Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Ballpark at Fitton Field 1 College St Worcester, MA 01610 Holy Cross Crusaders website Ballpark at Fitton Field website Year Opened: 1905 Capacity: 3,000 A Good Fitt   Baseball has been played at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester (pronounced “WOOH-stah”), MA since 1876. The Crusaders have played on the site of Fitton Field since 1905. The ballpark is named in honor of the Reverend James Fitton, who donated the land on which the baseball and adjacent football stadium  is located.   In addition to the Holy Cross baseball team, the Futures Collegiate Baseball League’s Worcester Bravehearts  play here. Fitton Field has also hosted professional baseball in the past, as the Can-Am League’s Worcester Tornadoes spent eight seasons in the Heart of the Commonwealth before folding in 2012. During their time at Fitton Field, the Tornadoes installed lighting and permanent seating, bringing the venue up to professional standards.   Over their long history, the Crusaders have qualified for 12 NCAA Tournaments, reaching the College World Series four times. Holy Cross won the national championship in 1952, remaining the only northeastern school to ever win the title in history. 79 alumni have appeared in the Major Leagues, the majority of whom played in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Declan Cronin made his major league debut in 2023, becoming the first Crusader alumnus in almost 50 years to play in the Majors.   Food & Beverage 0   There is no food sold at Fitton Field during Holy Cross baseball games. The concession stands along the first base side of the field remain boarded up, waiting for the Bravehearts' season to begin. Fans are welcome to bring in their own snacks during Crusaders games. During Stadium Journey's most recent visit, we saw plenty of hot Dunkin' beverages, alongside food from the local Wendy's and even an entire pizza being enjoyed by a group of hungry fans.   Atmosphere 2   The Crusader game day staff put on your standard, no-frills game presentation at Fitton Field. The ballpark has an excellent sound system, which is put to good use with music in between innings. The PA announcer is professional and unobtrusive. A new scoreboard in right-center field (the old scoreboard exploded - yes, exploded - in 2023) displays basic game information. There’s little going on at Fitton Field to distract your attention from the game. The football stadium ( also named Fitton Field ) located just beyond the right field fence makes for an interesting backdrop, as does Interstate 290 just beyond the left field fence. You may find yourself wondering if anyone has reached the interstate with a long home run. It has happened, most recently when Zach Tower hit one out there in 2015. Jeff Bagwell also reached the highway when he played for the University of Hartford. It is rumored that Jose Canseco took regular aim at the interstate, but since he hit only one home run in his 20 games with the Tornadoes, we'll call those rumors unconfirmed.   Much of the noise you will hear at Fitton Field comes from the players on the field and the fans in the stands. If you enjoy a low-key ballpark atmosphere where you can hear the chatter on the field and the crack of the bat on the ball (well, since this is college baseball, the ping of the bat), you’ll enjoy an afternoon (or evening, as this is one of the rare college parks in New England that has lights) at Fitton Field. Neighborhood 3     Worcester is the second largest city in all of New England, but has never enjoyed much of a reputation as a destination location. That all began to change when the city announced that the Pawtucket Red Sox would be moving to the brand-new Polar Park , located just 2.5 miles from the Holy Cross campus.   The Holy Cross campus is located in southwestern Worcester about three miles from downtown. There isn’t much in the immediate area of campus in terms of dining or lodging options, but the city of Worcester contains many excellent options.   Worcester’s acclaimed “ Restaurant Row ” on Shrewsbury Street is home to over forty different eateries, shops and salons. It’s a favorite destination for locals looking to enjoy a night on the town. Fans will find additional options in the downtown area around the DCU Center . The up-and-coming Canal District, anchored by Polar Park , is rapidly growing and worth a look. Likewise, fans looking for lodging options should head downtown, as there is nothing in the immediate vicinity of Holy Cross.   Traditionally overshadowed by its neighbors in Boston and Providence, Worcester is carving out its own niche as an affordable, attractive alternative to those cities.   Fans 2   As is the case with most schools in the northeast, a Crusader baseball crowd can accurately be described as a “friends and family” type of crowd. Generally totaling between 150-250 fans, the fans that do come to Fitton Field generally have a close connection with the players down on the field and are very much into the game. With the close proximity of many of Holy Cross’ opponents, it’s not unusual to see some fans of the visiting teams descend on Fitton Field.   There is not much of a turnout by the student body, but the students who do show up are ardent rooters of the Crusaders. Access 4     The Holy Cross campus is located in southwest Worcester, near the junction of Interstate 290 and Route 146. Driving is the primary method for getting to the Holy Cross campus. The Worcester Regional Transportation Authority’s 29 and 42 buses stop near Fitton Baseball Field on Southbridge Street.     Fitton Field is located on the northern edge of the Holy Cross campus, at the foot of Mount St. James. Also located nearby are Fitton Football Field  and Freshman Field . While somewhat isolated from the rest of the campus and from the center of the athletic complex, Fitton Field is still easily accessible.   Fans will enter the ballpark on the first base side of the field, at the top of the seating bowl. Concessions and merchandise stands flank the sides of the entrance, but unfortunately these are closed for Crusader baseball games. A building housing the bathrooms is located on the third base side of the ballpark.   The seating bowl at Fitton Field stretches from medium right field around to medium left field. The majority of the seating at Fitton Field is made up of individual stadium seats. There are a few sections of metal bleachers with backs down either foul line. There is plenty of standing room and accessible seating along the entirety of the top of the seating bowl. The field is visible from almost all points on the concourse. With the small size of the typical Crusader crowd, getting around is not an issue. For seats without a net obstructing your view, choose seats further down the lines.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge for admission or parking at Crusader baseball games. With no on-site concessions, fans will not have to reach for their wallets once while at Fitton Field.   Extras 2   Holy Cross has an impressive baseball history, as they are the only northeastern school to ever win the College World Series, back in 1952. This accomplishment is immortalized in giant letters along the center field fence. Crusader NCAA Tournament appearances and Conference championships are also commemorated on the outfield fence. Several retired jerseys hang on the fence in right field. A poster commemorating Declan Cronin being named as the Miami Marlins’ Rookie of the Year in 2024 is hung on the façade of the building containing the restrooms.   Ted Williams hit his first home run as a member of the Red Sox at Fitton Field during an exhibition game.   Ted Williams at Fitton Field, 1939. Photo courtesy of Worcester Telegram & Gazette. Final Thoughts The Ballpark at Fitton Field is a solid, no-frills facility that fits the needs of the Holy Cross baseball team perfectly. While the crowds of 20,000 that used to visit Worcester for baseball games are a distant memory and the glory days of this program are a thing of the past, you can’t ask for more than catching some quality baseball in this charming little park. And the chances of another scoreboard exploding have to be minimal.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Scott's Miracle-Gro Field 96 Columbus Crew Way Columbus, OH 43215 Columbus Crew website Scotts Miracle-Gro Field website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 20,371 The House the Fans Built Editor's Note: On November 25, 2025, the Columbus Crew announced they were expanding their partnership with the Scotts Miracle-Gro company and were renaming their field for the 2026 MLS season. There was a time when the thought of the Columbus Crew relocating elsewhere was a reality, but after a campaign to keep the club in town and a new ownership group, the result would be the $314 million Lower.com Field for the club to call home. The 20,371-seat venue is located in the Arena District next to Huntington Park and a few blocks west of Nationwide Arena . The stadium offers a field with a hydroponic heater that can raise the field temperature by 20 degrees if needed, and water can drain in less than 3 minutes. The Nordecke supporters section is the steepest and second-largest of its kind in the MLS while offering a beer garden on the concourse. Access has been improved with facilities a few steps away from the seating bowl and views of the pitch in a majority of the venue. The canopy roof directs the sound of the crowd directly back into the stadium, perfect for home matches for the Crew and the US Men’s National Team. The structure’s design will blend into the future 33-acre Astor Park neighborhood that will develop the underused land into a live, work, and play development over the next few years. The site will feature 404 residential apartments, a 2.5-acre riverfront park, outdoor pavilions, retail shops, and public art once completed. Lower.com Field replaced Historic Crew Stadium, the first soccer-specific facility in the MLS in 1999, located 4 miles away at the state fairgrounds. The team played its last game on June 18, 2021, and waved goodbye to an old friend that put the city on the map in terms of professional sports. However, let’s look at the future of soccer in the city and what the new venue has to offer fans in attendance. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage feature local establishments offering menu items throughout the stadium, almost 40 percent. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant, Preston’s: A Burger Joint, Dirty Frank’s, Dos Hermanos, Hot Chicken Takeover, Barrio Tacos, Crafter Culture Brewing, Legacy Smokehouse, and Donatos Pizza are among the choices for fans. The hot chicken sandwiches and pieces are plump and juicy, the brisket looks like it was smoked in Texas, the hot dogs and burgers are juicy, and the street tacos are served with roasted jalapenos. There is a healthy dose of local and national breweries that feature Land-Grant Brewing Company, Platform Beer Company, and Rhinegiest. A few highlights include the haystack from Pit Masters, which is mac and cheese with your choice of pulled pork or brisket and crushed corn chips. There is also the spicy Bahama Mama from Schmidt’s served al carte or with a side of German potato salad and sauerkraut. Also, be sure to save room for one of the company’s famous jumbo cream puffs. Dirty Frank’s has a Hot Frankie topped with coney sauce, cheddar cheese, sriracha cream cheese, and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The options here are luxurious compared to other venues but also follow trends at many newer MLS grounds. Long lines form at the 42 numerous locations on the stadium’s concourse, along with a few grab-and-go spots for fans on the run. It should be noted that the prices are a tad higher for these local products, but you are also paying for the quality of the product. Atmosphere 4 Lower.com Field offers many vantage points throughout the 360º concourse, including rows 13 feet closer to the field. The stadium’s distinct feature is the large canopy roof that covers every seat in the house. The black steel design replaces the standard floodlights and features an angular pattern that connects to the club’s crest. It also helps reverberate noise back to the pitch for home-field advantage. Another mass area is the Nordecke supporter’s section which seats 3,364 people. The seating area features a rake of 34 to 37 degrees, about 70 percent steeper than the Crew old home. It is where the soul of the stadium is, with supporters waving flags, banging drums, and leading the stadium into their rendition of the Elvis classic “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” before every match. Underneath the Nordecke is a beer garden that is a spot where fans can sit down on bench tables and eat and drink their food before the game. The area features trees and is open to the public during the day when the Crew is not playing. It’s the first beer garden specifically designed for a supporters club in the league. The southwest plaza is home to pregame festivities that include concerts, games, children’s activities, and photo ops with the Crew official mascots – Crew Cat and S.C. The area is utilized on non-game days and house watch parties when applicable. The Crew House Pub and team shop are located in this corner of the stadium. The pub can hold anywhere between 250 to 300 people and opens before the game and non-game days. There are two scoreboards on the north and south ends of the stadium; the biggest is 24 feet tall and 104 feet wide. There are family spaces that include two sensory rooms, two nursery rooms, and a 1,000-square-foot playroom. Five premium areas include 34 suites on the west end of the stadium and 1,900 club suites. The Lower Lounge has 10 bunker-style luxury suites with seats at eye level to the pitch and an outdoor patio with fireplaces. Neighborhood 4 Lower.com Field is part of the Arena District that includes the home of the Columbus Clippers baseball team Huntington Park and the home of the Columbus Blue Jackets hockey club Nationwide Arena . The district offers mixed-used plan development of residential and retail space. There are more than 22 different eateries and bars located within a few steps of the building that are hopping before and after the game. The R Bar is the official hockey watering hole that sits across a small pedestrian bridge offering 16 beers on tap and 32 bottles and cans. Goodwood Brewery and Restaurant and Whistle & Key are also in this area providing outdoor seating and plenty of people-watching. If with the kids, Boston’s Pizza and Ted’s Montana Grill are two nearby choices. The indoor and outdoor concert venue KEMBA Live! and A&R Music Bar is located next to the arena, which provides an ideal later-night atmosphere. The future 33-acre Astor Park neighborhood will develop the underused land into a live, work, and play development over the next few years. Once completed, the site will feature 404 residential apartments, a 2.5-acre riverfront park, outdoor pavilions, retail shops, and public art. Fans 4 The colors black and yellow are dominant with the majority of the fans at the game. The Crew supporters and fans proved their loyalty by saving the team from relocating to Austin a few years ago. It provides a great soundtrack to the stadium’s atmosphere, and the Nordeck supporters are at the center of the revelry. Check them out as they march down Nationwide Blvd. and blow off a little yellow smoke along the way. Expect to see that after a goal. Access 4 Getting inside the stadium is becoming easier with facial recognition ticketing, turnstiles where fans can scan their phones to enter, and wands to check for metal objects in their pocket without going through a security checkpoint. The menu options include frictionless and touchless environments. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket on the secondary market averages close to $39 plus taxes and fees. It also depends on the opponent, with FC Cincinnati tickets commanding a $64 fee. There are 6,300 parking spaces within a 10-minute walk with prices between $20 and $25 per vehicle. The beer and drink prices are somewhat on the high side but on par with other MLS venues. Fans should not see a huge sticker shock on menu options inside the building for top-quality foods. Extras 5 Lower.com Field earns a point for the largest supporters section in the league, the Nordecke. The area is steep and comes in at a 34-degree rake, among the steepest in the MLS. Another point of the beer garden is for fans to have a seat and enjoy something to eat and drink. The Southeast Plaza is a fantastic spot for pre-game festivities, concerts, games, and a chance to get ready for the match. A final point is for the canopied seating that protects every fan in their seat. Final Thoughts The Columbus Crew has a fine-looking soccer facility that provides fantastic views of the pitch, quality food, a boisterous atmosphere, and a passionate fanbase. The neighborhood around the facility will blossom in the coming years, making it quite the experience for hometown fans and first-time visitors. The original club in the MLS is right where they belong. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter , and Instagram .

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Lupton Stadium 3700 Berry St Fort Worth, TX 76109 TCU Horned Frogs website Lupton Stadium website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 4,500 Horned Frog Baseball The Texas Christian University baseball team is a member of the Big 12 Conference. The baseball team plays its home games at Charlie and Marie Lupton Baseball Stadium at Williams-Reilly Field, located on the TCU campus in Fort Worth, Texas. Lupton Stadium is named for Charlie and Marie Lupton in recognition of a $2 million gift from the Brown-Lupton Foundation, of which Charlie was a founder back in 1944. The playing surface at Lupton Stadium is natural grass with dimensions of 330 feet down the lines, 385 feet to the power alleys, and 400 feet to center field. The double-decker stadium has a capacity of 4,500 and features a cantilevered roof that covers part of the stadium’s grandstands, which helps keep fans protected from the unpredictable Texas weather. Lupton Stadium has had a few renovations in its 20 years of operations – the G. Malcolm Louden Player Development Center was constructed before the 2015 season and features a hitting facility and a Field Turf practice area. Following the development center’s construction, a new player’s facility was also added, which includes the home team locker room, team lounge, sports medicine center, equipment room, team classroom, coaches’ offices, and an alumni locker room. The renovations also included the addition of a new 40′ x 23′ video scoreboard in left-center field, as well as the installation of new outfield fences and a general admission grass berm beyond the right field wall. Lupton Stadium has played host to two conference tournaments (2008, 2009), ten NCAA Regional tournaments between 2009 and 2025, and three NCAA Super Regionals (2014, 2015, and 2023).   Food & Beverage   3 Lupton Stadium is packed with enough food options that the concourse can’t hold all the food stands, so the TCU Grill, State Fair, and Bobby’s Fajitas are located outside the main concourse along the walkway. The TCU Grill serves 4 different sizes of burgers and chicken sandwiches, ranging between $8.50 to$14.50, while the State Fair stand offers funnel cake, corn dogs, fat-free chills, and fresh squeezed lemonade for $6 each. However, Bobby’s Fajitas is the place for Mexican food – the fajita quesadilla and fajita nachos cost $14, regular fajita tacos cost $5, and a meat and bean burrito or cheese quesadilla runs $10 each. Inside the concourse on either side of the baselines, the stadium offers your regular stadium fare of chopped beef sandwiches and hot dogs. However, this is also where you can find a better bargain for food items, namely a value menu consisting of hot dogs, fountain drinks, and nachos for $3 each, while beer is $6. One of the more creative items at the venue is the Grub Tub Chill for $10; this is a 32-oz fountain drink with either popcorn or nachos in a special bowl that attaches to the top of the soda. Lupton Stadium serves Coca-Cola products, which are in the same cost range as other sports venues. Besides soda, other beverages on the menu include sweet tea, 20oz bottled water, and hot chocolate. The ballpark also serves alcohol inside the ballpark, though this requires an ID wristband from a separate table – the beer selection is Coors/Coors Lite or Michelob Ultra, and you can also get wine spritzers; all these alcohol selections cost $10.   