, including Duffy’s Sports Grill, Chili’s, and Pueblo Viejo. The area has a myriad of fast food places. For breakfast or lunch, I recommend Berry Fresh Café. Hopheads can enjoy a local brew at Hop Life Brewing. A food truck with yummy meals is at this brewery. The Port St Lucie Botanical Gardens is worth a visit on the cooler mornings or afternoons. Other sports in the area include the Jupiter Hammerheads and Palm Beach Cardinals about a 45-minute drive south. Fans 3 Lots of Silver Sluggers are in attendance (even on a non-Tuesday), as well as plenty of retired fans. The St Lucie Mets have a decent season ticket holder base. A good number of families with kids attend the games as well. The fans are vocal, and you will hear an abundance of New York accents from the crowd, as it should be. So far, the 2023 attendance numbers have ranged from approximately 700 to 2,300 per game, with the higher attendance on Saturdays. Admirably, most fans throw their own trash away. Access 4 Getting to and in and around Clover Park is easy. The ballpark is less than a mile off Interstate 95. Parking costs $5 (credit card only) and is mostly on paved lots for FSL games. Grass lots extend past the pavement. Several small regional and private airports are nearby. The closest commercial airport is Melbourne (MLB), an hour's drive north. Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) is one and a half hour’s drive south. The county offers local ART bus service to the ballpark. However, service ends at 7 pm and is not operational on weekends, so it is not conducive for 95% of the St Lucie Mets ball games. The ballpark gates open only 40 minutes before the first pitch. For stadium journeyers and those visiting for the first time, that’s too little time to check out the venue and all it has to offer. Getting through the security check-in is slow, though certainly not intrusive. Standard clear sports bags and small clutches are allowed. After going through security, fans climb a large staircase to get to the concourse. The venue has an elevator to the right of the staircase. Several sets of wheelchair-accessible restrooms are open for a St Lucie Mets game and a separate family restroom is along the concourse. Return on Investment 5 The St Lucie Mets offer a good value for your sports entertainment dollar. Refreshment prices are comparable to other FSL venues. Tickets are $12 on game day, and seating is general admission. It’s unfortunate the team charges for parking. Those over 55 years old can spend $35 and get a variety of perks as a Silver Slugger: A t-shirt, lower ticket prices, free admission on Tuesday games, and a free hot dog and soda on Tuesdays. That’s a great deal. I wish I lived in St Lucie. Fans can purchase a ten-game flex pack ($80). The team offers all kinds of promotions throughout the season: kids crew night, fireworks, dollar nights, family 4-pack nights, military appreciation nights, and the list goes on. Extras 3 The stadium has a sizable team shop to the right of the ticket booth – go to this one. The one inside the stadium doesn’t have as much merchandise. Something I haven’t seen before is chalked lines by second base. I suspect these are visual reminders to the infielders on where they can (or cannot) stand based on MLB’s new rules. Clover Park Chalked Lines by Second Base, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The Florida State League recently incorporated a balls and strikes ‘challenge system.’ The pitcher, catcher, and batter can appeal the umpire’s call. Each team gets three challenges per game, with successful challenges retained for future use in the game. It’s fantastic the Mets organization holds both its spring training and Single-A games in the same facility. Final Thoughts Clover Park is a well-branded NY Mets facility. The Single-A version is an enjoyable, cost-effective way to spend a few hours experiencing our national pastime. Visit it if in the area.

