The Ontario Junior Lacrosse League, or OJLL, is the top junior lacrosse league in Ontario, and some would argue, Canada. The “Junior A” league acts as a feeder system for NCAA lacrosse programs and the professional National Lacrosse League. Filling the void left by the absence of hockey in Ontario in the summer months, the OJLL offers some of the most affordable experiences anywhere and provides fans with an up close and personal look at indoor lacrosse. There was plenty of change in the 2026 season. The league welcomed its 12th franchise, the Elora Hawks, to the fold. After a drawn-out local political battle, the Toronto Beaches found themselves out at Ted Reeve Community Arena and in their new home at Scarborough Arena Gardens. The Kitchener Kodiaks also brought their brand-new branding to the league, abandoning the Kitchener-Waterloo Lacrosse Club moniker. Stadium Journey completed new or updated reviews at Burlington, Kitchener, Elora and Toronto in 2026. The 2026 OJLL season saw the Whitby Warriors complete the regular season with the best record in the league with 12 wins in 18 games. Justin Tavares of the Oakville Buzz led the league with 106 points, while Jameson Bucktooth of the St. Catharines Athletics tallied 56 goals for tops in the league. Ty Wilson of the St. Catharines Athletics had the best goals-against average in the league at 7.82 goals per game (min 500 minutes). In a hard-fought series, the St. Catharines Athletics defeated the Whitby Warriors in six games to claim their 11th Iroquois Cup and earn a berth in the Minto Cup, held in Calgary, Alberta. The OJLL rankings at Stadium Journey are based on the FANFARE metric used on the website, where writers assess the lacrosse experience based on the categories of Food, Atmosphere, Neighbourhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment, and any extras that the writers experienced. The stakes are high, with an average grading of 3.32 being earned out of a possible perfect 5.0. This list is an opinion and may not agree with all. Please let Stadium Journey know your opinions on our various Social Media outlets. How is your list different from ours? What do we have right? What do we have wrong? Without further ado, Stadium Journey is proud to present the 2026 Rankings of the OJLL Experiences. 12. Central Recreation Centre - Burlington Blaze - 2.71 Dave Cottenie - In 2023, the Burlington Chiefs rebranded to the Burlington Blaze, jettisoning their Aboriginal name. They ended up winning the Iroquois Cup as OJLL Champions and then went on to defeat the Coquitlam Adanacs to take home the Minto Cup as National Champions. The Blaze are a not-for-profit organization under the auspices of the Burlington Minor Lacrosse Association. Home for the Blaze is the Central Recreation Centre, commonly referred to as Central Arena. Built in 1968, Central Arena is nicknamed The Oven, which seems to be an apt home for a team referred to as the Blaze. Alumni for the Blaze and Chiefs include Andrew Kew, Brent Noseworthy, Ryan Smith, and Ed Comeau. 11. Kinsmen Arena @ Kitchener Memorial Auditorium - Kitchener Kodiaks - 3.00 Dave Cottenie - In 2026, a re-energizing of junior lacrosse in Kitchener took place. Founded in 1967, the Kitchener-Waterloo Braves were the local representation of lacrosse at the Junior B level. The Braves won the Founders Cup in 1974 and 1988 as Junior B Champions in Ontario. The Braves had a short stint in Junior A from 1976 to 1981 and returned permanently to Junior A in 1991. With a shift away from indigenous names across all sports, the Braves rebranded to the hideous Kitchener-Waterloo Junior A Lacrosse Club in 2020. There was very little success in KW during this period, disappointing considering the legendary lacrosse talent that went through the program over the years. With the 2026 season, a significant influx in talent has happened in Kitchener to go along with a significant rebrand. 10. Jefferson Elora Community Centre - Elora Hawks - 3.00 Dave Cottenie - The Elora Mohawks were a very successful Junior B franchise, although they bounced back and forth from A to B and back over the years. The Mohawks earned the Founders Cup as Canada’s Junior B National Champion in 2005 and 2018 and were Silver Medalists in 2004. For the 2025 season, in keeping with the trend of dropping Indigenous nicknames, Elora rebranded as the Hawks, and the very next season made the jump up to Junior A. Elora is part of Centre Wellington Township, and the home for the Hawks is the Jefferson Elora Community Centre. Built in 1976, the community hub has undergone a couple of renovations; the latest included the naming rights to the facility, now owned by the Jefferson Elora Corporation. 9. Brampton Memorial Arena - Brampton Excelsiors - 3.00 Dave Cottenie - The Excelsiors have enjoyed some success earning the Iroquois Trophy as league champions eight times, and the Minto Cup as the National Champions four times. The Excelsiors played as the Brampton ABCs from 1962 to 1967, the Bramalea Excelsiors from 1968 to 1976, and returned to the Brampton Excelsiors from 1977 to the present. Home for the Excelsiors is the Brampton Memorial Arena. Built in 1950, the Memorial Arena has been retired as a hockey arena and serves the various levels of the Excelsiors as their home base. It has been converted to a true lacrosse venue and is definitely from a time gone by. It was named in honour of the soldiers of World War II who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Due to the age and importance of the arena, it is in the process of attaining a Heritage Designation. 8. Scotiabank Rink @ Iroquois Park Sports Centre - Whitby Warriors - 3.14 Dave Cottenie - One of the lacrosse hotbeds in Canada can be found in Whitby, Ontario. Colloquially known as the ‘Town’ of Whitby, with a population of over 135,000 and located along Highway 401, Whitby lives in the shadow of the giant metropolis of Toronto to the west and the automotive hub of Oshawa to the east. Organized lacrosse dates back to the sixties, and Whitby currently fields teams at the Junior A (OJLL), Junior C, and Senior A (MSL) levels. The Junior A Whitby Warriors were established in 1968 as the Whitby B&R Transporters at the Junior B level. In 1975, they advanced to the Junior A level as the Whitby Consolidated Builders and were renamed the Whitby Warriors in 1984. The Warriors boast the third most Minto Cup Championships as Junior A lacrosse National Champions, with eight and ten Iroquois Trophy Championships as Ontario Champions. Some of the Warrior alumni include NLL players Mark Matthews, Chris Corbeil, Zach Greer, Dan Ladoceur and Gavin Prout. Former NHL players Gary Roberts and Joe Nieuwendyk also suited up for the Warriors. 7. Scarborough Arena Gardens - Toronto Beaches - 3.14 Dave Cottenie - In 2025, Toronto lacrosse was dealt a significant body blow. The board of the Ted Reeve Community Arena, in a controversial act, voted to keep the ice in the facility all year round. This displaced the programming for the Toronto Beaches Lacrosse Club and left the Toronto Beaches team of the OJLL homeless. The solution for the homeless Beaches is Scarborough Arena Gardens. Built in 1951, Scarborough Gardens just completed a massive two-year renovation, which saw the old building torn down completely due to structural and asbestos concerns. It is owned by the City of Toronto, but is further east than the Beaches community where Ted Reeve was found. The 2026 season was the first for the not-for-profit Toronto Beaches at the Gardens, their new Sandbox. 6. Toronto Rock Athletic Centre - Oakville Buzz - 3.29 Dave Cottenie - Under the ownership of Jamie Dawick, in 2012, the Toronto Rock opened a training centre for the team to house its offices and provide space for the Rock to practice. Going beyond the practicality of providing for the team, the Toronto Rock Athletic Centre, in the nearby city of Oakville, has become a hub for lacrosse activity in the area. With two indoor box lacrosse fields and an outdoor turf field, the TRAC has become a centre for lacrosse at all levels. The Toronto Rock Athletic Centre is the home for the Oakville Buzz of the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League. The top junior lacrosse league is viewed as one of the top providers of lacrosse talent to the professional National Lacrosse League. The Buzz moved up to the OJLL, which is Junior A level, from Junior B in 2019, after winning a Junior B, Founders Cup National Championship in 2006. Taking advantage of one of the top lacrosse facilities in the province, the Buzz provides a good lacrosse experience for Ontario fans. 5. Peterborough Memorial Centre - Peterborough Jr. Lakers - 3.43 Dave Cottenie - It is a little-known fact that Peterborough is a hotbed of lacrosse. The Senior ‘A’ Peterborough Lakers are both wildly popular and have been wildly successful. Peterborough also puts a Junior C team on the floor. However, the focus of this review is the Peterborough Jr Lakers that play at the Junior A level in the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League. Founded in 1950, the Lakers have found themselves under a vast number of monikers, most of them sponsor-driven, including the Filter Queens, Pat’s, Pete’s, UEWs, Hastings Legionnaires, Petes, Tee-Pees, Gray-Munros, Century 21, James Gang, Maulers, Traders, Javelins and finally, in 1999, the Lakers. Earning a staggering 12 Minto Cups as junior lacrosse National Champions, the Lakers have also been wildly successful. The home for the Jr Lakers is the Peterborough Memorial Centre. It is best known as a hockey rink and the home of the Peterborough Petes in the winter, but in the summer months it is home for lacrosse, both at the Senior A and Junior A levels. The PMC opened its doors in 1956 and is one of the most unique venues. It gives the Jr Lakers a bit of a boost as they are the only team in the OJLL that plays in such a large, professional-type venue. 4. Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre - Orangeville Northmen - 3.57 Dave Cottenie - Orangeville is essentially a lacrosse town. Orangeville offers among the most in-depth lacrosse programs in Ontario and fields three teams at the junior level, with the Orangeville Northmen of the OJLL at the top of the chain. Those who play Junior A lacrosse for the Northmen hope to translate their success on the floor to opportunities in the NCAA or the professional National Lacrosse League. Orangeville Northmen alumni include Pat Coyle, Josh and Phil Sanderson, Brodie Merrill, Mike Poulin, and current General Manager Nick Rose. All have played or are currently playing in the NLL. Home for the Northmen is the Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre. Named after the father of GM and Toronto Rock goaltender Nick Rose, the Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre offers seating for 1,050 in the main arena and a classic lacrosse environment. Tony Rose was a member of the Northmen in the eighties and was a member of Senior B championship teams. He was a promoter of local lacrosse and died in a car accident in 1990. 3. Algoma Central Arena @ Canada Games Park - St. Catharines Athletics - 3.71 Dave Cottenie - The deep history of lacrosse in Ontario stretches into the Niagara Region with the St. Catharines Athletics. Playing at the “Junior A” level in the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League, the Athletics were founded as a lacrosse organization in 1877. They played under different monikers over time. They have been known as the Athletics intermittently throughout their history and in the latest iteration, which began in 1982. The Athletics have enjoyed tremendous success, earning six Minto Cups as Junior A lacrosse National Champions. The Athletics have also earned the Iroquois Trophy as Ontario Champions 10 times. With the Niagara Region hosting the Canada Games in 2022, the Athletics took advantage of a significant investment in the community and found a new home at Canada Games Park. 2. Iroquois Lacrosse Arena - Six Nations Arrows - 3.86 Dave Cottenie - South of Brantford, through the farmland of Southern Ontario, lives one of the many hearts of lacrosse. Six Nations Indian Reserve No. 40, more commonly known as Six Nations, contains the town of Ohsweken and is just north of Hagersville. At the southern corner stands an inconspicuous, warehouse-looking building that houses the hopes and dreams of countless Indigenous children. The Iroquois Lacrosse Arena was built in 2004 by lacrosse legends Curt Styres and Delby Powless and is a lacrosse-only facility, one of the only ones built in Canada specifically for lacrosse. Several lacrosse teams call Iroquois Lacrosse Arena home, and possibly the most popular is the Six Nations Arrows of the Junior A Ontario Junior Lacrosse League. The Arrows have been around since 1974 and began as a Junior C team. Originally known as the Six Nations Braves, the Arrows moniker was adopted in 1979. The Arrows would bring home the Iroquois Cup as Ontario Champions nine times and the ultimate prize, the Minto Cup as National Champions in 1992, 2007, 2014, 2015, and 2017. The list of players who have gone from the Arrows to the National Lacrosse League is a who’s who of lacrosse royalty, including Cody Jamieson, Doug Jamieson, Craig Point, Shawn Evans, Cam Bomberry, Johnny Powless, Delby Powless, Randy Staats, Leo Stouros, Brett Bucktooth and Warren Hill. 1. Mimico Arena - Mimico Mountaineers - 4.14 Dave Cottenie - The Mimico Lacrosse Club was established in 1890. The name “Mimico” translates from Ojibwa to “Home of the Wild Pigeon.” Lacrosse was so significant in Mimico that they built the Drummond Street Bowl in 1931, an outdoor box lacrosse facility, which would eventually become the Mimico Arena. Mimico competed in lacrosse at various levels over more than a century and continues today. The lacrosse achievements would culminate in Mann Cup Championships in 1932 and 1942 as Senior Lacrosse National Champions and Minto Cup Championships in 1938 and 1951 as Junior National Champions. The Lakeshore Maple Leafs, which would be folded into the Mimico Mountaineers program, claim a 1970 Minto Cup also. Mimico even boasts the legendary Conn Smythe as part of their history as a resident and lacrosse player. In 1978, Junior lacrosse would cease to exist in Mimico, only to be resurrected as a Junior B program in 1993. The Mountaineers would move up to the current Ontario Junior Lacrosse League, a Junior A league, in 2013, and is still going strong today.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Iowa Speedway 3333 Rusty Wallace Dr Newton, IA 50208 Iowa Speedway website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 30,000 The Fastest Short Track on the Planet Newton Speedway is a 7/8 mile oval track located in Newton, Iowa, about 30 miles east of Des Moines. 2024 was a massive year for the track, with the debut of the first ever NASCAR Cup race in Iowa. The three-day series of races (both ARCA and Xfinity/NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series led up to the Cup race), saw massive attendance with two sellouts and a big crowd for ARCA. The Cup series sold out again in 2025 and 2026 and a return is already on the schedule for July 4, 2027. The track has changed ownership throughout the years, with NASCAR acquiring the site in 2013. Prior to 2024, the track has hosted numerous IndyCar races along with NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series/NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and ARCA, but was never able to land the elusive Cup race. The track has also hosted IndyCar series for numerous years that was combined with concerts of late. In 2025, the concerts and some sponsorship was dropped, which resulted in a large blow to the attendance and eventually resulted in the end of IndyCar races at least for the time being. Prior to the 2026 race weekend, it was announced that a full repave of the track will be completed and ready to go for the 2027 races. Food & Beverage 4 Iowa Speedway is cashless, so plan accordingly. There are 3 permanent concession areas that serve your typical fare for sports venues. In anticipation of the large crowds, plenty of temporary food vendors were brought in that allows for plenty of variety. Whether your preference is pizza, Mexican, BBQ, Asian, etc, it is available. In addition, plenty of snacks like kettle corn, ice cream, etc. are available. Pepsi products are the soda of choice along with numerous choices of domestic beer, wine, and mixed drinks. Food and drink prices are about what you would expect for a NASCAR race. No outside food or drinks are allowed at Iowa Speedway. You can bring in a soft-sided cooler, but only bottled water is allowed. This is a far cry from most other NASCAR tracks that have few restrictions on bringing in food and drinks. Atmosphere 5 Just outside the entry gates were all the driver/team merchandise trucks. Entering the gates, there are different race/car related displays and sales promotions. The NASCAR experience area was a fun place to stop. There were also driver autograph sessions and other events that allowed fans to interact with some of their favorite drivers. Concessions and restrooms are all under the seating area. As you enter the seating area, the entire track becomes visible. Grandstand seats are all bleacher seats, so you will be sitting on a bench. Padded seats and chairbacks are allowed to be brought in, provided there is no metal in them and are recommended. In the middle section of the seating area is the Newton Club. Newton Club tickets cost more than the grandstand, but the seats are chairbacks. Another perk of the Newton Club is there is an indoor area where you can sit and you can purchase drinks without missing any of the race. If it is a rainy day or particularly warm, this is the preferred option as you can get out of the rain or go inside and cool off in the air conditioning. The recommended seats are from about halfway up the seating area to the top. If sitting in the first few rows, portions of turns 2 and 3 aren’t easily seen. As with almost all tracks, the seats face pit road so it’s easy to see what is going on with the cars when they pit. Prior races I’ve attended at the track haven’t been particularly well attended, but when the crowd is full, the race atmosphere is amazing. Neighborhood 2 The track sits on the outskirts of Newton, Iowa. Newton is a small town (approx. 15,000) and, as such, there isn’t much to do outside of attending the race. Driving into town will yield some good results though. Giovannis Pizza stands out as the option here. The pizza is tremendous and if you want to try something different, they offer a “grinder” crust, which is essentially a fried pizza crust. Giovannis is about 3 miles from the track. Newton also has plenty of fast-food options if you just want to grab something for the road. If staying for a long race weekend, there are a few lodging options, including the AmericInn and Cobblestone Inn and Suites, which are both within a mile of the speedway. Fans 5 Like with most Cup races, fans are super passionate. A good percentage wear shirts and/or hats of their favorite driver or team. Fans will also let you know if they don’t like you. This is evident especially during driver introductions. They are engaged throughout the race even when their driver isn’t near the front of the pack. Access 3 Getting to the track takes a bit of time. Newton is about 30 minutes east of Des Moines and the track sits just south of Interstate 80. It’s easy to see from the freeway and there is plenty of signage to direct you. Parking is ample. Once inside, concessions generally seemed to flow well with no long waits. When full, there are lines for the restroom, particularly at the end of a stage or during an extended yellow flag. There is plenty of handicapped seating available. The only real drawback is leaving the track once the race is over. There are only two ways to get back to the freeway and one is quite cumbersome through back roads, so expect a slow going post-race departure. Return on Investment 4 Parking is free if you want to walk a little bit. You can pay if you want to park closer, but this option will need to be purchased online prior to the race and those spots can sell out. Tickets to the Cup race are about what you’d expect to pay along with concessions so you can get a good return for your money. Extras 3 One extra point goes to the staff. The ticket takers and concessions folks were all very friendly. There were numerous opportunities to meet the drivers and get autographs. Fans showed up early all three days for such activities. The speedway has a Field of Dreams vibe to it, being surrounded by corn fields. Final Thoughts The Iowa Speedway is a bare-bones, but fun race experience. The first few Cup races were a big success and there’s no reason to think this track can’t continue to make small improvements on what it needs to if NASCAR can commit to an annual return. The “fastest short track on the planet” is worthy of hosting a race annually and well worth a visit. ------ Follow my sports journeys on Twitter and Instagram: @stadiumjwriter