Atmosphere   4 Most of TCU’s baseball games during the season are held on the weekends, with a single game during the week each season. Lupton Stadium has country music being played as you walk towards the entrance, and there are free programs and posters on tables inside the concourse. Behind home plate, there is also a lineup card for both teams, as well as a display showing the current Big 12 baseball standings. During the game, there are also free contests, such as Baseball Bingo, that really help you get into the game, and between innings, there is plenty of music, including Sweet Caroline at the top of the sixth, and the traditional seventh inning stretch song, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame”. The atmosphere at Lupton Stadium is always a great one, especially when the noise level reaches certain heights – one of those heights is when a visiting player has 2 strikes, or during other key game situations. It can become electrifying as fans stomp their feet on the metal underneath the bleachers or when the Horned Frogs score – the T-C-U chant can then be heard outside the stadium in the parking lots. Also, regardless of the final score, the TCU baseball team, along with the Horned Frog fans, sings the alma mater at the end of each game.   Neighborhood   4 The Texas Christian University campus is located about 4 miles from downtown Fort Worth, and Lupton Stadium is on the southwest corner of campus. The campus is divided by University Drive, which is the location of a few restaurants popular with TCU students. Buffalo Bros is a sponsor of TCU baseball and a popular place for all TCU fans. Fans flock to this local sports bar, which serves New York Style wings, pizza, and subs. Dutch’s Hamburgers, a burger and beer café that faces campus, is also a great place to eat before attending a TCU event. Dutch’s namesake is Leo “Dutch” Meyer, a TCU grad who became the most successful football coach in football history. But Texas is also big on BBQ, and one eatery listed in Texas’ Monthly Top 50 is Heim’s BBQ, not far from TCU’s campus. There are also several tourist attractions in Fort Worth near campus – Fort Worth Zoo on University Drive near the Colonial Country Club is a good place for families. Another option is the Cultural District, which has several museums, including the world-famous Kimbell Art Museum, as well as Will Rogers Memorial Center, home of the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, both of which are within 5 miles of Lupton Stadium. In addition, a trip to the Fort Worth Stockyards is a must when visiting the Fort Worth area, located just a few miles on the other side of downtown. Fort Worth provides many options for lodging near TCU’s campus – a few suggestions include Sheraton Fort Worth Hotel (1701 Commerce), Courtyard by Marriott Fort Worth (3150 Riverfront Drive), and Fairfield Inn & Suites (1505 S University Dr., Fort Worth).   Fans   4 Texas Christian University is a private school with an undergraduate enrollment of nearly 9,000 students, and the estimated number of living TCU alumni is about 88,800, which produces the sense of a close-knit community, making TCU fan support genuine. The Horned Frog fans also rank # 1 in the Big 12 Conference in terms of baseball attendance, with an average of 4,272 per game last season. When visiting Lupton Stadium, you will see plenty of purple and white Horned Frogs apparel, from the youngest child to the most senior adult. Most fans are polite, friendly, and just love their Horned Frogs despite the result on the field.   Access   3 Lupton Stadium is located off W. Berry Street on the southwest corner of TCU’s campus, near Bayard H. Friedman Tennis Center and Lowdon Track & Field Complex, both of which are about a mile from the center of campus. The main parking lot for baseball games is Lot 13 on Bellaire Drive N, between the soccer and baseball fields. However, on the other side of Bellaire Drive N you may park for free along the streets in the neighborhood – just follow the other cars that will be parked, and be observant of street signs, fire hydrants, and driveways when parking your vehicle. All TCU sporting venues use the clear bag policy, which states that only clear plastic bags will be allowed into the venue. Lupton Stadium has four entrances, with the first two behind home plate – a lower entrance and an upper entrance, both of which are near the ticket booth. Either way, there will be stairs, since there is only one concourse, but there is a ramp for people requiring handicap access. In addition to the two entrances behind home plate, there is a third entrance behind right field off W. Berry Street, as well as a fourth entrance along the third baseline, which is mostly for students. Once inside Lupton Stadium, the walkway concourse is narrow, but perfectly adequate for the crowd size. The signage here provides easy navigation for everything from restrooms and concessions to the seating sections. The bathrooms are okay for small crowds, but with larger crowds, there is some backup into the small concourse, as well as lines at the concessions. There are plans for future renovations to widen the concourses, which will include new restrooms and renovating the main entrance. The lower level at Lupton Stadium has individual seats, while the upper level consists of metal benches built above the dugouts. The stadium also has suites located between the seating levels that connect to the concourse. Along the right field line near the visitor’s bullpen, there is also a large, tiered grass berm that extends around the right field foul pole almost to center field. While this large berm provides an area for kids to play, it also serves as the general admission seating area when the reserved seating is sold out. However, all the reserved seating except for the patio area is protected by netting, so the large berm area is an excellent place to stand for a clearer view of the game.   Return on Investment   4 Single game tickets at Lupton Stadium are $19 (adult) or $13 (youth), with general admission in the grass berm and behind the right field fence. Unfortunately, the general admission ticket price for most games is the same as the price for reserved seating, and usually only open to the public once the reserved seating has sold out. However, this season, TCU is offering a Saturday Double Play (GA) ticket for $5.00. This may be the best ticket price in D-1 baseball for a Saturday game. A trip to Lupton Stadium provides a great, fun-filled day, which includes free parking, low-cost concessions, and a baseball program that has frequent appearances in the postseason, with 6 trips to Omaha and the College World Series in the past 15 years.   Extras   4 Historical information at Lupton Stadium includes signs showing players who have gone on to the professional baseball ranks, the stadium’s façade showing past team accomplishments, and the foul and flag poles having been brought over from the program’s former home, TCU Diamond. The Texas Christian University mascot is also one of the best mascots in college sports. The various promotions throughout the year that the TCU staff incorporates into the home schedule are also a plus, such as the St. Paddy’s Day cap, All-Star Sleepover, Kids Days, and the concessions specials.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Toyota Center 1510 Polk St Houston, TX 77002 Houston Rockets website Toyota Center website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 19,000 Houston Rockets – Toyota Center The NBA’s Houston Rockets made their debut in Space City in 1971, coming over from San Diego. From the beginning, the Rockets cultivated a die-hard group of fans in H-Town. A string of all-time greats suited up for the squad over the years, including Hakeem Olajuwon , Moses Malone , Clyde Drexler , Ralph Sampson , Yao Ming , Scottie Pippen , Charles Barkley , and Tracy McGrady . Since coming to Houston, the Rockets have taken home four conference championships – in 1981, 1986, 1994, and 1995 – as well as taking home the NBA Championship in back-to-back years in 1994 and 1995. In 2001, the Rockets moved into their brand new downtown stadium, Toyota Center. The state-of-the-art arena has all the bells and whistles to keep fans entertained during each game in H-Town. Despite being a quarter of a century old, it is still one of the best stops in the NBA. Read all about it below.   Food & Beverage   4 Toyota Center has a truly great array of food and beverages for fans. Barbecue, Tex-Mex, hot dogs, burgers, chicken wings and fingers, and pizza can be found throughout the arena on both the upper decks and on the main concourse. Chains such as Pizza Hut and Dippin’ Dots can also be found on the main concourse. One particular stand near the escalators that take fans up to their seats in the upper decks has a rotating menu of gourmet hot dogs and hamburgers. The smell is always intoxicating! I would also make a stop at Garrison Brothers Bourbon Bar on the upper concourse to sample some Texas-made bourbon cocktails, if you’re inclined to. Pretty much anything you could want to eat or drink is available to you here. My one knock that keeps this from being a “5” ranking is the cost. This may just be a symptom of the NBA at large, but I couldn’t find any item available for less than $8. Just be forewarned before you start ordering.   Atmosphere   5 This area is one in which Toyota Center truly excels. From the banners hanging from the rafters – and on the main concourse – to the no less than five team stores in the arena, a lot of attention to detail has been paid to fan entertainment and engagement. On the upper concourse, the Children’s Memorial Hermann Sky Court has a ton of activities for fans, young and old. Sign-making activities (only ones that root for the Rockets, though) and arcade games like pop-a-shot, as well as a one-on-one court, are all up there for fans to partake in. You can also find the Legends Lockers, a collection of player lockers featuring memorabilia of some of the team’s all-time greats. Also, it is home to the center court of the former Houston Summit, where fans are invited to take pictures at or on. On the main concourse, fans can stop in at multiple cantinas/bars/viewing areas, such as the ULTRA Club, Corona Beach House, and Golden Nugget. These areas are congregation spots for fans looking to catch up away from the crowds in the stands.   