The Atlantic League of Professional Baseball is generally considered to be the highest level of baseball among all of the independent leagues. One of four MLB Partner Leagues, its ten teams are located in the mid-Atlantic and southeastern states. The league requires its ballparks to be built to Triple-A specifications, and for the cities to be able to support a ballpark in the 4,000-7,500 seat range. Play in the Atlantic League is considered to be at about the Double-A or Triple-A level. When Minor League Baseball reorganized in November 2020, two Atlantic League ballparks, in Somerset, NJ and Sugar Land, TX, were chosen to join affiliated baseball. This speaks to the high quality of the ballparks in the circuit. Stadium Journey’s writers are frequent visitors to the ten ballparks in the Atlantic League. We were able to update reviews for three of the league’s ten parks in 2026, and eight of the ten venues have been reviewed within the last three years. The ballparks are ranked according to Stadium Journey’s patented FANFARE system, which ranks facilities according to their Food and beverage, gameday Atmosphere, surrounding Neighborhood, Fan support, Accessibility, Return on investment, and an Extra category for anything not covered by the other six categories. When two or more ballparks are tied, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is convened to break the deadlock. Without any further ado, we are proud to present Stadium Journey’s ranking of the ballparks of the Atlantic League for the 2026 season. 10. CaroMont Health Park – Gastonia Ghost Peppers 3.14 Michael Rusignuolo - Although the surroundings, food, and crowds won't blow you away, the park is easy to get to and provides an affordable night out in a unique layout that doesn't skimp on the extras. 9. Truist Point – High Point Rockers 3.14 Gregory Koch - Truist Point is an unusual stadium, and not necessarily in a positive way. Nonetheless, if you are in the Piedmont Triad, a trip to a Rockers game can be a fun way to spend a summer's night. Hang out with Hype and watch a baseball game up close for a great price. 8. Staten Island University Hospital Community Park – Staten Island FerryHawks 3.14 David Welch - SIUH Community Park’s location has a rich history of hosting baseball, rooted in the borough’s love for the game and its waterfront setting. With intimate sight lines, breathtaking skyline, and harbor views, the park offers a unique and memorable outing for fans. 7. Legends Field – Lexington Legends 3.29 Marc Viquez – Legends Field was built in an era where minor league ballparks opened up across the country in record numbers. The ball club has placed itself above the copious sporting and entertainment options for over 20 years and is growing in Lexington. A ballpark that features seats close to the diamond, cheap tickets, and cheaper eats is what minor league baseball used to be and what it still should be for the average fan. 6. Regency Furniture Stadium – Southern Maryland Blue Crabs 3.43 Joseph Oakes - The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs are within the footprint of both the Washington Nationals and the Baltimore Orioles. If you don’t feel like fighting big city traffic and forking out a lot of money, the Blue Crabs are just the spot for you! 5. GoMart Ballpark – Charleston Dirty Birds 3.57 Paul Baker - GoMart Ballpark may not be the type of ballpark that makes anyone’s “Best Of” list. But it does many things well. It’s inexpensive, cozy, and thanks to The Toast Man and the cast of regulars in Section 107, incredibly entertaining. This ballpark suits the Atlantic League, the city of Charleston and its baseball fans perfectly. 4. Wellspan Park – York Revolution 4.00 Richard Smith – Wellspan Park is home to the tallest outfield wall in all of baseball. At 37 feet, 8 inches, the left field wall is called the “Arch Nemesis,” and is 8 inches taller than the famed Green Monster at Fenway Park. 3. Penn Medicine Park – Lancaster Stormers 4.14 Richard Smith - In 2005, Lancaster came back to professional baseball as part of the independent Atlantic League. The name “Barnstormers” was chosen in a team-sponsored fan ballot. The name served two purposes: first, playing on the term “Barn,” as well as referring to the act of “barnstorming,” which is playing in exhibition games while travelling around in various areas. In 2024, they rebranded with the Stormers name and the bull as a main part of their logo, as well as using some storm and barn imagery. 2. Fairfield Properties Park – Long Island Ducks 4.29 Meg Minard – Summer on Long Island can be a lot of fun with the beaches, piers, and boating. When on Long Island, be sure to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying a laid-back, entertaining nine innings with friends and family at Fairfield Properties Park. 1. Meritus Park – Hagerstown Flying Boxcars 4.43 Richard Smith – After losing the Suns and Municipal Stadium, the initiative to reintroduce baseball to Hagerstown happened quickly, and within four years, the newly established team, the "Flying Boxcars" (named after the Fairchild military cargo plane manufactured locally after the war), along with the ballpark (named after the local healthcare company Meritus), had their inaugural season in 2024.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Carilion Clinic Field 1008 Texas St Salem, VA 24153 Salem RidgeYaks website Carilion Clinic Field website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 6,300 Carilion Clinic Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark – Salem Red Sox Editors Note: Following the conclusion of the 2025 season, the team rebranded as the Salem RidgeYaks. While the name and look will changed, the club remains proudly affiliated with the Boston Red Sox. Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern Virginia, the city of Salem has hosted minor league baseball since the 1930s. Though much of that minor league baseball was hosted just down the street at Kiwanis Park, the Salem Red Sox have been one of three affiliated minor league teams to call Carilion Clinic Field home since it opened in 1995. Food & Beverage 4 With several concession stands around the stadium, the Salem Red Sox serves up an extensive menu. Along with all the typical stadium food, several stands have their themes. The Bigs, located on the secondary concourse along the first baseline, serves specialty hot dogs, burgers, and sandwiches. This stand has the feel that each menu item is its food challenge – no other menu option displays this more than the “Fat Sandwich”, consisting of chicken tenders, mozzarella cheese sticks, fries, and marinara Sauce. Alternatively, Buckets on the third base side has many fried options, including chicken wings, cheese curds, mini corn dogs, and even a bucket of fried veggies for those looking for a…healthy…option. In addition, tucked away under the first base bleachers, The Cantina might have the most culinarily advanced choices with their street tacos and quesadillas. Carilion Clinic Field also serves a wide array of alcoholic beverages; local breweries Ole Salem Brewing Company and Big Lick Brewing are two of the featured local beers served. Seltzers, wine, and premixed drinks are also served. There are also a handful of non-alcoholic brews, along with a full variety of Pepsi beverages and sports drinks for non-beer drinkers. Atmosphere 3 As fans initially enter Carilion Clinic Field, they are greeted by a wide-opening view of the field-level seating bowl, as well as the mountainous backdrop. A large bar sits just steps from the front gates to greet fans and quench their thirst as they initially survey the stadium. The seating bowl is broken into two general areas, and there is no overhang or roof to the seating bowl providing shelter from the elements. The stadium has the feel of one large concrete edifice – it is somewhat reminiscent of PNC Field, home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Rail Riders, before its renovations in 2013. When it comes to the in-game presentation, on-field contests, and scoreboard games are like those found at many stadiums around the county, although there does not appear to be much that is regionally unique or a new take on an old favorite. Fans seem to only have a passing interest in most of the contests or games; even the Red Sox’s tradition of Sweet Caroline played in the middle of the 8th inning garners minimal involvement. Coming out of the 2021 reorganization of minor league baseball, Salem saw their Red Sox affiliation move to Class-A from their previous High-A status. With a capacity of 6,300 fans, Carilion Clinic Field is the third largest in the Carolina League, though the size of the stadium for the classification just makes the stadium seem too large given the typical attendance. For those who enjoy the serenity of simply being at a ballpark with breathtaking views while taking in the game, Carilion Clinic Field will suffice, but a bit is missing when it comes to the overall entertainment value of the experience. Neighborhood 3 Salem sits just east of the Appalachian Mountains that run up the eastern shore board, and they are prominently visible behind the first base side of the stadium. Carilion Clinic Field itself is just about a mile from the cozy downtown of Salem, Virginia, and the campus of Roanoke College. The baseball stadium is part of the City of Salem’s athletic facilities, sandwiched between Salem Stadium, which has twice hosted the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl (NCAA’s Division III football national championship game), and the Salem Civic Center. Though there are not a lot of pre-game entertainment options at the stadium itself, downtown Salem does have several restaurants where fans can easily grab a bite to eat. Fans 2 Salem’s attendance ranks in the bottom third of teams in the Carolina League, but it will see spikes throughout the year for popular promotion nights. Of those who do turn out, their attention does seem to be on the game, but there is not much when it comes to the atmosphere created by the fans. Every stadium is going to have its diehards, but many of the fans here seem to be at the ballpark only for the social aspect of the evening. Access 3 Salem is located just off I-81 in the northern Virginia mountains. It is commonly used as an alternate route to avoid some of the traffic around the larger cities along I-95. With its proximity to the interstate, getting to the Carilion Clinic Field is rather direct. Once at the stadium, the parking lot does not have a lot of attendants, so where to go can get a bit confusing, but once parked the front gates are just a short walk away. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices are a bit difficult to figure out given the team’s average attendance. Upper-level seating, which is general admission seats, runs $13 and seems to be a touch high given the smaller crowds. The best tickets for the money, though, are the $19 Strike Zone seats that make up the four field-level sections behind home plate and also have an in-seat concession service. You are paying more for the ticket, but the extra $6 for a seat this close to home plate is worth the extra charge. Given there is no charge for parking and concessions are fairly priced, fans are getting their money’s worth here. Extras 3 The external concourse is adorned with banners of many of the more high-profile players to have come through Salem, on their way to careers in the Majors. Behind the third base side bleachers is a wiffle ball field built to Fenway Park specifications, complete with a Green Monster, center field triangle, and right field bullpen – all that is missing is the Citgo sign. The views of the surrounding mountains and other nearby peaks are stunning and create some amazing sunsets. Final Thoughts Baseball stadiums are different than those of other sports, in that the natural surroundings play an important role in how memorable an experience a visit can be. The views at Carilion Clinic Field provided by the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains provide possibly the most impressive backdrop in all of the Carolina League. Though the overall fan involvement in games tends to be inconsistent and does impact the atmosphere of the game, there is enough serenity from the setting, and enough variety of food items, to visit Carilion Clinic Field an enjoyable experience.