Photos by Marc Viquez and Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 CaroMont Health Park South Hill Street and West Franklin Boulevard Gastonia, NC 28016 Gastonia Honey Hunters website CaroMont Health Park website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 5,000 Honey Hunters Look to the Future with Its Ballpark If you want to get a glimpse of what the future of ballpark construction looks like, then look no further than Gastonia, North Carolina. The new home of the Gastonia Honey Hunters of the Atlantic League has a few unique features to offer the world of professional baseball. CaroMont Health Park offers seating for 5,000 people and features seating of five rows deep from the foul line to foul line, along with party decks, cabana seats, stool seating around the outfield perimeter, and a covered beer deck. The field is synthetic and designed for much more than baseball games. The stadium is the centerpiece of the Franklin Urban Sports and Entertainment (FUSE) District, designed to promote economic development between downtown Gastonia and Loray Village. The multi-purpose facility will house other sports, concerts, and other forms of entertainment. Food & Beverage 4 The ballpark offers the standard grub of hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, and burgers, but there are also a few more treats worth mentioning. At the main concession stand behind home plate, options include the Philly cheesesteak, chicken and waffle, and Korean pork belly sliders. The choices are different, but worth trying if adventurous. Fans can also order whole or quarter pizzas if they want something a little more familiar. The Carolina BBQ kiosk has a pleasant aroma to attract customers near the third baseline. Pulled pork, and brisket sliders, pulled pork nachos, white cheddar mac and cheese, and triple-baked beans with burnt ends are among the main dishes and sides. There is also a kiosk that hand dips pickles into the batter for fresh, never frozen, fried pickles. The beer options include macro and microbrewery options. The local options include Sycamore, Appalachian Mountain, Olde Mecklenburg, Sugar Creek, and Catawba Brewing Companies. Domestic and premium 16-ounce beers are $6 to $7, while craft beers are a little more in price. The ballpark does not sell Coke or Pepsi products; instead, fans can quench their thirst with RC Cola, Sun Drop, Cherry Lemon Sundrop Diet Rite, 7Up, or Cheerwine. I would grab one since you are in the Carolinas. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark is designed to be spacious and features a 360-degree concourse that provides an area of social gathering and baseball watching by fans of all ages. It does not follow the regular blueprint of other minor league venues and offers a few designated areas at various points. However, there appears to be the seating of some kind at every interval. There are only five rows of grandstand seating that stretch from foul pole to foul pole. The views from behind the backstop might be among the closest in professional baseball. Above this area on the concourse are tabletop seats and chairs that provide more ample room for the customer. There is a level of comfort in mind for visitors at the ballpark that is almost unmatched anywhere else. The stadium features six covered cabanas on the third-base side, a covered pavilion with rocking chairs down the left-field foul line, and the Gas House Bar & Grill in center field. This area also houses a kids’ play area and batting cages – players before the game and for fans during the game. Adding to the charm is a train track just outside the stadium where it’s possible to see a train pass by in the evening. A few other touches to add distinction to the venue are the colors black, tan, and yellow. The honeycomb design and pattern are visible on certain parts of the building. There is inspirational signage throughout the stadium by Ransom Hunter. There are two team stores, one at street level next to the box office, with tons of items to choose from at the game. The video scoreboard is 24 feet by 63 feet high. Neighborhood 3 The neighborhood around the ballpark is developing. Several new restaurants and a brewery are being constructed within walking distance of the stadium. In the meantime, fans can drive about a mile to R.O.’s Bar-B-Que for their chopped pork sandwiches covered with their unique slaw. The slaw is creamy and is used as a dip or sauce by many locals. It’s a small place but has been in business since 1946. Another local barbecue restaurant is Ray’s Country Smokehouse that’s not too far from the ballpark. Cavendish Brewing is a funky joint that has several tasty beers and old, outdated furniture to lighten up the vibe. Jia Asian Fusion & Sushi Bar is an interesting place for Chinese, Asian, Thai, Cajun, and Mexican fusion. Tavern 24 is an ideal spot for pub food and a drink. Depending on the time during the summer, there might be an American Legion game taking place at Sims Legion Park. The ballpark is used for local high school and collegiate games. You can also drive 30 miles to check out a Charlotte Knights game at Trust Field. Gastonia does have a collection of museums worth visiting during your visit. The Schiele Museum of Natural History, the American Military Museum, and the African-American Museum of History and Culture. Fans 2 The Honey Hunters are fifth in the league in attendance with an average of 2,107 fans as of this writing. That is slightly below the league average and somewhat surprising. The ballpark is brand new, modern, and comfortable. Our visit was at a make-up game during the day, but the local fan base might just be sleeping on what is a very stylish new facility for baseball and much more. Access 5 The ballpark has a lot of accessible points of entry for visitors. It is also accessible within a 10-minute walk from over 2,700 parking spots and mass transit. The 360-degree concourse provides vantage points to the game for fans, and signage is clear and visible. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket to a game is a bargain; General Admission tickets cost $7. Box seat pricing ranges from $9 to $13, and home plate seats are $15. The prices are comparable to nearby Truist Point Ballpark in High Point. Concession prices are on par with other clubs in the area, and concession items ranging from $20 for a t-shirt to $35 for a ball cap. Team caps come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Extras 3 The ballpark earns a point for having a design that is not quite like any other in professional baseball. There are only five rows of seating that provide fans some of the closest views in baseball. A second point is awarded for the ballpark being a catalyst for the FUSE District that hopes to promote economic development in Gastonia. A third point is for the name that honors Random Hunter, who is believed to be the first freed slave in Gaston County who owned land in the late 19th century. Final Thoughts I enjoyed a lot about this ballpark and what it represents to the community of Gastonia. The concept of redeveloping the neighborhood with a baseball stadium and other industries is not new. Its design is sharp, and the organization’s objective is clearly established throughout the building. Perhaps it is too soon to judge CaroMont Health Park, and hopefully, someone from this website will be back in a few years to judge it on future merits. Perhaps that will be me because I would love to see its future.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 Road America N7390 WI-67 Elkhart Lake, WI 53073 IMSA website Road America website Year Opened: 1955 Capacity: 150,000 Six Hours in Wisconsin Road America is often regarded as one of the greatest race tracks in the world, let alone the US. While the track’s annual schedule features IndyCar, Trans Am, and others, IMSA now features this race as a 6-hour endurance showcase. The product on track offers stellar racing over four days. Racing in a beautiful setting that proves to be both fan-friendly and easy to navigate, this summer event is a must-see on the IMSA schedule. Couple that with a revival for IMSA’s fanbase in recent years, and you’ll quickly see why this is such a popular weekend. Food & Beverage 5 There are a lot of places to eat at Road America, and the ones that exist are an absolute treat for the palate. Road America is led by The Gearbox, a hillside stand and bar that features some of the best views on the property, as well as the best food around. Being in Wisconsin, you can get the best cheese and sausage foods here, as well as a brilliantly tasty breakfast food called eggers ($10). Johnsonville is heavily featured, as it is literally the next town over, and their brats ($9 to $13) are a fan favorite. Sargento cheese curds ($7) are also a popular item, as are the burgers ($9 to $12.50), gearbox melt ($11), and TKA sandwich ($15). Beer is of course plentiful, and a Spotted Cow is a must-have in Wisconsin. You can also find tons of other options, including broasted chicken outside Turn 3, tacos at Turn 7, and a tiki bar out at the beach by the kink and carousel corners. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere around Road America during race weekend is very family-friendly and relaxed. The best in the sport are taking part in some of the most exciting racing around, and despite the tension of the competition, everyone – including the teams and drivers – is in a relaxed and fun-loving mood. There is just something about the beauty of the countryside and the forests around the premises that puts everyone in a go-race-and-enjoy-every-minute-of-it state of mind. This year, however, took things to a new level. IMSA moved its annual 6-hour endurance race format from Indianapolis to Road America, making this one of the five showcase endurance weekends on the annual schedule. This change has been something fans of Road America have been begging for over the past decade. In addition, the quality of the on-track action here is enough to make any fan excited to see what happens around the next corner. The excitement fills the air every time a car takes to the track, be it for practice, qualifying, or for a race. Road America also features some of the cleanest racetrack bathrooms anywhere. Add to that the incredible track store and the free fan shuttle that can take you around the various viewing areas, and you have a solid basis for calling this one of the best tracks around. Last season the track also debuted a new viewing area at the top of the hillside outside Canada Corner called the Road America North Pole, and the old walkover bridge along the front stretch was rebuilt as well – it is now large enough to drive a golf cart over. Additionally, IMSA weekend here features a fan fest on Thursday night in Elkhart Lake, featuring racecars on display, driver autograph sessions, giveaways, and driver bartending competitions. Neighborhood 4 The area around Road America is exactly what you would expect to find in rural Wisconsin – rolling hills, farmland, forests, and small towns. The town of Elkhart Lake is quaint and small, but is seething with racing history and lore. Famed racing announcer David Hobbs calls this small town home, and the fans here are all die-hards who watch everything that happens on the track. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near Road America, there are a wide variety of small bed-and-breakfasts to pick from in and around Elkhart Lake, as well as some cabins that can make you feel like you’re roughing it…sort of. In addition, the town of Sheboygan is only 20 to 30 minutes away by car, providing fans a chance to stay in a hotel chain of their choice – Holiday Inn, La Quinta, etc. are all located in Sheboygan. If you’re looking for something to eat, Sheboygan has a wide variety of restaurants, from Applebee’s to McDonald’s. But by far the most must-see eatery near Road America is Stop-Inn Tavern at Siebkens Resort in Elkhart Lake, a local bar that all of racing royalty has passed through at some time or another. And, for those looking for something to see and do, Kettle Moraine State Forest is not far from the track, providing some great hiking options. In addition, the Kohler factory is in nearby Sheboygan, and Road America’s location is just a 30-minute drive from the Great Lakes. Fans 5 Fans at Road America are much like those in the rest of the Midwest – die-hard and series-knowledgeable. They’re also absurdly kind and sweet, willing to help in any way possible when you need assistance with anything. They also pack the camping areas around the speedway, making for one brilliant block party. Additionally, the fan attendance this year was the highest yet, thanks in part to the addition of the 6-hour race format that fans have been clamoring to see for many years, showcasing IMSA’s increase in attendance across the board at all their tracks. Access 4 Getting to Road America isn’t as difficult as getting to some sports facilities. That said, it is off the beaten path – at least a 10-minute drive from the nearest highway, Road America requires you to drive down some single-lane roads through the hilly countryside. Once you’re at Road America, you may discover there are several other entrances to the track you didn’t even know about, which can be frustrating if you had to wait in line for hours; check the map of the venue before you go in order to identify these alternate gates and entrances. The biggest plus at Road America is that the main entrance had a complete makeover in 2016, adding more entrance booths for faster processing of fans and campers. Parking is plentiful, and preferred parking is available for $35. Return on Investment 5 Road America is one of the best tracks at which you can watch a race. The facility is huge, but you are given plenty of options to watch the race from, without having to move from place to place. Watching from the right location can give you up to six corners of the track to see all at once, and you also get access to the grandstands all around the track, as well as access to the paddock, with your admission ticket to most races. Single day tickets for Thursday ($45), Friday ($55), Saturday ($90), and Sunday ($95) are all available, while a full weekend pass ($195) is a steal. Add-ons include golf cart rentals ($445 to $705), go-kart passes ($75 to $275), and camping ($95 to $370); on-track parade laps ($65) are also available. Extras 5 You can take a trip to Elkhart Lake just a few miles away, following the original track layouts through historic markers along the roadside. Before it had its current layout, Road America was once a true street course, running through Elkhart Lake itself and over the hills on the various roadways in the area. Back at the track, where once a zip line ended now stands a high vantage point for fans to watch the action at the track from, inside the final turn. The former zip line landing platform is now a giant viewing zone, and while you may have to climb a lot of stairs to get there, the view is well worth it. Additionally, if you have ever wanted to try your hand at racing, you can sign up for racing school at the track. If you can’t peel your eyes away from your mobile device, you can also engage with the race on social media, and see your photos and tweets on the various big screens around Road America by using specific hashtags and handles on Twitter and Instagram. The track also features several selfie stands around the property, for fans to get photos of themselves at various iconic trackside locations. However, if treetop views and social media aren’t your thing, you can also take a wandering hike through the forest on several pathways that meander through the mountains above Kettle Bottoms and Canada Corner – these trails lead from the top of the peak to the bottom of a newly-cleared pathway along the infamous straightaway. Finally, several autograph sessions happen during the weekend in the fan zone, offering fans a chance to see some of their favorite drivers. Final Thoughts If you want to see racing history and meet modern-day sports stars, take a trip to Road America – you will not be disappointed in what you find. In addition, if you want to go a step above that, go camping on the property during race weekend; the fans are nice, the action is top quality, and the weather is almost always beautiful. It’s hard to find a better place to see racing in North America than Road America, and with the atmosphere during IMSA weekend, it’s hard to pass up this perfect event.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Chase Center 1 Warriors Way San Francisco, CA 94158 Golden State Valkyries website Chase Center website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 18,064 A Golden WNBA Destination The home of basketball in San Francisco has a new tenant. In their early years of existence, the Golden State Valkyries have become an instant local favorite, featuring one of the loudest and most impressive home-court experiences in the league. Chase Center provides the perfect location for this team to flourish in the Bay Area. A new, modern facility in a re-born neighborhood close to numerous forms of public transit makes for all the classic ingredients needed to foster success. A mirror to the WNBA on everything that it has gotten right in the past decade, this may soon be known as one of the best fan experiences in all of Bay Area sports. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions at Chase Center truly do offer nearly everything one could hope for at a sporting event. The variety is astounding and while the prices may be higher than other establishments, the quality is solid. Chorizo-spiced cauliflower nachos ($19), locally caught albacore tuna poke bowls ($28), and purple potato pesto with smoked bacon pizza slices ($14.99) are just a small sampling of the highlights to be found around the arena on game days. Ice cream ($11), salads ($13.99), chicken tenders ($18.99), and more standard fare are also available. Drinks include the basics of water ($7.25) and sodas ($8.25-$10.25) all the way to premium beer ($19-$21.50) and wine ($17.50-$28.99). Premium cocktails are also available at various locations ($17.99-$31.50). Atmosphere 5 The experience on game day for the Valkyries cannot be understated. The atmosphere is electric. From the pre-game experience around the arena before tip-off to the player intros with the fire and laser lights inside, Golden State has done a great job of making this a memorable fan experience. The arena has also done a stellar job of making the overall look of the facility match that of the team, an especially difficult task when the other tenants (the NBA’s Golden State Warriors) have competing team colors. All around the concourse, various photo ops are present, as well as small and large pop-up merch locations. The arena also pays homage to its own history with an entire section dedicated to event posters of concerts and performances that have been hosted here, giving fans a nice look at the history of Chase Center. Neighborhood 4 San Francisco has seen a revitalization of various neighborhoods in recent years. Located in the Mission Bay neighborhood, Chase Center is a part of Thrive City, an 11-acre mixed-use development with retail and restaurants galore. Local establishments have filled in the area outside the main entrance of the arena and its surrounding district, making for a great place to kick off your game-day experience or to enjoy a post-game bite to eat. Furthermore, hotels and lodging are plentiful nearby. Just blocks away, fans can find a Hyatt Place and LUMA Hotel San Francisco. Various options also exist for public transport to the arena as well as parking. The property adjacent to the facility offers great views of San Francisco Bay and easy access to walking trails (San Francisco Bay Trail) and green spaces (Bayfront Park and Agua Vista Park). Fans 5 There isn’t much that can be said beyond giving the fans here a top-tier rating. Golden State fans have very quickly adopted this team into their sporting identity in San Francisco. One would almost easily excuse them for the opposite due to the very full sports scene here in the Bay Area. However, the fervor with which fans have shown up and shown love for the Valkyries is beyond impressive. Crowd noise that rivals that of the NBA’s best arenas, sellout games, jerseys and team merch in nearly every seat, and a sports-knowledgeable fanbase are part of the DNA here at Chase Center game days for the WNBA. Access 5 There is a lot to love about how easy it is to get to games at Chase Center. First, parking is plentiful. Parking under the arena is available, as well as at various lots around the property just blocks away. Also a block or two away is the Pier 48 Ferry dock, offering ferry service to Oakland or Main St. Alameda for just $11.25 each way for adults and $8.50 for seniors 65+ or kids 5-17 years old (kids under 5 are free). Chase Center event tickets also include all-day Muni fares on the bus and metro lines. The Mission Bay Shuttle also offers free rides that connect Mission Bay to BART and the Salesforce Transit Center on several routes until 8 p.m. on weekdays. BART and Caltrain also are options for fans on game days. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Valkyries games start at $70 for the uppermost rows of the arena, venturing all the way to $170 for lower-bowl seats. More premium options can rise into the $400 range. This is on the higher end for a game in the WNBA in some markets. That said, the league is experiencing a major boom in interest, and one could easily argue this reflects appropriate pricing for the demand in the Bay Area. Additionally, the quality of the game-day experience more than fits the bill for the price paid. This is absolutely one of the best sports experiences in the WNBA, if not the Bay Area itself. It is easy to see why nearly every game is a complete sellout. Extras 4 The team has several photo spots set up inside the venue for fans. The facility also includes a live DJ during the game to go with the in-arena host and hype crew. Fans can also look forward to the players throwing giveaways into the stands during post-game celebrations after a win. Finally, the arena features an entire section dedicated to event posters of concerts and performances that have been hosted here, giving fans a nice look at the history of Chase Center. Final Thoughts 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. Without a doubt, this is a must-see experience in the Bay Area’s sports scene.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 3233 Concession Road 10 Bowmanville, ON L1C 3K6 Canada Canadian Tire Motorsports Park website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 100,000 Canadian Sportscar Pride Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (also known as Mosport) is one of the best-known race courses in Canada, and indeed around the world. The fast, sweeping turns at the facility were created for Formula One’s golden days of speed, and the facility hosted the Canadian Grand Prix multiple times throughout the 1960s and 70s. The 2.459-mile circuit is a beacon for the North American racing fan, and features some of the best camping around, while also providing some incredible on-track action. The annual summer visit from IMSA provides a great weekend of sportscar racing for fans in the True North. Food & Beverage 4 The food options at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park are pretty standard, including burgers, fries, and chicken. There are also various food trucks on site throughout the weekend, and local vendors featuring fresh grilled burgers, kabobs, and BBQ. Drinks are also varied, featuring soda and energy drinks, as well as the best in Canadian beer. The best part about the food here is that the booths and vendors are located all around the facility, as opposed to being in just one centralized area. As some portions of the track are a bit of a walk from others, this helps fans who care to venture to the farthest edges, but don’t want to have to walk a mile back to the paddock for a snack. Food trucks that serve everything from wings to burgers can be found. Atmosphere 5 Fans at Mosport are among the best in racing, as they camp out from the opening of the gates on Day 1 all the way through the final checkered flag of the weekend – the hillsides at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park are filled with campers and tents as far as the eye can see. The track itself is nestled in the countryside an hour east of Toronto proper, meaning you don’t feel the hustle and bustle of city life, but instead can enjoy comfortable relaxation in and among the forests of Ontario. But for a race fan, the energy is not lost here either, meaning you get the best of both worlds. The explosion of IMSA’s attendance in recent years has also led to an increase in fans at the event, as nearly every open space is used for parking on Sunday. A flyover for the main WeatherTech Series race features vintage Canadian warbirds, and fan zone activations are plentiful for fans. Neighborhood 3 Outside the main gates, you’re greeted with beautiful green rolling hills with sprawling farmland all around. However, this also means there isn’t really much around Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, and the nearest towns are a good 20 to 30-minute drive from the venue; Oshawa and Bowmanville are the closest towns where you can find food, shopping, and lodging. The good news is that both of those areas are rapidly expanding, with homes now only a few miles away from the circuit, where once there was only farmland. Favorite food stops include the Crooked Uncle in Oshawa and Chanterelle Bistro in Bowmanville. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clarington-Bowmanville and Best Western Plus Bowmanville are your two closest hotels. For viewing the sights, Clarington Family Outdoor Adventure Park and Ehrenwort Hiking Trail at Camp 30 are the most popular outdoor activities for visitors. Fans 5 Fans at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park are the best Canada has to offer – not only do you get to experience some motorsport-knowledgeable fans, but you also get to see them at their rowdiest (or at least the Canadian equivalent) during race weekend. They know how to party and know where the best places to watch from are, and best of all, they really are as polite and welcoming as you would expect. Most fans here also come to the track throughout the year to see all the different races – whether they’re looking to catch IMSA or the NASCAR Canada Series, you will see them pack into the circuit. Access 3 Getting to Canadian Tire Motorsport Park is a bit of a drag, as the main highways aren’t anywhere near the track. However, thanks to the continuing construction eastward of toll highway 407 finally having reached the track, you can now get right to the track without having to take too many country roads. The track itself is off Highway 20, aka Boundary Road, which you can get to from the east via Regional Road 115, or from the west via Regional Road 57. Once at the track, parking is plentiful, as is camping. Plus, a ticket will get you into the facility and also includes free parking. Return on Investment 4 The cost of admission at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park is very much worth it when you consider you are getting a top-notch racing experience at the track. You also get to take in some quality racing at one of the most popular tracks in North America, which has been steeped in history for years. And while getting to the track may be a bit of a drive, as it is an hour east of Toronto without traffic, the escape of going to a race in the beautiful Canadian countryside is definitely worth the trek. Extras 5 Canadian Tire Motorsport Park recently remodeled its main office building, which now includes several suites and hospitality areas. In addition, fans are able to get up close to the teams, as entrance into the paddock is included with your ticket. Victory Lane is located right in the middle of the paddock, meaning fans can celebrate with the winners after each race. Also, most fans take to the track during race weekends at night, walking the circuit and enjoying the evening on the track itself, something not many other tracks allow you to experience. But arguably one of the funniest inside jokes is the back and forth between camp sides in the Turn 3 area; here fans display signs saying “Outfield sucks” or “Infield sucks”, pointing to the other side in a friendly Canadian battle of fandom. Final Thoughts If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, watch some quality motor racing at a historic track that offers the beauty of the Canadian countryside, and has plenty of options for viewing the action itself, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park is the best option for you. The fans are great, the camping is top notch, and the racing is fast.

Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. “The scoreboard is perhaps the best thing that we have ever done here,” former Nashville Sounds co-owner Walter Nipper said in 1993. ​ The guitar-shaped videoboard at First Tennessee Park in Nashville, Tennessee, is one of minor league baseball’s most iconic features and easily the focal point of the home of the Nashville Sounds Triple-A baseball team. ​ Sounds original owner, Larry Schmittou, came up with the concept after paying off the 15-year loan at the stadium; he figured the stadium needed something to stay ahead of the curve at the time, when it was still among the elite in the minor leagues. He submitted his idea to Fair-Play Scoreboards on a guitar-shaped scoreboard that would be the first of its kind. His original idea had the musical instrument standing upright, but Schmittou then turned it on its side. It could now keep score, welcome groups, announce birthdays and anniversaries, and provide information. The scoreboard’s neck displayed the line score. ​ “It was more popular than I ever dreamed,” Schmittou told The Tennessean in April 2013. “I wasn’t looking for it to become a historical monument; I was just wanting to get information to our fans using a design that would make a sort of a signature for us being the Music City.” The original guitar-shape scoreboard at Greer Stadium, ​File Photo. The $500,000 scoreboard was hauled into town by eight truckloads and put together piece by piece in the time of the home opener against the Iowa Cubs on April 8, 1993. It stood 53 feet tall and stretched 115 feet wide. An ad in The Tennessean invited people to come out to watch the new scoreboard “light up the sky with fireworks.” It quickly became one of the most popular scoreboards in all of minor league baseball. The stadium’s distinctive feature was hard to miss while attending games. ​ It grabbed my attention as a young teenager visiting Greer for the first time the following season. On a side note, the old scoreboard would be used to display out-of-town scores before being covered up for additional advertising space. It did need some upgrading, which could be tedious before the current ownership, a third-party vendor, was in charge of changing the copious number of light bulbs, which was rather costly. That changed during the $2.25 million upgrades to the ballpark in 2009 that resulted in a new paint job and the Sounds staff changing the lights- a combination of both 30- and 40-watt incandescent bulbs. ​ Roughly 5-10 bulbs would need to be replaced before each home stand, costing a few hundred dollars each season. However, the paint job, retouched before each season, took a little longer for staff members to complete. ​ When the Sounds announced that they were finally moving from Greer for the 2015 season, it was already past its due date as a minor league ballpark; it was hoped that the scoreboard would move to the new venue. ​ “Our wishful thinking is that we will figure out a way to take it down and move it to the new ballpark when the time comes,” said former Sounds GM Brad Tammen in The Tennessean in July of 2013. “It could be a stadium marquee or something else. But we wanted to be part of the new park.” ​Photo by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey The old scoreboard did not move with the club for a list of reasons. It was a 22-year-old structure that was rusting away, had no video capabilities, and was falling apart. It would have to be taken apart and put back together again, making it a rather difficult and costly project. ​ When First Horizon Park, then known as First Tennessee Park, debuted, so did a new, state-of-the-art guitar-shaped scoreboard. In June of 2014, TS Sports Panasonic constructed the new scoreboard that would be the largest in minor league baseball. Instead of changing light bulbs, a crew of 15 people operates it by capturing videos, keeping statistics, operating effects, and managing the audio. ​ The $2 million video board stretched 142 feet wide, stood 55 feet high, and was 12.5 feet above the concourse adjacent to The Band Box in the right-center field. It displays 860 32-inch television screens and engages fans through social media and display advertisements. It can even revert to the former scoreboard for Throwback Thursday games. ​Photo Courtesy of Studio Delger Today, the former guitar-shaped scoreboard has found new life and is the centerpiece of the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. It was purchased for $54,815 at an auction by Chicago real estate developer AJ Capital Partners in 2019. The piece of Nashville history is located in The Outfield, an area of repurposed shipping containers with art, and serves as an outdoor area for live music, movies, exhibits, food festivals, and yoga. There are also a couple of old shipping containers painted to look like giant amplifiers. ​ Both scoreboards will remain in town for the foreseeable future, and what started as a unique way to add identity to a stadium turned into one of the minor leagues' and one of Nashville’s most treasured symbols. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races 750 Hollywood Drive Charles Town, WV 25414 Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races website Year Opened: 1933 Hollywood, West Virginia Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in Charles Town, West Virginia is probably what a lot of people think about when considering what a low-grade gaming establishment might look like. While the Hollywood Casino next door is very well appointed, the race track itself is far from the glitz and glamour of the Kentucky Derby. The amenities here are on the other end of the spectrum from Churchill Downs; there are no box seats, no fancy hats, and no restaurant to watch the races from while you dine. Instead you will only find a single concession stand with a handful of items, smoking indoors, and tables and chairs which have seen better days. Food & Beverage 2 There is only a single concession stand inside the clubhouse, on the lower level, which offers items such as hot dogs and pretzels for $5 or $6 each. There is also a bar in the middle of the floor. Atmosphere 2 The upstairs level has stadium seating with tables and TVs, but only a couple of betting machines, and they only take vouchers (no cash). The upper level does give you a slightly better view of the track, but if you are there to take a flyer on the ponies, having only a couple of machines makes it hard, especially when they don’t take cash. The downstairs level has myriad tables with chairs around them, but is littered with discarded betting slips (although they do have custodians who walk around to try and clean up some of the mess). Smoking is also allowed indoors, which is a bit of an inconvenience. On the plus side there are plenty of betting machines, as well as a couple of cashiers who can take money in person or cash you out. The race track itself boasts a single dirt track. Neighborhood 3 Charles Town is not a large city, with a small downtown area not far from the casino and track. There are some restaurants around, but the most popular attraction here is of course the casino, though Harpers Ferry is not far away – Harpers Ferry is a well-known historic park, and includes a Civil War museum and John Brown’s Fort, known for being a base of operations for an 1859 abolitionist raid. The Potomac and Shenandoah rivers also meet in Harpers Ferry, so you can see great views of Maryland and Virginia from the town. Fans 2 Charles Town Races has live horse racing year round, either Wednesday through Saturday or Thursday through Saturday depending on the time of the year. Post time is generally around 7 pm. There are not a ton of visitors to this track, but it will likely still feel pretty crowded on the average night, with most of the tables inside and out with people seated at them. As I mentioned above most of the attendees appear to be diehard gambler types, not really families out for a night of fun, although you will see a few children here and there. Access 3 Charles Town is a little off the beaten path, at least a half an hour from any major highways. When you get to the track itself, your best option is to park in the surface lot just inside the main entrance, and walk over to the track from there. There are two garages further in, but I wouldn’t recommend them as that means you will have to walk all the way through the casino, a bit of a winding path to get to the race track. You will be able to get to the track much faster if you park in the surface lot. Once you get inside, there is plenty of room on the upper level (as mentioned earlier the lower level feels a bit crowded, as does the apron – the area next to the track itself). On the plus side you can get really close to the action, standing right next to the track as the horses are loaded and as they race by. Return on Investment 2 If you just want to check this particular track off your bucket list, or if it happens to be the closest horse racing track to you, it may be worth a visit. However, I would not recommend it if you have other options nearby; there are many other tracks offering live horse racing which are much nicer. There is no cost to get in, no cost to park, and the food is very cheap, so the only thing you have to spend money on is a program ($3) and any wagers you might like to make. Even so you can find much nicer digs for the money. Extras 2 There are some nice views from the track of the surrounding property, and the casino itself is very well appointed. There are also TVs inside the clubhouse so you can watch the racing safe from the elements, as well as watch races happening at other tracks. Like almost all live racing facilities, you can also bet on races at the other tracks, as well.

Photo Courtesy of the Grand Forks Spitfires The first season of the Grand Forks Spitfires wasn’t about just fielding a competitive softball team. It was about introducing the city to something it had never quite experienced before: summer collegiate softball. As the first independent standalone team in Northwoods League Softball, the Spitfires entered their inaugural campaign to a skeptical community spurned by previous summer collegiate ball clubs in the past. The team’s name honors the historic Spitfire World War II fighter aircraft, the local Air Force Base, and the UND Aerospace program. It beat out other finalists like the Flying Aces, Spudnikes, Sweet Beets, Voodoo, and Wingnuts. The Northwoods League Softball is composed of six teams in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. All but the Spiritfires operate in conjunction with a Northwoods League baseball team. However, it helped that the city had its own softball stadium. The University of North Dakota’s Albrecht Field opened its state-of-the-art softball-only venue in 2024. It has grandstand capacity for 500, a turf field, LED lighting, and a video scoreboard. The fancy digs gave the Spitfires a chance to fill a summer entertainment gap while tapping into the growing popularity of women’s sports. “We're the first ones to really start a softball team truly by ourselves”, said Roberto Lemus, Spitfires GM. “We chose Grand Forks because it's a market that, one, is big enough to do what we're trying to do, and the University of North Dakota as well; they just built a fantastic facility in Albrecht Field.” Photo Courtesy of the Grand Forks Spitfires His goal is to give fans a genuine softball experience while creating the energy and antics that are common in minor league baseball. There are between-inning activities, promotions, and all-you-can-eat food and waitstaff, and plenty of other events happening around the game. One of those promotional events is called “Home Run for Roots”. When a Spitfires player hits a home run, a tree is planted somewhere in the community. Fans nominate a public space or their own yard, along with hosting a tree-planting party. A softball game also takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to play due to the 7-inning time frame, about 30 minutes less than their baseball counterparts. The seven-inning format also offered a natural advantage for families, especially those with young children with short attention spans. Lemus enjoyed the shorter game times. “[It provides] fans and families to come out to the ballpark, have a good time, stay out for most of the game without having to sacrifice the kids' bedtime, or different things out there as well.” Opening night drew a crowd of 900 people, many of whom only a few months earlier were somewhat confused about what type of team was playing in town. Lemus fielded a few interesting questions from sponsors and season ticket holders. “I remember the first couple of times that I was out here trying to start selling sponsorships and ticket sales and all those different things, and I would tell people, I was like, we're a women's softball team. The first question I would get is like, " Oh, okay, so are you a youth baseball team, or a youth softball team, or a Little League softball team.” By the end of the 40-game season in late July, the Spitfires witnessed an average of 650-700 fans per game during the last couple of weeks, with coverage from the Grand Forks Herald and local TV and radio stations. There was even a partnership with the Chambers of Commerce and community partners. One thing that might have gone unnoticed by the fans was that the club only carried 19 players, including a pitching staff of four women, for the entire season. In comparison, a baseball team in the league could carry around 60 players. Photo Courtesy of the Grand Forks Spitfires Lemus is preparing for year two of the team and, with a true off-season beginning, renewing season-ticket and multi-game-plan memberships, with public ticket sales scheduled to follow. Theme nights, sponsorships, player recruitment and coaching plans are already being developed. “It's a growing league, and there are so many positives to it, while at the same time, it's all about the fun,” Lemus added. “I love what the Savannah Bananas are doing and all their antics, but we still stay true to the game. So, you can still enjoy being a true baseball or true softball fan while also enjoying all the in-game antics and all the fun in between.” The NWL is hoping to expand its softball league with potential markets outside of North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. However, Grand Forks might have been the ideal test market for a ball club. If it’s the new summer pastime, the Spitfires will be part of that tradition for the foreseeable future. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Estadio BBVA Av. Pablo Livas 2011 Colonia La Pastora 67140 Guadalupe Nuevo León, Mexico Map It! Club de Fútbol Monterrey website Estadio BBVA website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 53,529 Estadio BBVA – Monterrey, México “She’s a beaut, Clark!” That classic line from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation echoed through my head as I made my way towards Estadio BBVA under a hot Mexican sun for a 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 Match between the Netherlands and Morocco. Generically rebranded as “Monterrey Stadium/Estadio Monterrey” for the world’s biggest sporting event, this modern stunner set in the shadow of Cerro de la Silla frequently appears on lists of “World’s Best Stadiums” … and for good reason. Food & Beverage 3 Having attended for a World Cup match - instead of seeing Estadio BBVA’s usual tenants, Club de Fútbol Monterrey (nicknamed Los Rayados) - this is the first of several sections that will have an asterisk. FIFA orchestrated a full stadium takeover for its showpiece event (as evident by the name change), and that included concession options. The concourse offerings were adapted for an international palate, generally not straying too far from the hot dog, popcorn, and basic pizza options now found the world over. However, there were a few nods to the local, meat-centric food culture, as my buddy found a bag of chicharrones (deep-fried pork belly). Let’s just say he wishes he hadn’t finished the entire serving. Beverage prices appeared to be inflated by FIFA, matching the high ticket costs. A bottle of still water ran 80 MXN (around $4) but doubled in price if you wanted the luxury of carbonation (sodas included). Beers were in the 300 MXN/$15 range, which would be unheard of for matches in the local league. One thing that remained uniquely Mexican was the constant stream of concessionaires waltzing their way through the stands. Most anything available on the concourse could be had at your seat. And unlike a typical U.S. stadium, where alcohol sales are cut off at a certain point, a beer could still be purchased at the start of penalty kicks, after 120 minutes of fútbol. Atmosphere 4 The design of Estadio BBVA is intentional, with a dramatic dip in the roof and several rows in the south end zone. The reason is to afford visitors a perfect view of the emerald green Cerro de la Silla (“Saddle Hill”), which reaches a dramatic peak of 5,970 feet about a mile and a half beyond the stadium. The fútbol gods shone upon me as I entered from the north, randomly chose a tunnel towards the stands, and was bestowed with the perfectly-framed, jaw-dropping vantage point you see in the top photo. Beyond this signature landmark, Estadio BBVA impresses in other areas. It’s much more polished and well-maintained than your typical Latin American stadium, owing to Monterrey’s status as Mexico’s most prosperous city. It’s also one of the country’s hottest, making the expansive roof canopy especially welcome. Rows are steep, and prepare to be out of breath if hiking to your seats near the top of the venue. The stadium feels bigger than its 53,000+ seats, but sightlines are great throughout, with no obstructed views or quirky angles. That's the beauty of a modern oval. Neighborhood 3 Estadio BBVA is not technically in Monterrey, but rather about six miles slightly southeast of the city center in the suburb of Guadalupe. Most fans will approach from the north, where the local neighborhood is separated from the stadium by Río La Silla. Parallel to the riverbed is Avenida Las Torres, with restaurants, bars, stores, and street vendors increasing in number as you walk east. Another pre and post game gathering spot lies just south of the Exposición metro stop, in an expansive fairgrounds complex. Expect the smells of livestock stalls to hit you in the face, but further south towards the stadium are taco and souvenir vendors, as well as several open-air music venues where Norteño bands were keeping the party going well into the evening. Back in Monterrey proper, tourists tend to congregate in the Barrio Antiguo, its compact historic quarter with colorful colonial architecture and greatest concentration of nightlife. Fans 4 You would never know this was a neutral-site match, judging by the fervor of the primarily Mexican crowd. They mainly sided with Morocco, on account of the Netherlands’ controversial win over Mexico in the 2014 World Cup, coincidentally played 12 years ago to the day. The traveling Moroccan contingent was mostly clustered behind one goal, with Dutch supporters scattered throughout. Estadio BBVA Match Action, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Mexican fútbol fans are simultaneously passionate and fickle. When the action slowed in the first half, with numerous back-passes, the crowd hissed and whistled their displeasure. On the flipside, when the action reached a fever pitch in the second half and extra time, with numerous scoring chances, they were on the edge of their seats, with “ooooh”s and “aaaah”s aplenty. Access 3 This is another area where the World Cup does not represent the typical experience at a Rayados league match. Several access points were closed, including along the aforementioned Avenida Las Torres. That said, regardless of competition, most fans will enter from the north, with many taking the metro line to Estación Exposición and walking 15 minutes due south. At approximately 35 cents per ride, the price can’t be beat, but on busy matchdays you may need to wait for a train back to the center, and it will be packed. Uber is prevalent in Monterrey, as is the local equivalent, DiDi. In numerous trips to Mexico, I’ve found DiDi cheaper but Uber more reliable, as DiDi drivers are more likely to cancel the ride after accepting it. For those bold enough to drive in urban Mexican traffic, there are lots to the east and south of Estadio BBVA, with Estacionamiento 4 the largest. Once inside the premises, wayfinding is rather straightforward; just note the entrance gate and access corridor on your ticket. The concourse circles the top of the 100 level, and for those in the 200s, there are escalators. The team shop is along the south side of the stadium. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Rayados home matches will vary quite a bit depending on the opponent, seat location, and whether it's a regular-season, cup competition, or playoff match. Expect to pay as little as 300 MXN pesos (approx. $15) for an upper-level seat, to 700-1,200 MXN for something in the corner of the lower levels, all the way up to 2,500 MXN for primo seats to an in-demand match, like the heated local rivalry vs. Tigres UANL. You may also find VIP packages that include a premium seat location with included food and drinks. Tickets are sold through Ticketmaster, and unlike the U.S., where you can buy tickets as soon as a team’s schedule is announced, they are generally available about 3-4 weeks in advance. Extras 4 Northern Mexico is cowboy country, and meat is consumed in mass quantities. Try carne seca, which is a dry, thin beef jerky, and do not miss a visit to El Rey de Cabrito on the edge of Barrio Antiguo. Here, baby goat is the specialty, meant to be eaten communally in the restaurant’s ostentatious, chandelier- and mirror-clad dining rooms. El Rey de Cabrito, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Owing to its location in a deep valley surrounded by mountains, Monterrey is a hiker’s paradise. You can climb (or drive to) Cerro de Silla, which is part of Cumbres de Monterrey National Park. Other scenic destinations within easy reach of the city are Chipinque Ecological Park and La Huasteca Ecological Park. The Salón de la Fama del Beisbol Mexicano (Mexican Baseball Hall of Fame) is on the western edge of Parque Fundidora, while the local team Sultanes de Monterrey – whose logo is very Yankees-esque – play in Walmart Park. Completed in 2020, Torres Obispado is the tallest skyscraper in Latin America at 1,002 ft. Final Thoughts Estadio BBVA is one of those bucket-list venues you'll be proud to check off, and Monterrey is an incredible city with attractions well beyond fútbol. Ignore the negative headlines and spend a few days exploring northern Mexico - you'll find top tier soccer, unforgettable food, and genuine hospitality. I can all but guarantee your trip will be less calamitous than any of Clark Griswold's vacations.

Photos by Andrew Kulyk and Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Lake Elsinore Diamond 500 Diamond Dr Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 Map It! Lake Elsinore Storm website The Diamond website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 6,066 A Storm By The Lake Prior to the Lake Elsinore Storm becoming the Single-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres in 2001, the California Angels were the parent organization from 1981 to 2000, taking up residence in Palm Springs until the opening of The Diamond in 1994. Now in its 33rd season, The Diamond still attracts fans throughout the Riverside and Inland Empire region. One of The Diamond’s biggest draws is the surrounding views beyond the outfield walls of the Temescal Mountains and its surrounding hills. Food & Beverage 4 You will find some ample options here starting with your usual ballpark fare of hot dogs, jumbo dogs, smash burgers, chicken tenders, nachos, and personal cheese or pepperoni pizza. Mexican options are your standard tacos and burritos with meat choices of chicken, steak, or pork. Agua frescas and micheladas are some of the Mexican beverages available. Coke products, Coors products, and other domestic brews such as 805 and Golden Road are available for thirsty fans. Specialty Frappuccino drinks including horchata, chocolate-banana, and toasted marshmallow are also available for those cool summer nights. Cold Stone Creamery is the ice cream provider with several options including Oreo Overload and Strawberry Blonde. Other sweet treats include chocolate chip cookies, frozen chocolate bananas, and funnel fries. Atmosphere 4 There’s a fun atmosphere to be found at The Diamond. Children can be seen playing in the designated play area along the right field side, shagging foul flies on the grass berm to rolling down the berm. Most seats are in a rather uniform seating bowl, with spacious seats and plenty of legroom. Thunder is the large green mutt of a mascot. He is a member of the “Canis Thunderus” family and has no problem getting the Storm fans on their feet. Though he’s there to entertain the home fans, that lovable mutt is also very welcoming to fans of the visiting team as well. Meet Thunder. The Lake Elsinore Storm’s lovable mutt of a mascot. Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 4 One of the nicest things about the neighborhood around The Diamond is the natural scenery, ranging from the Elsinore Mountains to Lake Elsinore, the largest natural lake in Southern California, located just a few minutes from The Diamond for the water sports enthusiasts.. If you’re looking for a bite around the yard, the longtime SoCal favorite In-N-Out is nearby. One of the more highly recommended restaurants here is Jack’s BBQ Shack, located about 3 miles from The Diamond. Located along the lake, Jack’s BBQ Shack serves up some tasty ribs in a very casual setting with very reasonable prices. Fans 3 With the recent success of the parent club in San Diego, it’s easy to see why you will see a mix of apparel being worn in the stands of both the Storm and the Padres. As the Single-A affiliate of the Padres over the last 20-plus years, the Storm and the Padres have established a loyal fan following throughout Riverside County and beyond. Access 3 Lake Elsinore is centrally located between San Diego and Los Angeles. The Diamond can be accessed either via the 15 freeway or Route 74. Though The Diamond is not far from the 15 freeway, depending on where you will be driving from, you may want to allow yourself extra time to arrive. Southern California traffic, especially if coming from Los Angeles, is unpredictable. Upon entering The Diamond from the parking lot, fans walk through a tree-lined walkway toward the grand entrance behind home plate. Greeting the fans as they enter The Diamond is a brick tower, giving The Diamond a signature touch. As you approach the home plate entrance, you will notice a monument paying tribute to those who have served. Paying tribute to those who served, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Once inside the stadium, fans walk through a very spacious concourse, perhaps the widest of all the Single-A yards in Southern California. The concourse is so wide that should you attend a day game and choose to seek refuge from the summer heat, you could spend an inning or two strolling the concourse, which provides plenty of shade and shelter from the sweltering heat without losing view of the on-field action or impeding pedestrian flow. Return on Investment 4 With prices ranging from $8 to as much as $20 for four-top table seating, a day out at The Diamond is a very affordable day in the park. High Top seating, located behind home plate, offers bar stool-type seating along with a countertop to place your food and drinks as well. Should you want to take home a souvenir, the team store located just behind the first base side of the concourse offers a pretty vast selection. Apparel with the team’s iconic logo consistently ranks among the top sellers throughout all of minor league baseball. Lake Elsinore gameday hats, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Extras 4 As you enter the Diamond, in the concourse above the team store on the first base side is a list of former Angels and Padres prospects who passed through Lake Elsinore on their way to The Show. The list provides players' names from 1994-2014. Some of the future MLB prospects who passed through Lake Elsinore, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey If you look out toward right field, you will see that the outfield wall is 36 feet high. Yup, the exact height of the Green Monster in Fenway Park, paying homage to the original, adorned with advertisements aplenty. On the right field side of The Diamond is a children’s playground just outside the physical concourse. In addition, a huge grass berm is there for budget-conscious fans who prefer to view the game there atop your favorite beach towel or picnic blanket. Should you plan to view your game here, you may want to beware of kids not only rolling down the hill in every direction, but you must also be aware of the young ones running about that berm snagging foul balls. Lastly, we can’t forget the gorgeous views of the Temescal Mountains and the surrounding hills. Final Thoughts In its 33 seasons of operation, The Diamond has been the home to numerous future Angels, Padres, and other big leaguers. The organization proudly embraces its partnership with the big-league Friars, as evidenced by some of its apparel paying homage to the parent club.

