Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 DCU Center 50 Foster St Worcester, MA 01608 Massachusetts Pirates website DCU Center website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 14,800 DCU’s Pirates Editor's Note: The Massachusetts Pirates relocated to Orlando and became the Orlando Pirates the end of the 2025 season. DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts is a dated facility, but the staff does a lot to make the experience fun for the fans. In addition to hosting the Massachusetts Pirates of the Indoor Football League (IFL), DCU Center also hosts the Worcester Railers of minor league hockey’s ECHL. The facility opened in 1982 and holds 14,800 fans – however, the upper level is curtained off during Pirates games due to the lower attendance at those games. Food & Beverage 4 Not all the concession stands at DCU Center are open during Pirates games, but there are plenty of options available, and there are also several bars in the facility, some of which have views of the field (there is a bar behind each end zone with seating that looks out onto the field). You can find all the traditional fare at Massachusetts Pirates games – hot dogs, burgers, pizza, chicken sandwiches, cotton candy, chips, pretzels, nachos, popcorn, and packaged candy, although you will have to check different stands to find all these items, as none of the stands sell them all. While there is no food item that stands out as unique, really, the drink selection is very wide, with plenty of beer, wine, and mixed drink choices, plus alcohol seltzers, bottled water, tea, coffee, and soda. In fact, the drink selection is probably larger than the food selection. Prices are a little hit and miss in terms of cost – hot dogs are $5, for example, which seems reasonable, but burgers and chicken sandwiches are $10 each, which seems on the high side. Regardless, you should be able to find something within your budget if you look around. Atmosphere 3 As I mentioned above, the facility is a little dated, but the seats are all chairbacks and have padding, which is a nice touch. The seats are also all very close to the field, so you have a good view of the action. The staff has the traditional fan contests, as well as the ubiquitous dance team and mascot. They also bring in local flag football teams (young kids) to scrimmage at halftime. The field itself is a bold blue in the Pirates colors, similar to a well-known FBS stadium you may have heard of. There are no pyrotechnics when the team comes onto the field, but the inflatable tunnel is really cool – it looks like a wooden sailing ship with a pirate (complete with hook hand) piloting it. They also have inflatable play areas for the kiddos in the lobby, and a massive team gear section. Neighborhood 3 A few blocks from DCU Center there are numerous eateries, including mostly Asian and fast food restaurants, as well as a couple of hotels (Hilton, Holiday Inn, AC, and Homewood Suites). There is also a huge hospital on the east side of the arena. Worcester is about 45 minutes west of Boston, so if you want, you can easily go into the big city if you are looking for more to do (there are lots of historical sites in Boston as you probably know, but also the traffic is pretty heavy). Fans 2 There are not too many fans at Massachusetts Pirates games, but they are into the game and many of them show up in Pirates gear, or the gear of other local teams. Access 5 There is very little traffic around DCU Center during Massachusetts Pirates games, so getting in and out is easy, and you can literally park right across the street for $10 in the parking deck – I don’t always like parking decks at sometimes they take forever to get out of, but in this case I was able to get out in minutes, and the walk was very short to the arena. There are plenty of bathrooms inside, the concessions lines are not long at all, and there is plenty of room to move around the concourse. You can’t really see the field from the concourse as there are black curtains hung at every entrance, but on the plus side there are plenty of tables and seating areas scattered around the concourse, so you don’t have to eat your food at your seat. Return on Investment 4 Including Ticketmaster fees, tickets to Massachusetts Pirates games are less than $25 each, which is pretty normal as far as professional sports go nowadays. Parking and concessions are also reasonable, so I would say this is a good return on investment. Note also they only have digital programs (just scan the QR code from the posters on the walls all over the arena) – on the plus side this makes them free, but it also leaves you without a physical souvenir. In full disclosure I did not get one of the programs, so I don’t know if they are downloadable such that you can keep a copy, or if they only last as long as the game. Extras 2 The dance team actually does a costume change during the game, which is very unique; I have not seen it at any other indoor football game, or any other sporting event for that matter. The facility also looks great from the outside with its huge bay windows, which gives fans great views from the inside.

Photos by Steve Ohnsman and Harrison Huntley, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.71 TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark 1251 21st Ave N Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Myrtle Beach Pelicans website TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 6,600 The Ticket to Success in Myrtle Beach The Myrtle Beach Pelicans have called TicketReturn.com Field their home since 1999 and it is an excellent minor league facility. Located across the street from a large entertainment/dining/shopping complex named Broadway at the Beach, anyone could make an entertaining day of the two properties. The City of Myrtle Beach is heavily oriented to tourists and families, offering many hotels/resorts/golf courses/restaurants, and the Pelicans staff appear to do a great job of attracting local residents and tourists. An unusually good amount of food and entertainment is available for children to make attending a game a great experience. The stadium offers 4,800 seats while there is room for a total of 6,599 including standing room. The Pelicans are the Advanced Class A team that have been affiliated with the Chicago Cubs since 2015. Food & Beverage 5 For a Class A ballpark, the Pelicans offer many choices and some unique food items. Start out at the Clark and Addison Grille in the right field corner which provides signature items such as the Chicago Double Play (beef and sausage) for $14.75, the Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Burger for $12.75, Buckner’s Beef Sandwich for $10, Lee Arthur Grass Fed Burger for $9.75, and Santo’s Italian Sausage for $9. There are also homemade potato chips (often included with sandwiches) and fried pork rinds served on the side. Other food stands in the lower concourse offer Chick-fil-A sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, nachos, corn dogs, locally made crab cake sandwiches, assorted cheesesteaks, and chicken waffle bites. A Boar’s Head stand offers three wraps and pulled pork. Hand-dipped or soft-serve ice cream is available in multiple flavors and preparations. The Windy City Wieners assembles the traditional Chicago hot dog with all the fixings. One item recommended by a number of fans is The Mordecai – three large “Chicken Bog Balls” with a spicy sauce and chips for only $7. Other fun alternatives are Hawk’s Chips and Dip, Sosa’s Turkey Dog and a Grand Slam Veggie Burger. Pepsi fountain products are served here, just like Wrigley: $3.75 for 24 oz or $5.50 for 32 oz in a souvenir cup. A wide-ranging choice of beers are available: 16 oz premium draft for $7 and 24 oz domestic drafts for $7.50. A “Pelicans Beer Bat” is $15. One stand offers Tito’s Vodka mixed drinks for $8. Bottled water goes for $3.75. If all these options do not serve you well, you must have gone to a seafood buffet before the game! Atmosphere 4 ReturnTicket.com Park offers something for everyone: casual and intense baseball fans, families, groups, tourists, local residents; even “foodies.” The natural grass field is well maintained and many trees behind the outfield walls provide an excellent backdrop. Seating alternatives include comfortable traditional plastic seats (originally from Angels Stadium of Anaheim – they are starting to show some wear with chipped paint), metal bleacher seats with backs, and bench seating in left field. Nine luxury suites are on the upper level around the infield. One unique option is Tito’s Beach Party along the left field line, where the beach comes to the park as fans are encouraged to take off their shoes and dig their toes into the sand; groups of 50-125 can enjoy this beach for $10/person. For some games, fans can buy tickets for this area. One major improvement is new LED lighting for the entire field. It is programmed to do light shows between innings. Like many minor league parks, activities between innings on the field abound and entertain the fans. An enjoyable mix of music is played throughout the game. Games are played at night here, perhaps to allow fans to enjoy the beach or golf during the day and/or to have cooler temperatures. Neighborhood 5 The Broadway at the Beac h across the street from the field consists of a lake surrounded by a Fishing Village, Boardwalk, and Mediterranean Village with 33 restaurants, entertainment venues, lots of shopping, three hotels and many other things to do. When large crowds are expected for a game, some fans spend time here before the game, leave their car parked in Broadway’s lot, walk across the street to the stadium, and can then avoid backed up traffic after the game. Since the park is located about 1.5 miles from the Atlantic Ocean with its many beaches, it’s easy to spend a day there and then enjoy a Pelicans game. Myrtle Beach has an amazing number of high quality restaurants at all price levels. So many, in fact, that we recommend using your favorite dining app. Fans 4 Because of the unique combination of tourism (one estimate shows over 14 million people visiting the area annually) and local population of 32,000 plus residents, the Pelicans draw some devoted local fans, groups, and local/tourist families to the park. The tourist factor is somewhat unique for Myrtle Beach. Fans come to see some promising young ballplayers and to enjoy the great food and entertainment. In 2018, the Pelicans averaged 3,327 fans per game, good for fifth in the Carolina League. Team mascot Splash is a lively, entertaining character who interacts with the fans throughout the stadium. Slider the Bat Dog is featured in a story about Bat Dogs around the Minor Leagues. The Pelicans Pro Shop is behind first base and accessible from the concourse as well as the parking lot; it offers a wide range of items for the fans. One quibble: all fans are given a small program at the gate that contains limited information and other parks offer a lot more. Access 5 Even though the city attracts so many tourists, getting to TicketReturn.com Field is convenient as US-17 and US-501 intersect nearby. The parking entrance is off Grissom Parkway; paved lots are behind the stadium and the parking is free (a word Stadium Journey really likes). Physically challenged fans will enjoy seating near section 103. The concourse is reasonably wide at the seats. The concession stands are below the seats, so fans cannot see the field while grabbing a bite or drink; same is true for the bathrooms. Return on Investment 5 Lower level seats go for $13 and upper level are $11, while left field bleacher seats cost $9. The team offers combination tickets to the game plus popular local attractions as well as many specials each day of the week. Considering the quality of the food, specials, and free parking, along with typical seat prices, this is a great value. Extras 5 One point for the new LED lighting and another for the innovative beach area. Another point for the Clark and Addison Grille and its friendly, customer-focused staff. Slider the Bat Dog is great fun to watch as he retrieves the bats for all players – another point. A final point for the large, well-stocked Pelicans Pro Shop. Final Thoughts Great food; excellent choice of craft beers; free parking; nearby Broadway at the Beach; Splash and Slider; friendly welcoming staff; and Myrtle Beach combine to make TicketReturn.com Field an easy choice for your visit. It is one of the best in the minors.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Alamodome 100 Montana St San Antonio, TX 78203 San Antionio Brahmas website Alamodome website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 72,000 San Antonio Brahmas – Alamodome Editor's Note: The San Antonio Brahmas ceased operations a in October 2025 after playing three seasons at the Alamodome. The early months of 2023 saw the second revival of the XFL, this time under the auspices of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and his business partners. This third iteration (XFL 3.0?) brought with it a new franchise in the Alamo City with the San Antonio Brahmas. Virtually every startup/experimental/spring/minor league football league has set up camp in San Antonio over the years. Running the alphabet gamut, San Antonio has been home to the WFL (San Antonio Wings), USFL (San Antonio Gunslingers), WLAF (San Antonio Riders), CFL (San Antonio Texans), AAF (San Antonio Commanders), Arena Football League (San Antonio Force and San Antonio Talons), and the New Orleans Saints for a brief spell following Hurricane Katrina. Since the early ‘90s, all these fledgling teams have called the venerable Alamodome their home. The Riders, Texans, Saints, Talons, and Commanders all preceded the Brahmas at the Dome. As always, the pro football-starved citizens of San Antonio have whole-heartedly embraced their new team and are one of the highest-attended teams in the XFL (just behind the St. Louis club), once again making the Alamodome a must-visit spot on the pro football landscape. Food & Beverage 4 While most of the Alamodome’s concession stands are not open on XFL game days (as the lower bowl on the concourse level is all that is available for seating), what is offered is still pretty darn good. As I have mentioned in other reviews of the Dome, there recently was a great emphasis to expand the food and beverage fare at the stadium – this included brining in local and regional chains with pared down, specialty menus for fans. These recent additions include local faves Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant (street tacos), Earl Abel’s (fried chicken), Big Bib BBQ (brisket sandwiches), Lagniappe Today (cajun nachos and tots), Rebecca Creek Distillery (liquor and cocktails), and the Alamo Beer Company (beer, of course, including a signature XFL brew). Other national brands on site include Papa John’s Pizza, Johnny Rockets, and Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs. There are also plenty of other non-branded stands on the main concourse offering up the standard hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, bottled sodas, waters, and beer. Speaking of beer, the new Te Amo Micheladas stand serves up the refreshing Mexican-style cocktail. Atmosphere 2 The XFL and the Brahmas will pretty much get a pass this inaugural season as this new iteration tries to get its footing on the sports landscape. With that said, there is still some work that needs to be done in terms of Atmosphere at the Alamodome for the Brahmas. When it comes to the stadium’s main tenants, the UTSA Roadrunners, there is signage, coloring, and banners aplenty. However, for the new team in town, there is not much if anything to be found. The team has converted the two merchandise areas to selling Brahmas gear, and the two emcees that host the games do their best to fire up the crowd (which does sport a surprising amount of Brahmas gear, both store bought and homemade) and get them to follow along with the “Horns Forward” chant. One pretty fun feature is the augmented reality that the team employs on the fan cam. Fans showing up on the jumbotron, through the magic of digital technology, suddenly have either their faces painted yellow and black or are sporting brahma horns. Neighborhood 5 The one thing that has continued to bring pro sports and big events continuously throughout the years to San Antonio and the Alamodome is its location. Situated near two major highways in the middle of the Alamo City’s popular and energetic downtown, the Dome is ideally suited for big-time sports. The Alamodome is within walking distance of the eponymous and legendary Alamo, famed San Antonio River Walk, lush Hemisfair Park, and awe-inspiring Tower of the Americas. All of these are must-see sites when visiting San Antonio, especially for the first time, and all can be seen either before or after (most) XFL games. When it comes to dining, this area of the city has an abundance of dining options, including some of the best in the region. The Historic Pearl has, in the past decade or so, become the go-to spot for those looking to sample some of the city’s finest food – some highlights include Bakery Lorraine, which is a classic French bakery and serves up delicious treats like house-made macarons and croissants. Another spot not to be missed is the award-winning Cured, which can be best described as a charcuterie forward restaurant. When it comes to places to stay, downtown San Antonio has you covered. There are dozens of options to suit everyone’s budget. There are also quite a few that are a short walk from the Alamodome; these include Staybridge Suites San Antonio Downtown Convention Center and City View Inn & Suites. There are also vacation rentals aplenty in the area, as the Alamodome abuts a residential neighborhood – again, it all depends on your budget. Fans 4 As a lifelong resident I am still continually amazed at how much San Antonians flock to each and every one of these teams that come to town. Thus far in their infancy, the Brahmas have proven to be a hit with the fans. I attended what was only the second home game in team history, and I was blown away by the amount of Brahmas apparel that was seen in the crowd. Fans came dressed in luchador masks; fans came face-painted, some with horns, some without. I even saw someone in a full Captain America-style outfit, modified with the Brahmas’ colors. The fans were loud, tried to get a wave going numerous times, and did their best to participate in the emcees’ “Horns Forward” chant. This is a city all about loyalty, especially with its sports teams – if the Brahmas can stick around, crowds at the Alamodome will only get bigger. Access 4 The Alamodome is located directly off State Highway 281/37, between Interstates 10 and 35 and a 14-minute drive from San Antonio International Airport, which has flights from destinations far and wide at all hours of the day. San Antonio is an hour and a half south of Austin, three and a half hours west of Houston, and four and a half hours from the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Parking is plentiful at the Alamodome with two paid lots ($20); parking is also available at houses and businesses around the stadium. If you would rather not drive yourself to the game or take a rideshare, San Antonio’s mass transit option, VIA Metropolitan Transit, has park and ride options you can take that will run you less than $3 per person roundtrip. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for Brahmas games start at $29 per person. The merchandise was a little on the pricey side, with the cheapest t-shirt option around $30. Concessions are what they are, cost wise – the closest comparison would be a high-end minor league ballpark in terms of dollars. The bargain is in the parking, especially if you use park and ride, rideshare, or one of the driveways in the area. To be quite honest, the football on the field is a little rough right now in the XFL. I think there is plenty of room for improvement in the presentation of the product, as well. However, if you’re a sports fan or a football junkie, this will tide you over ‘til the regular season starts in the Fall. Extras 1 There is not much in terms of Extras at XFL games; I can only assume this is being done to keep operating costs down. This includes no cheerleaders, mascots, nor other types of football trappings to engage fans. There was supposed to be a tailgate area/fan zone set up before the game I attended, but that was rescheduled due to the weather. The Brahmas do employ a DJ, so there is that if it’s something you’re interested in. The team also promotes its head coach, NFL great Hines Ward, quite a bit. There are also contests giving away signed swag sprinkled in during the breaks in the action. Final Thoughts I’m a football fan and a lifelong San Antonian – I’ve seen pretty much every one of the defunct teams that I mentioned above, and I supported all of them as well. I want this iteration of the XFL to succeed as a fan; I think it’s better for the sport if one of these spring leagues can sustain itself long-term. With that in mind, I think you have to be a true fan of the sport, or someone from this area, to want to come and see a Brahmas game at the Alamodome. With a little time, I’m hoping the experience will become more of a must see. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Choctaw Stadium 1000 Ballpark Way Arlington, TX 76011 Arlington Renegades website Choctaw Stadium website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 48,114 Arlington Renegades – Choctaw Stadium Editor's Note: In 2026, the Arlington Renegades rebranded as the Dallas Renegades and moved to Toyota Stadium in Frisco, TX. In 2020, WWE Owner and Chairman Vince McMahon relaunched the XFL, bringing a team to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Then the pandemic happened and the XFL, like much of the rest of the world, shut down. In 2023, Dwayne Johnson and his business partners relaunched the league and returned a team to north Texas with the Arlington Renegades. The 2023 iteration of the Renegades will once again call Choctaw Stadium their home field. Formerly the home of MLB’s Texas Rangers until 2019, Choctaw Stadium (nee Globe Life Park, among other names) was retrofitted in 2020 for use for football and soccer. As the XFL finds its footing, it seems to have found one of its anchor franchises in Arlington. Choctaw Stadium has also adapted well to this new sports chapter of its existence. Read on to learn more about the Renegades in north Texas. Food & Beverage 4 When it comes to food and beverage choices, the options at Choctaw Stadium are above and beyond the norm. The stadium has carried over many of the options from its MLB days into its new existence, and this puts it on another level. You can always find your typical game day options such as hot dogs (although gourmet options are offered as well), burgers, nachos, popcorn, soft pretzels, etc. There are numerous stands along the main concourse for these. Fans can also opt for fish and chips, gussied up mac and cheese (Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese, for example), barbecue sandwiches (chicken, brisket, and pulled pork), ice cream and milkshakes, and quesadillas. There are also lots of beer vendors and a couple of Irish pubs for those looking to imbibe some adult beverages. Atmosphere 2 When it comes to atmosphere at XFL games, at least the ones I’ve attended so far, there is quite a bit of room for improvement across the league. While the stadium was, as mentioned, retrofitted to accommodate football, there are still tons of vestiges from its former baseball life present. It is, honestly, a little awkward. There are team merchandise stands set out across the main concourse, and the Renegades have also taken advantage of using the physical team store. In addition they set up a DJ and video screen for fans in one of the end zones, but beyond that, there is not much else. Neighborhood 4 When it comes to the neighborhood, Choctaw Stadium is in a prime spot. It is literally next door to the new Globe Life Field and lies in the shadow of AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. While (by design) the Cowboys season will be over by the time the Renegades begin play each season, the Rangers will be starting their season at the tail end of XFL play. So, there is a chance that you can double-dip on games when you visit Arlington. What really works in Choctaw Stadium’s favor is the new entertainment district surrounding all the stadiums called Texas Live! This mixed-use area features restaurants, shopping, hotels, and additional entertainment options. Dining options include numerous spots with local flare, including Troy’s, a high-end family eatery from Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman. Also on-site is Pudge’s Pizza, a pizzeria from Hall of Fame catcher Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez. There is also Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint and the Lockhart Smokehouse among your dining choices. Texas Live! will also be home in the near future to the National Medal of Honor Museum, giving visitors one more option for things to do and see when they take in games at Choctaw Stadium. The museum will preserve and tell the stories of the select few service members to earn our nation’s highest military honor. It is under construction and is slated to open in the fall/winter of 2024. The compound around Choctaw Stadium is also the site of the largest theme park in the state and its sister water park, Six Flags Over Texas and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. For fans of roller coasters, wave pools, costumed characters, and inner tubes, you can get passes for the day when you visit Arlington to take in a Renegades game. For lodging, as mentioned, Texas Live! has options for that. The main option now is Live by Loews Arlington, which is on the higher end of the spectrum in terms of cost. On the lower end is Courtyard by Marriott Dallas Arlington/Entertainment District, which, while not within walking distance, is less than five minutes away. Fans 3 The Renegades are currently drawing around 12,000 fans per game at Choctaw Stadium. That’s a pretty good number, especially with all the other options entertainment-wise that the Metroplex has to offer. At the most recent game I attended there were a ton of fans sporting Renegades gear, both officially licensed and homemade varieties. The fans were engaged from the jump and were loud throughout the game (which honestly was a bit of a snooze fest). Despite the challenge of the on-field action, the fans never lost interest. They even got a wave going, which was honestly one of the better ones I’ve seen in recent years. Access 3 The city of Arlington is just over a 20-minute drive from both Dallas and Fort Worth. It’s also a three-hour drive from Austin and just about four from both San Antonio and Houston. Choctaw Stadium is right around 15 minutes away from DFW International Airport (one of the largest and busiest in the United States) and just over 20 minutes away from Love Field Airport. Once there, parking is plentiful. If you’re choosing not to drive to Renegades games, your options are a little limited outside of rideshare programs. There is a trolley service in the entertainment district that will shuttle you from spot to spot, including Choctaw Stadium. But however you choose to get there, Choctaw Stadium is easy to find. Return on Investment 3 Single game tickets for the Arlington Renegades at Choctaw Stadium start at just $11 per person; this is the real bargain in the whole enterprise of attending a game. Parking, which again is plentiful, will run you between $20-$30 if you park in one of the designated lots around the stadium. Concessions, while not exactly cheap, aren’t on the same pricing scale as they were when the Rangers were in the building. I think, however, if you’re a football fan this is still going to be far more cost effective than going to a game at nearby AT&T Stadium. Extras 1 In terms of Extras there is not much offered up to fans at Renegades games – there are no cheerleaders nor mascots, and no effects like fireworks or pyro. The team has partnered with a local motorcycle club, and they do ride out before the team at the start of the game, though. The lack of extras is all probably an effort to keep costs down for the XFL as a whole, but more will need to be done going forward. Football games are events and need to be presented as such. Final Thoughts If you’re a football fan, like I am, you’re hoping that the XFL is able to make it stick this time around. There is plenty of room for growth, both with the league overall and with the Renegades at Choctaw Stadium. The product overall will hopefully get better, but if you’re a football fan, you’ll be able to find enjoyment in it. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Johnson Hagood Stadium 68 Hagood Ave Charleston, SC 29403 The Citadel Bulldogs website Johnson Hagood Stadium website Year Opened: 1948 Capacity: 11,500 Precision & Pageantry The Citadel serves as the Military College for the state of South Carolina. It was founded in 1842 and currently has a Corp of Cadets of 3,793. The school’s athletic teams are known as the Bulldogs, and they play at the NCAA Division 1-AA level (FCS) of competition. The Bulldogs compete in the Southern Conference. The football home of the Bulldogs is Johnson Hagood Stadium. The stadium is named for a former Brigadier General and Governor of South Carolina. Johnson Hagood graduated from The Citadel in 1847. The stadium has gone through numerous renovations over the last 80 years. These renovations included the construction of the Altman Athletic Center, which stands behind the South end zone. The lower level of the building houses both the home and visiting team locker rooms, while the upper level is devoted to a clubhouse for major athletic donor activities. The Altman Athletic Center’s architecture mimics the castle like structures found on The Citadel campus. Most of the seating at Johnson Hagood Stadium is on the west or home side of the field, which went through major renovations over the last few years. There are temporary bleachers on the east side of the field. The school has plans to expand the visitor’s side seating in the future. Food & Beverage 4 The concessions program at Johnson Hagood Stadium features both permanent stands, as well as a rotating set of food trucks. There are two permanent stands on the west side of the stadium, while the east stands are serviced by a food truck. The permanent stands mainly feature stadium standards, including chicken fingers ($12), burgers ($12), fries ($5), hot dogs ($5), popcorn ($7), peanuts ($10) candy ($3). Beverages include bottled water ($3) and Pepsi brand sodas ($4). Fans can order their food and beverages on their phones and will be notified when their order is ready. This minimizes the time away from watching the game and shortens the lines at the concession stands considerably. Atmosphere 4 There are several unique traditions linked to athletic programs at military institutions. Before each game, the Corp of Cadets marches from the campus to the stadium with the Regimental Band. They then form a corridor for the team to run though before the opening kickoff. Prior to the Homecoming and Parent’s Day games, the Corp of Cadets conducts a full Military Dress Parade on Summerall Field at 11am. The entire Charleston community turns out to watch this pageantry, even if they have no plans to attend the game. The Citadel has both a human mascot and a pair of live mascots to get the fans charged up. The costumed human Bulldog is known as Spike, and the pair of purebred English Bulldogs are named General and Boo. The Bulldogs have longstanding rivalries with three opponents... Virginia Military Institute (VMI), Furman University and Charleston Southern. These rivalry games date back to the 1920’s. The Citadel bookstore operates a spirit shop in the plaza outside Gate 1 during every home game. Neighborhood 4 Johnson Hagood Stadium is located just south of The Citadel campus in Downtown Charleston. This is a very walkable area located near the east bank of the Ashley River. The Charleston area is filled with several popular tourist attractions. These include the Battery, Fort Sumter, Rainbow Row, the plantations along the river, and the USS Yorktown. There are several lodging options near the stadium. They include the Charleston Marriott and the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Charleston Downtown. Restaurants nearby include Honeysuckle Rose and Crave Hot Dogs and BBQ, which is known for its Low Country style of barbeque. Johnson Hagood Stadium offers easy access to both Highway 17 and I-26. These thoroughfares lead to plantations along the Ashley River to the west, as well as the Charleston waterfront and the Battery, and Mt. Pleasant/ Patriot’s Point to the east. Fans 4 The crowds at The Citadel football games are a mix of the Cadet Corp, Citadel alumni, Charleston locals and fans from the visiting teams. As you would expect, it is a well-behaved, but enthusiastic crowd. You will not hear any trash talking from a member of the Cadet Corp, but some alums and Charleston locals are not restricted by the Cadet Code of Conduct. Tailgating is very popular at The Citadel. The area just outside of the stadium is filled with white and blue tents. Visitors from the opposite team are invited to join as a gesture of Southern hospitality. The stadium also features a Kids Zone, which opens 90 minutes prior to kickoff. It is called Spike’s Kidet Club Kids Zone. The stadium’s small capacity gives fans a very intimate feeling for the action on the field. You are much closer to the field, so you hear the hard hits and see the plays develop in a way that is not possible in a mega-sized stadium. Access 4 Gamedays provide easy access for fans of the Bulldogs. The parking areas open four hours prior to the kickoff, leaving plenty of time for alums and other fans to set up and enjoy tailgating activities. The Will Call window opens two hours prior to the start of the game. Stadium gates and the Altman Center open 90 minutes prior to kickoff. There is a short period prior to each game where Hagood Avenue and Congress Street are shut down. This is to accommodate the Corp of Cadets as they march from the campus into the stadium Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices range from $36 for red zone seats (between the 20-yard lines), to $30 for goal line seats (20-yard line down through the end zone). Tickets on the east side of the stadium are general admission seats, and cost $22. Concessions are relatively expensive for the basic foods on the menu. Out-of-town fans will find that the hotels located near the Citadel are on the expensive side, as Charleston is a major tourist destination. Parking in one of the stadium’s lots ranges from $10-$20. Extras 4 Johnson Hagood Stadium hosted both the 1983 and 1984 FCS National Championship games. Like many other military institutions, The Citadel celebrates kickoffs, field goals and touchdowns with cannon fire. Be prepared… we would hate for you to spill your drink! There is a wonderful selfie opportunity in front of the Bulldog statue in the northwest corner of the stadium. The statue was a gift from The Citadel Class of 1968. A new multi-panel videoboard was installed in 2021 thanks to a gift from the Class of 1973. The largest panel measures 26 feet high X 51 feet wide, with the smaller panels measuring 15 feet high X 13 feet wide each. Final Thoughts The Citadel’s home games at Johnson Hagood Stadium are a unique blend of military pageantry, the charm of Charleston culture and the love for college football in the South. Win or lose, it is an experience you won’t forget.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Buccaneer Field 9200 University Blvd North Charleston, SC 29406 Charleston Southern Buccaneers website Buccaneer Field website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 4,000 The Buc's Play Here Charleston Southern University is a private university founded in 1964. It is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The school has a student body of 3,874 students. The school’s athletic teams are known as the Buccaneers, and they compete in the Big South Conference at the FCS level of Division I sports. The home of the Buccaneers football program is the on-campus Buccaneer Stadium. It has a capacity of 4,000. The stadium opened in 1970, but the school did not field a football team until 1991. Over the years, the stadium has undergone several improvements. In 2014 lighting was added to the field, as Charleston Southern does play a lot of night games. In 2015 Buccaneer Plaza was built, adding a new entryway, decorative ironwork fencing, ticket booths and landscaping. In 2021, a Field Turf playing surface was installed, as the field is heavily used by multiple sports. In 2024, new seating was installed for the season ticket holder’s section of the seating bowl. Food & Beverage 3 The main concession stand is located on the home side of the stadium, and serves stadium standards, including burgers, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, candy, sodas and water. Chick-fil-A sandwiches are also sold at the main stand. A second, smaller stand is located behind the south end zone. The food offerings at Buccaneers home games center around a combination of permanent food stands and a revolving set of food trucks/carts. Overall, the prices are very reasonable compared to most college venues. Atmosphere 4 Buccaneer Stadium offers an intimate experience for fans due to its smaller size. Most of the seating is in the grandstand on the west side of the field. This area includes the season ticket section, which includes brand new seats. The remainder of the grandstand features bench seating with seatbacks. The visitors’ section is located on the east side of the field, with a much smaller capacity of bleacher seating. The Field Turf field features the Bucky mascot logo at midfield and Charleston Southern Buccaneers lettering in the end zone, which is a nice touch. The Pride of the Low Country Marching band and the Buccaneer’s cheer squads do a great job keeping the fans energized. One of their signature songs is the spiritual “I’m So Glad”. This has the entire stands swaying in their seats and singing along. You’ll feel like you’re at a camp meeting! Neighborhood 3 North Charleston is a suburb of the Charleston, SC area. The immediate area around Charleston Southern is made up of medical facilities, office parks and small shopping centers. There are several fast-food restaurants (Wendy’s, Zaxby’s, Sonic, Arby’s and Cookout) in the immediate area around the school. However, we recommend Willy Jewell’s Old School BBQ, for its wonderful Low Country style offerings. There are several hotels located within a one-mile radius of Charleston Southern. These include the Fairfield by Marriott Inn and Suites Charleston North, the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Charleston-North, and the Hampton Inn and Suites North Charleston. The Holiday Inn Express is within walking distance of Buccaneer Field, saving you the cost of parking. Downtown Charleston is a half hour drive via I-26 from the CSU campus. It is one of the top tourist destinations along the Atlantic Coast. It is known for its lovely homes along the Battery, historic Ft. Sumter, and wonderful cuisine in its many highly rated restaurants. Fans 4 CSU fans are big on tailgating prior to games. They set up their tents early and have great spreads of food. As the gametime draws closer they line up along the campus roads to welcome the team, the band and the spirit teams on their pregame walk to the stadium. The student body and the alumni turn out in large numbers for Buccaneers home games. They will be dressed in the blue and gold team colors and know many of the team’s players on a personal level, due to the school’s small size. As you would expect at a church-related school, you will not experience any foul language or trash talking in this crowd. They are very polite and welcoming to visiting fans. If the little fans get restless, there is a pirate-themed play area located at the south end of the stadium. Access 4 Charleston Southern University is located 18 miles northeast of downtown Charleston, SC. It can be easily accessed via exits 205A and B of I-26. From exit 205, head east on University Boulevard (Highway 78). The Charleston Southern campus and Buccaneer Stadium will be on your left. Parking is available on campus lot E, which is just across Buc Club Boulevard from the stadium. Return on Investment 4 The cost of attending a home game at Buccaneer Field is quite reasonable compared to the cost at most college stadiums. Tickets for Buccaneer home games are available at several price points. Blue seats at the 50-yard line are $36.50, Gold seats between the 20-yard lines are $26.50, general admission seats in the bleacher areas are $11.50. Military members pay only $5. CSU staff and students receive free admission. Parking in Lot E on Buc Club Boulevard is $5. Extras 4 The Buccaneer’s main rivals are The Citadel and Coastal Carolina. Instead of the foam fingers you usually find at a team store, the Buccaneer fans sport foam pirate sabers to create swashbuckling spirit for the home team. There is a small team store stand located at the stadium. Each Buccaneer home game has a theme. Games against Gardner Webb feature a North-South BBQ Bowl theme, the Citadel rivalry game is known as the Low Country Boil Bowl. The final home game of each season has a Salute to the Seniors theme. The Charleston Southern campus is quite lovely, with its academic buildings mirrored along a large reflecting pool. Be sure to tour the campus before or after a game. Final Thoughts Attending a home football game at Charleston Southern University allows you the unique opportunity to walk, talk and cheer like a pirate. You’ll have a swashbuckling time!