Photos by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Centennial Stadium 13740 East Fremont Ave. Centennial, CO 80112 Map It Denver Summit FC website Centennial Stadium website Year Opened: 2026 Capacity: 12,000 The Climb Begins for the NWSL Denver Summit FC For a professional sports franchise that didn’t exist 20 months ago, the National Women’s Soccer League’s Denver Summit FC is doing well for itself. The NWSL announced in January 2025 that the Summit would become the league’s 16th team, debuting in the 2026 season. That debut on March 28, 2026, was a resounding success: the Summit set the American attendance record for a women’s professional sporting event (63,004) in the franchise’s first home game at Empower Field at Mile High But the Summit joined the league without a permanent stadium. After the franchise debut, the Summit played four games at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, home of the MLS’s Colorado Rapids, during the 2026 Men’s World Cup Break before moving into their interstitial home in Centennial. The Summit will have a permanent stadium soon, however, in a 14-acre redevelopment project located just south of downtown Denver in Santa Fe Yards near the intersection of Interstate 25 and Broadway. The permanent location will seat 14,500 fans, with parking, mass transit connectivity, and new housing, restaurants, and hospitality areas as part of the project. It’s expected to open either during the 2028 NWSL season or before the 2029 season. Until then, the Summit play home games at Centennial Stadium, a 12,000-seat temporary home located at the team’s practice facility approximately 20 miles south of downtown Denver in Centennial, Colorado. The surrounding, suburban neighborhood – which probably wasn’t designed with an inkling that a pro sports team would play among its business parks and light industrial zoning – doesn’t offer much atmosphere (or parking; more on that later). But the experience at Centennial Stadium offers a glimpse of the Summit’s bright future once the permanent stadium opens. Food & Beverage 4 For a temporary home, Centennial Stadium offers a decent array of food and drink. A high point: the Summit have popular local restauranteurs and food trucks among the concessionaires. Maria Empanada (beef, chicken chimichurri, Italiana, BBQ, and roast corn and cojita), Little Finch, Simply Pizza, and Sweet Action Ice Cream (7 flavors, a seasonal sorbet, and ice cream floats) have locations in the stadium. Hot dogs ($6.50), popcorn ($9), and bottled soda ($7) are sold throughout the stadium as well. Cans of domestic beer (Tivoli, Coors Light - $10-$11), premium beer (Michelob Ultra, Modelo - $13), craft beer (Holidaily, 4 Noses IPA - $13-$14), and High Noon hard seltzer ($14) are sold throughout the facility. Centennial Stadium sells Coca-Cola soda products. Atmosphere 3 Even compared to a permanent facility, Centennial Stadium has surprisingly good atmosphere. All seats are close to the action, with good sight lines. Centennial Stadium doesn’t have the dramatic mountain backdrops that some of Colorado’s other sports venues have. If you’re looking for views or something Instagrammable, this likely isn’t the place. The action on the field is the main attraction. Most of the seating is exposed to the elements. At least in the seating bowl, there isn’t much shade. However, the concourses underneath the stands are completely shaded and covered to give respite to fans looking to escape direct sunlight or rain. Fans can bring empty water bottles but filling them inside the stadium can present a challenge. The Summit should consider adding water bottle filling stations. The Summit supporters’ section is behind the south goal, in section 114. Purchasing a ticket in this area can be confusing, however. Tickets indicate a row and seat in that section but fans treat all seats in section 114 as general admission. Also, be advised that watching the game from this part of the stadium exposes fans to blasts of smoke when the Summit score. That smoke delivers a sulfuric olfactory punch that can catch the unwary off-guard. Centennial Stadium View from Section 114, Photo by Matt Finnigan, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 1 The area around Centennial Stadium was never intended to host a professional sports venue. There aren’t any restaurants or bars within reasonable walking distance (though there are multiple construction companies, a county courthouse, the Denver Broncos’ practice facility and team offices, and a Hindu temple nearby). Otherwise, a quick drive north to Arapahoe Road