Photos by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Sport utcai stadion 1087 Budapest, Sport Utca Hungary Map It! BKV Előre SC website Sport utcai stadion website Year Opened: 1929 Capacity: 2,500 Historic Hungarian Ground Seeks Curious Visitors For stadium enthusiasts, when you hear of a sporting Mecca, off the beaten track, nearing the end of its natural life, curiosity stirs. Welcome to the Sport utcai stadion in Budapest, Hungary; aka BKV Előre SC Stadion, a ground that time forgot. If your sporting cathedrals of choice are the ultra-modern, padded seats, with artisan cuisine, two such super structures are within reach. The 60,000 capacity national ‘Puskas’ Stadium is 1000 yards to the north, and the sleek Hidegkuti Nondor Stadium, home of top flight MTK Budapest, is just across the road. The BKV Előre SC Stadion is like an ageing Budapest trolley-bus with peeling paintwork, sweating in the summer heat, between two brand new, air conditioned, energy efficient trams just launched for ultimate customer pleasure. The stadium, home of third division BKV Előre SC, can be found to the north east of this magical European capital city. Head up Sport Street and marvel at the century old grandstand that you came all this way to see. Food & Beverage 1 Very little sustenance seems available once inside the ground. However if you persevere, you will be rewarded. The inner facade of the vintage grandstand has a number of doors, largely without signage. One will be locked, the next a gents' toilet, and so on. Choose another, and an unlit corridor takes you down some stairs, back to the early 20th Century. Turn right, and you are in the inner sanctum, more stairs, old boardrooms, finally a bar appears, quiet as a library. The dimly lit bar has a fridge with soft drinks and confectionary. The barman, slow and steady, serves local beers, a large Dreher Gold costing around 800FT. Old stadium and team pictures are on the walls; you can imagine the room full of smoke populated by men in hats. If you are lucky, there are some filled rolls on the counter, hopefully not as old as the bar itself. The Bar at Sport utcai stadion, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey On your way back outside, any open door provides a glimpse into the past, if not carry your beer outside and begin to climb the steps at either end of the stand. Atmosphere 5 Work started on the ground a century ago, the first match was in 1929. Renovations followed at various points. Today it is all about the main grandstand. From the outside, it could be an old wharf building or even soviet style offices. Look closer, and broken windows and sealed doors suggest no one is maintaining this monster structure. However, there is also a hint of life, signage, a lick of paint and once through the entrance, the concrete brutality comes to life. A perfect symmetry, the centre piece has diagonal steps to a VIP guest area, with around 200 new blue and yellow plastic seats on either side. Further up, the cavernous main wooden stand climbs higher and higher with row after row of long wooden bench seats. The large roof on the main grandstand ensures even a paltry crowd of 300 souls can be well heard. Post war crowds numbered up to 20,000 and the club website laments; “When will visiting players again feel in hell? Not even knowing where to kick the ball due to the best acoustics in the entire country!” The views from the English-inspired grandstand are excellent, the high elevation ensures you can see the match and the tactics play out. You can also see a sunset to die for if the timings are right and views towards the Buda side of the Danube. Opposite you can see the Puskas Arena in the distance, look through the broken windows at the back in the stand and peer into the modern home of MTK Budapest. Old, long, wooden benches at Sports utcai stadion, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey The other three sides of the Sports utcai are currently inaccessible. A large terrace used to curve around the north end in days gone by. Now both ends are flat, empty and desolate. Opposite the grandstand there is no fence or stand at all, instead a jarringly new 4G pitch runs adjacent. There is a small electronic scoreboard, next to the goal, at the entrance end. Facilities-wise, that’s it. Neighborhood 5 The immediate locality is dominated by a 6-lane ring road, so it offers little for tourists. There is a bar opposite the Stadion tram shop called Netovább Söröző. Call in here for a beer and some simple snacks. You can also stroll up to the Puskas Arena, Hungary’s largest stadium and book a tour. Back into the centre of Budapest, the possibilities are endless. A stroll from Erzsébet híd (Elisabeth Bridge) along the Danube River, to the chain bridge is magical. Views of the citidel, castle, and fisherman’s bastion, and traffic re-routed in summer for pop up bars and music. For food, head to Gozsdu Udvar, a covered street adorned with fairy lights, bars, restaurants, karaoke and street music. Fans 3 Attendances are not always easy to find, but in the 25/26 season BKV drew an average of just 150. For the Nemzeti Bajnoksag 3 Delkeleti round 4 match v ESMTK in August 2026, around 180 were present with a handful of away fans in attendance. Those ESMTK fans brought the noise on the day with singing, drums, and large flags in support of their team. Trophies for BKV Előre SC have been hard to obtain. Three division two titles and three division three titles are the highlights. A cup run in the Magyar Cupa in 1933/34 saw Elõre beaten in the final. Access 3 The nearest tram stop is called Hidegkuti Nondor Stadion, found on the yellow line 1. From the centre of Budapest, take the M2 metro to Puskas Ferenc then 2 stops south on the tram. Alight from the tram and you will see the home of MTK Budapest in front of you. To the right of this footprint stadium is Sport street (Utca) and the entrance is on your right. Once inside, you will need to use a number of steps to climb up into the grandstand. Observing from ground level is allowed, but with a high fence, the view isn’t great. Sports utcai stadion steps, Photo by Chris Tuck, Stadium Journey Return on Investment 5 Entry is free, much like many lower league matches in Hungary. With no merchandise available and very simple refreshments, the ROI is simply unbeatable. Extras 0 This is no frills old-fashioned football viewing at its best, no extras, just a vintage grandstand, two goals and 22 players. Final Thoughts This gem of a football ground is a step back in time. A time perhaps when Hungarian football flourished, with the ‘Mighty Magyars’ of the 1950’s consistently beating the world’s best. Whilst there are no hints the ground is closing soon, the likelihood is it won’t be in its current form in another 100 years. The club and the ground have fallen on tough times, book your visit soon!

Gary Noll, born Deaf in a New Jersey Deaf household, is a huge New Jersey/New York Sports fan who received the 2019 New Jersey State Governor’s Jefferson Award, the 2024 New Jersey State Governor’s Volunteerism Award (as a “Community Pillar”) and a 2024 Russ Berrie Unsung Hero Award. He proposes and raises awareness of Deaf and ASL (American Sign Language) sports events. Gary is an advocate of accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion, including promoting captioning and ASL communication technology during NJ/NY metropolitan sporting events. Gary Noll at Big East Championship, MSG Gary has already discussed sports venues in New Jersey and New York with Stadium Journey and is excited to share the latest news about future Deaf or ASL awareness events. Please stay tuned for game announcements! The sports teams will be posting notices about the events online. 1. Madison Square Garden (MSG), New York City Unfortunately, there won’t be a New York Knicks American Sign Language (ASL) group event this season or in 2027. We hope we see it happen sometime in the future. This is because the team is limiting ticket availability, ticket costs have increased, and the NY Knicks have restructured their staff since winning the NBA championship in June 2026. We’re now focusing on hosting what could be their first-ever NY Rangers ASL group event in 2027 and beyond (keep your fingers crossed). Gary has already asked to include Deaf ASL anthem performers during some future NY Knicks and NY Rangers games. 2. Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York Yankee Stadium Closed Captioning, Photo by Gary Noll The NY Yankees baseball team is planning to host its fourth annual Deaf Awareness Event in 2026, but they’ve decided to hold it next year. Please keep an eye out for it. They’ve already reached out to schools and others, but they’re not ready to make a commitment at this time due to their new leadership. The New York Yankees still have plans for Deaf Awareness Events in the future. 3. Citi Field, Queens, New York Partnering with Mill Neck Manor School for the Deaf, the New York Mets hosted a dedicated Deaf Awareness event in May 2026, held during their home game against the Cincinnati Reds. The Mets are considering hosting either a Deaf Awareness Day or a special Deaf group event by partnering with one of the best Deaf schools in NYC and Long Island for future seasons. This 2026 season, you’ll notice the Mets already have an ASL anthem performer for some or most of their games, which is a thoughtful way to promote inclusivity. 4. US Open Tennis, Queens, New York Closed Captioning at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Photo by Gary Noll The US Open Tennis at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (August 23 to September 13, 2026) will feature Deaf ASL anthem performers for the opening night and the men’s and women’s championship matches, which will be broadcast on TV again for the third consecutive year. 5. Met Life Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey We haven’t had a chance to chat with the NY Jets and NY Giants about an ASL group event yet. We’d love for them to consider having a Deaf ASL anthem performer during one of their games! If FIFA decides to award NJ/NY the 2031 FIFA World Cup women’s soccer matches, we’d be thrilled to have a Deaf ASL performance. You can read more about this idea in this article. 6. UBS Arena, Belmont Park, New York Deaf Awareness Night at NY Islanders, Photo by Gary Noll After having a successful Deaf Awareness Night in 2023, the NY Islanders have not yet duplicated that event. The team is still considering whether to host another Deaf Awareness Night or a first-time ASL night in future seasons. If this happens, we expect to have live ASL interpreters broadcasting on the Jumbotron. 7. Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey Prudential Center ASL on Videoboard, Photo by Gary Noll The New Jersey Devils hockey team is planning to host its 8th annual ASL night this 2026 - 2027 season on Oct 20, 2026. They’re hoping to feature a Deaf ASL anthem performer and a group performance. To help ASL fans, there will be ASL interpreters throughout the stadium, and they’ll use them to include trivia and other activities on the Jumbotron. Plus, they’ll continue to offer NJ Devils ASL T-shirts for those who buy tickets to the ASL event. 8. Sports Illustrated Arena, (formerly Red Bull Arena), Harrison, New Jersey There’s been talk about a Gotham FC, pro women’s soccer (NWSL) Deaf Awareness Event at the Sports Illustrated Arena, but it hasn’t happened yet. We haven’t discussed hosting a Red Bulls (MLS) pro men’s soccer ASL event there, but we should think about it in the future. 9. Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York We’ve already pitched the idea of hosting the first-ever WNBA New York Liberty and NBA Brooklyn Nets ASL nights at the Barclays Center to the BSE Global team (the ownership company). They’re still not ready for an ASL event yet, but we’re not giving up! We’ll keep trying every year. 10. Etihad Park, Queens, New York It would be great to have live captioning at the new Etihad Park, which will be the home of NYCFC’s men’s soccer team in Major League Soccer (MLS) and will welcome Gotham FC women’s soccer in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) starting in 2028. We’re also hoping to have a Deaf ASL anthem performer during the first soccer match! 11. Office of the Big East Conference, NCAA, New York City They plan to feature ASL anthem performances at both the men’s and women’s basketball championship games at Madison Square Garden in New York City and Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut, marking the fourth consecutive season of this tradition. They’re also aiming to broadcast it on TV for the first time next March 2027.

Photos Courtesy of Brian Williams, Dune Coast Quillbacks Next summer, a new ballpark will open for baseball travelers along Lake Michigan, bringing summer collegiate baseball to a new community. ​ The Dune Coast Quillbacks of the Northwoods League will take the field in 2027, bringing summer collegiate baseball to Michiana. The expansion team will play at Bison Field in New Buffalo, Michigan, a high school venue that is now being upgraded with more than $750,000 in capital improvements. ​ Private contributions and a $150,000 Michigan Department of Economic Development grant were secured after half the amount was raised through local crowdfunding. All upgrades will come at no cost to taxpayers. ​ The Quills founders are Tom Rowland and Brian Williams, who wanted to bring something to connect the communities of northwest Indiana and southwest Michigan during the summer months. The ballpark will continue to be used by the New Buffalo High School baseball team and for other events in the off-season. ​ There are 150,000 people within a 15-mile radius of the ballpark, and the Quills hope to attract fans from as far north as Benton Harbor, Michigan, and as far east as Valparaiso, Indiana. The Dunes Coast name reflects the shared identity of the shoreline, not favoring any one city or community in the neighboring states. ​ “The area has seen an explosion of full-time residents in the past five years and is a tourist-friendly area,” Williams said. “We want them to have something to do after a day at the beach during the evenings.” ​ Bison Field will include a 600-seat grandstand, baseline bleachers, a press box, a social area, and special LED lighting to reduce glare to nearby homes. It has already been fitted with new dugouts and a backstop, along with artificial turf, sod, and a warning track that features crushed rock. ​ “We went with Pivot artificial turf by Geo Services,” said Williams. “The Pivot turf will play more like natural grass than the rubber infield turf where the ball bounces higher. It’s also safer for players because cleats won’t stick.” The stadium will have a unique outfield wall configuration because of the track around the adjacent football field. There is a curved 16-foot-high wall where the track is in right-center field. This will present a little creativity in the seating sections at the stadium. ​ There will be a party patio along the first baseline that will feature high-top tables and chairs. Picnic tables will be set up in right and left center field. The picnic tables idea was inspired by a visit to the home of the Portland Pickles, Walker Stadium. “We can fit up to six people at each table and are looking at painting them,” added Williams. “It will be a casual group environment.” The Quills will have similar-style picnic tables like at Walker Field in Portland, Oregon. Photo by Brian Williams However, the most interesting seating section is the terrace grass berm behind the right field wall, dubbed Warren’s Dune. It is named after the team’s mascot and nearby Warren Dune State Park. Fans will be allowed to bring in their own lawn chairs, and tickets will cost $5. Williams sees it as a way for families to enjoy a ballgame for around $20. ​ Game day promotions will include family-friendly entertainment, locally sourced concession items, live music, and an inviting small-town atmosphere to create a vibe for a tourist area known for its beaches, dunes, vineyards, and walkable towns. ​ “We’re slowly putting together something special in New Buffalo. It will be a celebration of the region and local businesses, from food trucks to local breweries and wineries.” ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Daniel S. Frawley Stadium 801 Shipyard Dr Wilmington, DE 19801 Wilmington Blue Rocks website Daniel S. Frawley Stadium website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 6,404 Blue Celery in the First State Minor League Baseball returned to the largest city in the First State in 1993 when the Peninsula Pilots were relocated to a brand new ballpark in Wilmington, Delaware. The team was named the Blue Rocks after the blue granite found along Brandywine Creek. The Blue Rocks initially began in the Carolina League as the Single-A Advanced affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Blue Rocks would be affiliated with the Royals until 2004 and from 2007 to 2020 until the reorganization of Minor League Baseball. In 2021 Wilmington was moved to the South Atlantic League and affiliated with the Washington Nationals. Successful on the field, the Blue Rocks claimed five Carolina League titles. The home of the Wilmington Blue Rocks is Judy Johnson Field @ Daniel S. Frawley Stadium. Opened in 1993 to coincide with the new team, the stadium is named after the Mayor of Wilmington from 1985 to 1993 Daniel Frawley, who was integral in getting Minor League Baseball back in Wilmington. The field is named after Judy Johnson, a Negro League star and Hall of Famer who lived in Delaware for almost 75 years. One curiosity of the Blue Rocks experience is the fans' fascination with Mr. Celery, a stalk of celery mascot who emerges to celebrate each Blue Rocks run to the tune of “Song 2” by Blur. Food & Beverage 3 The culinary experience at Frawley Stadium is decent. The main concession stands offer popcorn, Cracker Jack, peanuts, pretzels, hot dogs, burgers, chicken tenders, and fries. A couple of other note spots include Grotto’s Pizza and the first base side Chickie’s and Pete’s stand. A Philadelphia staple, Chickie’s and Pete’s offers cheesesteaks and their famous Crabfries. Coca-Cola products are the soft drink of choice at Frawley Stadium. The beer selection in Wilmington is decent and includes Coors Light, Miller Light, Heineken, and Yuengling. Local brewery Wilmington Brew Works also offers a team-branded beer, Woo-Hoo Brew complete with the image of Mr. Celery on the can. Atmosphere 4 Frawley Stadium has an attractive exterior and looks more modern than its 30-year age. Brown brick with light accents and blue trim make for a smart-looking color scheme. The main entrance behind home plate is up a set of stairs and directly above the ticket window, which would be directly behind home plate. Blue Rocks markings are tastefully added to the exterior and a photo of the 2019 Carolina League Champions highlights many photos in recessed arches on the exterior. A bronze statue of Judy Johnson with a dedication plaque is a perfect meeting place for fans before the game. Also of note, two dedication plaques for pitcher Vic Willis and umpire Bill McGowan, both born in Wilmington and members of the Baseball Hall of Fame, sit in the flower beds outside the main plaza. Inside the park, the main concourse is covered yet open. Unfortunately, Frawley Stadium does not offer a 360-degree path around the park. The seating bowl is a split level with an exterior walkway. There are several different seating options. There is bar seating by the Chickie’s and Pete’s along the first base side and the Picnic Pavilion is in leftfield. The seating bowl does not offer much in the way of shade. Views of the Wilmington skyline and I-95 can be had from the main grandstand. The suite level to either side of the pressbox and behind the main seating bowl is full of blue highlights and has large baseballs and pennants as recognition for the championship teams and the retired numbers of Mike Sweeney, Johnny Damon and Robin Roberts along with Jackie Robinson. A display list of Blue Rocks players who have played in MLB is of note in the concourse. The game day experience in Wilmington is what one would expect in Minor League Baseball. There are plenty of on-field promotions between innings and promo items thrown into the crowd at times. Rocky Bluewinkle, the Wilmington mascot, interacts with the crowd and participates in the pregame activities. The most unique feature of a Blue Rocks gameday is the presence of Mr. Celery. A secondary mascot for the team has taken on a bit of a life of its own in popularity. The main appearance of Mr. Celery comes after a Blue Rocks run when he comes out of a gate behind the plate and celebrates Blur’s “Song 2.” Neighborhood 4 Frawley Stadium is located in the Riverfront neighborhood of Wilmington between I-95 and the Christina River. There are a few options for pre or post-game food and drink within walking distance of the ballpark. Some options include Iron Hill Brewery, Big Fish Grill, and Del Pez. Immediately southeast of Frawley Stadium is the Chase Center on Riverfront, which is the city’s event center. Further away, and across the Christina River, is the similarly named Chase Fieldhouse, home of the Delaware Blue Coats, an affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA G-League. From the exterior of Frawley Stadium, fans can enter the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame. Donations are accepted and there are several terrific displays, including an excellent Judy Johnson display which tells his story in his own words. Other tourist options include Nemours Estate and Hagley Museum. For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Westin Wilmington and Hyatt are just steps away. Fans 3 In the 2023 season, the Wilmington Blue Rocks averaged over 2,500 fans per game. This ranks 87th in the 120-team MiLB. The Blue Rocks are also 8th in the South Atlantic League out of 12 teams. There is plenty of room for improvement here. At the game being reviewed, fans in attendance were very quiet and reserved. Interest in the game seemed waning. Access 5 Frawley Stadium is located in the Riverfront neighborhood of Wilmington, east of I-95 and west of the Christina River. The park is encased by Shipyard Dr., Matt Minker Way, Judy Johnson Dr., and Frawley Dr., nice nods to some of the important figures in Wilmington Blue Rocks history. Getting to the ballpark is very easy with I-95 located very close. There is plenty of parking on site both north and south of the ballpark and the majority of it is free. For fans wishing to take public transit, some buses stop on Judy Johnson Drive. Fans should check out the Delaware Transit Corporation website for fares, maps and schedules. The Amtrack station is also about a mile away. Getting around the ballpark is easy and the washrooms are adequate for the facility. Return on Investment 4 Blue Rocks tickets start at $13 for General Admission and go up to $15 for a box seat and $18 for field-level box seats. Parking is free and concession prices are what one would expect. The gameday experience in Wilmington is solid and fans will have a good time. In the end, the value of a Blue Rocks game is strong. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame and the excellent Judy Johnson display. An extra mark for the seemingly organic popularity of Mr. Celery, who has permeated much of the Blue Rocks promotion. An extra mark for the success the Blue Rocks have enjoyed on the field with five league titles, including four in their first eight years. Final Thoughts 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. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 TVA Credit Union Ballpark 111 Legion St Johnson City, TN 37601 Johnson City Doughboys website TVA Credit Union Ballpark website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 3,800 Having Fun with the Doughboys When Major League Baseball reorganized and contracted the minor leagues following the 2019 season, Johnson City, Tennessee, lost its short-season affiliate. The Johnson City Cardinals, a long-standing member of the Appalachian League, were one of the teams eliminated in the reorganization. Professional baseball has been part of Johnson City’s identity since 1911, with teams affiliated over the years with the Yankees and Phillies. But it was the city’s long-standing relationship with the St. Louis Cardinals that left the deepest mark – for 61 seasons, Johnson City served as a Cardinals affiliate, becoming a key stepping stone for future big leaguers like Vince Coleman, Ron Guidry, LaMarr Hoyt, Yadier Molina, and Terry Pendleton on their path to the majors. Baseball in Johnson City has been played at the same site since 1937, when the city built a wooden grandstand at Keystone Park and nicknamed it Cardinal Park when the team became affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1938. In 1950, a new steel structure replaced the wooden grandstand. It carried the Cardinal Park name until the Phillies placed a farm team in town in 1957. It reverted to Cardinal Park with the return of the Redbirds affiliate in 1975, later renamed Howard Johnson Field at Cardinal Park in honor of the director of Johnson City’s Park and Recreation Department in 1977. Eventually, after the naming rights were sold, it became TVA Credit Union Ballpark. Johnson City was one of 30 cities to lose its MLB affiliation after the 2020 reorganization, but the baseball void did not last long. The Appalachian League reemerged in 2021 as a collegiate summer league, with teams rebranding to better reflect their communities. Johnson City’s long-running Cardinals identity gave way to the Doughboys, a name inspired by the nearby World War I infantry statue in Veterans Plaza. Food & Beverage 4 Two separate concession stands feature slightly different menus, but together offer a well-rounded mix of traditional ballpark fare and locally inspired options. Fans will find staples like hot dogs, cheeseburgers, pizza, and nachos with cheese sauce, alongside heartier choices like cheeseburgers and boneless wing baskets with fries. Regional choices are available as well, with items like the Bojangles Cajun Filet Sandwich and Southern Craft BBQ Nachos. A few specialty offerings go beyond typical ballpark fare, including the Junkyard Dog (topped with chili, cheese, fries, and mustard), Firecracker Fries (drizzled with buffalo sauce and ranch), and funnel cake fries for a sweet finish. Snack options include pretzels with cheese, chips, peanuts, and candy. Beverage choices are straightforward: bottled water, Coke products, Powerade, and local favorite Dr. Enuf, a citrusy Mountain Dew-like soda. In addition to standard domestic and imported beers, the ballpark also offers a selection of local craft brews – options from Yee-Haw Brewing, Johnson City Brewing Company, Iron Forge, and Tennessee Hills include lagers, tart ales, and hefeweizens. For non-beer drinkers, hard seltzers and ciders like Truly and Angry Orchard are available as well. Atmosphere 3 TVA Credit Union Ballpark is a charming throwback to small-town baseball. The covered grandstand, overhead fans, and towering outfield walls lined with local advertisements evoke a classic, nostalgic feel. A modern scoreboard also sits in left center field, though it’s mostly used for basic player information and the game’s line score. The Doughboys lean into their military-themed branding with touches as Reveille played during big moments, adding energy to key parts of the game. In-game promotions are lighthearted and engaging, nothing groundbreaking, but also a welcome break from the tired gimmicks seen at some lower levels of baseball. The relaxed pace of summer collegiate ball contributes to a festive, easygoing atmosphere. The stadium includes several social spaces: a VIP bar down the left-field line, yard games and high-top tables along the right-field line, and a long drink rail beside the grandstand. These areas are popular and tend to stay crowded throughout the game. One downside of this historic stadium is that more attention was paid to functionality than convenience. For example, several roof support beams create rather significant obstructions when viewing the field. Neighborhood 4 Johnson City is a stealthy, hip town with a vibrant arts scene, several breweries, and restaurants in its downtown area, just over a mile from TVA Credit Union Ballpark. King Commons Park is a popular gathering area where adults can grab a pint, while kids play on the nearby playground or explore the stream that runs through the green space. W. State of Franklin Road is home to several renovated historic buildings, now housing popular stops like Burger & Barrel, Yee-Haw Brewing, and White Duck Taco, which backs up to scenic Founders Park. The downtown area has no less than a half-dozen breweries in the few city blocks that make up the area. The city has also done a wonderful job moving into the 21st century. While keeping its 19th-century charm. Fans 4 Johnson City is a passionate sports town, with strong support for ETSU athletics and deep roots in baseball. Before the minor league contraction, the city consistently ranked among the top draws in the Appalachian League, and that energy has not faded. Since joining the collegiate summer circuit, the Doughboys have led the league in attendance, averaging over 3,500 fans per game, more than 1,000 ahead of the next closest team. The fans are not just enthusiastic; they understand the game. Fans cheer for savvy base running, situational hitting, and productive outs. Others are a bit more festive in their support, leaning into the Doughboys’ military identity – some even show up in replica World War I infantry helmets. Access 4 TVA Credit Union Ballpark is easily accessible, located less than a mile off I-26, the main connector between Asheville, North Carolina, and Kingsport, Tennessee. The interstate also links up with I-81 about 15 miles north, making the stadium a convenient stop for travelers coming from eastern Tennessee or many of the eastern states. Parking is plentiful and located just beyond the first base side of the ballpark. VIP ticket holders can use a dedicated entrance off Legion Street, providing a more direct path into the stadium. Once inside, a wide walkway runs along the first baseline and narrows slightly as it approaches third. A low field-level concourse also wraps in front of the grandstand, stretching from first to third and offering fans a close view of the action as they walk around. Return on Investment 5 With general admission tickets starting at $8, reserved seating at $10, and free parking, Doughboys games deliver excellent bang for your buck. Concession prices are in line with similar stadiums, and the overall experience, from the lively atmosphere to the quality of play, makes attending a game feel like money well spent. Extras 3 A variety of inflatables are set up behind the grandstand, directly behind home plate, giving younger fans a chance to burn off some energy if they get restless during the game. Among the biggest stars at the ballpark is Rocky, the Doughboys beloved bat dog – the black lab draws some of the loudest cheers of the night as he dashes from the dugout to retrieve bats, then sprints back, all to the roaring approval of the fans. The team’s mascot, Private, also adds to the fun, roaming the stands throughout the game, interacting with fans, and posing for photos with anyone who asks. Final Thoughts Small-town baseball fosters a sense of connection and civic pride that is hard to replicate in larger markets. In Johnson City, that bond was built over decades, watching future big leaguers take their first professional steps, and rooting for the hometown team as if it were their own. That pride did not vanish when affiliated baseball left. Though the Appalachian League now focuses on college-level talent instead of rising pros, the passion in the stands has not faded. Even though professional baseball is no longer played in Johnson City, the excitement of the game and the surrounding atmosphere have not disappeared. While the reorganization of minor league baseball may have been a bit of a step back in the developmental chain of baseball, it has not dampened the spirit of the baseball community in Johnson City, Tennessee. Johnson City may no longer be a stop on the road to the majors, but its love of baseball is as strong as ever.