Neighborhood   5 Houston is the fourth-largest city in the country, and is the most metropolitan of all of Texas’s big cities. As such, it has a ton of activities, dining, and lodging options for visitors. With the Toyota Center being in the middle of downtown, a lot of these are within walking distance of the arena. For sports fans, Daikin Park – home to MLB’s Houston Astros  – and Shell Energy Stadium – home to MLS’s Houston Dynamo  and college football’s Texas Southern Tigers – are all within walking distance of Toyota Center. If you plan your visit just right, you should be able to double up on games while you’re in town. Other areas of interest include Houston’s Museum District – home to multiple world-class museums – and Discovery Green , a 12-acre oasis in the middle of H-Town. All of this is within walking distance of the arena. For dining options, there are plenty of spots to choose from, with your only limitations being your budget and your taste buds. A few of my favorites include Kenny & Ziggy’s , a New York-style delicatessen that serves up belt-busting plates of comfort food, and Lankford Grocery & Market , an unassuming little building that serves up one of the best burgers in the state. While neither is near the arena, they are well worth the trip, trust me. When it comes to lodging, you can find plenty of hotels that are within walking distance of Toyota Center; these include Athens Hotel & Suites and Hilton Americas-Houston . As with dining, your only limitations are going to be your tastes and your budget.   Fans   4 The Rockets have been on a bit of an upswing in the past few years. The addition of high draft picks and future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant  is partly to thank for this resurgence. As such, fan interest is at a pretty high level right now. Houston is averaging around 18,000 fans per game, which is a virtual sellout each night. When I last attended, the vast majority of the crowd was decked out in the Rockets’ signature red color, with a variety of jerseys found in the crowd. It was loud and energetic, and this is the best that you can ask for from a home crowd.   Access   4 As mentioned, Toyota Center is located in downtown Houston. It’s right smack-dab in between state highways 45 and 69. As such, the arena is relatively easy to get to if you’re driving from out of town. It’s also only roughly a 25-minute drive from George Bush Intercontinental Airport and around a 20-minute drive from William P. Hobby Airport, if you’re flying in. If you don’t want to deal with parking downtown, the Houston METRO  makes stops close to the Toyota Center. If you do drive, there are multiple lots and garages near the arena, depending on how much you want to spend and/or how far you’re willing to walk. The one element that keeps this score from being higher is my long-time nemesis, the Houston traffic. You’re going to get stuck in it, no matter what you do. If you are driving in, give yourself some extra time.   Return on Investment   4 Depending on the game, tickets to the Rockets at Toyota Center range between $65 and $200, depending on where you want to sit and the opponent. This is around the middle of the pack for the NBA, but it is on the higher end compared to the other two pro teams in Texas. You do get a good bargain, however, especially considering how well the Rockets are playing these days, and considering how strong the Western Conference is presently. Parking in and around Toyota Center is another story. I saw costs ranging from $35 to $75. If you want to park around the arena, it’s going to cost you. This, all coupled with the concession costs, means that you’re going to spend a penny or two.   Extras   4 The Rockets have all the traditional pomp and circumstance of most modern professional sports teams. Their mascot, Clutch the Bear , is a beloved local institution. The Clutch City Dancers , Houston’s dance squad, perform during most breaks and at halftime. Before games, the Bud Light Liftoff is a party for fans near the main entrance, complete with performances from the dancers and a DJ. Lastly, the Red Rowdies are Houston’s answer to the recent development of fan clubs. They patrol the arena at different times in the game, banging drums and rooting for the Rockets.   Final Thoughts As much as I – a lifelong Spurs fan – have to admit it, Toyota Center is the best arena of the three NBA squads in Texas. It still looks brand new, it has a ton of things outside of the game for fans to take in, the food options are great, and the location really can’t be beat. If you haven’t made a visit yet, Toyota Center definitely should be on your sports bucket list. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on X at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Jeremy Pushkin and Andrei Ojeda Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Oracle Park 24 Willie Mays Plaza San Francisco, CA 94107 San Francisco Giants website Oracle Park website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 41,331 Baseball by the Bay: A Bucket-List Experience Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants since its opening in 2000, stands as one of Major League Baseball’s most celebrated venues. Nestled in San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood along the shores of McCovey Cove, the ballpark offers what few stadiums in professional sports can claim: a setting so stunning that even non-baseball fans should make the trip. From the panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay to the technology integrated into the stadium experience, Oracle Park is a place where tradition and innovation sit side by side comfortably. This is a venue that earns its reputation as one of, if not the, best in the game. Food & Beverage 4 Oracle Park’s concessions experience is a clear step above the typical ballpark fare, though your wallet will feel the difference. Lines at the more popular stands can be long, particularly for the marquee items, but the staff generally keeps things moving at a reasonable pace. All stands accept credit cards and Apple Pay/Google Pay, though be aware that this is a fully cashless venue. Cash to card machines are available throughout the venue. Oracle Park Crazy Crab Stand, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey The variety here is impressive and leans heavily into San Francisco’s culinary identity. The Crazy Crab sandwich is the crown jewel of the menu and is worth every minute spent in line. The garlic fries remain a San Francisco classic that’s practically mandatory on a first visit, and a Ghirardelli sundae makes for an indulgent dessert with local pedigree. Other local options, from Tony’s Pizza to Da Poke Man, are available throughout the ballpark. Beyond the headline items, there’s a solid range of standard ballpark options. Coca-Cola is the house soda brand, and the beer selection includes a healthy representation of local craft options. One standout innovation is the ability to order food via Uber Eats directly from your seat, regardless of your section, and then walk to a designated pickup area—a genuine time-saver that helps you avoid the longest queues. Oracle Park Lumpia, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Notably, the designated driver program at Oracle Park works a bit differently than most ballparks. Rather than a dedicated booth offering a free soda or water, fans text a number from their phone to sign up, and the reward is limited to a non-alcoholic Heineken rather than a soft drink. For a first-timer, the Crazy Crab sandwich is the must-try, paired with an order of garlic fries and a local craft beer. Arrive hungry and budget accordingly; you’ll want to sample more than one thing. Atmosphere 5 Oracle Park is, simply put, one of the most beautiful places to watch a baseball game in the world. The open-air design frames the San Francisco Bay beyond the right field wall, and on a clear day, the views alone are worth the price of admission. The seating bowl offers phenomenal sightlines from virtually every level. Even the upper deck provides excellent views of both the playing field and the bay, a combination that may be the best in professional sports. Seats are standard stadium seats, and comfortable enough for a nine-inning affair, and the ballpark’s relatively intimate scale means you never feel disconnected from the action. The main scoreboard is large and informative, displaying advanced analytics as a default. It shows OPS rather than batting average, and pitch movement data and exit velocity readings are shown in multiple locations throughout the stadium. Wi-Fi is available throughout the park. Inside Car 44, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey The in-game entertainment program is robust. The Giants have embraced the modern trend of filling every half-inning break with activity: in-game hosts appear on the big screen between innings, DJ Umami spins from the 415 section in center field, and various contests and promotions keep the energy up between pitches. The team runs strong promotional nights - bobbleheads, themed giveaways, and special event nights are common - but arrive early, as giveaway items are typically limited to the first 15,000 to 20,000 fans through the gates. For seating, the upper deck along the third baseline offers arguably the best combination of sightlines and bay views in the house. The 415 section in center field provides a more casual, social atmosphere. Afternoon games can get direct sun throughout the lower deck, while the bay-side seats along right field can catch wind and fog as the evening rolls in. Bring layers. It’s always a smart call in San Francisco. Neighborhood 4 Oracle Park sits in San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood, which isn’t the most bustling corner of the city but offers more than enough quality options for a full game-day experience. The immediate surroundings are walkable, and the waterfront setting provides a pleasant atmosphere for pre- and post-game strolling. For pre-game dining, Red’s Java House is a classic old-school San Francisco spot with an outdoor patio tucked under the Bay Bridge. Grab a beer and a burger and soak in the waterfront vibe. Frankie’s offers outdoor seating and an unbeatable ten-dollar hot dog and beer combo that’s hard to pass up before first pitch. For something more refined, Quik Dog is a newer addition to the area from the team behind the renowned cocktail bar Trick Dog, bringing a more elevated take on the pre-game meal. The general restaurant quality within a few miles is solid, with the broader SoMa and Mission Bay neighborhoods offering additional variety. Beyond dining, the waterfront walk along the south side of the stadium is well worth your time. Cross the Third Street Bridge to the statue of Willie McCovey. On a warm day, it’s a perfect spot to sit with a drink and take in the scene. San Francisco itself hardly needs an introduction as a destination—Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the city’s world-class dining scene are all within easy reach. Sports fans visiting the area can also catch a game at Chase Center , home of the Golden State Warriors, located just a