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Coyer Field 801 Grant Street Buffalo, NY 14213 Buffalo State Bengals website Coyer Field website Year Opened: 1960s Capacity: 3,000 Bengals R Us SUNY Buffalo State is one of two college football teams in the city of Buffalo, New York. The Bengals compete in the NCAA’s Division III and offer a solid atmosphere in a small stadium. The tailgating is great, and includes local groups and individuals selling food and drinks, in addition to concessions inside the stadium. The Bengals play at Coyer Field, which opened in the early 1960s and is named after a legendary coach and athletic director at the school, Hubert "Hube" Coyer. The facility holds 3,000 fans in stands on one side of the field, and boasts a stellar press box for a school at this level. The state-of-the-art press box was built in 2015, replacing the old one, and the venue received other upgrades in 2019, including FieldTurf Vertex. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions scene at Coyer Field is interesting; the only concessions inside the venue are a Chick-fil-A stand and a food truck from Rock Burger. Rock Burger, though, is an amazing option, with locally renowned stuffed burgers – the most interesting (and tasty!) option is probably the Oh My Oreo burger, a burger topped with Oreo pieces, frosting, and bacon. While that may sound weird, the taste is amazing; just enough sweetness not to overwhelm the flavor of the burger, and you can get it with spicy tots. Besides the two options inside the facility, local groups and individuals also sell food and drinks outside in the parking lots; I saw plenty of fans walking around with food like hot dogs and coleslaw, and I saw another setup in the parking lot behind the stadium selling smoked meats (with a smoker on site). Atmosphere 2 During my most recent visit it was homecoming, so that may have disrupted the normal routine. I did not see a mascot or a marching band, only cheerleaders, but I overheard this may have been due to the homecoming court happening during halftime, so the band wasn’t allowed to perform. There is a video board behind one end zone which showed fun graphics at different points in the game, such as buffaloes running through the snow after the Bengals scored. There is also plenty of bright orange and other Bengals-themed signage. All the seats are bleachers without backs. Neighborhood 4 Directly outside Coyer Field along Grant Street is Buffalo’s West Side, a mix of international communities. Here you will find a variety of different ethnic restaurants, everything from Italian pizza to Himalayan cuisine. Alternatively, if you head east you will find Elmwood Village, one of Buffalo’s most affluent neighborhoods, full of Victorian homes and boutiques. Elmwood Village also boasts many of Buffalo State’s favorite student hangouts, such as Coles Restaurant or Elmwood Taco & Subs (ETS). If you want to double up on your football weekend, you can also visit the Buffalo Bills’ new facility, Highmark Stadium, which opened in 2026. The NFL’s newest venue is ultra-modern, with about two-thirds of the seats under cover from the elements. Highmark also boasts some great concessions options, such as the Red & Blue burger, 3 varieties of skillet cookies, and even beer horns; a plastic horn you can wear around your neck and fill with your favorite brew. Fans 3 The stands were mostly full during my most recent visit to Coyer Field, and there was a lot of crowd noise in support of the Bengals. That said, this was also Homecoming, so I think the attendance would be a lot less during a typical game. I did see many fans sporting Buffalo State orange, which is great to see. Access 4 Coyer Field is easy to get to, only about 8 miles off I-90 along either NY-33 or I-190; either of these will take you to NY-198 (The Scajaquada Expressway). From there you will see the facility as soon as you take the Grant Street exit – you practically can’t miss it. There is free parking either behind the stadium (Lot L-1), if you veer left and go around the curve as you enter, or on the front side in lots G-24, G-22, or I-39. From any of these lots you are literally only a few steps from the stadium’s gates. The only potential issue is that the walkways around the grandstand itself are a little funky; some of the seeming entrances/exits are blocked off, so you can’t always come or go in places that look like access points from the outside. Return on Investment 3 There is not much going on at Coyer Field besides the football game itself, so I am not sure I would recommend it unless your team happens to be playing there, or if you have some other connection to Buffalo State. Tickets are only $7, parking is free, and concession prices are reasonable, so it won’t cost a lot if you decide to make the trip. Extras 2 The press box looks great, with its modern look and industrial coloration. The tailgating scene is also great; it is not often that a school has concessions outside the facility as well as inside. Final Thoughts If you are in the area and want to get your college football fix, Buffalo State offers a stress-free, low-cost way to see a game. The Bengals logo and orange color really pop, and you will be able to grab some great food while you watch the action.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Kentner Stadium 211 Manchester Athletic Center Winston-Salem, NC 27109 Wake Forest Demon Deacons website Kentner Stadium website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 4,000 Black and Gold at Kentner For over a century after its founding in 1834, Wake Forest University was located in its namesake suburb north of Raleigh. In 1946, after receiving financial support from the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, the school decided to move a hundred miles west to a new campus in Winston-Salem. Today, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons are members of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and has won three national championships, in 2002, 2003, and 2004. The Wake Forest field hockey team has called Kentner Stadium home since 1990. Originally known as Campus Stadium, the venue was renamed after athletic donor Jeff Kentner in 1997 and extensively renovated in 2004 to bring it up to elite standards. Food & Beverage 2 Kentner Stadium features a small concession cart located behind the press box. The stand features Italian Ice as well as assorted snacks such as candy, chips, bottled water, and soft drinks. Prices are reasonable, with nothing costing more than a few dollars, but we recommend you eat before or after the game. Atmosphere 4 Kentner Stadium is located in a picturesque setting, surrounded by brick buildings with the steeple of Wait Chapel rising high in the air off to the right. The only downside is the running track surrounding the field, putting fans quite a distance from the action, hurting what is otherwise an outstanding atmosphere. Before the game starts, a pregame hype video plays on the large video board as "I'm a Survivor" plays over the PA system. A second hype video plays just before the start of the second half, featuring the mascot pumping up the crowd as the team takes the field. The PA announcer will lead the crowd in "Wake ... Forest" call-and-response chants at big moments such as penalty corners. Overall, the atmosphere at Kentner Stadium is very good and well above what you would expect for college field hockey. Neighborhood 3 As Kentner Stadium is located in the middle of the Wake Forest campus, there is not much to do in the immediate vicinity. However, downtown Winston-Salem is a ten minute drive away and features many more options. Foothills Brewing features many varieties of beer as well as a full-service restaurant. The Camel City BBQ Factory serves up exactly what you'd expect - good, old-fashioned, Carolina Barbecue. You can also find just about any other kind of food ranging from burgers, to Italian, to Thai. Fans 4 Wake Forest draws several hundred fans to a typical field hockey game, which is above average for the sport. The crowd features not just friends and family of the players, but many other Demon Deacons fans as well. They will join in with the PA announcer in the "Wake ... Forest" chant and are generally passionate and knowledgeable about their team. Although the bleachers are larger than they need to be for the crowds the team draws, you can still feel the energy here. Access 3 Free parking is available in a large lot across the street from Kentner Stadium. Once you get to the stadium, you will go through a security checkpoint, rare for the sport, before heading to your seat. Restrooms are located down a stairway at field level, which can take a few minutes to get to. There are also no signs for them, although if you ask, staff will direct you. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Wake Forest field hockey games is free, parking is also free, and concessions are reasonably priced, if limited. Overall, a game at Kentner Stadium is an outstanding value. Extras 3 Look for the signage throughout the stadium honoring Wake Forest's three straight national championships from 2002 through 2004 as well as its four ACC titles. There are flags at the bottom of the bleachers of all the countries Wake Forest players hail from. Field hockey is an international sport and the roster reflects it. Look for the promotional table at the top of the bleachers with roster cards, posters, and other giveaways. Final Thoughts Kentner Stadium is an outstanding place to watch a college field hockey game. The setting around the stadium is gorgeous, the crowds are passionate, and you can watch a program with a storied history completely free of charge. If you are a fan of field hockey, you will want to make the trip down to Winston-Salem to check out a Wake Forest game.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Gerald J. Ford Stadium 5800 Ownby Dr University Park, TX 75205 First Responder Bowl website Gerald J. Ford Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 32,000 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl In the landscape of college football bowl games, the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is a relative newcomer - it began with the name Ticket City Bowl in 2011, changed its name to the Heart of Dallas bowl in 2013, before settling in with the current name in 2018. It was originally played in the venerable Cotton Bowl located in historic Fair Park before moving to its current location on the SMU campus, in the more upscale University Park neighborhood of Dallas. Gerald J. Ford Stadium opened on the SMU campus in 2000, on the site of former Ownby Stadium. Named after alum and donor Gerald J. Ford, the stadium was built in the collegiate-Georgian architectural style that is prevalent on campus. As part of its 32,000 seats, expandable if needed, there are over 2,100 club level seats plus 2,000 seats in 41 luxury suites. There is a giant HD video screen perched at each end of the stadium – all fans, regardless of their location, are able to see one of the scoreboards easily to view replays, advertisements, and up-close pictures of on field special recognitions. The sound system is clear, and can even be heard one block away at the parking garage. Seating for the stadium is in a horseshoe, with the south end zone open; this latter end zone houses the newest addition to Ford Stadium, the $100 million Garry Weber End Zone Complex and Armstrong Football Center. Built in 2022, largely through generous donations from donors Garry Weber, Bill Armstrong, and Liz Martin Armstrong, the three-story complex houses SMU’s football performance facilities, coach’s and administrative offices, hospitality and recruiting areas, and Letterman’s Lounge. In addition, there are 1,200 exclusive suite level seats inside. Food & Beverage 4 Concession stands and kiosks serving general foods are plentiful – there are 10 full-service concession stands plus at least 10 more drink only portable stands and walk-thru lines. Bagged snacks, such as chips and peanuts, are also available at the walk-thrus to take some of the traffic out of the full-service lines. Most foods you would expect are available in the general concession stands – the all-beef hot dogs and nachos are the heartiest items, costing $7 each. Giant pretzels ($7), giant popcorn ($8), peanuts ($6), cookies ($5), candy ($5), and chips ($4) are all options, while a couple of unique offerings include Takis ($5) or a cup of melted cheese ($1). In addition to regular snack bar items, there are some Dallas centric choices available; Mi Cocina offers MiCoRitas frozen margaritas, while Ferris Wheelers and Rudy’s both serve barbecue items, and Nutty Bavarian Nuts has a stand for their snacks. Coca-Cola products are offered in 32 ounce souvenir cups, which cost $7. Other drinks include Powerade ($6), Dasani water ($5), Smart water ($7), and domestic beers ($11). Beer options included Coors light, Miller light, Modelo, and Michelob Ultra, as well as a local brew, Pony Pils. Pony Pils is an American Golden Lager brewed by local brewer, Lakewood Brewing, specifically for SMU. Lakewood donates $1 per case to a scholarship fund to be used for a STEM scholarship given to future brewers. SMU has posted numerous concession maps on the walls in the concourse for fans to reference. For the First Responder Bowl, this map proved very helpful but not 100% accurate – there were some specialty offerings listed on the map that were unavailable during the bowl game. Atmosphere 5 The two teams playing in the game go a long way in determining the overall atmosphere. Since moving from the spacious Cotton Bowl, which seats well over 90,000, to Ford Stadium, the game atmosphere has been improved with crowds ranging from 10,000-28,000. The First Responder Bowl Committee strives to invite at least one team that is either a service academy or located in Texas to ensure local fan interest. Teams chosen to play since the move to SMU have included North Texas, Texas State, UTSA, Rice, and Air Force. Directly across Ownby Drive from the west side of the stadium, in the parking lot of the Meadows Museum, there is a free public tailgating area set up. Here, fans are offered free food and drink with donations being accepted for nonprofit agencies that are represented. In addition to the food and drinks, there are also children’s games and other giveaway items available for fans to take home as souvenirs. At the most recent game I attended, two Texas teams played and the crowd was electric, even though both teams had records that were barely above .500. Split almost evenly, half the crowd roared after each play while the remaining fans groaned. Both schools were able to bring full bands, dance teams, and cheer squads to support their team as well. With such large numbers of alumni in attendance, each school hosted large tailgates on The Boulevard, 50 yards apart from one another. This made for a great scene as the tree-lined street was filled with green and white on one end and maroon and gold on the other. Upbeat dance music pumped from both locations, and laughter and conversation could be heard between drum beats as the smell of the grills wafted through the oaks. Neighborhood 4 Ford Stadium is located on the campus of SMU, which is in the University Park neighborhood of Dallas. University Park is a stable, upper-middle class neighborhood with numerous restaurants and shopping areas along Interstate 75. There are also many food choices along Hillcrest Avenue, which forms the western edge of campus – restaurant options range from Jimmy John’s and Bubba’s Cooks Country to Kyoto Sushi, Torchy’s Tacos, Desperado’s Mexican, and Campisi’s Egyptian Italian; this list only represents a small number of the numerous options available within a short walk of the stadium. Hotel accommodations are plentiful within 2 miles of the SMU campus. There are several luxury choices including The Lumen and The Beeman. Other options that are less expensive but still highly rated include DoubleTree by Hilton-Campbell Centre, Hyatt House/Lincoln Park, and La Quinta Inn-Uptown. Fans 4 Crowds for the First Responder Bowl are dependent on the teams playing and the weather. Usually scheduled for the first week of January, Texas weather can be fickle. With average high temperatures in North Texas normally in the mid-50s and a 60% chance of sunshine on the typical winter afternoon, fans consider this ideal football weather. With good weather, regionally relevant schools, and the intimate setting that Gerald J. Ford Stadium provides, the crowd is typically engaged and involved in the game. The most recent game I was able to witness seemed more like a long-running rivalry game than a year end bowl experience, based on the fan reactions. Both fan bases were out in force and cheered their respective teams on as heartily as possible. Access 3 The Southern Methodist campus is easily accessible using the Mockingbird exit off I-75 (North Central Expressway). It is a short drive from either major airport, only 20 minutes from Dallas Love Field and 30 minutes from DFW International Airport. However, if taking public transportation is your preference, the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) light rail Red, Orange, and Blue lines all stop at SMU/Mockingbird Station, which is within an easy half mile walk of the stadium. Traffic flow is marked with signage, which assists fans to find parking and entrances to the stadium. Prepaid parking passes are available for $20, which is a normal parking charge for parking in the DFW metro area. The neighborhood around SMU’s campus is fairly flat and well-marked which is beneficial for walking. Once inside the stadium there are many signs posted and friendly ushers available to help direct you to your seat, or assist with other issues if needed. There are also QR codes posted throughout the concourse with emergency access contact information should additional help be needed. After dark, there is plenty of lighting in all public areas for safety. Return On Investment 3 Tickets to the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl range in price from $33 to $177, but first responders can get up to 4 free tickets in appreciation for their service to their communities. Concession prices here are average for high-level college games such as this – light snacks and a drink can be taken care of for between $10 and $15, while heartier choices will cost more. Parking passes cost $20 if paid online prior to game day, increasing to $25 or more on game day. There is free parking available if you are willing to walk a few minutes, however, and public transportation has a stop within a half mile of the Gerald J. Ford Stadium. I would consider the cost of attending this event to be average for NCAA FBS college football, especially considering this is a bowl game in a Power 5 football stadium. Extras 4 Thanks to generous sponsors, all first responders are eligible for up to four free general admission tickets to the game. During the game, first responders are also recognized and celebrated for their sacrifices and support of their communities. Special recognition, namely national honors, for individual first responders who have gone above and beyond the call of duty is an added bonus during the event. Having over twenty stations to purchase drinks and packaged snacks, including beer, water, and soft drinks is an extremely efficient usage of concourse space; this limits time in line and cuts down on time missing the action. The most recent SERVPRO First Responder Bowl I attended pitted two Texas Group of Five universities against one another – the battle that ensued created a rivalry-style game, which proved to be entertaining both on the scoreboard and for fans in the stands. Final Thoughts The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is a great game to attend, even for the casual sports fan – it checks the box for sports travelers who want to experience different festivities in the sports landscape. Taking place in a newly renovated college stadium, Gerald J. Ford also presents an intimate venue for the action. With the express emphasis to recognize and celebrate first responders, this game’s mission is evident from the coin toss to the final whistle blowing. Community helpers who are in attendance feel appreciated by being personally being applauded, and many of their peers are recognized on the field with state and national honors. I believe the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is a game that should be on your bucket list. With unlimited activities available in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex area to add to a multiday trip, this game becomes a great destination for a January weekend.