A mountain backdrop at Hermon Brothers Stadium in Palmer, Alaska. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Nothing says "summer" in North America more than taking in a ballgame in a small-town ballpark. In recent years, summer wood-bat leagues are exploding all across the continent, to the point where it's hard to even keep up with all the new leagues and teams sprouting up all in towns and cities everywhere. For many towns, summer ball has allowed their local ballpark to stay in use after being abandoned by affiliated baseball. In others, new ballparks have been built to accommodate the new team. Summer ball offers baseball fans an affordable entertainment option throughout the summer months and gives college players a place to showcase and develop their skills for pro scouts. Stadium Journey has visited 196 Summer Collegiate teams across 32 leagues. Our correspondents were able to visit 36 ballparks this summer, a mix of new to us parks and revisits to previously reviewed parks. Listed below, in alphabetical order, are some of our highest-rated and favorite ballparks. To see the full review, simply click on the stadium/team link. Hope you enjoy it! Crutcher Scott Field - Abilene Flying Bison - Texas League Terry McCutcheon - Crutcher Scott Field at Bullock Brothers Park is an excellent place to spend a summer evening watching talented players continue their development, while enjoying one of baseball's most relaxed settings. Growden Field - Alaska Goldpanners/Midnight Sun Game Paul Baker - A game that started as a bar bet has become a Bucket List item for thousands of baseball fans around the world. Fairbanks may be far off the beaten path, but for one night (and morning) it’s the center of the baseball universe. Mulcahy Stadium - Anchorage Bucs & Glacier Pilots - Alaska League Paul Baker - Mulcahy Stadium is a quaint old ballpark located in a wonderful destination city. The back story of the Glacier Pilots and Bucs, who cannot exist in their shared ballpark, makes for a unique visiting experience. Throw in the fact that the Alaska League continues to be one of the premier summer college circuits in the nation, and you have found yourself a fantastic Stadium Journey. Shirley Povich Field - Bethesda Big Train - Cal Ripken Sr. League Gregory Koch - The Big Train have certainly succeeded in creating a top-notch community baseball experience in Bethesda. On a warm summer night (or the occasional 10 AM Sunday game), baseball fans in Montgomery County will certainly want to make the trip to Shirley Povich Field. It is baseball fun for seasoned fans, young families, and everyone in between. Bowen Field - Bluefield Ridge Runners - Appalachian League Lloyd Brown - Bowen Field is one of the treasures of minor league baseball. Though it does not have many of the bells and whistles of more modern stadiums, it more than makes up for it in small-town friendliness, a beautiful natural setting, and a community and their ball team putting their best efforts to ensure you have an enjoyable night at the ballpark. Veteran's Field - Chatham Anglers - Cape Cod League Paul Baker - In a league full of unique parks and postcard-perfect towns, Chatham offers an experience that may top them all. NelsonCorp Field - Clinton Lumberkings - Prospect League James Hilchen - FieldCorp Field takes fans back in time to when baseball was about taking in the experience of what was happening on the field, rooting for your players and against the opposing team. For a true baseball fan, this is a fabulous venue. Lowell Park - Cotuit Kettleers - Cape Cod League Paul Baker - Lowell Park is a jewel among summer league parks. In addition to Cotuit's picturesque location, Cape League lineups are loaded with future Major League players. This combination makes a visit to Cape Cod a must for any baseball fan. Just remember to put a few dollars in the kettle when it’s passed around, and “Have a Hit!” Danville Stadium - Danville Dans - Prospect League Marc Viquez - At one time, Danville Stadium was slated for the wrecking ball and left to rot after the Milwaukee Brewers relocated their Single-A team after the 1982 season. Aren’t we somewhat better off having baseball played at Danville Stadium and other buildings of its kind? It is good to know that there are still old-school parks left to watch baseball at these days. American Legion Field - Danville Otterbots - Appalachian League Gregory Koch - An Otterbots game is an enjoyable way to spend a warm summer night watching a baseball game. With an intimate stadium and a crazy mascot, it's affordable fun for the whole family. League Stadium - Dubois County Bombers - Ohio Valley League Marc Viquez - A wonderful and charming little stadium in southern Indiana that is somewhat of a drive for some in the state, but perhaps a drive that is well worth it since there is not quite another ballpark like it in the Hoosier State. Dunn Field - Elmira Pioneers - Perfect Game League Marc Viquez - The charm of Dunn Field would be enough to attract any ballpark traveler to Elmira. The amply-sized stadium has the look and feel of many great minor league ballparks that are no longer around. It is clean, spacious, and ideal for a relaxing day of baseball viewing. Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park - Harrisonburg Turks - Valley League Gregory Koch - It is indisputable that Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park is the most modern facility in the Valley League. While the older venues certainly have their charm in their own way, the Turks manage to create the same great atmosphere there is elsewhere in the league in a more modern stadium with all the amenities that come with. Capital Credit Union Park - Green Bay Rockers - Northwoods League Marc Viquez - Capital Credit Union Park is by far one of the most curious places to watch a baseball game during the summer months. Its design and features best suit a soccer match, but it’s full of popular areas and affordable food and concessions items that make it a nice destination for fans in the area. TVA Credit Union Ballpark - Johnson City Doughboys - Appalachian League David Welsh - Even though professional baseball is no longer played in Johnson City, the excitement of the game and the surrounding atmosphere have not disappeared. While the reorganization of minor league baseball may have been a bit of a step back in the developmental chain of baseball, it has not dampened the spirit of the baseball community in Johnson City, Tennessee. Johnson City may no longer be a stop on the road to the majors, but its love of baseball is as strong as ever. Sargent's Stadium at the Point - Johnstown Mill Rats - Prospect League Marc Viquez - Sargent’s Stadium at the Point is a nod to grand old ballparks of the past. The historic presence can be felt throughout the building, but modern additions provide comfort to the fans. Joe Becker Stadium - Joplin Outlaws - MINK League Photo Courtesy of Karen Staffileno Alex Mailes - Joe Becker Stadium offers the feeling of small-town baseball at a high level for an affordable price. There are plenty of promotions and games for fans to keep things exciting, and Joplin has plenty to offer if you find yourself bored after the game. Alumni Field - Keene Swamp Bats - New England League Paul Baker - It’s readily apparent once you set foot in Alumni Field why it’s one of the marquee venues in the New England Collegiate League. Take an unforgettable setting, add in great fan support, enthusiastic staff, and tons of extra features, and you have all the elements of a fantastic place to catch a ballgame. Simmons Field - Kenosha Kingfish - Northwoods League Eric Hasman - The Kenosha Kingfish have brought life back into the old ballpark. The recent renovations greatly improve the ballpark. According to some fans, there are more renovations planned for the upcoming off-season. This ballpark is a place one should visit. There is history and fun all over the park. Hunter Wright Stadium - Kingsport Axemen - Appalachian League Lloyd Brown - Each off-season, the stadium is evaluated for what can be done to improve the fan experience, and the changes are implemented. This is rewarded by the most loyal fan following in the league, multiple sellouts, and a definite desire to return for future games. Kapco Park - Lakeshore Chinooks - Northwoods League Marc Viquez - Kapco Park offers great concessions and an atmosphere that reminds me why I enjoy traveling around the country and visiting ballparks. The wait was worth it, a fine ballpark experience. Luther Williams Field - Macon Bacon - Coastal Plain League Lloyd Brown - Just as bacon has seen a renaissance as a food item, the Macon Bacon has brought about a renaissance for baseball in the Middle Georgia area. This Bacon recipe of baseball in a historic structure… seasoned with a few modern elements to meet the taste of today’s fans… is high in fun and low in cost. The Bacon Nation is sure to come back for a second helping. Edward A. LeLacheur Park - Lowell Spinners - Futures League Paul Baker - Creating a summer college team to replace a beloved professional baseball team does not always go as planned. But if the 2026 Futures League season is any indication, the Future is indeed bright in Lowell. No need to put a positive spin on it. Warner Park - Madison Mallards - Northwoods League Marc Viquez - The Madison Mallards might be the O.G.'s of packing in exciting crowds in summer collegiate baseball. Before the Savannah Bananas brought record numbers to their ballpark, the Mallards were among the leaders in baseball in average attendance numbers at Warner Park. Athletic Park - Medicine Hat Mavericks - Western Canadian League Jim Flannery - The Mavericks have been a consistent contender in the WMBL for most of their franchise history. Coming out to see a game in a lovely, relaxing environment, with friendly people is a great way to spend a summer evening in “The Hat.” Holman Stadium - Nashua Silver Knights - Futures League Paul Baker - Holman Stadium is a quaint ballpark that has likely seen the end of its days as a professional facility. With Northeast Delta Dental Stadium located 20 minutes to the north and LaLacheur Park located 20 minutes to the south, there are just not enough fans for the affiliated ball in the area. Rebel Park - New Market Rebels - Valley League Gregory Koch - For baseball fans in Virginia, the Valley Baseball League is a hidden gem, and the New Market Rebels are no exception. Those in New Market certainly know about the team and passionately follow it, but a trip to Rebel Park is well worth it for those who don’t live here as well. Cardines Field - Newport Gulls - New England League Paul Baker - They certainly don’t build them like Cardines Field anymore. This historic ballpark, filled with features not seen anywhere else, is a relic from another time. Cardines Field is frequently mentioned as one of the top places in the country to watch summer wood-bat baseball. Seaman Stadium - Okotoks Dawgs - Western Canadian League Richard Smith -Seaman Stadium is a wonderful ballpark, especially for the collegiate summer league level. There are likely to be affiliated minor teams that would be jealous of this fine facility. First Responder Field - Olney Cropdusters - Cal Ripken Sr. League Gregory Koch - The Olney Cropdusters have come a long way with their stadium since it opened in 2022. Even back then, they had an outstanding experience, but with all the renovations and improvements to the ballpark, this is truly a top-notch summer collegiate baseball venue. Eldredge Park - Orleans Firebirds - Cape Cod League Paul Baker - Baseball has been played at Eldredge Park since 1913. As a member of the Firebirds' staff put it, "We have three things going for us in Orleans. We have the best beaches on the Cape, we have the history, and we have the hill." War Memorial Stadium - Peninsula Pilots - Coastal Plain League Gregory Koch - There is no doubt that War Memorial Stadium is an old ballpark. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of more modern facilities in the CPL and elsewhere in the area, the energy at Peninsula Pilots games is top-notch. Sinsheimer Stadium - San Luis Obispo Blues - California League Meg Minard - San Luis Obispo is a small but vibrant, entertaining town to visit and well worth a stop for any traveler. Attending a game at Sinsheimer Stadium provides an excellent baseball experience in a community that supports it well. John Moxie Memorial Stadium - Staunton Braves - Valley League Gregory Koch - What John Moxie Memorial Stadium lacks in flashiness, it makes up for in charm. Baseball has been played at this site for over a century. Although Moxie Stadium doesn’t have the amenities of modern stadiums, and it certainly would never be mistaken for one, it is a gorgeous, historic stadium to watch a game on a summer’s night at a great price. Trenton Thunder Ballpark - Trenton Thunder - MLB Draft League Marc Viquez - It seems like only yesterday that the team arrived and spearheaded a movement toward ballpark construction in the state. However, the ballpark still stands out as a beauty and provides a highly enjoyable baseball experience. Shepherd Stadium - Tri-City Chili Peppers - Coastal Plain League Gregory Koch - Although Shepherd Stadium is almost 75 years old, you wouldn’t know it from attending a Chili Peppers game here. The stadium has all the amenities and excitement of a newer stadium. Centennial Field - Vermont Lake Monsters - Futures League Paul Baker - Centennial Field, while an older facility, offers many modern amenities and enough comforts to keep today’s fan happy. With a decidedly small-town feel, this ballpark belongs on any baseball fan’s must-see list. Oregon Trail Park Stadium - Western Nebraska Pioneers - Independence League Meg Minard - It is so, so comfortable here. The seats are wide, there’s plenty of legroom, the fans are energized, and the Pioneers staff is ready to assist, if needed. It’s still more about the game than the extra stuff, but there’s enough of that to keep non-purists entertained. Historic Bowman Field - Williamsport Crosscutters - MLB Draft League Gregory Koch - Baseball has been played at Bowman Field for almost 100 years, and you can feel a part of the history when stepping in here. However, this very much feels like a modern ballpark as well, not an old decrepit one that is falling apart. Yakima County Stadium - Yakima County Pippins - West Coast League Richard Smith - The Yakima Valley Pippins and Yakima County Stadium is a perfect spot to watch a summer collegiate league team. The stadium is past its prime for minor-league baseball. but is perfect for this level of ball.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FAN FARE Score: 2.86 The Ballpark 7 Ballpark Way Old Orchard Beach, Maine 04064 GNCBL website The Ballpark website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 6,000 The Party of the Summer Time has a way of making something that one time seemed so grandiose become mortal. When it first opened in 1984, The Ballpark in Old Orchard Beach, Maine was called, “the prettiest ballpark in creation” by Sports Illustrated, who likened the stadium to a hunting lodge due to the pine used throughout the facility. Fast forward to the present day, and it might be hard to link any of those adjectives to The Ballpark. The years that followed were unkind to The Ballpark. After nearly falling victim to decay, arson, and a planned demolition, the stadium was ultimately saved by Old Orchard Beach residents through a grassroots effort to bring baseball back to the facility. In 2010, American Legion teams and youth tournaments began using the field intermittently. A year later, The Ballpark welcomed its first summer collegiate baseball team, the Old Orchard Beach Raging Tide of the New England Collegiate Baseball League (2011–13). The independent Old Orchard Beach Surge of the Empire Professional Baseball League followed from 2015–18. The stadium also became a stop for the Greater Northeast Collegiate Baseball League (GNCBL), whose teams rotated among ballparks throughout southern Maine while playing their schedules. That format changed in 2024 following the sale of the league, when teams were assigned designated home fields. The Ballpark became home to the Old Orchard Beach Bugs, a role that lasted just two summers. In 2026, The Ballpark took on a new role as the home base for the entire GNCBL and branded it "Beach Ball." Although the league's teams carried the names of neighboring communities, including the Saco Bay Blues, South Portland Puffins, and York County Yonders, only the Old Orchard Beach Bugs represent the town in which they actually play. Food and Beverage 3 The Ballpark is one of just a handful of GNCBL fields that operates a concession stand and is the only venue in the league that sells alcohol. The food selection is fairly typical for ballpark concessions with pretzels, hot dogs, pizza slices, and popcorn chicken, along with a wide selection of snacks. The Ballpark also offers Maine’s signature Red Snapper, a hot dog served in a bright red casing. Soft drinks from the Pepsi family of beverages and Gatorade are also available. For those looking for an adult beverage, The Ballpark is the only GNCBL venue that serves alcohol. Beer and seltzer options include Bud Light, Modelo, Michelob Ultra, and Goose Island IPA, along with Twisted Tea and High Noon seltzers. Atmosphere 2 For better or worse, much of the original stadium remains largely as it was in the mid-1980s. There is a concrete structure topped with modest boxes that more closely resemble warming huts than what we would consider suites today. Baseball at The Ballpark has the feel of what might be expected from the lower levels of summer collegiate baseball. There is an effort to keep fans entertained between innings, but that is about the extent of the entertainment beyond the game itself. The league has touted its single-location Beach Ball concept as an opportunity to “build a lively atmosphere that goes beyond the game itself,” with a more entertainment-driven experience focused on community engagement and a stronger connection between fans and players. The game experience is certainly interactive, but the lack of fans in the stands leaves the overall atmosphere feeling somewhat underwhelming. That, however, is not due to a lack of effort from league staff. If choosing between a weekday night game and a weekend afternoon game, the latter may be the better option. A swampy area beyond left field provides an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, which are typically at their worst around sunset. Dealing with the heat and lack of shade is more manageable than enduring a constant barrage of nature’s bloodsuckers. Even those who played at The Ballpark 40 years ago are quick to bring up the mosquitoes when Old Orchard Beach is mentioned. The seating at The Ballpark consists of rather uncomfortable half-back seats that rest squarely in the small of the back for a typical-sized adult. Many of the seats are also hiding cracks beneath strips of duct tape, adding another reminder that this is a stadium that has seen better days. Neighborhood 4 Old Orchard Beach is every bit the vacation beach town. Though the immediate area is mostly local municipal buildings and high school facilities, the excitement of the beach and pier are just over a mile away. OOB, as it is referred to by locals, is a popular summer destination for both Americans and Quebecois, as evident by the numerous Canadian and Quebec provincial flags that fly around town. The Ballpark is just 1.5 miles from the iconic Old Orchard Beach pier that dates back to 1898, and includes a Coney Island-esque amusement park, Palace Playland. OOB, and southern Maine for that matter, is every bit the summer tourist destination, so be prepared to pay premium prices for rather modest accommodations. For those looking to enjoy the outdoors without the touristy-ness of the area, Biddeford/Saco Country Club and Dunegrass Golf Club definitely could be options, or you can just take a walk through the trails of the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. Old Orchard Beach is more than just the draw of the beachfront. Fans 2 With one centralized location for games, there is not a scenario where one stadium has a fanbase whose community just gets behind them and is so much more supportive than others. Of all the teams in GNCBL in recent years, Old Orchard has seen more fan support than most of the other teams in the league, but typical attendance only ranges from 75-100 fans. The Beach Bugs staff has been active in the community promoting the team with nearby businesses to draw out the vacationers and locals, but to this point, that has not seemed to carry over into fan turnout. Access 4 With its beachside location, the town is not right on a main interstate or US highway; it is just under 4 miles off US 1, which runs parallel with I-95 up the southern Maine coast. Old Orchard Beach is also serviced by Amtrak’s Downeaster rail that runs between Boston and Brunswick. Though the stop is beachfront, it is just a 1.5-mile walk from the beach to The Ballpark via pedestrian-friendly streets. A single gravel parking lot sits outside the main gates and ticket tent, which is just a short walk from the grandstand. There are several stairways that lead to the field concourse, which divides the upper and lower levels of seating. A ramp down the first base side of the stadium is available to assist those who might not be able to navigate the stairs. Return on Investment 3 In years past, admission to The Ballpark was just $5, but in 2026, that price has more than doubled to $10.55 for a single game. The league schedules two games per day, but for some reason, only the later game is open to the public. At $10.55, the price would make more sense if admission included both games, but for a single game it feels a bit more than would be expected. Concessions are reasonably priced and in line with what would be expected at little league concession stands, making food and drinks a more affordable part of the overall experience. Extras 2 An in-game host helps keep fans engaged with mid-inning trivia questions and on-field contests. Those old enough to remember the Triple-A days at The Ballpark will likely recognize several of the original structures that remain. These include the locker rooms, front office, maintenance facilities, and the stadium speaker tower in center field. Final Thoughts Baseball at The Ballpark may not be an especially impressive experience for first-time visitors, but those who understand the history of baseball in the area can appreciate the fact that the game is still being played in Old Orchard Beach. The fact that baseball is still played at The Ballpark is nothing short of remarkable. The stadium has endured foreclosure, abandonment, and arson, yet through it all, it has emerged on the other side – perhaps a bit worse for wear, but still standing. The Ballpark holds a special place in Maine baseball history. For those who grew up attending games here, it was the next best thing to Fenway Park for those who couldn't make the trip to Boston. Much of the credit belongs to the town of Old Orchard Beach and its residents, who have shown decades of dedication simply to ensure that The Ballpark remains in use today.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 La Moderna Field 1906 Brazzell Road Cleburne, TX 76033 Cleburne Railroaders website La Moderna Field website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 1,750 Next Stop: Cleburne's La Moderna Field La Moderna Field, formerly known as The Depot at Cleburne Station, is a multi-use facility for the city of Cleburne, Texas. The facility opened on May 18, 2017, at a cost of $20.7 million. The opening of the 1,750 fixed-seat ballpark brought professional baseball back to Cleburne after a 95-year absence. Cleburne, Texas, was an important hub for the Santa Fe Railway when trains would bring in cattle to push north along the Chisholm Trail to Kansas in the late 1800s. The history of professional baseball here dates to 1906 when the original Railroaders joined the Texas League. The 1906 Cleburne team won the Texas League Championship with the talent of nine Major Leaguers, including Hall of Famer Tris Speaker. The team left town after that season, but Cleburne would return in 1911 to win another championship, this time in the Texas-Oklahoma League. The city would then lose the team again for 10 years before a brief return as the Cleburne Generals, before losing the franchise for a third time in 1922. Cleburne professional baseball stayed dormant until the current Railroaders began play in 2017. La Moderna Field is a synthetic field with a dirt pitcher’s mound. The field size is asymmetrical, with left field being 335ft, while right field is shorter at 320ft. The power alleys are 383ft (left-center) and 375ft (right-center), with center field at 400ft. The home team occupies the third base dugout, and both teams’ bullpens are in right-center hidden behind the kids’ zone. La Moderna Field has held various college baseball tournaments over the years. Food & Beverage 4 The Depot has two main concession stands, one serving each side of the baselines. The concessions are a surprise for the size of the ballpark – there is plenty of ballpark fare, including peanuts, popcorn, and pretzels, to candy, nachos, and hot dogs, all under $7. The higher end food choices of Angus burgers, chicken sandwiches, and brisket sandwiches are each a few dollars more. A special mini boom stick hot dog (foot long) inspired by the Texas Rangers boom stick is the highest price on the food menu here at $15. Dr Pepper products are the featured soft drink – fountain drinks are $5, bottled water is $4, and sports drinks are $5. In addition, there are plenty of adult beverages at the reasonable cost of $7 for Coors Light, Bud Light, Shiner Bock, Michelob Ultra, and many more. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere can change on any given night as the crowds are a little larger on the weekend than during the week. All games start in the evening, as the Texas summer can be brutal on fans. The fans are decent and supportive of the Railroaders as the players become part of the community. The Railroaders are on target to provide a great atmosphere for fans. The ballpark is set to entertain young fans with the team’s mascot, Spike, or even younger fans with shorter attention spans via a kid’s play area located in right field. The Railroaders staff keeps the crowd engaged in between innings with various entertainment. Every game can give you a different perception of the atmosphere, but if you want to have a fun night while only spending a small amount of money, then a game at La Moderna Field is a wonderful place to spend an evening, seeing baseball at its purest. Neighborhood 2 La Moderna Field is located on the northern outskirts of the city, at the intersection of US 67 and Chisholm Trail Parkway. Cleburne is a city with a population of around 30,000; the city is named in honor of Patrick Cleburne, a Confederate general. Cleburne is approximately a 1-hour drive from DFW International Airport, 30 miles south of Fort Worth (45-minute drive), or 75 miles north of Waco. Cleburne’s downtown area features several chain restaurants on W Henderson Street. The best food option in Cleburne is sampling the local flavors, so Tex-Mex at La Cima Mexican Cuisine or a small-town American diner such as Heroes Cafe would be good choices. The lodging near the ballpark includes basic hotel chains such as Holiday Inn & Suites-Cleburne or La Quinta Inn. However, for a more unique recommendation, check out Liberty Hotel in the center of Cleburne. Attractions around Cleburne center on outdoor activities at the 498-acre Cleburne State Park or the 1,550-acre Lake Pat Cleburne. Or, on days when the Texas heat is not safe, the Layland Museum shows off the area’s historical relics with early Texana, comprehensive Indian artifacts dating from pre-Columbian cultures, fossils, and genealogy records. Fans 3 Cleburne baseball fans have embraced having professionals back in Cleburne, as the team is beginning its 9th season (missing 2020 due to Covid-19). The team averaged around 1,669 fans per game last season, ranking in the lower tier of the league, but with the smallest ballpark in the league, this does rank higher if you use the percentage capacity filled. Although the crowd at La Moderna Field may not be on par with larger ballparks’ attendance, the fans here are very vocal and engaged throughout the game. The fans at La Moderna Field are also very community-oriented, with the locals being either diehard baseball fans or families enjoying the summer at the ballpark. Local fans have waited almost a century for baseball to return to Cleburne, and the strong pride of having baseball return, coupled with an already proud connection to the past, has given professional baseball a solid foundation with a bright future to continue in Cleburne. Access 3 Cleburne is about an hour’s drive from DFW International Airport, towards the Fort Worth side of the metroplex, using Interstate 35W south from the DFW area. La Moderna Field is located off US Highway 67 at the Nolan River Road exit, or the south end of Chisholm Trail Parkway, 27 miles from Fort Worth, Texas. A large parking lot surrounds the ballpark, as Cleburne Station has yet to be fully constructed to its potential. Fans can enter the ballpark through the main gate behind home plate. This entrance is the center of the ballpark and contains a historic chief engine train, pre-game entertainment, and box offices. There is a second entrance for season ticket holders along the baseline. Just inside the main entrance are the pro shop and the Cleburne Baseball Museum. The other entrance is a small entrance that connects the parking lot to the first base side of the concourse. The concourse is located above the seating bowl and houses the concessions and restrooms for the ballpark. The seating bowl at La Moderna Field has safety netting that stretches from the right field general seating berm to the third base seating berm. The ballpark does have a party view patio and suites overlooking the lower bowl of seats and the concourse, and there is also a picnic patio along the right field line that has more trains. There is also a kid’s zone located beyond the right field fence that can be seen from the general seating areas, but the kid’s zone’s premier attraction is a Dallas Mavericks logo basketball court. The team’s bullpens are located beyond the kids’ zone. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for Cleburne Railroaders games range in price from $16-$19 for reserved seats around home plate. There is plenty of parking surrounding the ballpark; the cost is $5. The concessions are reasonably priced for a sports venue, making the overall ROI on a Railroaders game on par with what would be expected, but there are also plenty of ways to get discounted tickets to provide a more affordable night out for the family, for example, the Family Pack with four game tickets and four meal vouchers, or the Date Night offer of 2 tickets and 2 meal vouchers. Military members can get tickets for a 50% discount, along with 25% off concessions. Extras 4 The Railroaders name connects not only Cleburne’s baseball past but also the history of this small Texas city, and the ballpark theme and future development at Cleburne Station is a great concept in continuing Cleburne’s history. Also, the Cleburne Baseball Museum located next to the ticket office at the main entrance is a great place to read about Cleburne baseball’s past teams. The Railroaders gift shop has a variety of Railroaders items, including a real nice selection of team jerseys. The ballpark itself is small, but is a perfect fit for Cleburne, and will give local baseball fans the enjoyment of watching the game for years to come. Final Thoughts La Moderna Field is the headstone of future development around Cleburne, and has the potential to keep professional baseball in Cleburne for many 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. Any sports traveler in the Dallas-Fort Worth area should make a road trip to Cleburne and get aboard the Railroaders train at La Moderna Field.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FAN FARE Score: 2.00 Dave Hall Field 1665 Hampshire Pike Columbia, TN 38401 Columbia Jumpin' Jacks website Capacity: 500 (approximate) Jumpin' Jacks Baseball The Columbia Jumpin' Jacks are one of the newest summer collegiate baseball teams, competing in the inaugural season of the Volunteer State League. The Jumpin' Jacks are one of four VSL teams in Central Tennessee and play their home games at Dave Hall Field on the campus of Columbia State Community College. The VSL is a new league that is part of a network called The Players League that also includes leagues in North Carolina, Texas, and Maine and is looking to expand to other areas in future years. Food & Beverage 1 The concession situation at a Columbia Jumpin' Jacks game is incredibly disorganized, something that will become a common theme in this review. The team's social media says that Chick-fil-A is available for sale at all non-Sunday home games. However, when we visited on a Monday night, the Chick-fil-A was nowhere to be found. There is a concession window where kids can turn in foul balls in exchange for a snack or soft drink, but when we attempted to purchase items, this concept utterly bewildered the staff member, who had no idea how much to charge or if they accepted credit cards. While the team is new, we attended a late season game, so they had plenty of time to figure things out. Atmosphere 2 There are sections of chairback seat down both baselines at Dave Hall Field, with a press box and concession stand directly behind home plate. The sun will set behind the third base stands in the evening, meaning it will be at your back if you're sitting on that side and may be in your eyes if you're down the first base line. There is not much going on here besides the game itself, and even that is disorganized. The team does not control the lights, which are set by timer to go on at a certain time. Unfortunately, it gets too dark to play baseball before this time, which often results in a brief delay in the game until the lights come on. Other random delays are also not uncommon in this league due to things such as late-arriving umpires. Even baseball purists may find the experience baffling. Neighborhood 2 Dave Hall Field is located on the campus of a community college surrounded by a residential neighborhood, so there is not much to do in the immediate vicinity. There are some businesses located elsewhere in Columbia, mainly along Highway 50, but most of them are chain restaurants the likes of which dot many small towns in the South. The buffet at the Columbia Farmers Family Restaurant is one of the few exceptions. Fans 3 The Jumpin' Jacks draw decently well, with about a hundred fans showing up to a typical game. Columbia is a small town that has had several failed attempts to support independent baseball, so the summer collegiate team coming to town this year has managed to draw some interest. There are friends and family of the players in attendance, as well as Columbia State alumni who fondly remember playing on this field, and an assortment of random locals who just want to check out a baseball game. The disorganized fashion this league operates him, with games rescheduled, delayed, or moved around with little warning, probably hurts attendance. Access 3 Columbia, Tennessee, is located near Tennessee Route 50 and US Route 43, with Route 243 cutting between them to provide easier access to parts of downtown. Although it is far from any interstate, you can often make good time on the sparsely-traveled rural roads, hitting only an occasional traffic light or two when you come to a town. Once on campus, there is a large lot right next to the stadium which is more than big enough. Restrooms are located in a building in between Dave Hall Field and the Columbia State softball field, and are typically sufficient for the small crowds the Jumpin' Jacks draw. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Jumpin' Jacks games costs just $10, which is certainly not too expensive. However, there isn't enough here for the experience to be of a more than average value. Extras 0 There are no real extras here, unfortunately. Final Thoughts A Columbia Jumpin' Jacks baseball game is a pretty basic experience. You can watch a game up close to the action with a small town community feel. Unfortunately, the league and team are still getting the hang of how to operate, and that significantly hurts the experience here. We hope they return in 2027 having managed to figure things out, as the gameday atmosphere here can significantly improve if they manage to do that.