short distance south along the waterfront. For lodging, the South Beach and Embarcadero areas offer several hotel options within walking distance of the park, including the Hotel VIA directly adjacent to the stadium and numerous options along the Embarcadero. Fans 4 Giants fans are among the more knowledgeable and engaged fan bases in Major League Baseball. The crowd at Oracle Park tends to be passionate and educated about the game, likely due to the passion one historically needed to survive a cold night at the Giants’ former Candlestick Park home. Attendance is strong even for non-marquee matchups, which speaks to the loyalty of the fan base and the drawing power of the venue itself. The stadium doesn’t always sell out for mid-week games against smaller-market opponents (though average attendance has been consistently in the top half of the league since Oracle Park opened), but the seats are respectably filled, and the atmosphere rarely feels empty. When marquee teams such as the Dodgers or Yankees come to town, it’s a different story entirely. Expect a packed house and a noticeably elevated energy level. The crowd stays engaged throughout the game without relying on the video board to prompt them. There’s a comfortable, knowledgeable hum to a Giants crowd that makes the experience feel more like watching baseball with a community of fans than sitting in a generic entertainment venue. Access 4 Getting to Oracle Park is refreshingly easy, provided you leave the car behind. Public transit is the clear winner here, and the infrastructure supports it well. Muni drops riders off just outside the stadium, making it the most convenient option for anyone already in the city. For those coming from the South Bay, Caltrain is the best bet. The San Francisco terminus at 4th and King is just a few blocks from the park. Ride-share pickup and drop-off zones are well-marked in the surrounding area. For cyclists, there are numerous bike racks around the stadium, along with a free bike valet offering monitored parking, and Lyft bikes are available in the area for those who want to ride to or from the game. Parking in the immediate vicinity is both limited and expensive, so driving is best avoided if possible. If you must drive, expect to pay a premium and plan to arrive early. The Giants have implemented the Go Ahead system for stadium entry, which is easy to sign up for and makes for a significantly faster gate experience. Standard gate entry without Go Ahead can be a bit slow at peak times, though that’s largely a function of crowd volume rather than staff efficiency. The stadium allows fans to bring in outside food as well as sealed non-alcoholic beverages in plastic bottles and empty water bottles - a fan-friendly policy that’s increasingly rare in professional sports. Mobile tickets are the default, though you may be able to obtain a paper stub for tickets purchased at the box office, and in some cases for secondary market purchases, depending on the individual working the window. Inside the park, the main concourse is the one notable weak point. It runs narrow relative to the foot traffic it handles, creating congestion around concession stands and restroom areas during peak innings. Restroom lines can build up, particularly in the middle innings, but they tend to move quickly. Despite the concourse's tightness, the stadium is otherwise well-organized and easy to navigate. Return on Investment 3 Oracle Park delivers a premium experience, and the pricing reflects that. Ticket prices, concessions, and parking all land at or slightly above what you’d expect for a major league game in a major market. That said, the secondary market offers genuine value for most regular-season games. You can often find solid seats at reasonable prices outside. On the concessions side, expect to spend in the twelve-to-eighteen-dollar range for most food items, but the Crazy Crab sandwich has risen in price to $28. The ability to bring in your own food and sealed beverages helps offset costs for budget-conscious fans. Parking, if you choose to drive, will run thirty to eighty dollars, depending on proximity, making public transit the clear value play. For cost savings, keep an eye on promotional ticket packages and weekday games, which tend to offer the best pricing. The Giants also run various themed nights that sometimes bundle giveaway items with ticket purchases. Overall, the experience delivers fair value. You’re paying market rate for a top-tier ballpark, which feels about right. Extras 3 Oracle Park earns bonus points in several areas that elevate the overall experience. The kayaks bobbing in McCovey Cove are an iconic piece of the San Francisco baseball experience. For those so inclined, you can even rent a kayak and watch the game on screens mounted outside the stadium, a unique way to take in a ballgame. The stadium’s exterior is lined with statues, historical plaques, and the Giants Wall of Fame along King Street, offering a walk through franchise history before you even enter the gates. Hidden under the left field bleachers, you’ll find a pitch speed machine for fans who want to test their arm, and the 415 section in center field houses free Pop-A-Shot and Skee-Ball games, a great bonus for families or anyone looking to stretch their legs between innings. Final Thoughts Oracle Park is a stadium that gets nearly everything right. The setting is unmatched, the food program is strong if pricey, the fans are knowledgeable, and the access options, particularly by public transit and bike, are excellent. The narrow concourse is the one persistent flaw in an otherwise outstanding venue. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or someone who simply appreciates a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, Oracle Park belongs on your list. It is, without reservation, one of the best ballparks in America.

Photos by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Scotiabank Saddledome 555 Saddledome Rise SE Calgary, AB T2G 2W1 Map It Calgary Roughnecks website Scotiabank Saddledome website Year Opened: 1983 Capacity: 19,289 Back in the Saddle The Calgary Roughnecks (NLL) are one of the most successful franchises in Calgary sports history. Since they started playing in November, 2001, they have won three championships, in 2004, 2009, and 2019.   Needless to say their standards for performance are high and their fanbase are dedicated and enthusiastic.   The Scotiabank Saddledome is the home of the Roughnecks. The ‘Dome has been open since 1983 and is also host to the NHL’s Calgary Flames and the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen . Conveniently, the Flames own all three franchises, so it’s very much an All In The Family situation at the Saddledome.   While the Saddledome was state-of-the-art when it opened for business, it is starting to be a little long in the tooth more than 30 years later.   However, a new arena is now under construction just north of the Saddledome. It is slated to open in 2027, so the clock is officially ticking on when the Saddledome will close its doors.   A new arena aside, the Saddledome remains a solid structure that has seen a number of renovations over the years to keep it fairly modern, and is still a good place to watch an event. Food & Beverage 4 For the most part, there are the standard concessions stands selling the standard selection of soft drinks, hot dogs, popcorn, etc., at fairly typical prices (hot dogs are $7.50, nachos are $11.50). You’ll also find Original 16 on tap at all the regular concession stands ($11.75 for a glass).   There are also numerous specialty stands throughout the concourse. The Dog House serves, you guessed it, gourmet hot dogs. Madame Tiger has some interesting Indian options, including Vegan dishes.   In addition, there are Pizza 73 stands, Italian ice kiosks, little doughnut stations, and Good Earth Coffee available for fans who want something a little different than cola and popcorn. There is also a Jugo Juice stand on the east side, which offers some healthier choices with their yummy juice concoctions and wraps.   Beyond all that, there are several bars and restaurants around the Saddledome. The Ultra Club Lounge, Molson Hockey House, the Saddledome Restaurant, the Sportsnet Platinum Club, the Alumni Lounge, and the Telus Club Restaurant are all situated within the building, providing fans with a number of different dining options and experiences. Atmosphere 4 Box lacrosse, as the indoor game is known, is the best spectator sport in the world, in my humble opinion. It is fast and furious, full of strength, finesse, speed, and grace. I have never yet taken a sports fan to a game and had that person say they didn’t enjoy the experience.   The atmosphere, not surprisingly, is pretty fired up. Music is played throughout the game (some people I’ve talked to like this; some not so much), and fans are encouraged by the announcer to cheer their team and taunt the opposition. As a result, the fans at Roughnecks games are quite boisterous.   The Roughnecks have won three league championships in their time in the NLL. Consequently, the energy and sense of pride the team brings to the stadium is very strong, and the entire building and the people inside seem to feed off it. It is infectious and makes for an entertaining, exciting event.   The lacrosse community in town is 10 times larger now than it was when the Roughnecks arrived here, so the audience has a significant group of younger fans and their parents. The powers that be within the organization do a good job of appealing to them with meet-and-greet opportunities after games, youth-oriented events between quarters, and at halftime, etc. The net result is that kids of all ages are likely to have a great time at a game.   Adding to the overall atmosphere are the championship banners displayed in the rafters, giving a sense that the Roughnecks are indeed home.   The downside is that attendance at Roughnecks games is usually around half of the Saddledome’s capacity. In spite of the energy in the occupied parts of the stands, it still, at times, can feel pretty empty, although crowds of 10,000 or more are the norm. In fact, in the 2025 regular season, Calgary had the second-best attendance in the NLL. Neighborhood 3 The Saddledome is situated on the Calgary Stampede Grounds, located on the southeast edge of the downtown core. Victoria Park, the neighbourhood directly north, is slowly becoming more and more gentrified, which means more dining and entertainment options in the immediate vicinity are popping up.   