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Frank Jervey Gymnasium 310 Perimeter Rd Clemson, SC 29634 Clemson Tigers website Jervey Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 1,500 Own Today Volleyball at Clemson University was part of the expansion of women’s sports at the school in Clemson, South Carolina, following the passage of Title IX in 1972. Named after prominent Clemson alumnus Frank Jervey, Jervey Gym opened in 1973 and has been home to Clemson Volleyball since 1979. It was also the temporary home of Clemson’s women’s basketball program while nearby Littlejohn Coliseum underwent a full renovation during the 2015-16 season. Originally built as a hub of Clemson athletics, Jervey Gym still houses many of the school’s athletic offices. Jervey Gym underwent a full upgrade that was completed in 2025. The renovations included raising the gym’s roof by 12 feet to better accommodate volleyball. Food & Beverage 2 Concessions at Clemson volleyball are extremely limited. Food choices consist of nachos with cheese sauce and popcorn. Chips and candy are also available, but anything of substance is noticeably missing from the menu. Atmosphere 3 Jervey Gymnasium is part of the newly renovated Watt Family Performance and Wellness Center. The renovations gave the facility a much more modern feel, along with premium seating and improved player amenities. A large video board on the far wall keeps track of the current match score, sets won, and timeouts. Its use, however, is somewhat limited throughout the match. Other than displaying graphics and promotional pieces, it doesn’t have much functional use during the match, given what it could do based on its size. Downtime between sets and other stoppages in play are typically filled by the in-house DJ, DJ Sha, playing music. There are also several fan engagement activities to fill breaks in the action. The most notable pause takes place following the second set, when a student attempts to win Clemson gear on the far side of the court by hitting it with a serve. When it comes to seating, the near-side bleachers consist of individual plastic seats with back support, while seating across the way consists of plastic bench seating without backs. Neighborhood 4 Clemson, South Carolina, is a quintessential college town where the university is the center of most activity in the area. College Avenue, the hub of activity on weekends and the scene of much of Clemson’s nightlife, is located just under a mile from Jervey Gym. Situated near the northern edge of campus, the area is heavily populated with an array of bars and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both pre- and post-match gatherings, especially during weekend contests. College Avenue buzzes with visitors exploring its shops, bars, and dining spots as summer turns to fall and temperatures become more tolerable. While College Avenue has the highest concentration of popular establishments, The Esso Club, a renowned Clemson watering hole, is just a short stroll from the arena. For barbecue connoisseurs, The Smoking Pig in neighboring Pendleton, on the way into Clemson, offers some of the best barbecue in South Carolina. The facility also has a large social area and miniature golf course. Beyond campus life, Clemson is home to Lake Hartwell, where visitors can enjoy miles of trails, water activities, and beaches. What Clemson does seem to lack, though, is much in the way of entertainment that is not directly connected to the university. It is not necessarily a bad thing, but options can feel somewhat limited when trying to fill a large portion of time. Fans 3 Clemson Volleyball has had periods when it hasn’t cracked the top 50 in NCAA Division I attendance. With that said, attendance numbers range from the high hundreds to a few instances of around 1,500 fans. The student section does a good job of setting the atmosphere, and the small nature of Jervey Gym helps amplify the energy inside the building. Weekend matches tend to bring out a crowd that fills Jervey Gym, while weekday matches can be lighter on fan support. Access 4 Located just about 20 minutes off I-85, Clemson’s campus is easily accessible for fans traveling from Charlotte or Atlanta, with a drive of about two to two and a half hours from either city. Once on campus, parking is readily available south of Jervey Gym, either in the lot adjacent to McWhorter Stadium or across the street in the parking lot at Memorial Stadium. The lone entrance along Perimeter Road leads into a main lobby area just outside the doors to the gymnasium, providing access to the near-side bleachers. A secondary hallway leads to seating on the opposite side of the gym. Since access to the seating areas is along the court, it may be necessary to wait until the ball is out of play before reaching a seat. It is not a major issue, but it can be a slight inconvenience. Return on Investment 5 There is no cost to attend Clemson volleyball matches, which goes a long way toward making them a family-friendly option. Concessions are priced as expected in comparison with most stadium events. With no charge for admission, the overall cost of attending a Clemson match remains reasonable. Extras 3 The walls of the exterior hallway display a history of Clemson Volleyball’s conference and NCAA Tournament successes. Each match also features some type of giveaway for the first designated number of fans through the doors. Following the tradition of Clemson’s other athletic programs, win or lose, the team gathers in front of the fans to sing the Clemson alma mater. Final Thoughts The newly renovated Jervey Gym provides a modern setting for volleyball, while the small venue allows the student section and other fans to have an impact on the atmosphere. Free admission also makes attending a match an easy option for families, students, or anyone looking for an inexpensive way to experience Clemson athletics. The biggest drawback is the lack of substantial food options, but Clemson’s college-town setting provides plenty of places to eat and spend time before or after a match. For fans already visiting Clemson or looking for an affordable college volleyball experience, a match at Jervey Gym provides an accessible way to take in Clemson athletics without the costs that larger volleyball programs elsewhere may charge.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Gies Memorial Stadium 1402 S 1st St Champaign, IL 61820 Illinois Fighting Illini website Gies Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1923 Capacity: 60,670 The Bigger & Better Illini Football Experience Gies Memorial Stadium has been the home of Illini football since 1923. The 60,670-seat venue opened on November 3, 1923, and has retained much of its original structure. The stadium is named to honor the servicemen who lost their lives in World War I and Larry Gies Sr., a U.S. Army veteran and father of university alumnus Larry Gies Jr., who donated a $100 million gift to the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics in September 2025. The stadium features a horseshoe shape with multiple stands on three sides. The east main stands hold close to 18,000, with a balcony for 10,000 more fans. The west main stand has a capacity of 13,000, with its balcony holding 5,000. The horseshoe end zone has close to 10,000 seats, and the north bleachers, reserved for students, have a capacity of 5,000. The stadium has been renovated multiple times, including the addition of the biggest videoboard in collegiate football in September 2026. It includes 16 LED displays, measuring approximately 69 feet high by 250 feet wide in the south endzone. The Illini football team has captured five national championships: 1914, 1919, 1923, 1927, and 1951. They also captured 15 Big 10 Championships; the last one in 2001. The school has had 313 players make it to the NFL, with Red Grange, George Hallas, Ray Nitschke, and Dick Butkus being its most prominent alumni. Food & Beverage 5 Two main food halls are enclosed and climate-controlled at the east and west ends of the stadium, plus additional kiosks in the back of the horseshoe south end and in a few areas on the ramps leading to balcony seats. The east end of the stadium also features multiple food trucks. The myriad of food options give fans at Illini games plenty to choose from. The main halls feature the U of I Grill Zone, pulled pork topped on mac and cheese, nachos, and jumbo hot dogs, or served between two buns. Watson’s Chicken offers fried chicken sliders and tender baskets, and the Smith Burger Company sells smashed burgers between brioche buns. Champaign Classics offers standard food options of hot dogs, fries, nachos, and brats. Chick-fil-A, Jersey Mike’s, and a Crumbl Cookie stand add to the variety of options. The stadium serves Coca-Cola products. The east side food truck lineup includes Papa John's for made-to-order pizzas, Burrito King, JD's Smokehouse, and Juanita's Tacos. Nearby, the popular grab-and-go beer aisle stocks tall cans of Bud Light, Miller Lite, Michelob Ultra, and Yuengling, plus seltzers like High Noon, White Claw, and Surfside. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere begins several hours before kickoff with multiple tailgate tents and party zones set up in the lots surrounding the stadium. The grassy area on the west and southwest sides of the stadium is where you will find campers, mini-concert stages, and cookouts where, at one of them, anyone can donate a few dollars for a plate of food. Beyond Grange Grove, fans find additional tailgating spots, just steps from the stadium. The main street is closed to traffic, creating a car-free zone where golf carts can shuttle fans who need assistance. The result is a festive football village atmosphere before kickoff. Walking into the west side of the building is the giant statue of the Galloping Ghost himself, Red Grange. The Dick Butkus statue is on the east side of the stadium in front of the Henry Dale and Betty Smith Football Center. Their numbers are the only two retired in the football program’s history. The 69-foot-tall video board dominates the south endzone and is used for more than scoring, stats, and player information, but also for a free chicken nugget promo for when an opponent misses a field goal. It is also designed to increase crowd noise and sing-alongs as well, including “Sweet Caroline” during the 4th quarter. The Marching Illini is the school band; their intricate formations and renditions of the school fight song are a spectacle unto themselves, both before kickoff and at halftime. Listen for the iconic ILL-INI chant echoing through the stadium as players take the field, and follow the cheerleaders' lead when they prompt the crowd to belt it out again during pivotal moments. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is on campus and about a mile from downtown Champaign, and students walk back to their dorms, fraternity, and sorority houses to begin their night of activities. The rest of the fans might hit up one of the many well-known establishments downtown along Green Street that have supported the Illini fanbase for decades. Joe’s Brewery is a beloved establishment with affordable prices and also a nightlife spot with live bands and a DJ. Joe’s also has a beer garden. Legends is a sports bar with its own outdoor beer garden. Murphy’s Pub is an Irish-themed restaurant with 25 beers on tap. Papa Del's Pizza serves deep dish, super stuff, and thin crust pizza with frozen options to take home. KAMS and Red Lion are popular student spots on the weekend. The Illini basketball team plays next door to the football stadium at the State Farm Center, the volleyball team calls Huff Hall home, and the club hockey team plays downtown at the Illinois Ice Arena during the same time as the football team. Fans 4 The stadium was a sellout during our visit, only the 84th time in its 100-plus-year history. However, it would be hard to imagine a better environment to be a part of before and during the game. The student section was packed for most of the game, and those who couldn’t make it to this section found themselves in the upper balcony of the east stand. The rest of the stadium was packed with fans in orange and blue gear, chanting ILL-INI when the opportunity arose, and enjoying a warm, fall day of college football. Access 3 Illinois Athletics uses a lot-specific traffic-routing system 3.5 hours before the game to manage congestion. There are multiple lots, labeled 31-49, around the stadium that are managed and guided by staff and local police officers before and after the game. The stadium was designed in 1923 and in many ways feels the same way over a century later. The seating in the east and west stands has obstructed views in the upper row by the balcony section. Moving around the stadium features an outer narrow concourse around the horseshoe south end section. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices vary based on the opponent and begin around $30 for the cheapest tickets. The price will fluctuate based on how the Illini are playing or when you purchase the ticket; the higher mark in price can reach close to $200 a game. Parking at the game is best served in the pre-paid lots for $30; find the coordinating color lot and show the attendant your pass on the phone. Merchandise is sold outside and inside the building at typical stadium pricing. There was no special merchandise for the game, and the player jersey was $165. Food options are also at stadium pricing. A hot dog is $6.49, a souvenir soda in a 32-ounce cup is $8.99, a domestic beer is $13.29, and pulled pork nachos are $12.49. However, you, as the stadium traveller, set your boundaries on how much or how little you want to pay for your ticket and food at the game. There are other options to arrive at the game for much less depending on your preferences. Extras 3 Attending a Fighting Illini game earns several points, including the centralized location of its tailgating areas, the giant video board in the south endzone, and its food options outside of the main food halls. Final Thoughts Attending an Illinois football game during homecoming weekend proved to be an unforgettable experience. Arriving three hours before kickoff allowed plenty of time to explore the numerous tailgating areas and circle the stadium grounds. Conversations with passionate fans, the rich history embedded in the venue, and the palpable school spirit combined to create a thoroughly enjoyable debut visit. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Michigan Stadium 1201 S Main St Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Michigan Wolverines website Michigan Stadium website Year Opened: 1927 Capacity: 107,601 Welcome to The Big House Michigan Stadium is one of the truly legendary college football venues in the country. Built during the Great Depression, it provided jobs for thousands of locals who helped to build a stadium that would last for ages. It started big, with a capacity of 72,000, and has continued to grow to its present capacity of 107,601. This makes it the largest stadium by capacity in the United States, and the third largest stadium in the world. It truly deserves its nickname as “The Big House”. Despite its large capacity, Michigan Stadium does not appear that big from the exterior. This is because the playing surface and most of the seating is below ground level. The stadium’s exterior gates bring you in at the midway point of the seating bowl. Food & Beverage 3 Serving the food and beverage tastes and the needs of more than 100,000 fans is a tall order, but Michigan Stadium offers a wide variety of food categories through its concession stands to meet the demand. All concession stands operate on a cashless basis. The Big House Bites stands have multiple locations throughout the stadium and offer the concession standards of hot dogs, popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. BBQ specialties are available at Slow’s BBQ stands, while burgers are available at Big House Burgers and Big Boy stands. State Fairs are popular in the Midwest, so fair fare is available at State Street Fair Food stands, while several types of pizza are available at Hungry Howie’s Other more specialized stands include Nacho Cantina (nachos), Flock (honey chicken tenders and chicken sandwiches), Carvel (ice cream treats), and Acai Superbowl (frozen Acai bowls). Michigan Stadium offers Coca-Cola branded soft drinks and water. Alcohol can be served at Michigan Stadium, making it one of the few college football stadiums to serve alcoholic beverages in all areas of the stadium. Stands offering alcoholic beverages include the Beverage Express outlets throughout the stadium. Atmosphere 5 Michigan excels in gameday atmosphere. It seems that everyone is decked out in maize and blue, the Michigan team colors. Tailgates are taking place on virtually every street corner. Once inside the stadium there are several traditions that take over the day. Many of these involve the Michigan Marching Band. The first of these is the creation of the Block “M” formation at the 50-yard line. The team then takes the field under the “Go Blue” banner, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Finally, the band begins playing one of the great fight songs of college football… “Hail to the Victors”. Everyone in maize and blue knows every word of the song. The experience literally sends chills down your spine. Neighborhood 5 Ann Arbor is a quintessential college town, and as you can imagine, the town is completely overtaken on Saturday gamedays. There are plenty of things to do in the area, before or after a game. There are several restaurants near Michigan Stadium. These include the Zingerman’s Delicatessen, Miss Kim Korean Restaurant, Zingerman’s Roadhouse, and York and Ricewood BBQ. If you are interested in craft brews, there are several breweries in the Greater Ann Arbor area. These include the Homes Brewery, Mothfire, and the Ann Arbor Distilling Company. It is a good idea to check out the beautiful University of Michigan campus while you are in town. The campus features well-maintained grounds, stunning architecture, and lots of historical interest for visitors to enjoy. The University of Michigan Museum of Art features both permanent and rotating exhibitions, and admission is free! Other interesting sites on the campus include The Diag (center of campus life), the Law Quadrangle, and the Michigan Union Building (the school store and lots of eating establishments. Despite having a 100,000-plus-seat venue down the street, the area immediately surrounding Michigan Stadium is surprisingly residential in nature. Many locals and area churches rent out parking in their driveways and parking lots. It is a very walkable environment and a safe area any day of the week. Others choose to park on the University of Michigan Golf Course, which is just across the street from the stadium. Free parking is also allowed on area streets at no charge. Hotel rooms are nearly impossible to book on game weekends. A second option is to stay at one of the many hotels located around the Metro Detroit Airport (DTW), which is located only 20 miles from the stadium and does not charge special event rates on Wolverines home game weekends. The campus is especially beautiful in early fall as the leaves are changing colors. Fans 4 The Michigan Wolverines are one of the most storied programs in college football. They have won 45 Big Ten Championships and 12 National Championships over the years. This has garnered them one of the most loyal fan bases in the country. The Wolverine fans have filled the stadium regularly for decades, no matter how much the temperatures drop, or how bad the winter storms are. It has drawn more than 100,000 fans for nearly 300 straight games, spanning several seasons. Wolverine Fans Fill Michigan Stadium, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Fan tailgates are located throughout the Michigan campus, including the University Golf Course across the street from the stadium. Your golf slice never tasted so good! The student body turns out in mass and works closely with the cheer squad to disrupt the visiting team’s on-field communications. Access 4 Typically, you would think getting to and around a facility seating 107,000 fans would be a nightmare, but the University of Michigan has the experience and resources to manage the huge crowds efficiently. The key is to arrive early with your plans of what you want to do firmly in place. The main route to Michigan Stadium starts with I-94. Fans will exit I-943 via Exit 175 (Ann Arbor-Saline Road). This quickly becomes Main Street as you head north towards Ann Arbor. Michigan Stadium is at the corner of Main Street and Stadium Boulevard. Once you draw close to the stadium, your task becomes where to park. The city of Ann Arbor and the university work together to provide adequate parking for the more than 100,000 fans descending on the city on football Saturdays. Game day parking is available at the University of Michigan Golf Course, Pioneer High School, and several University of Michigan athletic facilities (the Tennis Center, Soccer Complex, the Wrestling Center, the Track and Field Stadium and the Lacrosse Stadium). Free shuttles will ferry fans to the stadium. In addition, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (www.theride.org/services/event-service) offers FootballRide shuttle services from five different locations in the Ann Arbor area on game days. These shuttles run every 20 minutes beginning two hours before kickoff. Once at the stadium, there are ten gates into Michigan Stadium. Gates open two hours before kickoff. Once inside the stadium, access was improved through a widening of the concourses as part of a 2024 renovation. If you want to purchase some spirit items on the way to your seats, there are eight M Den stores spread around the stadium. Concession stands are also located throughout the stadium. Following games, the shuttles will return you to your parking spaces. The section of Main Street between the stadium and I-94 becomes a one-way street, with all lanes heading southbound towards I-94 to facilitate quicker returns to your home. Return on Investment 3 High demand means high ticket prices, and Michigan tickets are in very high demand, as they are always in the hunt for the Big 10 or NCAA Championships. Big 10 games cost between $150-$250, while games against major competition (i.e., Notre Dame, Miami, or SEC teams) can cost upwards of $300. Low-demand games against MAC foes or lesser competition cost $80-$100. Parking fees vary by location. The accessible lots near the stadium are $60. Parking at the University Golf Course is $55. The parking decks at the various sports facilities charge $25. The shuttles from these facilities to the stadium and back are free. The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority buses charge $3 round trip, with seniors and youth able to ride for $1.50. If you don’t mind a short walk, free parking is available on neighborhood streets. Concession prices are very reasonable compared to ticket costs. Extras 5 Michigan Stadium is constantly evolving to better meet the needs and demands of the Wolverines fanbase. Renovations have occurred in 1928,1949,1956,1973,1992,1998, 2003, and 2010. In 2023, a pair of new videoboards were added atop the stadium behind each end zone. They measure 152 feet x 55 feet, making them the third-largest videoboards in college football. Michigan Stadium was also the first stadium in the country to feature electronic scoreboards back in the 1930’s. Michigan Stadium hosted the NHL Winter Classic Hockey Game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2014 that drew 105,491 fans, setting a world record for the largest attendance ever for a hockey game. Fans should download the Michigan Athletics Mobile App before attending a Wolverines home game. It can make your visit much easier with ticketing, seating maps of the facility, parking information, game-day traffic info, and much more. While Michigan will always be associated with the anthem “Hail to the Victors”, one of the newer traditions at Michigan Stadium is the playing of “Mr. Brightside” by the Killers at the end of the third quarter. This drives the crowd into a frenzy, with the stands becoming a mosh pit and the fans singing the final verse acapella. Final Thoughts Any true college football fan needs to make a trip to Ann Arbor for a Michigan home game as it is a bucket list item. The color, pageantry, and traditions of Wolverine home games are hard to beat. The experience of watching a football game in the presence of 100,000-plus fans may seem overwhelming, but the crowds are Midwestern-friendly…. except to Michigan State Spartans/Notre Dame Fighting Irish fans… of course!