Photos by James Clotfelter, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 HomeTrust Park 30 Buchanan Pl Asheville, NC 28801 Asheville Tourists website HomeTrust Park website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 4,000 Cozy Baseball in Appalachia Baseball in Asheville dates back to 1897, making it one of the South's oldest baseball towns. That year, the Asheville Moonshiners took the field at Allandale Park, the city's first home for professional baseball. Through the decades, teams have come and gone, leagues have changed, and nicknames have evolved, but one constant has remained: baseball has long been woven into the fabric of Asheville's culture. That tradition found its permanent home in 1924 with the opening of McCormick Field, one of the oldest active professional baseball stadiums in the United States. Known today as HomeTrust Bank Park, the historic venue has welcomed everyone from Hall of Famers to future major league stars while remaining one of Minor League Baseball's most cherished ballparks. Since 1959, the current incarnation of the Asheville Tourists has called McCormick Field home, and today the club serves as the High-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. Steeped in history, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and fueled by a community that has embraced the sport for well over a century, McCormick Field offers one of the most authentic experiences in Minor League Baseball. Whether you're a lifelong fan or simply passing through western North Carolina, an evening with the Tourists combines historic charm, mountain scenery, and affordable entertainment into a ballpark experience that is difficult to replicate anywhere else. Food & Beverage 5 There is often a preconceived notion that a ballpark of HomeTrust’s age will offer only the bare essentials when it comes to food and beverages. Fortunately, the Asheville Tourists defy that expectation. Like many aspects of the fan experience, the age of the stadium has done little to limit either the quality or variety of its concessions. The main concourse along the first-base line is lined with a collection of food and beverage kiosks, each offering something different. Fans can choose from made-to-order smash burgers, cheesesteaks, tacos, popcorn, snow cones, and more. Traditional concession stands supplement these specialty vendors with classic ballpark fare, including hot dogs, pretzels, chicken tenders, and fries, while also serving elevated options such as chili nachos, grass-fed beef hot dogs, and soft-serve ice cream. During our visit, the made-to-order smash burger stood out as one of the best items in the ballpark, but the depth of the menu ensures there is something to satisfy every appetite. Overall, the Tourists' food selection rivals- and in many cases surpasses- that of their South Atlantic League counterparts. It would be almost criminal for a team playing in "Beer City, USA" to neglect its local craft beer scene, and thankfully the Tourists embrace it wholeheartedly. Fans will find an impressive selection from Asheville favorites such as Wicked Weed, Highland Brewing, Asheville Brewing Company, alongside regional staples like New Belgium, Foothills Brewing, and Sierra Nevada. Domestic beers remain readily available for those who prefer them, while non-beer drinkers can choose from Coca-Cola products, hard seltzers, cocktails, and other refreshments throughout the concourse. The beverage program is every bit as strong as the food, giving fans plenty of opportunities to sample Asheville's renowned craft brewing culture without ever leaving the ballpark. Atmosphere 4 I absolutely love when a team can preserve the history of an older ballpark while still delivering a first-class fan experience, and the Asheville Tourists have found that balance perfectly. HomeTrust Bank Park features a single concourse that begins near the left-field foul pole beside the team store and wraps around the entire seating bowl. Throughout the concourse are roster boards, South Atlantic League standings, historical displays, murals, and tributes to former Tourists who went on to reach the major leagues. Numerous tunnels lead directly into the seating bowl, helping preserve the classic feel of the stadium. The seating bowl consists of lower and upper seating sections, with the lower sections identified by single letters and the upper sections by double letters. A large awning extends over much of the seating area, providing welcome shade while leaving only the far ends of the grandstand (Sections AA-BB and LL-NN) exposed to the elements. Premium seating is available along both foul lines, while the Dugout Club offers some of the closest views in the park from directly behind the on-deck circles. A modern video board in left field provides player statistics, replays, and between-inning entertainment, while a smaller digital scoreboard in left-center handles the traditional line score. The field itself is notably compact, measuring just 297 feet down the left-field line and under 400 feet to straightaway center. Despite the cozy dimensions, towering outfield walls - overed almost entirely in advertisements - keep many would-be home runs in the park while adding another layer of personality to the ballpark. The seating is comfortable with generous legroom, and because of the intimate size of the stadium, there are very few bad views anywhere in the house. Beyond the outfield, a grassy hillside and the surrounding landscape provide a subtle reminder that you're in the heart of Appalachia. While the crowd may never reach the volume of a major league park, it generates more than enough energy to create an engaging atmosphere. The compact design makes every game feel personal, giving fans the quintessential small-town baseball experience. One final tip: while sightlines are excellent throughout the stadium, sun exposure is not. For afternoon games, the extra few dollars for seats beneath the awning are money well spent. Neighborhood 5 Being nicknamed "Beer City" would lead you to expect Asheville to have plenty of places to grab a pregame drink and bite, but the area surrounding HomeTrust Bank Park has far more to offer. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is surrounded by mountain trails ranging from quick, easy walks to challenging full-day hikes. If you have the time, I highly recommend the Art Loeb Trail toward Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain. The drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is spectacular, and the roughly four-mile portion of the hike offers sweeping 360-degree views as it follows the ridgeline. HomeTrust Bank Park sits in Asheville's South Slope district, just south of the heart of downtown. Despite being technically outside the downtown core, Asheville's compact layout means nearly all of downtown is within a comfortable walk of the ballpark. South Slope itself is home to several excellent breweries, including Green Man and Twin Leaf, as well as Urban Orchard Cider, an award-winning cidery renowned as one of the country's top destinations for craft cider. I'm not normally a craft cider guy, but even I came away happy with the visit. With dozens of breweries throughout the city, Asheville is a dream destination for craft beer and cider enthusiasts. Restaurants are scattered throughout downtown, with particularly strong selections of breakfast, Mexican, and Indian cuisine. For a pregame meal, however, Farm Burger is a can't-miss option. Between the breweries, restaurants, downtown attractions, and access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, there is enough to keep visitors occupied well beyond the nine innings. Fans 3 The South Atlantic League averages roughly 2,800 fans per game, while the Tourists are currently drawing a little over 3,000 per night. That represents a significant increase from last season and puts Asheville around the league average in attendance. Considering the relatively small capacity of HomeTrust Bank Park, there is nothing to be ashamed of in those numbers. On the Saturday night of my visit, the Tourists faithful showed up in solid numbers. Fans were decked out in Tourists gear, although surprisingly, I did not spot much Astros representation. A few Braves hats were scattered throughout the crowd, but for the most part, the stands belonged to the home team. What stood out most was the character of the crowd. Tourist fans were knowledgeable, welcoming, and enthusiastic without becoming overbearing. The atmosphere maintained that friendly, local Southern hospitality that makes minor league baseball so enjoyable. The crowd may not produce the overwhelming noise found at some of the best-supported minor league parks, but it provides a comfortable and authentic small-town baseball atmosphere. Access 3 Getting to the stadium is not anything too crazy. Asheville's downtown does not get too hectic with traffic, but there is no dedicated stadium parking lot. Instead, the city uses parking lots and decks around the stadium and offers complimentary trolley service from the popular decks to the ballpark. These rides begin 60 minutes before the game. I did not drive to the game, but I can see how parking could get a little hectic, so it is advised to have a game plan before arriving. Uber and Lyft are also readily available throughout Asheville, so getting a ride to or from the stadium should not be a problem. The concourse is surprisingly wide inside the stadium, allowing for easy movement around the ballpark, something that is not always the case with older parks. The team store is located beside the left-field foul pole, making it easy to access before or during the game. The entire stadium features chairback seating with plenty of legroom between rows, providing a comfortable experience throughout the seating bowl. Return on Investment 4 Like most of Minor League Baseball, the Tourists provide a quality night out without breaking the bank. Normal tickets range from $12 to $20, and with the compact size of the stadium, every seat offers a good view. Basic concession items such as hot dogs, pretzels, and sodas typically cost between $2 and $7, while premium options like smash burgers and cheesesteaks run from $8 to $12. Craft beer comes in at a little over $8, with domestic options slightly cheaper at around $6. Parking depends on which city deck or lot you use and is generally charged at an hourly rate, making parking one of the few costs that requires a little more planning. Extras 3 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. The team store is also one of the best I've seen at this level, offering a wide variety of merchandise and logos that embrace Asheville's culture. Even the mascot carries a piece of the city's baseball history, featuring a moon-shaped head as a tribute to the Asheville Moonshiners. Final Thoughts The city of Asheville, North Carolina, is an underrated summer destination. Of course, baseball is an integral part of any proper summer road trip. While exploring the mansions and breweries of this fine city, make sure to stop in at McCormick Field, a ballpark that manages to be old and new at the same time.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 ESL Ballpark One Morrie Silver Way Rochester, NY 14608 Rochester Red Wings website ESL Ballpark website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 13,500 Rochester’s Miracle The Rochester Red Wings are the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals and have been around since 1899. The Red Wings were saved in 1957 after their affiliation with the St. Louis Cardinals ended, and it looked like baseball in Rochester was for naught. Morrie Silver led the "72 Day Miracle," which sold over 8,000 ownership shares to over 200 investors to purchase the team and stadium and keep Rochester baseball strong. Members of the Silver family still work for the Red Wings, and the street outside the Red Wings’ home is named Morrie Silver Way. Since 1989, the home for the Red Wings has been ESL Ballpark. Originally Frontier Field, the park replaced the venerable Silver Stadium and has entrenched the Red Wings as one of the cornerstone franchises in the International League. The county-owned ballpark is a perfect size for Triple-A baseball with a capacity of 13,500. In 2026, the naming rights were sold to ESL Federal Credit Union. Food & Beverage 5 ESL Ballpark offers some of the best concessions in baseball. There are numerous concession stands, and each one has a unique menu. All of the ballpark favorites are present, of course, and there are some local standards as well. Subs and deli sandwiches, ice cream, Zweigle’s hot dogs and sausages, and the Western New York favorite, Beef on Weck, are all available and should be considered. For something truly unique to Rochester, fans should consider the “Plate.” Rochester is known for the Garbage Plate, which is definitely unique, and versions can be found at ESL Ballpark. The 10th Inning bar area has a whole host of local craft beers, and local Genesee beer can be found throughout the park also. Labatt Blue, which is popular in Western New York, is also prevalent in the park. It is hard to fathom that there is anything that a fan would want to eat at the ballpark that can’t be found at ESL Ballpark. Atmosphere 4 ESL Ballpark will not awe fans with striking beauty or a bevy of unique features. That being said, ESL Ballpark is a solid ballpark that has everything that fans would want in a Minor League Baseball experience. The exterior of the stadium is not imposing. A simple design that features a sunken field and red brick is more functional than beautiful. ESL Ballpark incorporates what was once an old firehouse on the left field side of the stadium for offices. Fans who enter the front gate, behind home plate, will be welcomed first by Rochester baseball legend, Morrie Silver and a couple kids, in bronze statue form. Upon entering the stadium, fans will find more items to catch their attention. A horse made of baseball gloves and a large red wing bird sit right outside of the team store, which is on the left of the main gate. The Red Wings Hall of Fame can be found on the right field side and is worth some exploring for members of memories past. Upon exiting, on the left field side, fans can pass the bronze statue of Joe Altobelli. The seating bowl for ESL Ballpark is a separated, two tier seating area with some of the left and right field side seating covered with some sun protection. Alternative seating, including berms, pavilion and picnic areas, are also available. The sightlines at ESL Ballpark are excellent; there isn’t a bad seat in the house. ESL Ballpark has videoboards beyond both left and right Center field. They are probably coming to the end of their lives, but they do the job. Often, videoboards try to cram so much information on at a time that the result is text that is too small to easily see. The Red Wings are not guilty of this and feature pitching statistics on one board and hitting statistics on the other. The outfield wall in left Center displays the retired numbers of Jackie Robinson, Luke Easter, Joe Altobelli, and Morrie Silver. The number 8,222 represents the original number of shares in Rochester baseball that were sold to keep a Minor League team in the city. The ten Governors’ Cup Championships are on display on the wall in right center. The gameday atmosphere is not over-the-top in Rochester as it is in other Minor League venues. The staple promos are there, including the 50/50 draw and other promos. Organ music is still a staple at Red Wings games, and organist Fred Costello has been at it for a long time. Red Wings mascots Spikes and Mittsy interact with fans and the in-game host. Neighborhood 4 ESL Ballpark is located near Downtown Rochester, just outside of the Inner Loop in the Brown Square neighborhood. There are a few dining and lodging options that are close to ESL Ballpark, but the best bet is to hop in the car and take a two- or three-minute drive to the preferred destination. Some options fans may consider include the Genesee Brew House, 809 Sports Bar, and Rocky’s. Over by the Blue Cross Arena, fans will find the old train station that is currently home to the Stadium Journey favorite Dinosaur BBQ. Also, it may be of interest to hit up the founder of the Garbage Plate, Nick Tahou Hots. Other sporting options in Rochester would include the Rochester Americans of the AHL and Rochester Knighthawks of the NLL. Fans could also head to Henrietta to take in some RIT Tigers hockey at the Gene Polisseni Center. Other tourist attractions in Rochester include Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, RMSC, and Seneca Park Zoo. However, the must do tourist attraction is The Strong National Museum of Play, which is fantastic! For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Holiday Inn and Hyatt are among options that are not too far away. Fans 4 The Rochester Red Wings are one of the oldest franchises in Minor League Baseball and have enjoyed prolonged success at the turnstile. At the time of writing, in the 2026 season, the Red Wings have averaged over 5,500 fans per game. The previous season, the Red Wings averaged over 5,800 fans per game. They ranked 11th in the 20 team International League and 8th previously, pretty much right in the middle. Fans in attendance are knowledgeable and loud at the appropriate times. Access 4 ESL Ballpark is located in Brown Square in Rochester, at the junction of the Inner Loop highway and I-490. Getting to the ballpark is pretty easy. If you are interested in public transit to the ballpark, the Rochester-Genesee Transit Authority has buses that travel on Broad, Main, Plymouth and State Streets. Check out the RTS website for maps, schedules, and fares. There is plenty of parking available for Red Wing games in the lots of the former Kodak Tower. Parking goes for only a few dollars, and the local police do a great job of making it easy to get in and out of the parking lots. The main ticketing gates are behind homeplate, in the main square by Morrie Silver Way. At times, lineups can be a bit of an issue for the late purchasing crowd, so being prepared is always a good idea. Another gate for entry is near the old fire station at Morrie Silver Way and Plymouth Ave, in left field. Getting around the stadium is no problem at all. There is a spacious inner concourse, where all of the concessions can be found and an outer concourse to travel by as well. There are also plenty of washroom facilities. Stadium Journey recognizes that security protocols are in constant flux for sporting events. Although at the time of writing security entailed walking through metal detectors and bag checks, Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the Rochester Red Wings and ESL Ballpark websites for the latest security procedures, including prohibited items and bag policy. ESL Ballpark is a cashless facility. Return on Investment 5 Tickets for the Red Wings are $23 for 100 level seats and $19 for 200 level. Parking will cost a couple of dollars, and concession prices are what one would expect from a Minor League facility. The return is a great afternoon or evening of baseball in an excellent park. The math all seems to work out. Extras 4 An extra mark for organist Fred Costello, who has been the organist of the Red Wings since 1977, the longest-reigning sports organist in history. An extra mark for Morrie Silver and the 72 Day Miracle that saved baseball in Rochester and made the Red Wings a truly community team. An extra mark for the view of the iconic Kodak building beyond left field. Although Kodak is no longer, the building is currently used by Monroe Community College. An extra mark for Red Wings CEO and Rochester Royalty, Naomi Silver, daughter of Morrie Silver. She can often be found around the ballpark interacting with fans. Final Thoughts 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. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @profan9. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram.