One of the relatively new locations is the Cowboys Casino, just north of the ‘Dome on the Stampede Grounds. The Casino features several restaurants, including Melrose Café, Centre Bar, and Hitman’s Bar.   Next door to Cowboys Casino is Cardinale , an upscale Italian restaurant, if you’re looking for some fine dining before a game.   Heading west from the Stampede Grounds along 17th Ave., you’ll find many good options. For example, Model Milk , at 308 17th Ave., is another upscale restaurant sourcing its ingredients locally, as much as possible. Or you can try PinBar , at 501 17th Ave., for a place that is open late, serves all manner of burgers and other pub grub, and also has a selection of pinball machines.   Heading east into the Inglewood area, you can check out The Hose and Hound Pub , located in an old fire station, or the Nash , located at 925 11 St. SE, in the historic National Hotel. Fans 4 Roughnecks have averaged more than 11,000 fans per game for three straight years, which fills it to about half or two-thirds. That puts them right near the top of the league in average attendance.   The fans are fiercely loyal and very enthusiastic, resulting in lots of noise and great energy during the game, especially in comparison to the relatively quiet crowds you might find at a hockey game in the ‘Dome. With the explosion of interest in lacrosse within Calgary, the crowds have become more stable and have seen gradual but steady growth over the years. Access 3 Located downtown, the Saddledome is relatively easy to get to, aside from the traffic woes that are par for the course in the inner city. Expect stop-and-go traffic and delays getting to and from the facility, which can be anywhere from distracting to downright irritating.   Calgary is one of the most expensive places to park in North America, and consequently, parking on the Stampede Grounds will run you $18. The lot also fills up fairly quickly, especially if there are other events happening around the Grounds. There are other alternate off-site parking options at similar or slightly lower rates, but plan for a bit of a walk after that.   The other option is to take the city’s Light Rail Transit system to the game. The “C-Train” has a stop on the west side of the grounds, making it easily accessible from all over the city heading north, south, or west. This can be a much more convenient option for fans not wanting the hassle of driving downtown, although the trains can get pretty crowded after events. An adult fare for Calgary Transit is $3.80, youths are $2.55.   The concourse itself is spacious enough for a typical Roughnecks crowd on the east and west sides, but gets pretty narrow to the north and south. This isn’t too much of a problem at Roughnecks games, where the building is only at half capacity, but it can get badly crowded when the house is full.   Return on Investment 4 Compared to the price of a Flames game, the cost of a Roughnecks game is a bargain. Prices start at $31 for upper bowl end zone tickets; tickets at the door go for anywhere from $38.55 for the higher rows of the upper bowl to $42.37 for seats in the lower bowl.   With as good a price as this is for a professional sporting event, coupled with the entertainment value provided by box lacrosse, this is a pretty good deal. Extras 5 The Saddledome provides a good environment for enjoying sports, with good sight lines for everyone.   There are several points of interest along the concourse walls, including 1988 Olympic displays and Alberta’s inductees into the NHL Hall of Fame. Virtually every concourse wall has something to look at.   Several times during the game, the Drill Crew dance team makes appearances on the floor to wow the fans with their award-winning moves. When they’re not center stage performing, they can be seen in the concourse and the stands selling their always-popular calendars.   The Roughnecks also have a mascot, Howie the Honey Badger. Howie helps entertain the kids in the crowd and also helps out with giveaways and promotions during the game.   There are two locations of the Flames Fan Attic on the premises, on the east and west sides of the concourse. In either of those stores, you can stock up on all the Roughnecks merchandise you can carry, from shirts and jerseys to hats, mugs, and keychains.   The players stick around after games to sign autographs on the field for dedicated fans. This is a really cool feature of attending one of the smaller-scale pro sports, and it really helps get the fans in touch with the athletes they’re supporting. Final Thoughts When you put it all together, attending a Roughnecks game, or any NLL game, is almost guaranteed to be a fun and entertaining experience. The game itself is more than worth the price of admission, and there are any number of other excellent reasons to make the visit to the Scotiabank Saddledome.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Nischwitz Stadium Raider Road Fairborn, OH 45324 Wright State Raiders website Nischwitz Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 750 Cozy Confinds of Wright State's Nischwitz Stadium Nischwitz Stadium is the home of the Wright State Raiders baseball team, located in Fairborn, Ohio, outside of Dayton. The team had been playing on site since 1993, but dedicated the ballpark on April 12, 2000.  The facility is named for Ron Nischwitz, who coached the Raiders for 30 years, and for his son, Gregg, who played for WSU for one season before losing his life in a construction accident in 1980. The ballpark offers 560 chair-back seating, an open concourse, a concession stand, locker rooms, and standing-room-only sections. There is also a FieldTurf playing surface, lights, heated dugouts, and a large press box.  The program began play in 1971 and was a Division II program until 1988. Since making the move, the Raiders have been conference champions 14 times. They did make a Division II College World Series appearance in 1987. The team has been a member of the Horizon League since 2002. Food & Beverage 2 The stadium features a small concession stand that is behind the main seating area on the first base side. The selection includes hot dogs, popcorn, chips, candy, and soda. On the main concourse, a beer stand offers cans of Bud Light, Yuengling, Miller Light, and Coors Light. One more stands down the first base side and sells cookies. Atmosphere 3 The ballpark is small and cozy, but it offers quite a bit of area to move around during the game. This is a stadium designed for the baseball purist in mind. A small trail through trees leads fans to the entrance, and a few steps lead them to the main concourse. There are tents set up for additional concession sales or fraternities/sororities events. There are 5 rows of hunter green seats that are all chair-backs. They are comfortable, and many are angled towards the backstop. A large protective net has recently been installed; the best views are at the end of the right and left field lines, where there is no netting. A simple electronic scoreboard that can display the names of the colleges is behind the right field fence. The outfield walls display retired numbers and conference championships, while in the background, motorists on the skyway zip by uneventfully to a ballgame being played. There is also a poster at the entrance listing the number of players with MLB experience. One added feature is a grassy area behind the left field concourse. It is accessible for younger fans who may want to chase down a foul ball and return it to the concession stand for a prize. Neighborhood 3 Nishchwitz Stadium is on campus and shares the same parking lot as the basketball arena, the Nutter Center. Two miles south of the ballpark is The Mall at Fairfield Commons, where there are shopping, restaurant, and lodging facilities. Regional and national chains are what you will find here, but if you're with the family, it could be the best option when visiting with the family. Red Robin, Chuy’s Tex-Mex, Golden Corral, and Dave’s Hot Chicken are a few options. The mall also houses a Round1 Bowling & Arcade. If you are looking for a drink, BJ’s Brewhouse and Black Rock Bar & Grill would be an option.  If you desire a few more baseball games, the University of Dayton’s Woerner Field is a short drive, along with Day Air Ballpark , which is home to the Dayton Dragons minor league team. Still, the Wittenberg University baseball team plays at Carleton Davidson Stadium , which is also home to the Champion City Half-Trax of the Prospect League. Yellow Springs is a quaint town friendly to artists and small businesses. It’s a nice place for families and is only a 20-minute drive west of Fairborn. Dayton offers the National Museum of the United States Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. There is also the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park , which houses the infamous Wright Flyer III, which lifted off in 1905 courtesy of the Wright Brothers. Fans 3 The fanbase is not your typical crowd of friends and family. Many die-hards are rooting for the Raiders, along with visiting fans. The crowd makes their objections felt when appropriate, and many cheer when runs are scored, or when a big play is made to end an inning. You will see many fans standing along the concourse with friends, while children run around or check out the game. Access 4 The stadium is easy to get around in. It's a giant concourse with five rows of seats. The concession stand and bathrooms are located down the steps near the entrance, and there is plenty of parking adjacent to the ballpark.  Return on Investment 4 An adult ticket is $7, and food prices are even lower. A hot dog is $3, a can of Pepsi is $2, and a tall can of beer is $7. The highest concession item is the classic $3 ballpark nacho. The team does not sell merchandise at the game.  Extras 2 The ballpark earns a point for having all chair-back seats, with many of them behind the backstop tilted towards the field. A second point is for the conference championship plaques engraved into the stadium’s brick walls. Final Thoughts The ballpark is designed to add comfort in style and a cozy feel for all fans to enter the game. It is not your typical college game; we're only friends and family can be her cheering from the stands. It's a nice, well-built ballpark that serves a nice purpose for this level of baseball.