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 TD Place Stadium 1015 Bank St Ottawa, ON K1S 3W7 Canada Ottawa Redblacks website TD Place Stadium website Year Opened: 1908 Capacity: 24,000 The Rough Ride Football in Ottawa has definitely been a roller coaster. The Ottawa Rough Riders were one of the cornerstone franchises in the Canadian Football League. They took the field from 1876 to 1996 and collected nine Grey Cup Championships along the way. Their folding was a shock to the system, literally putting the CFL in an imbalance. The void was temporarily filled by the Ottawa Renegades, who played 7 generally poor seasons from 2002 to 2008 before folding. A large part of the failure of football in Ottawa was the physical failing of what was once known as Frank Clair Stadium. Located on the grounds of Lansdowne Park, the stadium opened all the way back in 1908 and is one of the most unique in the world. In 2007, the entire south grandstand was condemned. The stadium was named after the longtime coach of the Rough Riders who led the team through the glory years, from 1956 to 1969. The rebuilding of the south stand was the spark for the revitalization of football in Ottawa. The new Ottawa Redblacks took the field at the renamed TD Place Stadium in 2014. Embracing the bilingual nature of the city like never before, the Redblacks (or Rouge et Noir) enjoyed success not seen in the capital since the seventies, culminating in the 2016 Grey Cup. TD Place Stadium is once again in the spotlight as the north stand and TD Place Arena will be demolished and replaced with a new, separate arena and north side grandstand as part of the Lansdowne 2.0 plan. Food & Beverage 5 The concession experience at TD Place Stadium is among the elite in the CFL. All of the expected stadium staples are available, including hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, candy and poutine. What takes the concessions to the next level is the focus on local favourites. Gabriel Pizza has a strong presence at TD Place Stadium. Other local favourites include Lois & Frima’s Ice Cream and Maverick’s Donut Company. Some specialty items found at TD Place Stadium that should warrant consideration include the Sledgehammer Meatball Sub and the Pierogi Timber Pile Poutine. There are several alcoholic options available. The beer selection is decent, including Stella Artois, Mill Street Organic, Mill Street Orange, and Goose Island IPA. The Firth’s Tavern stand offers a full bar selection. The soft drink of choice at TD Place Stadium is Pepsi products. Atmosphere 4 TD Place Stadium is one of the most unique in the world. It is located at Lansdowne Park, which has served as the exhibition grounds in Ottawa for over a century. It is embedded in the Glebe neighbourhood, which has a personality of its own. The main entry to TD Place Stadium is from the west, where a number of condominium buildings stand on Bank Street. The stadium consists of two separate grandstands on the north and south side of the east-west oriented field. The north grandstand is the older of the two and doubles as TD Place Arena, longtime home of the Ottawa 67’s and former home of the Ottawa Senators. The arena is under the seating of the north grandstands, and the field can be seen from the south concourse of the arena. Entry from the west brings fans to the hopefully temporary banner displays for the ten Grey Cup Championships won in Ottawa (1925, 26, 40, 51, 60, 68, 69, 73, 76 and 2016) and members of the Ottawa Wall of Honour (Ron Stewart, Russ Jackson, Whit Tucker, Bruno Bitowski, Jim Coode, Moe Racine, Bobby Simpson, Gerry Organ, Tony Golab, Tony Gabriel, Kaye Vaughan, Ken Lehmann, Soupy Campbell, Dave Thelen, Gene Gaines, Greg Marshall and Henry Burris). The south stand is the newer of the two and is a split level grandstand. A bronze statue of coach Frank Clair stands at the southwest corner opposite the northwest corner stage. The west endzone has the log cabin social area/club with rail stands above it. At the time of writing, during the 2026 season, construction of the new arena beyond the east endzone was visible. The video board is located on the west side, shading more to the north rather than south. It can be a bit difficult to see from the northeast. The game-day production at a Redblacks game is one of the best in the CFL. The team leans into the lumberjack and Buffalo plaid motif. At field level, in the southeast corner, a huge log sits ready for the Redblacks touchdown celebration, which involves a chainsaw and cutting a wooden “cookie” from the log and parading it around. The team's mascot, Big Joe, interacts with fans around the stadium and takes part in the pregame festivities. The Redblacks Dancers and Cheer Team meld aspects of both college cheerleaders and professional team dancers and perform during breaks and take up residence on the sidelines. One of the most unique aspects of Ottawa Redblacks culture has been muted the last few years due to poor performance on the field and lower attendance. As of this writing, the club was still in search of their first win of the season, setting a futility record in the process. At one time, the in-stadium rivalry between fans on the north side and fans on the south side was paramount. Both sides would chant at each other and taunt each other. All on-field promotions were notched up by choosing competitors from opposing sides to face off against each other. It seemed the only part that north and south siders would agree upon was their support of the Redblacks. Neighbourhood 5 TD Place Stadium is located on the grounds of Lansdowne Park in The Glebe neighbourhood in Ottawa. The Glebe is a unique neighbourhood that is south of Parliament, which would typically be viewed as Downtown Ottawa. There are a few spots for pre- or post-game food and drink. Some options include Craft Beer Market, Joey Lansdowne, Med Supper Club, and Irene’s Pub. There are quite a few other sports options in Ottawa. TD Place Stadium is also the home of Atletico Ottawa and the annual Panda Game between uOttawa and Carleton. TD Place Arena is directly under the north grandstand and is the home of the Ottawa 67’s and Ottawa BlackJacks, as well as other uOttawa and Carleton rivalry games. Kanata is the home of the Ottawa Senators and Ottawa Charge. The campuses of uOttawa and Carleton are not too far from The Glebe. The Gee-Gees host a number of athletic teams, including football, hockey, and basketball. The Ravens also host football and hockey and are well-known for their massively successful basketball team. Ottawa is one of the top tourist destinations and the capital of Canada. There are a ton of other tourist options for fans. Just some of the options include Parliament of Canada, the Royal Canadian Mint, the Canadian War Museum, the Supreme Court of Canada, the Rideau Canal and ByWard Market. There are a ton of options for fans who wish to stay in Ottawa. Heading north towards Parliament is the best option, where the Best Western, Hilton, and Hampton Inn are all reliable options. For fans who consider the hotel an integral part of the journey, staying at the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier may be of interest. Fans 3 The Ottawa Redblacks have fallen on hard times on the field and have suffered at the gates as a result. At the time of writing, the RedBlacks averaged over 14,00 fans per game. The previous season, 2025, the RedBlacks averaged over 18,000 per game, ranking them 8th in the 9 team CFL. RedBlack fans in attendance are hardy, and it was definitely louder than expected at the game that was reviewed. Hopefully the club can turn things around on the field and can reignite the fans and the north-south rivalry. Access 3 TD Place Stadium is located on the grounds of Lansdowne Park in the Glebe neighbourhood of Ottawa. It is found on the east side of Bank Street and Exhibition Way, just north of the Rideau Canal. Lansdowne Park is less than 1.5 km south of Trans-Canada Highway 417. However, traffic in Ottawa is quite significant, so getting to the stadium can be an issue. Parking at Lansdowne Park is extremely limited, and on-site parking is not sold for RedBlacks games. Also, parking in The Glebe is also very limited and street parking is strictly enforced. The best plan to get to TD Place Stadium is to take public transit or the shuttle. Ottawa has got transportation down to a science for CFL games. There are bus stops on Bank Street, and a RedBlacks ticket equals a free ride before and after. Shuttle buses travel between Lansdowne and a couple of spots where parking is available, Carleton University and Canada Post. Fans should consult the Ottawa Redblacks website and OC Transpo website for maps and schedules. Lansdowne Park and TD Place Stadium are active construction zones as of this writing, so getting around is a bit of a challenge. There was no 360 degree path at the game that was reviewed. Washrooms have always been a bit of an issue at TD Place Stadium, with several portable washrooms around the stadium, something that will most likely be addressed with the replacement of the north stand. Stadium Journey understands that security protocols are constantly changing for major sporting events. Before heading to TD Place Stadium, Stadium Journey highly recommends consulting the TD Place and Ottawa Redblacks websites for the most up-to-date security information, including prohibited items and bag policy. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the Ottawa Redblacks start at $25. Tickets in the middle, upper side of the grandstand are expensive at $75 to $100 and go up to around $140. Getting into the stadium offers the opportunity to take part in happy hour, with reduced price beer options. Concession options are priced as one would expect. The experience at a Redblacks game is a solid one, and fans will definitely enjoy the full atmosphere. Extras 3 An extra mark for Lansdowne 2.0 and the investment in new facilities for the Redblacks and replacement of the north stand. An extra mark for Lansdowne Park, an historic part of Ottawa. An extra mark for Ottawa as the capital of Canada and one of the top tourist destinations in the country. Final Thoughts Although the Ottawa Redblacks have had some issues on the field, taking in a game is a great option for part of an Ottawa vacation. The rebuilding of the north stand will cause some growing pains in the short term, but the long term investment in Ottawa football is a great sign for CFL fans everywhere. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Illustration byMarc Viquez, Stadium Journey The Pioneer League is a premier summer collegiate league with 10 teams spanning California, Idaho, Montana, and Utah. The league completed its 2026 season with the Billings Mustangs defeating the Long Beach Coast in the championship series. More than a million fans attended games this year, and Stadium Journey made it to all but one of the ballparks. We rank all of the stadiums based on FANFARE Food & Drink, Atmosphere, Neighborhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment, and Extra. It evaluates the complete fan experience across multiple categories: food and beverage options, overall atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan engagement, accessibility (including parking, traffic flow, restrooms, and concourses), value for money, and a bonus "extras" category that recognizes unique features and amenities. 🍔 Food & Beverage Options 🎉 Game Day Atmosphere 🏙️ Surrounding Neighborhood 🙌 Fan Support 🚗 Access (inside and outside the park) 💸 Return on Investment 🧩 Extras - Unique features that don’t fit neatly into the other categories or deserve additional acknowledgement The rankings do not include Glacier Range Ballpark, home of the Glacier Range Riders and Red Pocket Mobiles, who spent the season on the road. However, we will do our best to visit this ballpark for a complete review in 2027. Click the image below for an interview with the Mobiles manager, Dmitri Young. Our official ratings system determines rankings, with crowd reviews from our members serving as the primary tiebreaker. Below are our 2026 PBL ballpark rankings. Until then, see where your favorite team’s home stadium ranked in our list. 10. Centene Stadium - Great Falls Voyagers 2.86 Jason Karp - It’s summertime. It’s a beautiful evening. The beer is tasty and minor league baseball is being played. What a great way to relax and unwind from the day. There are Voyager fans who love their team, but no one gets too worked up about anything. 9. Memorial Stadium - Boise Hawks 3.00 Richard Smith - Boise's Memorial Stadium has seen better days and is far removed from how modern minor league stadiums are normally expected to be designed, but it remains a good place to watch a game. The team is expected to move to a downtown Boise stadium in a couple of years, pending various approvals. 8. Ogren Park at Allegiance Field - Missoula Paddleheads 3.29 Matt Finnigan - Ogren Park’s proximity to the Clark Fork River and the rest of Missoula can provide a unique baseball experience: pre- and post-game fly fishing, punctuated by a ball game. Or pre- and post-game eating and drinking, punctuated by a ball game, but without the need for a car. 7. Raimondi Park - Oakland Ballers 3.43 Meg Minard - Attending an Oakland Ballers game at Raimondi Park is an inclusive, community-oriented event, perfect for the entire family. Kudos to the owners and team for developing a much more fan-focused sports team to assist Oaklanders with the healing process of losing the Athletics. 6. Melaleuca Field - Idaho Falls Chukars 3.43 Sean MacDonald - Melaleuca Field to be an enjoyable evening, helped by the overflow crowd and excellent concession offerings. If you are thinking about a tour of Yellowstone or the northwest in general, try to stop in to Idaho Falls for an evening with the Chukars. 5. Modern Woodman Field - Modesto Roadsters 3.43 Meg Minard - The staff and fans alike are pleased to have the Roadsters in town, and it’s easy to understand why. A night at the ballpark is affordable, relaxed, and family‑friendly, the kind of outing that feels good. Modesto has embraced its new team, and the Roadsters have given the community something fun to rally around. 4. Bryant Field - Yuba-Sutter Freebirds 3.43 Meg Minard - If you’re a sports fan anywhere near California’s capital, it’s absolutely worth the short drive up to the Yuba–Sutter region for a Freebirds game. The kids will be entertained, the scoreboard is impressive, the seats are comfortable, and the prices are affordable. This is one ballpark experience that’s worth the extra drive. 3. Blair Field - Long Beach Coast - 4.00 Andrei Ojeda - It’s been a highly successful first season for the Long Beach club. The hip-hop vibe, influenced by co-owner Warren G, has certainly had a huge impact in creating a new, sizable following from and beyond the 562. 2. Lindquist Field - Ogden Raptors 4.00 Aaron S. Terry - Lindquist Field is recommended for an Ogden Raptors game. The views are great, the staff creates a fun atmosphere, and your experience won’t break the bank. A Raptors game in Ogden absolutely checks all the boxes on your ballpark travels. 1. Dehler Park - Billings Mustangs 4.14 Meg Minard - Dehler Park finished in first place this year. It is an excellent ballpark to visit, with a focus on the game while still offering modern conveniences, good food, and an engaging fan experience. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Buck Motorsports Park & Entertainment Complex 900 Lancaster Pike Quarryville, PA 17566 Buck Motorsports Park & Entertainment Complex website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 5,000 Enjoying "The Buck" The Buck Motorsports Park is a motorsports entertainment facility located in Quarryville (Buck), Pennsylvania. It was founded as a weekly tractor pull track in 1974; it has expanded into a prominent seasonal entertainment venue. "The Buck" as it is known, operates on Saturday nights from mid-April through mid-October. The venue hosts truck and tractor pulls, demolition derbies, mud bogs, monster truck shows (such as the Renegade Monster Truck Tour), rodeos, and tuff trucks. We attended on of its rodeo nights, but you can be assured that generally the experience is pretty much the same at any of its events. The venue was purchased in 2021 by monster truck driver and promoter Zane Rettew (founder of Rettew Motorsports and the Renegade Monster Truck Tour). Food & Beverage 3 Food concessions stands are located throughout the park and feature “county fair type” food at family friendly prices: hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, Bricker’s Famous Fries, cotton candy, snow cones, water, Pepsi products, milkshakes, hand-squeezed lemonade, funnel cakes and More. These are simple and not too exciting options but they deliver exactly what you would expect. There may also be some more food trucks and tents depending on the event. Atmosphere 4 Seating is on simple stands located the entire length on both sides of the track. There are some limited seat backs, which seem to be the only seats that are assigned as the rest is general admission. You can also bring lawn chairs and sit at ground level, but the view is pretty limited by fencing. Signage is posted where lawn chairs are not permitted. Limited handicap seating is available on the bottom row of the announcer side grandstands. The fans can get pretty hyped up depending on the event. Also expect some of the motorsports events to be quite loud. There is a nice videoboard along one side of the track. The PA system works well. Neighborhood 3 The Buck is situated in the unincorporated community of Buck, East Drumore Township, Lancaster County, along Pennsylvania Route 272. It is also referred to as being in Quarryville, which is the closest "real" town. There is one food option nearby the facility in Rosie's Pizza Restaurant. You can also venture into Quarryville where Two Cousins Pizza and Peking Chinese are also good options. The Willow Street area of Lancaster is only about seven miles north on 272. There are a few options there and you also can venture even further into Lancaster for many more choices. Fans 5 These are the kind of events that draw a pretty excited crowd. Fans tend to be really into the events that happen at The Buck. Access 4 The Buck is right off of Route 272, which is a simple 2-lane state highway. Traffic can back up but it goes faster than one would expect. Parking is grass lots surrounding the venue. The parking staff really knows how to get fans in and out as fast as one could expect from the limited options. It is one of the best prepared and professional parking staff that we have seen in quite some time. You still may want to have some patience as there will be a lot of fans trying to go in the same limited directions. Return on Investment 4 Prices will vary depending on the event. There are usually family options, as well as prices for vets, kids and seniors. Expect the larger national events to have higher prices than the normal week events. Extras 2 Depending on the event, there will likely be pre-event entertainment on a stage near the food booths. There is a really good store selling Buck merchandise. Final Thoughts "The Buck" offers fun, and sometimes loud, entertainment at a simple but effective venue in Southern Lancaster County.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Bulldog Stadium Loop Road Bowie, MD 20715 Bowie State Bulldogs website Bulldog Stadium website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 2,964 Home Of The Bulldogs Bowie State University is a public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Bowie State is Maryland’s oldest historically black university and one of the ten oldest in the country, opening in 1865. In 1963, Bowie State College was officially named and in 1988 became a university. It is now a member of the University System of Maryland. The school has 22 undergraduate majors, 19 master’s programs, two doctoral programs. A few members of the singing family, the Braxtons, have attended Bowie State. Christa McAuliffe, one of the seven crew members killed in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, got a Master’s degree at Bowie. Sports teams at Bowie are called the Bulldogs. They compete in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, at the NCAA Division II level. Bulldog Stadium has a seating capacity of 2,964. A new field house was opened in 2015 within the stadium. Food & Beverage 3 The new field house in the end zone has a pretty nice concession stand located next to it. It is strangely hidden, but the food options and prices are all quite good. There are simple food options for a stadium but I was fairly impressed. I had eaten before the game, but I would have had no problem grabbing a hot dog, nachos, or another snack at this well-stocked stand. There is a lot of space around the stadium interior for other food options that seem to happen depending on the game and the expected crowd. I got the feeling that at the annual homecoming game there are plenty of additional food options. Atmosphere 3 As with every HBCU football game I have ever experienced, the atmosphere is always quite special. From the entrance of the small but loud band to the cheerleaders and majorettes, the crowd should be fired up from the experience. Even so, Bulldog Stadium does suffer from feeling a bit like a high school-type atmosphere. The stadium is not very big and it feels like that kind of stadium experience. This is not necessarily negative, but you can tell that it is not a Division I football game. There is one main grandstand on the home side and a small visitors’ grandstand on the other side. The visitors’ stand is tall but not very wide and looks kind of funny. Overall the seating seems far from the field and that is even with no track as part of the stadium. That is a bit of a negative. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing too exciting about the residential Bowie neighborhood near the university. Not too far away is a major highway (US Route 301) and is near many shopping centers and fast-food restaurants. Baltimore is 30 miles away, DC 18 miles away, and Annapolis 15 miles away, so you should not be limited by the uninspiring suburban choices right near the school. Poncho n’ Pepe’s Cantina at 1651 Maryland Route 3 in Crofton doesn’t have the most exciting food selection, but is a colorful restaurant with many foods and drink specials for pre and post-game gatherings. Rip’s Country Inn (3809 Crain Hwy, Bowie, MD) is a longtime family restaurant that is very close to the stadium. If you need solid quality good food, this is a great option. Comfort Inn is at 4500 Crain Highway across US Route 301 from the stadium and offers some game package deals. Fans 3 Bowie State has pretty decent fan support. Unfortunately, it does have quite a few commuters and professional-level students who likely do not make it to that many games. Quite a decent number of alumni attend the games. There did not appear to be as many students attending the games as I expected. Access 3 Access is good at Bowie State. Sitting near US Route 301, US Route 50, and State Route 3, one should have no problem getting to the game. Traffic can be a bear at times, as this intersection is right between the triangle of Baltimore, Annapolis, and Washington, DC. Plan a little leeway in timing for early evening games. Parking is all around campus and there is a charge when you get to the campus entrance. You will have to walk a bit to get to the stadium if you park in one of the main university lots. There are some lots nearer to the stadium. Ask at the gate when paying the parking cost for the best lot. Return on Investment 3 The ticket prices are not too bad starting at around $20. The parking seems a bit more expensive at $10. Parking and ticket prices will go up at Homecoming so be prepared. You can also pay $100 for tailgating for that game only. The tailgating prices will also include 2 tickets to the game. Extras 2 The Symphony Of Soul Marching Band, majorettes, and cheerleaders are pretty awesome to watch. The band puts on a great show and you should make sure you are at the game early enough to watch their entrance. The stadium has a tree-lined setting that is a nice little extra when watching a game in the busy Baltimore-Washington corridor. Final Thoughts Bulldogs Stadium is not fancy. But the good level of Division II football put on display here at this nice stadium is worth the small price of admission.