Bon Secours Wellness Arena has been a central part of Greenville’s culture for years. Now, it is home to many of the city's most well-followed sports teams, such as the hockey team, the Greenville Swamp Rabbits. It also hosts various concerts and major events, such as high school graduations, including JL Mann’s in 2024. But things are about to change. Greenville’s Wellness Arena is getting an upgrade starting this very year. The design plans have recently been revealed, giving us a glimpse into the future of the cultural center as the review from the city government lingers. The renovations will be expansive and extensive, expanding the 15,500-seat arena and its surrounding 12-acre campus in ways never before seen. The project was announced all the way back in April 2025, so these master plans have been more than a year in the making. And the thoughtful ambition is clear through the way the plans are laid out. It’s no surprise, with names like LS3P, Gensler, and Caldwell Constructors helping the Greenville Arena District with the plans for months. LS3P is an architecture company based in the Southeast, and its portfolio is diverse, covering everything from transportation, aviation, and education to faith-based projects. Like the Von Braun III complex, a project that was completed in 2011. The $193 million project measures 839,873 square feet across six stories and stands tall today as one of the most complex government buildings. LS3P has even worked on athletic programs close to Greenville. They helped with Clemson University’s Littlejohn Coliseum expansion and renovation, which they completed all the way back in 2017. “This is an exciting step for the future of our basketball programs and our athletic department,” said Dan Radakovich, director of athletics, on LS3P’s expansion. “Our desire was to update Littlejohn but respect the great structure that has served our university so well for almost 50 years. We are very proud of the results. Fans, alumni, students, and student-athletes will feel like they are walking into a new building.” Meanwhile, Gensler describes itself as a global architecture, design, and planning firm with 57 offices and 6,000+ professionals across the Americas, Europe, Greater China, and APME. And they have many great projects under their belt as well, such as their work on the Western Kentucky Amy and David Hall and LinkedIn's Munich offices in Germany, showing their multicultural expertise and knowledge. They also have a specialty in building memorable but minor parts of major buildings, like the Western Metal Supply Co. building in Petco Park or the Mars M&M’s store in downtown Shanghai, China, and Disneyland. Things like these are exactly why they’ll be so important to the upgrades to the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. And Caldwell Constructors, a local company that’s had decades of contractor experience, has helped build up the Upstate SC area! With an impressive 854+ projects under their belt since they first opened in 2005, they’ve worked on everything from local and small projects like the Throneblade pool and tennis courts to bigger and much more ambitious projects like the Prisma Health Family YMCA Campus Expansion and the Cartwright Food Hall. The Caldwell brothers have been building Greenville into what it is today, and the Bon Secours Wellness Arena is the latest favor they’ve done for the community. With such an experienced group of companies behind the project, with all kinds of different areas of expertise, whether they be local infrastructure, small structures in much larger buildings, or massive renovations exactly like this, it’s safe to say it’ll go swimmingly. So, what will they all be working on? Well, on April 28th, the plans were revealed to the city council and went into depth on the renovations that were going to be made to the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. “I think the design team has done a tremendous job and we’ve kind of taken everybody on the journey with us, from master plan level all the way down to where we are now,” Paul said. “It’s been really exciting to see the evolution of the project and the design.” With the enhancements that were proposed, they’ll be adding a new main entrance with a two-level lobby on the west side of the arena, facing Church Street, which will add a sense of grandeur upon entering the arena. It’s sure to add a sense of excitement and wonder to any event taking place at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. They’ll also be expanding the arena’s concourse level for better guest circulation, enhanced food and beverage services, additional restrooms, and improved ADA accessibility. This will ensure that the experiences at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena are as open to as many people as possible and that those people will have as great an experience as the arena can provide. Next, they’ll also expand the facility’s event level to strengthen back-of-house operations by adding a larger loading dock, marshaling area, freight elevator, storage space, and client locker room. These additions will complete the renovations that’ll improve the experience for customers and performers at the soon-to-be historic structure. And that’s not all, though! The men behind the renovations also focused on the outdoor experience outside Greenville’s Bon Secours Wellness Arena. They’re adding a brand-new, 7,000-seat outdoor amphitheater that they’ve gone all out on. It’ll have full artist amenities and back-of-house facilities, and the campus along Church Street is also planned. This would also include an expansion for the nearby city-owned parking garage on Church Street by adding 315 new spaces. Paul said they will work with the city on the timing and funding of the parking garage expansion. Then they’re not done there. Before implementing many of these changes, they first have to meet with the Greenville Arena District, which has also focused on confirming funding sources for the arena renovation. There’ll be big money put up to enrich Greenville’s cultural experience.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Little League Central Region Complex 7185 South Indianapolis Road Whitestown, IN 46075 Little League Central Region website Little League Central Region Complex website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 500 Little League Baseball in Whitestown, Indiana The Little League Central Region Complex is a 15-acre complex that serves as the headquarters and regional tournament home for Little League baseball and softball in the Midwest and Great Lakes region. It opened in June 2021 in Whitestown, Indiana, for close to $15 million. The complex is home to a stadium, concession stand, batting cages, a gift shop, a picnic area, lights, an electronic scoreboard, and league offices. The grandstand has seating for 500 people and includes an additional five rows of bleacher seats behind the right field wall. The complex was designed for major regional tournaments and hosts 50 to 60 games a year. It is used and maintained by Little League Baseball and Softball. The LL Central Regional Headquarters has been in the Indianapolis area since 1990. The first complex was built on the east side of town in Lawrence Township for $3 million. At the time, the 30-acre facility was the most up-to-date and expansive of its kind. It included five playing fields and three practice fields. It also had a dormitory to accommodate 204 people. The tournament relocated temporarily to Grand Park in Westfield for several years before moving to Whitestown. The former Lawrence ballpark is now home to Cathedral High School. Food & Beverage 3 There is a large concession stand that has a window for ordering and pickup. The stand's main items are all-beef hot dogs and nachos. You can top them off with chili and cheese, or pick up a nacho supreme with lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa. Other items include popcorn, pretzels, big pickles, chips, candy, and soft cookies. You can wash it all down with Pepsi products. A nice treat is Glover’s Ice Cream from nearby Frankfort, Indiana. Atmosphere 4 The stadium is packed with fans from both teams, which included, during our visit, teams from Hamilton, Ohio, and La Grange, Kentucky. The simple grandstand is made up of chair-back and bleacher seating that sits underneath a roof and protective netting. The views are best from the upper portion of the grandstand, free from obstructed views of the visitors' dugout. You will also find kids of all ages tossing a baseball or football outside the stadium in the grassy area, along with fans waiting in line for their concession items in between games or innings. A few more fans will stand against the fencing down the right field line to catch a glimpse of the action in between the camera cranes and ESPN crew. The most relaxed area is the bleacher seats in right field that are less crowded and perfect once the sun goes down. There is a lot of cheering, music, and fan interaction during the game. The PA announcer has each team member dance to the “Cha Cha Slide Dance” before the game, a tradition that has taken place at the Whitestown location for several years. There are also moments in the game where sing-a-longs take place to involve the audience. Neighborhood 4 The complex is adjacent to I-65 in a residential neighborhood. Across the interstate is a large shopping complex that is home to retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and fast food options. However, a few local restaurants and breweries are nearby. Moontown Brewery is three miles north of the stadium and inside a former high school and gymnasium. The brewery offers a full-service restaurant and multiple taps from lagers to stouts. Aspen Creek Grill is a casual restaurant with hand-cut steaks, baby back ribs, and seafood. Texas Margaritas specializes in Mexican cuisine and beverages. Paws on Tap is a dog-friendly location with 39 self-service pours of beer, hard seltzers, wine, and ciders, along with food options. Wally’s is a mega-travel center business model focused on clean restrooms, massive gas pump arrays, proprietary snacks, and road-trip merchandise. The Little League tournament takes place in early August, the same time when the Indianapolis Indians play at Victory Field, and the Indiana Fever take to the court at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Fans 4 The fanbases were equally divided and provided plenty of cheering, roaring, and hollering before and during the game. There was no shortage of team colors, banners, signs, and other devices to show support for their young heroes on the diamond. There is never a dull moment or even an ounce of silence throughout the night. Most importantly, both sides are respectful to one another. Access 3 The stadium offers a large grass parking area, along with two entry points into the grandstand. The concourse is narrow, but it's rather easy to get around; the seating does fill up well before the first pitch. The concession stands, team store, and restrooms are easily accessible behind the grandstand. Return on Investment 4 Little League Baseball does not charge admission to the games or to the park for any tournament games. Concession prices range from $1 to $4 for items and merchandise in the gift shop, and they are on par with minor league stadiums. Free is always good for visiting a ballpark, and that is the case with the ballpark in Whitestown. Extras 3 The stadium earns a point for free admission and parking. It earns a second point for additional bleacher seats in right field, and a final point for the covered grandstand. Final Thoughts The Little League Central Region Complex is a worthwhile addition to any ballpark road trip. Conveniently located just off I-65 in Whitestown, Indiana, and close to numerous restaurants, retail shops, and other attractions, it makes for an enjoyable stop during a summer baseball journey. Best of all, admission is free, concessions are reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a fun destination for baseball fans of all ages. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Vinny Martin, Richard Smith, and Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 loanDepot park 501 Marlins Way Miami, FL 33125 Miami Marlins website loanDepot park website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 36,742 Baseball in the 305 loanDepot Park, originally known as Marlins Park, opened in 2012 as the exclusive home of the newly rebranded Miami Marlins. The Marlins called SunLife Stadium (now Hard Rock Stadium) home from 1993 to 2011, and shared the facility with the Miami Dolphins of the NFL. loanDepot Park is located in the Little Havana neighborhood, about 2 miles west of Downtown Miami. It is one of MLB's smallest ballparks by capacity and features a retractable roof, an essential amenity during Miami's hot and humid summers. loanDepot Park is notably the first and only ballpark to be built under a contemporary architectural design, making it one of a kind among Major League Baseball stadiums. Food & Beverage 4 There are very impressive options for food and drinks at loanDepot Park, with a good variety of cultural options to represent the city. Sergio’s and Los Verdes offer a variety of Latin and Cuban options, such as empanadas, rice bowls, and Cuban sandwiches. Aside from the conventional ballgame options, hungry Marlins fans can find gourmet sliders, tacos, and barbecue, to name a few options. Miami’s party atmosphere is well represented with multiple bars scattered throughout the concourse, including the Blue Moon Brew Hall, the Budweiser Bar, and the Bacardi Bar. A rare experience at professional sporting events is being able to have a sit-down meal while watching the game. You can do that at loanDepot, with the Bullpen Bar and Grill offering great views of the game from left field, as well as a view right into the home bullpen. Atmosphere 4 The best way to describe loanDepot Park is unique. While many ballparks built during this era take inspiration from retro classic parks like Camden Yards, loanDepot is truly one of a kind. The venue's design is contemporary and modern, giving loanDepot Park a feel unlike virtually any other stadium in Major League Baseball. Stadium Journey recommends taking a walk around the entire exterior of the stadium to be able to appreciate its quirky design. Recent renovations replaced much of the stadium's original neon green and orange color scheme with the light blue featured in the Marlins' current branding. A fixture of the pre-renovation interior was a very colorful (and slightly odd-looking) home run sculpture. Fortunately, the Marlins moved this sculpture to the exterior of the stadium so fans can still take a look. The gameday atmosphere is very distinctly Miami. The Marlins do a great job of making the energy vibrant and fun despite a lack of fans on most nights. There are fun light and sound effects for home runs, as well as Marlins wins. Concession works also double as drummers, attempting to fire up the crowd with “Let’s Go Marlins” chants. The star of loanDepot Park is the left field walkway, with the aforementioned Budweiser balcony and the Norwegian Cruise Line deck being great general admission areas to watch the game, and the gigantic glass window offering stunning views of the Miami skyline. Neighborhood 3 loanDepot Park is located in the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami, about 10-15 minutes away from downtown. Little Havana is a vibrant part of the city, with Cuban-influenced architecture and parks. While Little Havana is filled with Cuban restaurants, bars, parks, and cultural attractions, much of the neighborhood's activity is centered around Calle Ocho rather than the immediate blocks surrounding the ballpark. Downtown Miami and Brickell, along with their hundreds of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options, are a short drive away. Fans 2 Excitement for baseball in South Florida has often been lacking, and with the Marlins struggling to compete for a majority of their existence, that remains as true as ever. Visiting team fans often swarm loanDepot park, often creating a fairly neutral atmosphere. The Marlins fans who show up are passionate about their team and make noise, but just don’t do so in large enough numbers to make an impact. loanDepot Park has yet to host a playoff game in its existence. It would be interesting to see how Marlins fans would show up for October baseball. Access 3 loanDepot Park is serviced by I-95 and I-395. Traffic getting into the stadium is usually manageable due to the lower crowds, but prepare for some delays on weeknights. If traveling from downtown Miami, the main access to Little Havana is by drawbridge, which can considerably delay you if the bridge is up. There are parking lots, as well as four parking garages surrounding the stadium. There are also Miami-Dade Metrorail stations within a mile of the gate. The stadium's main concourse is located on its second level, with multiple escalators and ramps bringing fans up from the street level. The concourses of loanDepot Park are very wide and easy to get around. Return on Investment 4 A Marlins game can be a very affordable experience. Depending on the time of year, day of the week, and opponent, tickets can be found fairly consistently for under $30. There are also some great deals on the secondary market, and parking is no more than $20 depending on the lot. The real investment is in the concessions, which are surprisingly priced very high. Food and drink prices are more representative of what you will find at Yankee Stadium or Fenway Park. The 305 menu is available for more affordability, but at very small portions. Extras 5 The bobblehead museum is located in center field. It is a huge display of hundreds of bobbleheads of Marlins players and other notable baseball stars. It is a very unique feature of this ballpark. Another point is the left-field glass offering a view of the Miami skyline. Seriously, it is one of the best skyline views you will ever find at a stadium. The view becomes even more impressive once the sun goes down. Despite hosting no playoff games, loanDepot Park has been home to multiple World Baseball Classic tournament games, as well as the WBC championship in 2023 and 2026. Miami also hosted the Major League Baseball All-Star Game in 2017. loanDepot Park was named the “Greenest MLB Ballpark” after its opening in 2012, becoming the first MLB venue to achieve a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. The site used to be home to the Miami Orange Bowl, before it was demolished in 2008. There is a very cool nod to the former stadium, as fans can see letters of the old Orange Bowl sign poking up from the pavement near the third base gate. Final Thoughts loanDepot Park is truly one of a kind. The Marlins and Jeffry Loria deserve credit for taking a risk pioneering the contemporary style of baseball stadiums. Despite a lackluster atmosphere and a location somewhat disconnected from Miami's major tourist areas, a gameday experience here is one of high quality. The World Baseball Classic showed us what this ballpark and this city's fans are capable of. If the Marlins franchise ever finds more success and fan interest grows, the potential of loanDepot is through the (retractable) roof. Follow Vinny’s stadium journeys on TikTok @vinnymartin_

Photos by Richard Smith, Jennifer Smith, and Emmy Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Tiger Field Auburn Dr Towson, MD 21204 Towson Tigers website Tiger Field website Year Opened: 2007 (Renovated 2020) Capacity: 600 Soccer With Tigers Tiger Field opened as the Tiger Soccer Complex opened in 2007 and is the home to the Towson Tigers women’s soccer team as well as the women’s lacrosse team. This location, adjacent to Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, was home to earlier versions of soccer fields for the school. In 2011 a more permanent set of bleachers was added, but it was in 2018 when a more substantial renovation started. Finally, in 2020 a new grandstand was added as well as permanent concessions, restrooms, and a press box. The Tigers have had moderate success as a women’s soccer program. Towson has not had a men’s program since the end of the 2012 season, when the program was controversially discontinued, in part due to Title IX regulations. Food & Beverage 2 The new permanent concession stand is an improvement over the temporary one located here previously. The options are still quite simple and like many Towson athletic facilities do not offer a great variety. The prices are decent. Atmosphere 4 The hill between the pitch and the SECU Arena is a nice place to watch the matches and also provides a nice atmosphere. The “new” facility creates such a warm and comfortable environment to watch soccer matches. The permanent grandstand is not large but is much nicer than the older stands. Doc the Tiger, Towson’s mascot, is often in attendance at matches. Neighborhood 3 Besides Johnny Unitas Stadium and SECU Arena, nothing is right by the field. Even though you may have to drive to most places, Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants in the area. Try downtown Towson for good food and drinks. Baltimore is also a quick drive away. Check out the Federal Hill neighborhood, south of the Inner Harbor. There are a few fun restaurants and bars here. Fans 4 For many years, Towson was known as a commuter school. But in the last couple of decades, there has been an increase in residence students. Students are starting to come to games in more significant numbers. There are also many other fans who appear to be either locals or family of the players. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn location of the sports complexes. Parking is free and plentiful, but be careful to check regulations for weekday matches. Return on Investment 5 There is no admission charge and the food is reasonably priced so the return on investment is quite good. Extras 3 Free programs are available for the matches. Doc is a great mascot who makes the atmosphere better. The hill overlooking the pitch is a great extra. Final Thoughts The changes to Tiger Field have taken a good location for soccer and made it into a very special soccer experience.