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Sebring International Raceway 113 Midway Dr Sebring, FL 33870 HSR Pistons and Props website Sebring International Raceway website Year Opened: 1950 A Fresh Take on HSR’s Spring Visit Far removed from the chaos of the annual IMSAs 12 Hours in March , the HSR Pistons and Props weekend features a whole different atmosphere. While formerly paired with the annual HSR Classic 12 Hours, this event has now been spun off to a new February weekend separate from the annual fall showcase. With this new separate identity, this race showcases Sebring’s history and mixes in a little bit of air show, to give fans something to look forward to at the beginning of the race season.   Food & Beverage   3 There aren’t a ton of food vendors around the track for this event. With the ever-popular Track Shack (get the Beast…it is probably the best item you can eat at the track, and used to only be on the secret menu at Sebring) and the various drink and snack stops around the Turn 17 area, your food options, while limited, are located all in one general area in the main paddock. The cost of everything is also what one may consider moderately fair, as food and snack items range from just a few dollars to $12-$14 for bigger items at the Shack. The event also invites several food trucks to participate as well.   Atmosphere   4 The Sebring facility is steeped in racing history; fans from around the world regard it as one of the best tracks for many reasons. The HSR weekend features a much more laid-back vibe compared to the IMSA 12 Hours , and everyone here seems to be there to have a great time. The track lacks many conventional amenities one would expect from a top-level race facility, but makes up for it with viewing access and history. Access to Green Park is also included all weekend, something not always open at smaller events. But perhaps the highlight of the event is the historic warbird fly-in on Friday night – vintage warplanes arrive from Sebring Airport and taxi down the track’s backstretch, before being staged for the weekend in the pre-grid area. After this, fans are allowed into the grid to check out the planes up close until they leave Sunday morning.   Neighborhood   3 There isn’t anything around Sebring International Raceway, as it is located in the middle of nowhere. Sebring itself is a town located in the middle of Florida, at least an hour and a half drive from the nearest major city or population center. Thus, while the town of Sebring itself may have some shopping and dining, as well as a few hotels, you are likely better off camping at the track and staying the whole weekend.   Fans   3 The fans at HSR weekend cross over from other events at Sebring, including IMSA  and the SVRA & Trans-Am SpeedTour  events. Trackside camping is popular all around the track, and as usual, several fans decorate their campers and campsites with lights and decorations. Thankfully, the craziness of IMSA weekend is nowhere to be found here, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere can be enjoyed because of it.   Access   3 The roads in and out of Sebring aren’t exactly major highways, with the biggest road being US-27 running towards Miami to the South, and Orlando to the North. There is plenty of parking at the track, and the smaller crowds mean getting in and out is a lot easier than at bigger race events here. You never feel like you are too far from anywhere either, as there are several perfectly placed crossover bridges around the track to get you to points of interest throughout the weekend. Also, any fan can come down to the paddock and get up close to the stars and cars who are in attendance. New for 2026, the track added a crossover bridge that connects the main paddock with the Ulmann Straight parking outside the backstretch. This way, fans can also get easier access to the new viewing area down towards Turn 16.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets to the HSR event here are much less expensive than IMSA’s 12 Hours in March  – this means you get to enjoy the sights and sounds of the race cars of yesteryear without breaking the bank. Without a doubt, this is a great event to take younger fans to as well, and your access is much more up close than traditional races you may go to. Single day tickets (Saturday $30, Sunday $20), 2-day tickets ($45), 3-day tickets ($55), and 4-day tickets ($65) are all available for purchase. Unreserved RV parking is also available for $100 for the full event.   Extras   3 Taking in the race at Sebring has its perks for fans. All weekend, fans have the opportunity to get into the paddock area of the track free of charge, giving an up-close view of the teams as they prepare for one of the year's biggest races. Also, before the main event on Saturday all the teams bring their cars out to the false grid before the race starts, so fans can come and see the cars and drivers up close, next to the vintage planes, before the racers head out onto the track.   Final Thoughts The Pistons and Props event is a highlight of the Sebring calendar, and many local race fans show up to watch vintage racing at its best. With its new date, it offers fans a new reason to come out to HSR in the spring; the bonus of vintage warbirds only amplifies the value of this event. Like the HSR Classic 24 at Daytona , racecar fans of all ages can no doubt find something to get excited about here.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Coca-Cola Coliseum 19 Nunavut Rd. Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada Toronto Marlies website Coca-Cola Coliseum website Year Opened: 1921 Capacity: 7,851 The Duke of the Kingdom The original Toronto Marlboros were a junior hockey team in the Ontario Hockey Association from 1904 to 1989.  In the old farm system of the Toronto Maple Leafs , they were the protestant team that competed on the ice against the St. Michael’s Majors, the Catholic team of the Leafs.  Owner Conn Smythe believed that protestants and Catholics should not play on the same team until they got to the NHL.  The Marlies played at Maple Leaf Gardens and were famous for matching their games with Leaf games for Saturday hockey doubleheaders.  The lineage of the Marlies in the OHL leads to the modern Guelph Storm .  The current version of the Marlies plays in the American Hockey League and is the top affiliate of the Leafs.  The team is officially named Marlies to distance itself from the American cigarette brand.  In reality, the original team was named after the Duke of Marlborough.  The lineage of the AHL squad dates back to 1978 with the inception of the New Brunswick Hawks, a joint farm team between the Leafs and Chicago.  Over the years, the Leafs formed a dedicated squad and bounced the team around with stops in St. Catharines, Newmarket, and St. John’s, Newfoundland.  What is now the Coca-Cola Coliseum was originally built in 1921 as an arena for agricultural shows, specifically for the Royal Winter Fair.  The Coliseum underwent a massive renovation in 2002, completely rethinking the building to attract a professional hockey team.  After the one-season failure of the Toronto Roadrunners of the AHL, MLSE vacated St. John’s and moved their affiliate close to home.  The Marlies were reborn in 2005 and have given the Leafs a tool that has become prominent in the business of hockey: a close-by affiliate and an arm of the organization that can take on promotional and charitable tasks that may be unattractive to the parent club. Food & Beverage 5 Coca-Cola Coliseum is operated by MLSE, so many of the concession options that are found at Scotiabank Arena are also here.  Some recognizable brands are found throughout the Coliseum, including Pizza Pizza, Smoke’s Poutinerie, Tim Horton’s, and St. Patties.  Traditional arena fare is found at the Food Junction stand, some of the most unique items are also found here, including Buffalo Chicken tenders, Korean Fried Chicken sandwiches, Beef Taco Loco Fries, Bacon Mac & Cheese eggrolls, and Jerk Chicken Patty Sandwiches.  Molson Canadian, Coors, Heineken, and Steam Whistle are available beers.  The Crown Royal bar has a number of spirits available as well as wine.  Atmosphere 4 With the renovation of the early 2000s, the exterior facade of Coca-Cola Coliseum remained.  Light coloured brick with unique arched architecture over the entrances keeps the classic exterior look.  Large windows above the southwest entrance allow natural light into the building.  The other main entrance to the Coliseum is at the south, through the exhibit hall, which maintains the light brick and arches over the entrance but adds concrete columns for an even more stunning look.  A large, bronze Coke bottle sculpture before the entrance reminds fans who the title sponsor of the building is, and agricultural art embedded in the brick wall across from the main entrance links back to its origins. Entry in the Coliseum at the southwest corner brings fans past the ticket windows and past huge wooden doors, which were used to keep livestock in their pens.  Along with the doors are posters and captions giving the history of the building.  A few steps further, and past security brings fans into the main concourse. Marlies Alley, which is just beyond the ticket windows, is open for some Marlies games and has several family-friendly activities for the kids to participate in.  There are markings all over the concourse for the Marlies, with external walls a classic-looking, white-painted brick. The seating bowl is one level that is split.  The ice is south-north oriented, and the east side is where one would get a picture of the centre ice logo. An upper concourse is found behind the seating bowl, at the top, and offers some additional concession stands and washroom access.  Above centre ice hangs a four-sided video board with an LED ring above and four slim rectangular boards below.  Suites are found above the seating bowl on the east and west sides.  For Toronto Maple Leaf historians, the facade of the suites will be of particular interest.  Encircling the entire arena are several Maple Leaf emblems, each with the name of a former Marlie who went on to play for the Maple Leafs.  These date back to the original Marlies and begin in 1927, and provide a who’s who of Toronto hockey royalty.  Names like Conacher, Boudreau, Palmateer, Armstrong, Brewer, Baun, Thomas, Reid, Ellis, Nylander, Hyman, and Pulford are the tip of the iceberg.  At the back of the north end hang the conference championship banners, along with the 2018 Calder Cup banner. The gameday production at a Marlies game is pretty simple.  The in-game host is energetic and keeps the promotions on track while engaging the crowd.  The Marlies mascot, Duke, can be found interacting with the crowd.  