We turn our attention to the ballparks that shape the Low-A baseball experience in the California, Carolina, and Florida State leagues. Our 2026 rankings reflect a season of transition that included two new stadiums, several club rebrandings, and franchise relocations and affiliate shifts. Can you name the new stadiums or the team rebrandings? We congratulate the Lake Elsinore Storm (CAL), the Fayetteville Woodpeckers (CAR), and the Jupiter Hammerheads (FSL) for winning their respective league championships this season. Stadium Journey rankings are based on our patented FANFARE scale, which evaluates each venue across seven key categories: 🍔 Food & Beverage Options 🎉 Game Day Atmosphere 🏙️ Surrounding Neighborhood 🙌 Fan Support 🚗 Access (inside and outside the park) 💸 Return on Investment 🧩 Extras - Unique features that don’t fit neatly into the other categories or deserve additional acknowledgement When two or more ballparks earn the same score, the Stadium Journey Council of Elders steps in to break the tie with their seasoned insight. To dive deeper into each stadium’s review, just click the link associated with the team’s name. Enjoy the rankings - and see where your favorite ballpark lands! No two ballpark travelers see every venue the same way, so differences of opinion are part of the fun. Let us know where you agree or disagree with our rankings on any of Stadium Journey's social media platforms. How would your Top 30 look, and which parks deserve to move up or down the list? ** Be sure to stay through the end of the ranking, where we list the answers to the 2026 Low-A team and venue changes. 30. Valley Strong Ballpark - Visalia Rawhide – 2.57 (CAL) Meg Minard - Valley Strong Ballpark is a stadium one will like because of its quirkiness and affordable prices or not like because of its accessibility and an unsafe neighborhood. It is in the ‘Gateway of Sequoia’ so if in town during the summer, consider checking out a game and let us know your thoughts. 29. George M. Steinbrenner Field - Tampa Tarpons – 2.71 (FSL) Dennis Morrell - The complex is impeccable, the largest in Florida seating more than 11,000 fans, and looking great for 30 years old. In front of the main steps, you are greeted by the impressive statue of George Steinbrenner. To the right is Monument Park and further to the right is the 9/11 Memorial, all nice touches to the entrance. 28. Segra Stadium - Fayetteville Woodpeckers – 3.00 (CAR) Jared Goodman - With Fort Bragg in Fayetteville’s backyard, it’s hard to ignore the military tie-ins at Segra Stadium. Black and red are the predominant colors, featured in everything from the team’s logo to the chair backs in the seating bowl. Pixelated camouflage is also present in several different areas, sometimes even extending to the players’ uniforms. It’s undeniable that the military is the prevailing theme at Woodpeckers’ games. 27. San Manuel Stadium - Inland Empire 66ers – 3.00 (CAL) Andrei Ojeda - San Bernardino has been the starting point for several big leaguers, including Ken Griffey Jr. With the 66ers recently switching affiliations over to the Seattle Mariners, ahead lies a new chapter of 66ers history. Some usage of the navy blue and nautical green as well as the trident give nods to the parent club. When catching a game in the IE, one can expect an affordable and enjoyable family experience. 26. The Bank of the James Stadium - Hill City Howlers - 3.00 (CAR) Andrew Kulyk - The team might have a new name, a new moniker, a new logo and a new identity, but minor league baseball in Lynchburg, Virginia, has roots that go all the way back to 1894. In 1995, the team adopted the name “Lynchburg Hillcats”, which was just changed in 2026 to the "Hill City Howlers." 25. TD Ballpark - Dunedin Blue Jays – 3.14 (FSL) Eric Hasman - TD Ballpark opened in 1990. It is the home of the Single-A Dunedin Blue Jays and the spring training home of the Toronto Blue Jays since 1977. The ballpark is built on the site of Grant Field, which was the original home of the Jays. The city of Dunedin and this location are the only home that the Blue Jays have ever had since their inception as a franchise in 1977. 24. Carilion Clinic Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark - Salem RidgeYaks – 3.14 (CAR) David Welch - As fans initially enter Carilion Clinic Field, they are greeted by a wide-opening view of the field-level seating bowl, as well as the mountainous backdrop. A large bar sits just steps from the front gates to greet fans and quench their thirst as they initially survey the stadium. 23. Chukchansi Park - Fresno Grizzlies – 3.14 (CAL) Meg Minard - Although the team moved from a Triple-A to a Single-A affiliation a few years ago, attending a ballgame at Chukchansi Park is still an enjoyable day/evening out with good baseball. For those who live in Central California, I encourage you to visit Fresno and the ballpark. For those who haven’t been to the city in a while, you’ll be pleased with the resurgence of the downtown area. 22. Hammond Stadium - Ft Myers Mighty Mussels – 3.43 (FSL) Chris Green - Hammond Stadium is beautiful, and the entire main concourse level is walkable around the whole field, allowing fans to wander and watch the action from various vantage points during contests. The outfield boardwalk offers up close views too, as well as alternate seating and standing-room only areas for fans to watch the Mighty Mussels take the field. 21. Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium - Palm Beach Cardinals – 3.43 (FSL) Meg Minard - Roger Dean Stadium has a beautiful exterior with palm trees, other Florida foliage, and bushes in a park-like setting. The grounds have benches in the shade to sit and enjoy the spring and summer Florida months. Roger Dean Stadium celebrated its 29th anniversary in 2026. 20. Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium - Jupiter Hammerheads - 3.43 (FSL) Meg Minard - The fans attending a Hammerheads game are there just having a good time. Lots of families with kids, some retired folks, and some fans who just enjoy baseball attend the games. There is a good mix of both Cardinal and Hammerhead fans. Visitors enjoy the between-inning activities and just being at the ballpark. 19. Wilson Ballpark – Wilson Warbirds - 3.43 (CAR) Gregory Koch - After over half a century, professional baseball is finally back in Wilson. The Warbirds have a fine new ballpark with a passionate fan base, and there is opportunity for the experience here to get even better over the next few years. 18. Clover Park - St. Lucie Mets – 3.43 (FSL) Meg Minard - As soon as you see the ballpark (even before entering the parking lot), you know you are in Mets territory. The vibrant shades of Mets orange and blue decorate the exterior of the building, Mets signage and championship years are displayed, and former Mets greats have billboard-sized posters on the outer walls. A palm tree-lined plaza contains plaques with a brief bio for many famous Mets players. 17. Jackie Robinson Ballpark - Daytona Tortugas – 3.43 (FSL) Chris Green - Jackie Robinson Ballpark is unique in MiLB. First, it sits literally on the edge of the intercostal waterway in Daytona Beach, FL. Second, it has historical significance – this is the site where Jackie Robinson played his first professional baseball game after signing with the Dodgers after other cities like Jacksonville refused to let him play because of the color of his skin. 16. Arthur W. Perdue Stadium - Delmarva Shorebirds – 3.71 (CAR) Richard Smith - Delmarva prides itself on offering a family atmosphere and a place where the entire family can enjoy baseball. The true fan can enjoy the quality play, while the kids can enjoy the carousel, bounce houses, and face painting offered. In-game promotions are also offered to keep the atmosphere fresh and fun. 15. L.P. Frans Stadium – Hickory Crawdads – 3.71 (CAR) Gregory Koch - A Hickory Crawdads game may be small town baseball in a remote location, but it is still a worthwhile experience. L.P. Frans Stadium is gorgeous architecturally, and the Crawdads do a good job with promotions and fan engagement. 14. Lake Elsinore Diamond - Lake Elsinore Storm – 3.71 (CAL) Andrei Ojeda - 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. 13. Joker Marchant Stadium - Lakeland Flying Tigers – 3.71 (FSL) Chris Green - Nestled on the shores of Lake Parker and almost perfectly halfway between Orlando and Tampa sits perhaps the most beautiful stadium of Florida’s wide array of MiLB homes. The idyllic Central Florida city of Lakeland is the perfect location to feature minor league baseball without the hassles of Florida’s other distractions. 12. Banner Island Ballpark - Stockton Ports – 3.71 (CAL) Meg Minard - Banner Island Ballpark is an extremely fun ballpark. It provides a perfect minor league game day experience. Fans and staff are friendly and welcoming. It’s affordable and not overdone with extras. The ballgame takes center stage with clever, non-intrusive games and contests between innings. 11. SRP Park - Augusta GreenJackets – 3.86 (CAR) Lloyd Brown - SRP Park and the GreenJackets continue to generate buzz in the minor-league baseball community. The facility offers amenities that are not usually found in Low Class A level stadiums. These amenities include theatre-style seating, a 360-degree concourse, a top-of-the-line video board in the outfield, and terrific views of both the field and the Savannah River. 10. Virginia Credit Union Stadium - Fredericksburg Nationals – 4.00 (CAR) Joseph Oakes - The playing surface at Virginia Credit Union Stadium is a state-of-the-art synthetic grass from Shaw Sports Turf similar to what is used by the Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers. It is the first minor league ball to use such a surface. This allows the FredNats to host several events such as concerts and youth sports without the extra cost of maintaining a natural grass surface. 9. BayCare Ballpark - Clearwater Threshers 4.00 (FSL) David Welch - Among facilities in the Florida State League, BayCare Ballpark stands out as possibly having the most comprehensive minor league baseball experience. With its top-notch facility and typically the largest attendance in the league, it provides an exceptional game-day experience, where even a wayward bat dog would likely stop by to check out the facility. 8. Excite Ballpark - San Jose Giants – 4.00 (CAL) Chris Green - Take a historic stadium that oozes memories of the past greats with architecture that harkens back to baseball’s golden age. Mix in a loyal fanbase that is among the best in the Bay Area. Sprinkle in some stellar weather and add a pinch of minor league magic. This may well be the recipe that one would use to create the magic that is the San Jose Giants. 7. ONT Field - Ontario Tower Buzzers – 4.00 (CAL) Andrei Ojeda - The moment you set foot inside ONT Field a literal towering buzz is felt. With staff dressed as airport attendants and the nods to the aviation industry and nearby Ontario Airport paired with undoubtedly the most up to date Single A facility throughout the MiLB circuit, the game day atmosphere at ONT Field is lifted several levels above your usual Single-A experience. 6. LoanMart Field - Rancho Cucamonga Quakes – 4.14 (CAL) Andrei Ojeda - The tree-lined outfield wall and San Gabriel Mountains in the distance provide a truly perfect baseball setting. LoanMart Field is located in the Rancho Cucamonga Adult Sports Park and is surrounded by recreational baseball/softball diamonds. If any of the fields are empty, visiting fans can easily find some space to play a game or simply toss a baseball back and forth. 5. LECOM Park - Bradenton Marauders – 4.14 (FSL) Lloyd Brown - It is immediately apparent that you are at one of the most historic venues in baseball when you arrive at LECOM Ballpark. The exterior skin of the stadium is constructed in the Spanish Colonial style that is so classic in Florida. Most of the stands offer shade from the Florida sun under roofs or canopies. The steel girders of the stadium are exposed, showing you how the ballpark was built. 4. Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park - Charleston RiverDogs – 4.14 (CAR) Lloyd Brown - Baseball and the city of Charleston have shared a love affair for more than 100 years. Today their rendezvous spot is the Joseph P Riley, Jr. Ballpark on the banks of the Ashley River. The Joe combines up close seating with a huge concession menu and a history of sending players to the majors as its recipe for keeping this relationship alive and strong. 3. Segra Park - Columbia Fireflies – 4.14 (CAR) David Welch - The Columbia Fireflies have done a wonderful job building an experience that offers fans what they want from a stadium; those wanting a more traditional baseball game have plenty of seats to choose from in the grandstand, whereas fans wanting to use the game as more of a social backdrop to their evening have both a considerable number of field level table boxes or the Bowtie Bar in center field. 2. Atrium Health Ballpark – Kannapolis Cannon Ballers – 4.43 (CAR) Gregory Koch – The Cannon Ballers fans in attendance can get loud at times and are deeply familiar with the team. It is not uncommon to hear them commenting in great detail as to what is going on on the field, or even what the team did in a previous game and what the manager is doing right or wrong. This is a relatively small ballpark that is just the right size for the crowds the team draws. 1. TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark - Myrtle Beach Pelicans – 4.71 (CAR) Steve Ohnsman - ReturnTicket.com Park offers something for everyone: casual and intense baseball fans, families, groups, tourists, local residents; even “foodies.” The natural grass field is well maintained and many trees behind the outfield walls provide an excellent backdrop. ** The Salem Red Sox were renamed the Salem RidgeYaks. The Lynchburg Hillcats were renamed the Hill City Howlers. The Carolina Mudcats moved from Zebulon, NC, to Wilson and became the Wilson Warbirds in a brand-new park: Wilson Ballpark. The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes moved to Ontario and became the Ontario Tower Buzzers as the Dodgers affiliate in a brand-new park: ONT Field. Other notes: The Angels shifted their Single-A affiliation from Inland Empire to Rancho Cucamonga. The Mariners moved their Single-A affiliation from Modesto to Inland Empire (IE 66ers), and Modesto left the California League.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Brian Kelly ’83 Stadium 80 Nelson Place Forest Grove, MA 01605 Assumption Greyhounds football website Brian Kelly '83 Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 1,200 Touch of Grey Assumption University is a private Catholic University in Worcester, MA. Founded in 1904 by the Augustinians of the Assumption, the school offers 37 majors and 50 minors to its enrollment of just over 2,000 students. Long known as “Assumption College,” Assumption transitioned to University status in 2020 with the reorganization into five distinct schools. Football has been played at Assumption since 1967, when the school began a club program. In 1988 the team was elevated to varsity status. They were inaugural members of Division Two’s Northeast-10 Conference at the conception of the circuit in 2002. Three Assumption alumni (Deonte Harty, Scott Simonsen Zach Triner), have played in the National Football League. Brian Kelly Stadium was built on the site of Multi-Sport Stadium, Assumption’s old stadium. The central component of the university’s Centennial Campaign, the stadium cost $3.2 million to build. Today six Greyhound teams (football, men’s and women’s lacrosse, men’s and women’s soccer and field hockey) all use the facility. The Stadium is named for Assumption class of 1983 alumnus Brian Kelly, who played on the Greyhounds football team during his undergraduate days and went on to serve as the football team’s defensive coordinator and the softball coach. He later went on to a successful college coaching career, including stints as coach at Notre Dame and LSU. Kelly and his wife Paqui support a scholarship at Assumption for members of the football team. Brian Kelly Stadium Grandstand. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand at the southwest corner of the stadium. Visiting fans can pick up burgers, hot dogs, chips, candy and assorted Coca-Cola products. Alcohol is not allowed inside Kelly Stadium. Fans are allowed to bring in their own drinks and snacks to the stadium. You’ll be sure to see lots of hot drinks from the local Dunkin’ as the weather turns cold later in the season. Atmosphere 2 The gameday atmosphere at Kelly Stadium is everything that you would want and expect at a small school and small facility like you find here at Assumption. There’s nothing over the top or overdone here in any aspect of the presentation. In short, it’s a laid-back, relaxed place to take in some quality football on a Saturday afternoon. You’re far from the bright lights of big-time college football here at Assumption, and that’s probably precisely why you chose to be here. The atmosphere begins with the tailgating lot. Located a short walk from the field, You’re not going to find rowdy drinking games or loud shenanigans here. You’ll be among fans enjoying some pregame food and drink before heading across the street for the game. During the game, there’s no band playing, which is a big minus, but the cheerleaders and dance team perform in their respective corners of the stadium. Music plays throughout the game (sometimes when it shouldn’t), and the PA announcer goes about his job in a very workmanlike fashion. The Greyhounds mascot, Pierre, wanders around the stands throughout the game interacting with fans. One word to the athletic department: please get the mascot costume washed! There’s a videoboard in the north end zone that displays game info and plays some replays and graphics. Unfortunately, the board is positioned very far from the field. There is a lot of empty space between the back of the end zone and the edge of the stadium. Greyhounds Dance Team Performs at Kelly Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 Assumption University is located in the residential Forest Grove neighborhood of the city of Worcester. While very secluded and quiet, the university is close to downtown. Visiting fans looking for dining or lodging options while visiting Assumption will find nothing in the immediate vicinity of the school, but luckily, there are plenty of options to be found a short drive away. While there aren’t many dining or lodging options right around Assumption, downtown Worcester is only two and a half miles away. Located here is the city’s famous Restaurant Row, Shrewsbury Street, where dozens of restaurants, shops and businesses are concentrated along a two-mile stretch of road. Also located downtown is the DCU Center, home of the ECHL’s Worcester Railers. The up-and-coming Canal District is home to Polar Park, home of the Worcester Red Sox. Even though there are 13 colleges in and around Worcester, Holy Cross fields the only Division One teams. Fitton Field and the Hart Recreation Center anchor the facilities there. Fans 3 Attendance at Assumption football games has been in a slow and steady decline over the past couple of decades since they reportedly averaged over 2,100 fans a game. For the 2025 season the Greyhounds drew an average of just over 1,000 fans per game to Kelly Stadium, just under the conference average. The first two games of 2026 show a similar trend attendance-wise. You won’t find much of a turnout from the student body at an Assumption football game, nor is there a dedicated student section. The stands are filled with locals, families and alumni looking for an affordable afternoon of entertainment. The crowd doesn’t add a ton of energy to the proceedings, but they are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the Greyhounds. With the compact geographic footprint of the Northeast-10 Conference, you’ll be sure to see many fans of the visiting team in the stands. As a visiting fan, you can feel safe sporting the opposing colors at Kelly Stadium. Pierre, The Greyhounds Mascot, Interacts with Fans at Kelly Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Brian Kelly Stadium is located on the northern edge of the Assumption University campus alongside the rest of the school’s athletic facilities, including H.L. Rocheleau Field, Normand R. Marois Field and Plourde Recreation Center. The school is located in a residential neighborhood which, while not far from downtown Worcester, is somewhat secluded and not directly served by public transportation. Driving is the best method to arrive at Assumption. Parking for Greyhound football games is available at no charge in the many lots around campus. The lots directly adjacent to the stadium are reserved for tailgating. If you are not planning to tailgate, you will have a short walk, up to a half mile, to the stadium. And since this is Worcester, you will naturally be walking uphill. All seating at Kelly Stadium is metal bleachers contained in a grandstand on the western side of the stadium. There is plenty of standing room at the top of the grandstand and at field level at the south end zone. There is also a party deck which offers great views of the action. Lines at the concession stand were not too long, even at halftime. There are a pair of port-a-johns in the south end zone, but given the lack of lines there and their relative cleanliness, there must be permanent rest rooms somewhere in the facility that this writer could not find. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Greyhounds football games are sold as general admission for ten dollars. Seniors and children are admitted for five dollars, while students and members of the military are admitted free of charge. Parking is free in the lots around campus, except for the tailgating lots, for which passes must be purchased. More information can be found here. Refreshments at the concession stand are reasonably priced, making an afternoon at an Assumption football game an affordable entertainment option for Central Massachusetts sports fans. Greyhound Statue at Kelly Stadium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 2 Championship banners honoring all the teams that call Kelly Stadium home are hung along the fence on the east side of the field. Greyhound Park provides a meeting spot just outside the entrance to the stadium, complete with a life-size statue of a greyhound, providing that perfect Instagram spot before heading inside for the game. Final Thoughts Brian Kelly Field is a typical small football facility at a small school. It doesn’t try to be anything that it isn’t, and that’s exactly part of its charm. If you head to a game at Assumption, be ready for a relaxed afternoon of quality football far from the bright lights of the big time. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 RA-Lin Field at University Stadium 1500 Lovvorn Rd Carrollton, GA 30117 West Georgia Wolves website RA-Lin Field at University Stadium website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 10,000 Go West My Fan The West Georgia Wolves offer a stellar atmosphere for a football game. In a stadium that only holds 10,000 fans, they offer all the amenities you could ask for, including a full-on team store, a beer garden, a great mascot and cheer squad, fireworks after every home, an energetic band, and much more. The facility looks clean and modern, and you can get in and out easily. University of West Georgia Stadium was built in 2009 and is located about a mile off campus. The design incorporates a lot of brickwork along with bright blue decor, as well as wolf statues inside the stadium itself and visible from your seats. The tailgating scene is also top-notch, with tents visible all around the stadium. Food & Beverage 3 There are only two concession stands at University of West Georgia Stadium, both of which are located on the concourse behind the home side seating. Both stands serve the same items; fans have their choice of Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches, pizza, hot dogs, nachos, candy, popcorn, or chips, along with bottled Coca-Cola products. There is also a beer garden with full bar on the north side of the home stands. Non-alcoholic drinks are $3.50, while food prices range from $2.50 for chips to $7 for a chicken sandwich. Atmosphere 5 Speaking of the beer garden, that is a great spot to watch the game from even if you are not drinking alcohol. The beer garden is complete with two sets of cornhole (in case you want to challenger your friends) as well as picnic tables and drink rails with stool seating. The team gear store is also located inside the beer garden, so you are only steps away from lots of options to rep your favorite team. As mentioned above, the best part of a West Georgia game is the fireworks they set off every time the home team scores – and not just one firework, either, but multiple bursts of smoke and sparkle every time the Wolves find pay dirt. There are also wolf statues to be found, such as a painted one on the home side concourse, as well as a much larger one visible behind the west (visitor stands). The band and pep squad do a great job keeping the fans engaged, and the mascot makes the rounds throughout the stadium all game long. The dance team is set up behind the south end zone for most of the game, constantly twirling their banners, while the cheerleaders are set up in front of the home stands. You can also walk all the way down to the front of the stands, if desired, to get a closer view of the action. Neighborhood 3 Being a mile off campus, there is not a lot to do in the immediate vicinity of University of West Georgia Stadium. However, if you venture closers to the school you will find several great restaurants, such as Brown Dog Eatery, Corner Café, and Jefferson’s – Jefferson’s is probably the most popular of these three with students, well-known for its wings and burgers. For entertainment in the area the most popular option may be GreenBelt trail, an 18-mile paved trail that connects the University of West Georgia to several local parks. The trail is used heavily by students and locals alike for running, walking, or cycling. There are a few hotels in the immediate vicinity of the national chain variety, but on the plus side you are less an hour from Atlanta if you are craving the big city and all its many attractions, such as Six Flags Over Georgia, the World of Coke, the Olympic torch from the 1996 Summer Olympics, and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library. Or if you want to enjoy even more college football, Atlanta is home to four different college teams, as well as the College Football Hall of Fame and the Atlanta Falcons. Fans 3 West Georgia has a great fan base, but the stadium won’t necessarily be at capacity except during the biggest games. Most fans sit on the home side, which, as mentioned, has much nicer amenities than the west (visitors) side. The visitors side will likely be pretty empty during a typical matchup here, if you want to sit there, or you should be able to find space anywhere you want on the home side, including in the beer garden – the beer garden would be my top choice of where to sit. Access 4 Getting to University of West Georgia Stadium is simple enough; the only potential downside is not being on campus, which might mean taking a shuttle bus to the game. If you drive it is only 6 miles off Interstate 20, so you should be able to get to the facility in less than 10 minutes once you exit I-20. There is plenty of parking right next to the stadium, and once you enter the venue there is plenty of room to move around. The concourses are huge and spacious, meaning you won’t feel crowded, and there are plenty of restrooms as well. You also shouldn’t see much of a line for concessions or inside the team gear shop. Return on Investment 5 I would absolutely recommend a visit to University of West Georgia Stadium. Tickets are only $20 for general admission (bleacher seats without backs), or $30 for reserved (bucket-style chairback seats). There is only one small section of reserved seats, in the top middle section of the home side; I wouldn’t be concerned about spending the extra $10 to get those, as the bleachers are perfectly comfortable. But the main reason for this section’s score is the clean, modern facility; the brickwork and bright blue décor really work well together. The fireworks are also a big plus, as are the beer garden and the team gear store – the team gear store here is not just a little pop-up stand like many smaller football venues might have, but instead if covers the full range of items you might want to buy, from shirts and hats to koozies and keychains. Extras 4 The tailgating on The Hill is visible from the home side, as are bouncy houses and other set-ups positioned behind the west stands. I also really appreciate the ability to play cornhole instead the stadium, something you can usually only do while tailgating. The small stadium vibe here also lets you get really close to the action, and I appreciate the bright blue steel beams incorporating into the concourse architecture – a great nod to the school colors instead of just boring concrete. Final Thoughts University of West Georgia Stadium is a wonderful college football stadium that is definitely worth a look. The call sign for the West Georgia Wolves is Go West, and you should absolutely do that; in fact I would make it a bucket list item. You won’t be able to help being impressed by the architectural design, the constant fireworks, and the attention to detail the staff here has, in adding all the little bells and whistles that turn a good day at a college football game into a great one.

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

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Frank B. Fuhrer ’48 Field 204 Park Avenue Meadville, PA 16335 Alleghency Gators website Frank B. Fuhrer '48 Field website Year Opened: 1949 Capacity: 3,700 It’s Chomp Time! The Allegheny Gators of Meadville, Pennsylvania compete in NCAA Division III football, playing in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC). The team plays its home games at Frank B. Fuhrer ’48 Field, and the team’s logo is very clever, incorporating a gator tail as the right side of the “A” in Allegheny. The team won the 1990 NCAA Division III National Championship, with a 21-14 overtime victory over Lycoming College. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage scene at Fuhrer Field is quite unique – because of the new football operations center being built right next to the home stands, concessions are different now than they were in the past. What you will find is a food truck near the main entrance, offering dirty sodas and build-your-own fries topped with different things, such as chicken or cheese. There is also a small stand selling items such as chips, candy bars, soda, and bottled water. In addition to these two options, there is also a beer garden next to the home stands – IDs are checked, and you can’t take alcohol outside of the garden. Canned alcohol costs $5, or you can buy soda or bottled water for $2.50. The most unique feature, however, is the free food provided by the alumni association, handed out from a row of tents as you walk through the main entrance. On my most recent visit they had walking tacos, three varieties of Italian sausage (including vegan), and a chips and dip bar. These items were only provided through the end of the first quarter, but it was a nice change from having to pay an arm and a leg for stadium concessions. I did notice long lines at the aforementioned food truck, despite the free offerings elsewhere – the dirty sodas and topped fries apparently are very popular items. Atmosphere 4 The Allegheny Gators offer a great atmosphere for football. There are stands on both sides of the field, as well as tented seating behind one end zone for volunteers and donors. The crowd noise is very loud, and I saw a lot of fans wearing Gators gear. The facility recently went through a series of upgrades, most notably resurfacing the track surrounding the field and updating the exterior of the press box – the latter looks amazing, with a dark blue background accented with bright green gators. Neighborhood 3 As you drive down a rural road in Pennsylvania, past a Mennonite church and a few houses here and there, suddenly you will see a football stadium pop up right in front of you – a welcome sight in an unexpected location. Unlike many college sports venues, Fuhrer Field is not on campus, nor surrounded by other athletic fields, but instead is the only campus building in the vicinity. This makes it easy to have parking right next to the venue. Downtown Meadville is about two miles away, offering several sports bar-type options to visit before or after the game, such as TimberCreek Tap & Table or Triple Deuce Saloon. There are also two bed and breakfasts, but if you are looking for typical national chains you will have to head over to I-79 about four miles away. Fans 4 Allegheny fans are stellar – they cheered loudly when good things happened for the Gators, and loudly booed the referees when bad things happened. The home stands were only somewhat full, but many fans also watched from the beer garden and the tented area behind the end zone, or stood along the fence line watching the game from there. Access 3 Meadville, PA is a little off the beaten path, so make sure you watch for deer if you happen to be driving in the morning or evening. Getting there is not difficult though – it just may take some time depending on where you are coming from. Once you get to the facility, on the plus side there is parking right next to the field, either on the back side in a paved lot for alumni and VIPs, or on the front side on the grass, which can get a little muddy if it happens to be damp that day. Parking is free, though, as is attending the game itself. The only other potential challenge is the bathroom situation – there are bathrooms on the far side behind the home stands, so it may be a bit of a walk if you happen to be sitting on the other side. This situation should improve shortly, however, when the construction finishes up. Return on Investment 4 There is no cost for admission, no cost for parking, and concessions are cheap (or even free). I would definitely recommend attending an Allegheny Gators game if you are in the area, or even if you have to drive a couple of hours. Their logo is great, the crowd is a lot of fun, and you won’t find amenities like this at most small football stadiums – how many of them have a beer garden, for example? Extras 3 The Gators have a team gear stand behind the press box, and while I did not see a band or a mascot, they do have cheerleaders performing near the sideline on the home side. I think a mascot would be a great addition; I think the creative staff here would do something cool with one. Final Thoughts I really enjoyed my trip to Meadville to see the Gators – I love their logo, the press box exterior is fantastic, and it is easy to move around the stadium. This is absolutely an above average facility in the D3 football world.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium 605 S College Ave Newark, DE 19716 Delaware Blue Hens website Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 1,400 Blue Hen Pride When you travel down the busy I-95 corridor along the East Coast, you may have driven close by to one of the most successful college football programs in history and didn’t even know it. Stop by the University of Delaware, located in the small city of Newark, and experience some history in action. The Blue Hens used to be a member of the Coastal Athletic Conference (CAA), but as of 2025, they have moved to the Conference USA for most sports. In soccer they are an associate member of the The Summit conference. The stadium is part of the David M. Nelson Athletic Complex, which includes the Bob Carpenter Center, Delaware Stadium, Bob Hannah Stadium, Fred P. Rullo Stadium, the Fred Rust Ice Arena, and the Delaware Field House. Food & Beverage 1 The stadium itself actually has no concession stand. But there may be a stand open which is just across from the grandstand in a building that has service windows also facing into Delaware Stadium, the university's football stadium. This unique arrangement makes quite a bit of sense as sharing of facilities is a cost saving strategy. If opened , the menu is pretty simple, but offers good quality. Burgers, hot dog, pizza are your likely choices. You are free to bring outside food into the stadium, so that gives fans an additional option. Consider bringing your own drink to save some money and sit back and watch Blue Hens soccer. Atmosphere 3 The Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium is a pretty basic setup with a simple grandstand running down one side of the field. There is no seating elsewhere, although there are some spots for standing and watching the action. The grandstand has simple press box at the top part of the seating. The press box does impede view of the scoreboard if sitting on the south part of the seating area. There really should be an additional scoreboard at the south end of the field. The stadium is also used as a track and field stadium so the seating area is not as close to the pitch as you may see at other soccer fields. The running lanes are blue to match the team. Neighborhood 4 Newark (pronounced here as New-Ark) is a great college town. Numerous food options on East Main Street will fill you up before or after a game. Parking on East Main Street is always a bit of a problem. There are many public lots, but note that they may be behind buildings and hard to find. Many restaurants offer validation for the public lots. If you do not want to fight for parking, head the opposite way from downtown Newark and towards the gigantic Christiana Mall area. Right before getting there is Border Cafe, designated only with a large “EAT” sign. Their large and varied menu offers great Tex-Mex & Cajun options at a pretty low price. Try the catfish fajitas with a side of jambalaya. Numerous dining and lodging options are prevalent around the Christiana Mall area, although if in search of lodging, one should look at the Embassy Suites located across from the baseball stadium. Around the corner from the arena, behind Rust Arena, is the campus-run UDairy Creamery. Stopping for a pre or post-game ice cream cone is a must. Fans 4 As with most college soccer stadiums in this part of the country, the bulk of the fans tend to be family or friends of both teams. There will be some local fans who just happen to stop by for the game as well. The fans are very knowledgeable and can be quite loud. Student attendance at games will always be an issue as the stadium is located far from the student housing options on campus. Access 5 Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium is easy to reach, and is only a couple miles off of Interstate 95. You may have to pay some tolls, although locals will know how to avoid them as much as possible. Parking is free and plentiful in front of Delaware Stadium and the Bob Carpenter Center. Walk between the fieldhouse and the stadium to find the baseball field. There is also parking in the lot behind the Bob Carpenter Center. Return on Investment 4 It used to be free toa attend matches here but they now have a $10 charge for adults, with some other prices for children. UD Students are free. Extras 2 The university provides roster and game notes before all games. It is filled with stats and coverage of all the action. The UDairy Creamery, located within walking distance of the athletic facilities, always deserves an extra mention. This student-focused operation is part of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and offers great, fresh ice cream options. Final Thoughts Stuart & Suzanne Grant Stadium is a simple soccer stadium that offers a good level of soccer games at a fairly low cost. If you enjoy soccer, attending a match here is a no-brainer.