Minor league baseball names have had a long history of unusual nicknames that are have been connected to the city, geographic location, or the parent club. Many names have been lost in time, a blip on the radar, and one of them comes from Terre Haute, Indiana. From 1955-1956, the Terre Haute Huts were members of the. Three-Eye League, but how did they get their name? The city had quite the history of baseball dating back to amateur teams in 1870. By 1883, one of those clubs went by “Awkwards,” which meant at the time “someone difficult or dangerous to deal with.” Due to financial concerns, they merged that year with a ball club named the Blues and remained the “Terre Hautes”. Professional baseball would return1884 when Terre Haute joined the Western League. This team did not have a nickname, but by 1891, the name Hottentots, began being used for baseball teams in the city. The name would later be shorten to Tots in the following decade. It was a corruption from the term Terre Hautentots, a name historically used and found in countless articles around the state and the country to describe someone from Terre Haute. By the 1880s, the name was used in baseball articles describing teams from the city; then in 1891 referred to the professional club in town. However, the name would be replaced throughout the following years with new names either through fan voting or team management. Terre Haute ball clubs would be called the Stags, Browns, Highlanders, Terre-iers (yes, spelled that way), and Miners. Several times, newspapers used a combination of these names in one season. A headline in the Marion (IN) Leader-Tribune, July 24, 1913 Fortunately, the Tots name never disappeared, and the local media often refer to it in bylines. It became the official name in 1921 and would remain that way until the team disbanded in mid-1937. When baseball returned in 1946, it took the name of its parent club, the Philadelphia Phillies. The Three-Eye League club would leave town after the 1954 season, and it was time for a new name for its ball club, one that would have its own identity outside of its new parent club in Detroit. The Terre Haute Baseball Club held a name-the-team contest in the Terre Haute Tribune, soliciting hundreds of responses from fans of all ages. The winner received a $100 watch from Hillman’s Jewelers. The paper suggested names that are alive and in motion, along with ones that aren’t too long that would fit much better in newspaper headlines. “A lot of fans like the name of the Tigers, but others oppose this on the sole ground that they believe the city should have a permitted name for a team that would be suitable under all conditions, meaning it would fill the bill regardless of the big league affiliation that the city might have.” On April 13, the name picked for the team was the Huts. The newspaper did not provide a reason for the decision, and there does not seem to be a connection to the area, nor was it “alive and in motion”. The other top entries were the Tots, Browns, and Brownies. The winner of the contest was Ralph Nichols, a local barber, and awarded a $100 watch. The article added that another citizen, James "Hairpin" Walker, suggested Huts as well. Walker campaigned to have it adopted, and he rounded up as many votes as possible from city residents. He was an employee at Stran Steel and suggested the name due to the Stran Steel plant is noted for making Quonset Huts for the armed forces. A modern photo of a Quonset hut that were constructed in Terre Haute A Bob Nesbit column from the Terre Haute Tribune on April 19 shed some light on the Huts moniker. He penned the following blurb: “Those fans down at Stran Steel, who make Quonset huts, did a good job of putting up a campaign to name the new team in honor of their product. Since the name also fits well with the name of our city, everything worked out fine.” Did the Terre Haute Huts get their name from a local steel company and had its employees send ballots to the local newspaper? Has the mystery been solved after almost 70 years? A Quonset hut is a prefabricated structure in the shape of a semicircle that was mass-produced after World War II. There were 150,000 to 170,000 produced during the war and sold to the public after the fighting ended. They are still visible in many parts of the country as homes, businesses, and even military bases. Nesbit added that the name fit the city well and probably liked that it was short for print purposes. Terre Haute is French for "high ground" and the word "Haute" would be mispronounced by locals as "hut". The name was short and similar in sound to the former team name Tots, and it did make for great print in newspaper bylines. Surprisingly, more than 121 names were proposed and listed regularly in the newspaper. Many of these names were fascinating and hinged on modern branding in today’s game. They included the following: Wabash Valley Catapults, Vigo Gems, Candlelighters, Hoosier Pacemakers, Gold Cox, Hustlers, Bowcats, Bingos, Meows, Tiger-Cats, Cavaliers, Valley Cubs, Speeders, White Hats, and Atoms. There were many entries for the new baseball team in 1955, Terre Haute Tribune The Huts name would last a little over a year; the club folded after the first half of the 1956 season with a 40-26 record due to lack of attendance. It marked the end of minor league baseball in Terre Haute. A little over a decade later, the ballpark would be converted solely into a football stadium with artificial turf. In 2011, the summer collegiate Prospect League added a team in town. The name selected was Rex, and there was a good reason behind that decision. Besides being the Latin word for king, the name comes from Rex Coffee, produced, roasted, and packed downtown by Clabber Girl. The club also mentioned its unique name ties in with others from the past: Tots, Huts, Stags, and Terre-iers. The Huts name briefly shone in Terre Haute between 1955 and 1956, and before anyone began to pay attention to the ball club, it was gone. However, a look back at old newspaper articles of the era produces a possible reason behind its name. If Rex can pull out a retro jersey night, this reporter will be there. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

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

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Progressive Field 2401 Ontario St Cleveland, OH 44115 Cleveland Guardians website Progressive Field website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 34,820 Watching a Game at "The Jake" Progressive Field has been the home of baseball in Cleveland since 1994. It was the second stadium, after Camden Yards in Baltimore, to usher in a standard for ballpark design in Major League Baseball. After more than 30 years, the Cleveland Guardians continue to upkeep the venue and reinvent themselves for today’s baseball enthusiasts. ​ The building opened as Jacobs Field on April 2, 1994, for $175 million. The stadium replaced the massive Cleveland Stadium that had been regarded as one of the worst baseball stadiums in the league. Cleveland’s new home now had an intimate capacity of 42,865, but improved amenities. ​ Over the years, the ball club saw record attendance, three World Series pennants, and a slew of All-Stars and future Hall of Famers at “The Jake.” In recent years, renovations totaling $200 million helped modernize the stadium and reduce capacity to 34,820. They include new social areas, food options, lounges, new seating, and decorative art murals. These changes are hoped to provide a whole new game-day atmosphere for its fans. ​ Food & Beverage 4 Progressive Field is a cashless venue; all purchases for food, drinks, and merchandise must be made using digital payment methods. The stadium offers quite a few items from local favorites to ballpark classics at multiple stand-alone areas and kiosks. ​ Rally Burger offers double and triple burgers, Throwing Smoke is known for its barbacoa and chicken bowls, Batt’er Box is where you will find pastrami dogs, knishes, and po’ boys, and Happy Dog offers an array of brats, Italian sausages, and all-beef hot dogs. ​ Several new designated self-checkout areas are expected to reduce wait times. The Arcade Marketplace, located in Section 138, has been revamped into a grab-and-go market featuring items from Perry’s Ice Cream, Miller Bar, Market Garden, and La Cave Du Vin. The Landing, between sections 162 and 164, is also a self-checkout area featuring a wide selection of beverages and hot foods. Guardian’s Classic is on the upper deck and serves typical ballpark fare in self-checkout areas. ​ The team rolled out new items this season, including the Jackhammer sausage, Good Company Spicy Thai Fries, Sausage City Spicy Chicken, and Aladiib’s Med Dog. There are still old favorites: Kool Ranch chicken sandwich, fried bologna, Dante's Inferno pizza, and Barrio’s Mexican cuisine. Atmosphere 4 Progressive Field offers a lively, energetic atmosphere on most days during the season. The team puts out a winning product, and the numerous social areas, seating options, and family-friendly spots provide an epicenter for fans of all ages to enjoy a day at the ballpark. The Guardians replaced seating in several areas to create social spaces for fans. These areas are now known as the Paul Davis Pennant District, the Corner Bar in the Right Field District, the Terrace Garden area in the Left Field District, and the Home Plate Club in the Infield District. The Terrace Garden might have the best aerial views of the stadium and the surrounding neighborhood. It is an open-air rooftop social space and beer garden on Level 4 and open to all ticketed fans. The Corner Bar is another social spot in the Right Field District that offers around 40 craft and local beers and a rooftop deck. The Kid’s Clubhouse in Level 3 of the Right Field Concourse is a two-level activity for children that includes toys, games, interactive activities, and a two-story slide that wraps around a giant baseball bat. On Sundays, live music by Slider and the Hot Dogs is on the deck. Heritage Park in centerfield is home to the Guardians Hall of Fame plaques, in-game bricks that honor the club’s most memorable moments, and statues of Jim Thome and Frank Robinson. The park is also home to the bronze Ray Chapman plaque, who was killed by a pitch in 1920. Neighborhood 4 ​Progressive Field is located in Cleveland’s Gateway District, putting fans in the middle of a lively and walkable downtown entertainment area. The streets around the ballpark are packed with fans at numerous bars and restaurants. East 4th Street is a popular destination for accessibility to and from the stadium. ​ East 4th Street is a walkable, pedestrian-friendly block that includes favorites: Mabel's BBQ, Butcher and the Brewer, Barrio, Whistle Taproom & Pizza, and Flannery’s Pub. The Thirsty Parrot is the closest bar to the stadium. The Clevelander is a two-story bar with an outdoor seating area and plenty of games inside to keep the party going. ​ The Rocket Arena is right behind the left-field wall of Progressive Field, and fans can enjoy either a Cleveland Cavaliers or Cleveland Monsters game if the schedule permits it. About 2 miles west is the West Side Market, an impressive area for food of all sorts and sampling. They have some of the best beef jerky in the country. ​ If you are in town for the long weekend, check out more baseball action at ForeFront Field (Lake Erie Crushers), Classic Park (Lake County Captains), and the Baseball Heritage Museum and the Guardians former home, League Park. Adjacent to Progressive Field is Rocket Arena, home to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cleveland Monsters. ​ Fans 4 ​Guardians fans are loyal and dedicated but have been tested without their club winning a World Series since 1948. The ball club has made the playoffs 10 times this century, including an AL pennant in 2016. Due to the social areas, fans can be seen wearing jerseys and T-shirts, enjoying a day at the ballpark. ​ Access 4 Progressive Field is accessible by car, transit, and bike. There are multiple parking garages and lots within a 15- to 20-minute walk, along with on-street parking on certain days. Tower City Stadium is next to the stadium and is served by the Blue, Green, and Red Lines of the city's rapid transit system. There are three entry gates into the stadium, and they open an hour before the first pitch. The concourses are wide and wrap around the stadium. Escalators and elevators are clearly marked, and there are 41 restrooms, plus a sensory and breastfeeding room (located in the Kids’ Zone). Bags and soft-sided coolers are allowed as long as they don’t exceed 16”x16”x8”. They can include outside snacks; a single 20-ounce bottle of water and a juice box are allowed, but both must be factory sealed. Fans should be on the lookout for Slider, the club’s official mascot. ​ Return on Investment 4 Depending on the day or opponent, a ticket to a game can cost as low as $19 and as high as $37, according to secondary websites like TickPick. For fans 12 and under, tickets start at $10. Tickets cannot be purchased at Progressive Field; the ballpark uses a fully digital ticketing system. Since the ballpark is downtown, there are many parking options for the game. The parking garages around the stadium cost $20 to $30 per car, but much less if you park farther away and walk. The price for a 15-minute walk at a garage is $10-$15 on the SpotHero website. ​ There are two all-inclusive options. The Bottomless Bites package is available in the upper deck near Section 525 and costs $30 in addition to a single-game ticket. It includes unlimited hot dogs, chips, popcorn, peanuts, and fountain drinks. The Champions Club costs $45 when added to select tickets and provides a buffet that offers ballpark favorites and chef stations, along with unlimited soft drinks. ​ Extras 4 ​​Progressive Field earns extra points for its various social areas, along with its Kids’ Zone, which makes attending a game somewhat more festive for all types of fans. The stadium earns a second point for its Heritage Park, honoring the history of the ball club, and a third point for its decorative murals in and around the stadium. ​ The ballpark offers concession areas that feature local favorites and signature items. Barrio is a local taco spot, Sauce in the City serves its take on a hot chicken sandwich, Good Company introduced spicy Thai fries, and Aladdin’s Eatery sells the Med Dog, featuring beef kafta, hummus, and hot sauce. The Guardians earn a final point for the multiple revamped areas that have condensed concession areas into grab-and-go spots for shorter wait times and easier access. Final Thoughts Progressive Field offers everything you need at a major league ballpark, including a food selection, affordable tickets, social areas, and a nearby neighborhood worth staying in after the game. The Guardians fanbase is also fun to spend 9 innings with during the hot summer months. ​

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre 875 Morningside Avenue Toronto, Ontario M1C 0C7 Scarborough Shooting Stars website Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 2000 One Time for the Endsss “The Ends” is a slang term used to refer to one’s home. In Southern Ontario, it is often used to refer to Scarborough, the easternmost borough of Toronto. Scarborough has produced a number of famous people, including The Weeknd, Mike Myers and the Barenaked Ladies. When it comes to sports, Scarborough is usually forgotten as just being east of everything that is interesting. In 2021, Niko Carino and Sam Ibrahim set out to change that with an expansion team in the Canadian Elite Basketball League. Drake’s partner in founding OVO and a Scarborough businessman, respectively, brought the Shooting Stars to the east end with a specifically Scarborough identity rather than the typical Toronto identity. There was now a basketball team for the Endsss, the triple-s referring to the Scarborough Shooting Stars. The home for the Scarborough Shooting Stars is the fieldhouse in the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre. The TPASC opened in 2014 and hosted fencing, diving, swimming, synchronized swimming, and modern pentathlon for the 2015 Pan American Games. The facility is a partnership between the City of Toronto and the University of Toronto Scarborough, whose campus is adjacent to the facility. The fieldhouse has a seated capacity of 2,000 for basketball. Food & Beverage 3 The concession options at Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre are fairly simple. There are two main concession stands; one on the upper level and one on the court level. Hot dogs, pizza, and Jamaican beef patties are the main items available, with smaller snack items also available. Coca-Cola products are available in bottles along with water and juice. Beer, wine, and seltzers are there for those wishing for an alcoholic beverage, with a very limited selection. There is a Tim Hortons and Pizza Pizza in the lobby with some crossover operating hours. However, the lobby is outside the ticketing area and “outside food” is not permitted. Vending machines are also in the lobby and hall. Atmosphere 3 The Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre has an attractive exterior with grey panelling and yellow highlights. The main entrance for basketball is on the east side of the building across from Pan Am Drive. The other entrances will actually be unavailable during Stars games. Above the canopy of the main entrance is a model of Pachi the Porcupine, the mascot from the 2015 Toronto Pan Am Games. Upon entry, fans are brought into a huge atrium. There are a variety of facilities at the TPASC, including multiple swimming and diving facilities. Above the information desk, the mantra of the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre is spelled out, and in the hallway, a display of Olympians and Paralymians from the TPASC can be found. There is also a display for the University of Toronto Scarborough’s athletic teams as well as the school also uses this facility. A line will form at the point of entry for the fieldhouse, where the Shooting Stars play. Inside the fieldhouse, the court is south-north oriented with the best view of the centre court logo from the east. Fans enter from the upper level, which is also the running track. There are plenty of partitions around, which shrink the size of the facility and create private boxes. Seating is on the east and west side of the court and consists of retractable bleachers with plastic benches with backs. A pair of courtside rows are placed around the court as well and are far more comfortable seats. The facility is more akin to a USports basketball venue rather than an OHL venue like the other Ontario teams play in. On the north side, the 2023 CEBL Championship banner hangs as well as a huge banner with the slogan “One Time For The Endsss.” Above the boxes on the south side is a small video board, which pairs with traditional score clocks on the east and west side. Translucent windows at the top of the west side allow in some natural light. The gameday production at a Stars game is decent, however, there are restrictions compared to the other Ontario CEBL teams. There are no fireworks or pyro. It is assumed that it is not appropriate due to the facility. The in-game host keeps the production moving and facilitates on court promotions. The Shooting Stars’ mascot, Endssso, interacts with fans and participates in the promotions. Music is a big part of the production, but it is overwhelming. All seats have a close proximity to the court and the sounds of the game are inaudible due to the constant stream of music played throughout the game. More balance is needed as, at times, it seems that the product on the court is secondary to everything else. Neighbourhood 4 Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre is located in the Highland Creek neighbourhood of Scarborough on the east side of Toronto. Scarborough is east of Downtown Toronto, and there are a few spots for pre or post game food and drink. Some options include Zak’s Bar and Grill, Local Grill House, 1265 Bistro, as well as a number of fast food options and large chains. Toronto has a huge number of sporting options. In Scarborough, the Toronto Beaches of the OJLL are also found. Heading west to Downtown will bring fans to all of the traditional teams including the Blue Jays, Raptors, Maple Leafs , Argonauts, Toronto FC, Tempo, Sceptres, and Marlies. The CBL Maple Leafs have a similar seasonal schedule to the Stars. The main University of Toronto campus is where football, basketball, and hockey is played and is not far from Toronto Metropolitan University basketball and hockey. There are plenty of other tourist options. The Toronto Zoo is in Scarborough. Other spots close by include the Scarborough Museum, Scarborough Bluffs and Rosetta McClain Gardens. A wider net cast brings tourists to the Hockey Hall of Fame, Casa Loma, Ripley’s Aquarium and the iconic CN Tower. For fans who wish to stay near TPASC, the Super 8 Toronto is available as well as several BnBs and independent motels. A wider selection of international chain motels will require fans to journey closer to downtown Toronto. Fans 4 The Scarborough Shooting Stars have enjoyed a decent following relative to the size of their venue. With the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre as the smallest venue in the CEBL, the Shooting Stars have averaged a near capacity crowd for the season, at the time of writing. The Shooting Stars averaged 1,886 fans per game in the 2026 season, an increase of 28% from the 2025 average of 1,474. In the 2026 season, the Shooting Stars ranked 7th in the ten team CEBL in attendance, up from 9th the previous season. The game that was reviewed had over 2,300 fans in attendance. The fans in attendance are supportive and knowledgeable and make a sufficient amount of noise at the appropriate times. Access 3 Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre is located in the Highland Creek neighbourhood of Scarborough on the east side of Toronto. It is on the southeast corner of Morningside Ave and Pan Am Dr. It is just ½ km from Highway 401, so driving through Scarborough will not be too arduous. However, Highway 401 is one of the most travelled highways in the world, and the Toronto corridor can get extremely congested. Fans driving to the game should ensure they have plenty of time to get to the facility. There are a number of parking facilities surrounding the TPASC. They are marked as pay facilities, however, on the day of this review, paying for parking was not necessary. The TPASC is also a very busy facility with plenty of other activities, so parking can fill up. For fans wishing to take public transit there are buses that run along Morningside Ave and Military Trail Fans should consult the TTC website for fares, maps and schedules. Getting around TPASC is not too difficult, however, there are a couple of issues. There is a single entrance to the ticketing area. With over 2,000 fans in attendance, the line to get in before the game is quite significant. Once the gates open, it does move fairly quickly. The fieldhouse is also not the most comfortable, with the retractable bleachers, not on par with the other Ontario CEBL teams. More expensive seating offers more comfort. Washroom facilities are good for the venue. Security protocols are not an issue for Scarborough Shooting Stars games. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre is generally a cash-free venue. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the Scarborough Shooting Stars are very reasonable. Regular tickets are $25. Standing room can be had for less and courtside for more. Concessions, although limited, are decently priced, and parking will be free or have a nominal cost. The product on the court is strong, and the “Elam Ending” featured by the CEBL makes the end of the game more exciting than a traditional basketball game. The music is a little over the top and does take away a bit from the full experience. Extras 2 An extra mark for the use of a legacy venue from the 2015 Pan Am games. An extra mark for the CEBL “Elam Ending,” which produces a target score with 4 minutes remaining in the 4th quarter. Final Thoughts The Scarborough Shooting Stars have brought basketball to The Ends and have enjoyed success on the court and at the turnstile. It is good to see a continued, competitive use for a legacy venue from the 2015 Pan Am Games and a team the east end of Toronto can call their own. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @profan9.