leads to strip malls that seem to offer a seemingly limitless array of fast-casual chain restaurants. That should change, of course, when the Summit’s new stadium opens. An entertainment district will surround the facility, ostensibly with places for fans to meet before and after games. No one knows what those restaurants will be. The Summit will be wise to bring local favorites to that development, as they have at Centennial Stadium. Until then, however, fans will have to be creative in their pre- and post-game get-togethers. Fans 5 The Summit have been an instant success with regard to fans, beyond the franchise-opening game at Mile High. As of this writing, the Summit have the NWSL’s second-highest, per-fixture attendance (18,938, trailing only the Portland Thorns’ 19,150 per fixture). They’ve sold out matches at each of the three pitches where they’ve played and have become a sought-after ticket in Colorado. Local stars Janine Sonis (Highlands Ranch) and Lindsey Heaps (Golden) are part of the reason for the team’s popularity. And the 14ers, the team’s supporter group, is a fun and conspicuous part of every match. Access 1 Parking at Centennial Stadium presents several challenges. The lack of it might be the biggest, and confusing information on the team’s website compounds that problem. Parking at the stadium is limited, though permits can be purchased ahead of time. Some surrounding businesses, closed on weekends and at night, seem to provide options. But the Summit’s messaging is unclear. For instance, the website encourages fans in a website blurb titled “Free Shuttle and Offsite Lots” to park a mile away at a business along Tucson Way; a free shuttle is advertised. However, attendants turn away fans arriving without a parking permit. The website doesn’t indicate that this is a permitted lot, nor does any signage. Fans thus queue for a lot where they can’t actually park, only to be sent elsewhere. Attendants don’t provide direction on parking options. This can force fans to scramble to find parking in an area that’s probably unfamiliar to many people who don’t live in or near Centennial. Street parking is an option, but it’s not clearly marked and can require long walks. And, because the area around the stadium isn’t pedestrian-friendly, fans must frequently walk in the street around construction projects or without sidewalks on grass, pocked with groundhog holes. The Summit need to clarify on its parking map which lots are permit-required and should provide more information about street parking and walking routes. This would ameliorate confusion, particularly for those attending a game at Centennial Stadium for the first time. Additionally, Centennial is at Denver’s south end. Those coming from the north side of downtown potentially face drives of 45 minutes to an hour, perhaps more if the notorious traffic through the Denver Tech Center rears its ugly head. There is some public transit available, but not much. RTD-Denver’s Bus Route 153 connects the stadium with the light rail station on Arapahoe Road. Return on Investment 3 Notwithstanding the Summit’s popularity, tickets are not bank-breakers when compared to other live sporting events in Denver. Prices start at $34. Given that seats around the stadium are closely positioned to the pitch, entry-level tickets won’t force fans to watch the game from a pilot’s-eye view. Tickets near the center pitch routinely exceed $100. Paid parking is an option. It, too, isn’t terribly costly in the $10 range. Given that it’s limited, though, fans are wise to buy it well in advance of a match. Free parking is available but, as noted, it’s unmarked and not close to the stadium. Plan ahead. Food and beverage prices align with other sports venues in Denver. The Summit do have a 3.03 menu, selling popcorn, PB&J sandwiches, and bottled water for $3.03 apiece (303 also happens to be the primary area code for the Denver area, for those of us old enough to remember those telephonic relics). Extras 1 The Summit earn an extra point for including excellent local, non-chain concessionaires. It’s a nice display of support for some of Denver’s independent restaurants that will hopefully be part of the permanent stadium in a few years. Final Thoughts Despite Centennial Stadium’s placeholder status as the Summit’s home, it’s quite nice. Summit staff have created a solid game-day experience in a very short time, all while the team has played in locations all over town. This has grown the team’s popularity and also demonstrates significant promise for what’s yet to come when the new stadium opens in 2028 or 2029.