Photos by Lloyd Brown and Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Ford Field 2000 Brush St Detroit, MI 48226 Detroit Lions website Ford Field website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 65,000 Lions Loyal Ford Field has served as the Lion’s den since it opened in 2002. It marked the welcome return of the team to downtown Detroit after playing several seasons in the Pontiac Silverdome in the suburbs. Like the Silverdome, it provides a warm and dry respite from the harsh late fall and early winter weather the Detroit area experiences. The stadium has a seating capacity of 65,000 and offers 129 luxury suites. There are two 27’ X 96’ videoboards, with one behind each end zone to keep the fans updated on game stats and replays of significant plays. Ford Field features three seating levels. The 100 level is the closest to the action and is the most expensive of the general seating area. The 200 level features the luxury boxes and other seating areas that come with premium amenities. The 300 level offers the lowest seating prices, but it also provides you with the best overview of the whole field action. In 2017, Ford Field underwent $100 million in renovations. This renovation replaced the existing videoboards, upgraded the sound systems and made improvements to the suites and premium areas of the stadium. Food & Beverage 4 There are 50 permanent concession stands and 75 portable carts at Ford Field to service fans food and beverage needs. These stands offer a wide variety of foods, assuring that every fan finds something that meets their personal taste. Pepsi brand sodas are the official soft drink at Ford Field. BBQ favorites are available at Slow’s BBQ and the Billy Sims BBQ stand. Burger fans can get their fix at the Great Lakes Burger Bar, Bunkhouse Burger and Tailgate Grill. Since you are in Detroit, it should be no surprise that there are multiple Little Caesar’s pizza stands on each level of Ford Field. Fans with a sweet tooth can check out the Bombshell Treat Bar, Ben’s Soft Pretzels, For the Love of Cheesecake and Big Top Bites. Value priced snacks are available at the Streats of Detroit, Kickoff Classics or the Snack Zone locations. Fans can also enjoy discounted food prices during the Power Hour (the first hour after the stadium gates open). These discounted items include $2.99 sodas, $3.99 beers and $3.49 hot dogs. There are several stands at Ford Field that feature alcoholic beverages. These include the Turf Tavern, the Mane Street Saloon, the 1800 Bar, the Craft Corner and the Labatt’s Can Stand. Individual carts feature brands such as Blue Moon, Modelo and Leinenkugel. Fans must be 21 years or older to purchase alcohol. Atmosphere 4 The front of the second level features salutes to significant players and games during the long history of the Lions. The Pride of the Lions is the team’s Hall of Fame, and its members include Lem Barney, “Night Train” Lane, Barry Sanders, Joe Schmidt, Bobby Layne, Herman Moore, Alex Karrass, Chris Spielman and Calvin Johnson. This is along the front of the upper level of the north side of the stadium. The front of the south deck features banners from each of the Lions championship seasons (1935,1952, 1953 and 1957). Ford Field’s roof helps to trap in the noise from the stands. The Lion fans often disrupt the visiting team’s communications in key situations during the game. The football anthem “Gridiron Heroes” is sung after each Lions touchdown. Neighborhood 4 Ford Field and Comerica Field anchor Detroit’s sports-and-entertainment district. This area blends modern arenas with revitalized historic structures in the downtown area of Detroit. Hotels within walking distance of Ford Field include the Element Detroit and the Atheneum Suite Hotel. The Greektown Casino is also located nearby. It also offers rooms, in addition to a casino and live entertainment. There are also numerous bars and restaurants in the area. Elwood’s Bar and Grill is just across the street from Ford Field. The Hockeytown Café, Slow’s BBQ and Nemo’s Sports Bar are popular pre- and post-game hangouts for Lions fans, as they offer shuttles to and from the stadium for patrons. Entertainment venues near Ford Field include the Fox Theatre, the Detroit Opera House, the Fillmore Detroit and the Gem Theatre. Fans 4 Lions fans have supported the team through both thick and thin, filling the stadium in good times and bad. Many tickets have been passed down through multiple generations, creating a family reunion feel to the pregame tailgating activities. Lion’s fans begin getting energized for the games at the pregame tailgate located on Pride Plaza. The tailgate area opens two hours before kickoff. No ticket is required for these activities. The tailgate area includes music, food trucks, games and appearances by Roary and the Lions cheer squad. Another popular area for pregame tailgating is the nearby Eastern Market. Keeping the fans energized is the Lions team mascot Roary. Fans can stock up on their Lions gear at one of the four Lions Supply team stores at Ford Field. Access 5 From I-95, I-75 North and the M-10 Interchange: Take exit 49 (Rosa Parks). Turn left onto Michigan Avenue heading towards downtown Detroit. Take Michigan Avenue to Woodward Avenue North. Take Woodward Avenue to Montcalm Street and turn right. Ford Field will be on your right. From I-75 South: Take exit 52 (Mack Avenue) and follow service road. Turn right at Winder Street. Turn left at Brush Street. The Stadium will be on your left. Ford Field is 17 miles east of Detroit’s airport. Ford Field parking areas open 4 hours before kickoff. You are urged to prepay for parking via the ParkWhiz app. Parking fees vary by opponent. Additional parking is available nearby on non-stadium lots. A more cost-effective way to get to a Lions game is the free Q Line light rail system. The Q Line circulates through Downtown Detroit, with trains running every 15 minutes. Guests will depart the train at the Grand Circus station. The rideshare pickup and drop-off location is located on the West Fisher Service Drive between Brush Street and John R Street (near gates B and C). The activities on Pride Plaza get underway 2.5 hours prior to kickoff. Once at the stadium, the gates open three hours before kickoff. There are 8 main gates at Ford Field. The first hour of this period is known as the Power Hour. Patrons can get special deals on food and beverages during this hour. Return on Investment 3 The Lions long history with the city, along with their recent success on the football field, adds up to a pricey gameday experience at Ford Field. The Lions have sold out every game since 2023. Its secondary market ticket prices are the highest in the NFL at $444 per seat. Concession prices are in line with the typical prices featured at other NFL venues. Parking rates at Ford Field start at $30. Rates vary by opponent. Extras 3 The Detroit Lions were the first team to implement the tradition of having a home game every season on Thanksgiving Day. The tradition began in 1934 as a means of getting national publicity for the struggling team. This was achieved by a nationwide broadcast of the game on NBC radio. The Lions have played every Thanksgiving Day since, except for the World War II years. Ford Field has incorporated portions of the former Hudson Store’s warehouse into its concourse area. This is a nice bit of historical preservation for the Detroit area’s most legendary retail brand. The seven-story atrium along the concourse also provides a panoramic view of the Detroit skyline. Ford Field has hosted the NCAA Men’s Final Four, the 2006 Super Bowl, the NCAA Frozen Four, MAC football championship games, the Quick Lane Bowl and WrestleMania. Final Thoughts The Lions are one of the oldest franchises in the NFL, and they can boast of having some of the most loyal fans in the league. Ford Field rewards its fans with easy access, concession stands featuring food from some of the Motor City’s top restaurants, and the comfort of an indoor stadium to escape Detroit’s brutal winters.

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

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

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Honaker Field at Lloyd L. Thornton Stadium 502 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy Maryville, TN 37804 Maryville Scots website Honaker Field at Lloyd L. Thornton Stadium website Year Opened: 1952 Capacity: 3,000 Great Scots The Maryville Scots of Maryville, Tennessee, compete in NCAA Division III football, playing in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA). The team plays its home games at Honaker Field at Lloyd L. Thornton Stadium, proudly repping the orange and garnet. The facility boasts a great tailgating atmosphere, bleacher seating on both sides of the field, and a small team gear stand. Gameday here also includes performances by the Tartan Band, as well as tent seating behind both end zones — more of the tailgate variety on one end, with the other end leaning more toward the bring-your-own-camping-chair type. Food & Beverage 2 Thornton Stadium offers very basic concessions, with hot dogs being the only item of substance. However, you can also purchase nachos, pretzels, candy, chips, and ice cream, and the prices are very low — for example, only $8 for a hot dog combo with chips and a drink. Beverages include soda and bottled water. Many fans eat at their tailgates instead, some even during the game as they watch. And since there is no cost for admission, you can bring your own food and drink inside the facility if you choose. Atmosphere 4 The Maryville Scots offer a great football atmosphere — the band is entertaining, and the stately brick construction of the facility gives it an old-world vibe, reminiscent of a Scottish noble’s estate. While there is only a static scoreboard and no mascot that I saw, the color scheme and logo are great. I especially like the downward-pointing claymore serving as the “T” in Scots. Neighborhood 3 There are plenty of restaurants and hotels in the area to fit your tastes and budget, including the RT Lodge hotel only steps away from Thornton Stadium. But two can’t-miss options in the area are two castles — yes, castles! If you want to continue the Scottish theme, check out Greenback Castle, a quirky handmade spot built from recycled and donated materials that still fits the Scottish architectural vibe with its walls, towers, and turrets. Millennium Manor Castle, on the other hand, re-creates ancient Roman architecture. Used for medieval-themed tours on weekends, the castle is built out of poured concrete and local Tennessee pink marble. Fans 5 Scots fans are second to none — the facility is practically overflowing with fans everywhere. Both sets of bleachers are full, but there are also fans sitting behind both end zones, as well as standing anywhere they can find space. They cheer at the right times and stay until the end, even in a blinding rain. I mentioned the tailgating earlier; besides tailgating out in the parking lot, you will also see tailgating happening all game long behind one end zone, as well as fans sitting in lawn chairs behind the other end zone. You will also see fans standing behind the goal posts watching the game – it is great to see a football atmosphere like this, where there literally aren’t enough seats to hold everyone who wants to come support their team. Access 4 Getting to Maryville is simple enough; it is about half an hour from Knoxville, the closest big city, and you can get most of the way to campus using I-140. Once you get to the football field, there is plenty of parking all around, either behind the stadium or in front of it. Moving around the venue is also simple, with short lines at the concessions and bathrooms. Return on Investment 4 There is no cost for admission, and concessions are cheap. And while the Scots may not offer an over-the-top gameday experience like you might see up the road in Knoxville, it is a great atmosphere on a quaint campus — a much more relaxed, enjoyable vibe than some other football stadiums you may have visited. Extras 3 The Scots have a team gear stand right next to the home stands, as well as cheerleaders who perform down along the sidelines. You can also sit (or stand) anywhere in the stadium, which is a great way to take in the game from different vantage points. Final Thoughts I really enjoyed my trip to Maryville to see the Scots and the Tartan Band. If you are in the area, I would highly recommend it — here you will find a peaceful, pleasant day of football, surrounded by fans who absolutely love their team. Go, Scots!

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Gainbridge Fieldhouse 125 S Pennsylvania St Indianapolis, IN 46204 Indiana Fever website Gainbridge Fieldhouse website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 17,923 Basketball at a Fever Pace The Indiana Fever have been in Indianapolis since 2000. Caitlin Clark's presence in 2024 created a spike in attendance. The team has seen increases in media coverage, season ticket sales, and merchandise sales. The upper balcony seating has been opened for home games in recent memory. All of this excitement has created a new interest in the team that hopes to translate to packed fans at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Fever home was built in 1999 and is also home to the NBA Indiana Pacers. The arena just completed a three-phase $360 renovation plan that has brought it up to today’s standards. The building seats 18,165, and all of these seats will be available for Fever gam The Fever arrived in town in 2000 and have qualified for the playoffs 13 times in their first 17 seasons. This included a championship in 2012 during the Tamika Catchings era. However, the team has fallen on hard times with seven straight losing seasons, including a 5-31 season in 2022. With the arrival of Clark, along with previous No. 1 pick Aliyah Boston, the Fever began a new era of basketball in Indiana and raised another championship banner in the Gainbridge rafters. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage options have been updated at the fieldhouse and include new and familiar options. The Warehouse District BBQ and Three Point Taqueria are two options that offer fans something different at the game. The Indiana Kitchen offers lemon-pepper and honey-glazed chicken wings, short rib poutine, and maple bourbon sticks. If you are looking for familiar options, then Fieldhouse Favorites has you covered. Hot dogs, nachos, chicken tenders, pizza, burgers, pretzels, and Pepsi products are available. A value menu offers $4 hot dogs, $3 popcorn, and $8 cans of PBR and Coors Banquet. A unique sweet treat is served at the Steak 'n Shake Milkshake Bar, which offers cotton candy, mega M&M, and crazy chocolate brownie flavors. A couple of the standout options at a Fever game Photo by Marc Viquez. The Fast Break Market sells grab-and-go beverages and snacks. A nacho cart offers an array of toppings, and Ben's Pretzels has long lines for freshly made baked pretzels. The Crossroads Eats sells gourmet hot dogs. The Yuengling Flight Deck and the Jim Beam Bar offer beers, wine, and cocktails. It also has various TV screens and views of the playing court. The Three Point Taqueria sells nachos and street tacos with impossible chorizo, adobe chicken, and carne asada. They also have grilled summer elote and chips with green chili queso. However, a few shareable options include the Fan Court Porkster, a giant pork tenderloin sandwich, and the Deep Three Nachos with multi-color chops and an array of toppings. The fieldhouse offers platinum liquor, cocktails, draft beer, and wine. Regional options include Upland and Sun King, while national brands from Bud, Coors, and Miller are available on both levels of the building. If you want a non-alcoholic beverage, The Shake Bar is worth visiting as fans can choose from a variety of milkshakes that include decadent toppings and ingredients. Atmosphere 5 What a difference a season makes. A Fever game feels more aligned with an Indiana Pacers game. A variety of fans walk throughout the concourse and the seating bowl in support of their WNBA team. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse is ideal for accommodating the newfound fan base that has made their way downtown. Before the game, many fans gather in Bicentennial Unity Plaza, where kids can shoot hoops on the outdoor basketball court, while others take in the atmosphere around the plaza’s curved sculpture and video screen displaying graphics and team content. Inside, the main atrium feels bright and open thanks to the massive windows that let in plenty of natural light. Banners featuring current Fever players hang throughout the space, while a large round chandelier serves as the centerpiece above the sweeping staircase leading to the main concourse. The concourse has been revamped and features basketball-themed murals that are both popping with color and creativity, while honoring past greats who have suited up for the Fever, Pacers, and high school teams of the state. The new art is a variety of murals, and the artwork varies in designs and colors. The fieldhouse includes a massive $4.3 million 20-foot by 52.5-foot video scoreboard, including underbelly panels for improving sightlines for fans sitting next to the court. It almost feels like it's floating when viewing it from the main concourse. There are also plenty of open views of the court from the concourse. Team banners of retired jerseys, league titles, and division championships hang from the rafters on each side. The Fever gift shop has an array of team merchandise, but it is a little cramped. However, a couple of stands and one station can personalize a jersey with your name on it on the main concourse. Neighborhood 5 The fieldhouse is in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and closer to retail and restaurants than Lucas Oil Stadium down the street. The only problem is choosing where to grab a drink or eat before or after the game. Located near the arena is the local favorite Kilroy’s Bar and Grill, which offers 40 flat-screen televisions, shuffleboard, video games, and their famous pepperoni-stuffed breadsticks. Another fan favorite, Brother’s Bar & Grill, is a short walk away and is another popular destination before or after the game. A few more favorite spots after the game include The District Tap, Mr. Tequila Street Cantina, and Pier 48 Fish House & Oyster Bar. There are many options for a drink before or after the game. Photo by Marc Viquez It is highly recommended to visit the neighborhoods of Mass Ave. and Fountain Square. The two areas offer live music, craft beer, fine dining, and a little shopping at local retail shops. Mass Ave. is also home to the Bottleworks District, the city's newest attraction. The Garage houses multiple food and drink vendors, offering an array of culinary treasures. Downtown Indy is also safe, clean, and easy to get around by car, foot, or mass transit. Local museums include The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the NCAA Hall of Champions, the Indiana State Museum, and the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. The Riverwalk Canal is a nice spot for a stroll on a warm spring day. Fans 4 The Fever attendance continues to rank near the top of the WNBA. The team averaged 4,000-plus fans two years ago, and so far this season, leads the league with an average of 16,560 per game. The Fever have opened up the balcony seats, which had been draped off in recent seasons. It has created a mixture of die-hard Fever fans along with new and bandwagon fans. The fanbase feels more like a Pacers game, and attendance is more of a priority than a curiosity. Access 4 The arena is easily accessible from the major interstates of 70, 65, and 465, with parking abundant downtown. After the game, exiting these facilities takes a little know-how of the one-way streets of Indianapolis, but signs and police help direct customers to their desired route back home. Traffic moves smoothly during this time as well. Return on Investment 5 Depending on the night and opponent, Fever tickets are as low as $10 on ticket sites such as TickPick. Imagine paying $2 for a professional sporting event these days. Tickets for games against the New York Liberty or Las Vegas Aces might cost upwards of $45-$57. However, check out the dates and times because tickets sell for under $15. Prices inside the venue are typical of many NBA arenas, and craft beer will cost $10 a can, much less than what we saw in Seattle last year. The cost to park across the street is $25, but meter parking is available at $2 an hour until 11 PM (Sundays and Holidays are free), and there are cheaper parking lot options around the arena for as low as $10. Extras 4 Bicentennial Unity Plaza is outside the arena. According to its website, it is the focal point for gatherings, offering a space where all residents and visitors will be greeted by captivating landscapes & art installations and, of course, a basketball court for some friendly competition. The team offers a Game Night Special that consists of a specialty-made T-shirt, cap, or sweater on sale. They sell out fast, and the team store is usually packed with fans in line to purchase one. The team also hands put cans of Poppi soda after the game. Bicentennial Unity Plaza, Photo by Marc Viquez Not as strong as it has been in the past, the fieldhouse still boasts an impressive collection of memorabilia showcasing the game of basketball in the state. There is an array of items from former professional clubs from the city, local high schools, and the major universities and colleges in the state. Final Thoughts The Fever rank among the WNBA's highest-attended teams, and the atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse rivals that of a Pacers game. The team draws a strong, knowledgeable fanbase alongside newer fans energized by Caitlin Clark and now Sophia Cunningham. The result is a packed house buzzing with energy night after night. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

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

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

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