A unique feature of Coca-Cola Coliseum is that the players travel through parts of the concourse and descend a small set of stairs to ice level between the benches. Neighbourhood 5 Coca-Cola Coliseum is located on the grounds of Exhibition Place in the Niagara neighbourhood of Toronto.  It is immediately south of Liberty Village, which is the closest neighbourhood for fans to get some pre- or post- game food.  It is easily walkable.  Some options in Liberty Village include Liberty Village Market & Cafe, Local Public Eatery, Brazen Head, Chiang Mai, NODO, and Fox And John’s. Coca-Cola Coliseum is shared with the Toronto Sceptres  and is the future home of the Toronto Tempo.  BMO Field is across the parking lot and is home to the Toronto Argonauts  and Toronto FC .  A few minutes east, and fans could take in the Toronto Blue Jays , Maple Leafs  , or Raptors .  Toronto Metropolitan University is northeast and fields Bold hockey  and basketball  teams in the former Maple Leaf Gardens.  The University of Toronto also fields a full complement of Varsity Blues athletic teams, including football , basketball  , and hockey .  There are also a ton of other tourist options in Toronto.  Medieval Times and RBC Amphitheatre are close.  However, hockey fans must take in the Hockey Hall of Fame. Fans wishing to stay near Exhibition Place can choose Hotel X, Radisson Blu, The Neptune, or a host of other options nearby. Fans 3 For the 2025-26 season, the Marlies averaged over 5,400 fans per game.  This was down a few hundred from the previous season.  The Marlies ranked 18th in attendance in the 32-team American Hockey League.  There is plenty of room for improvement for the Marlies. Marlie fans are loyal and often break out the “Let’s Go Marlies” chant.  However, they are not overly excitable or loud.   Access 4 Coca-Cola Coliseum is located on the grounds of Exhibition Place in the Niagara neighbourhood of Toronto.  It is on the south side of Manitoba Drive, and immediately south of the Gardiner Expressway.  Although it has a very close proximity to the expressway and is easier to get to from the west than the rest of Downtown Toronto, it can still be a challenge, as Toronto traffic can be a significant issue. There is plenty of parking on site, which will require payment at a kiosk or on a parking app.  Fans should be cognizant of what other activities are taking place at Exhibition Place, as this can drastically affect parking.  For fans wishing to take public transit to the Sceptres games, they have a couple of options.  A GO Transit station is at the north end of Exhibition Place.  There are also buses and streetcars that can be found at Exhibition Place.  Fans should consult the GO Transit and TTC websites for fares, schedules, and maps. Getting around the Coca-Cola Coliseum is not too difficult; however, initially, the concourses can get congested during pregame.  Once people start to utilize the upper concourse, it thins out a bit.  The washrooms are adequate for the facility. Stadium Journey strongly suggests fans consult the Toronto Marlies  and Coca-Cola Coliseum  websites for the most up-to-date security information, including prohibited items and bag policy.  Coca-Cola Coliseum is a cashless facility. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for the Toronto Marlies begin at $16 for select games.  They go up to $62 with the most expensive seats in the lower, silver sections.  Parking is going to be on the expensive side, and concession prices are about what one would expect.  In the end, fans will definitely enjoy their trip to Coca-Cola Coliseum, a classic venue with plenty of history, and a team that puts together a good gameday production. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Marlies acting as the promotional and charity wing of MLSE. An extra mark for the renovation of Coca-Cola Coliseum, keeping the classic look while making it a modern facility. An extra mark for the display of Marlies and Maple Leafs history at Coca-Cola Coliseum Final Thoughts The Toronto Marlies may have a bit of trouble getting noticed in the very crowded Toronto sports scene, however the AHL squad has a good following and play in a classic hockey arena.  Fans will definitely enjoy their trip to Coca-Cola Coliseum. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Courtesy of the Cincinnati Bengals When Paul Brown Stadium opened in 2000 it was hailed as one of the NFL’s most modern facilities, a clean, modern venue that set a new standard for sightlines, circulation and fan amenities. Two decades later, the Bengals and Hamilton County  are executing a large-scale modernization intended to return the rebranded Paycor Stadium to the top tier of NFL game-day experiences. The Bengals and Hamilton County have pledged roughly $470 million, with the county accounting for about $350 million. Rather than pursuing replacement, the partnership has chosen extensive upgrades aimed at preserving the stadium’s core architecture while bringing nearly every fan-facing system up to contemporary standards. Recent phases of the work have made immediate, visible differences. The stadium now features a new high-definition main Jumbotron and nearly 1,600 additional in-stadium screens that expand sightlines for replays and wayfinding. Locker rooms have been upgraded to match the expectations of a modern NFL franchise, improving both player amenities and recruitment optics. What’s Next for 2026 With the 2026 season approaching, the Bengals say the next wave of renovations will touch virtually every corner of Paycor Stadium: Suites and restrooms : Full renovations across all premium suites and public restrooms to modern finishes, fixtures, and improved accessibility. Concessions : Overhauled concession stands designed for faster service, better variety and easier access for guests with mobility needs. Suite circulation : New staircases and escalators to streamline movement on suite levels and reduce congestion during peak ingress and egress. Pro Shop : A comprehensive reconfiguration and refresh of the team store to create a more modern retail environment. Expanded signage and access : Additional video signage across the complex and improved access routes to key areas early in the rollout. Most of these upgrades are slated to be ready by the Bengals first regular-season home game, though some work may continue through 2027. The staged approach aims to balance construction realities with the imperative to deliver an upgraded fan experience on schedule. New stadium projects today can cost billions and typically require a complex mix of private investment and public subsidies. By contrast, targeted reinvestment can refresh a facility’s competitive edge at a fraction of the price and with less disruption to the urban fabric and fan routines. Duane Haring, the Bengals Director of Stadium and Event Operations, stated the project as preserving the stadium’s “timeless beauty” while delivering a “first-class fan experience.” He also emphasized the role of the county partnership, acknowledging that the scope and scale of the work would not be possible without public support. What fans will notice For supporters attending games in 2026 and beyond, the changes should feel immediate and practical: Clearer visuals and more consistent replays from the expanded display network. Faster concessions and a wider array of food and beverage options. Fresher, more comfortable suite spaces and cleaner, more accessible restrooms. Easier movement on premium levels due to improved vertical circulation. A modernized Pro Shop with improved merchandising and circulation. Longer-Term Implications The project is as much about perception as it is about concrete upgrades. An NFL franchise’s stadium is a central part of its brand and a key lever for revenue from ticketing, premium seating, concessions and merchandise. By investing heavily in Paycor Stadium now, the Bengals aim to protect and grow those revenue streams while avoiding the political and financial hurdles of a new build. The renovation trajectory also preserves flexibility: if the economics or public appetite for a new stadium change in the future, Cincinnati will have extended the useful life and market competitiveness of its current home in the interim. By marrying substantial upgrades with respect for the stadium’s original design, the Bengals and Hamilton County are aiming to deliver first-class game-day experiences without the upheaval and expense of a brand-new stadium — a pragmatic model that other mid-size NFL markets may watch closely.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 Holiday Festiball website State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports website Year Opened: 2006 A Christmas Basketball Present Though most fans see the holidays as a time for football, this year saw the start of a new basketball tradition in Orlando. The Holiday FestiBall was held at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports complex, featuring the hometo wn UCF  Knights and cross-state rivals FAU . This r egular season matchup drew fans to the somewhat neutral site just days before Christmas, providing a great opportunity for local fans, and a stellar chance for traveling fans on a holiday vacation to watch as well. Unfortunately, several aspects of the game were overlooked at this event, where others have succeeded at this same venue.   Food & Beverage   2 The biggest drawback to the Holiday FestiBall was the lack of food options. Only two concessions stations are open, one of them being the Wetzel’s Pretzels stand. The other was a simple snack station featuring candy ($5.49), cookies ($5.49), chips ($4.99), and pretzels ($8.49). Drinks included beer ($10.49-$11.49), bottled soda ($4.99), water ($4.99), Powerade ($5.99), and Body Armor ($5.99) – that is it; no other stands were open inside or outside of the venue.   Atmosphere   2 State Farm Field House at Wide World of Sports features a lot of exposed metal beams in the architecture, and its curved roof amplifies the noise and lighting inside. The overall aesthetic of nearby facilities, including Champion Stadium, are carried over here as well. The arena has one concourse level, meaning you can walk up or down to your seats easily, thanks to the main walking path from the parking lot taking you up to the main concourse level. Unlike other basketball events at the arena, like th e WBCA Showcase  or the ESPN Events Invitational , logos are pretty much gone here. Instead, the only branding seen at the venue was on the jumbotron when it showed the event logo. If you didn’t see that, you would be forgiven for not realizing the game was anything more than just a game being held at Wide World of Sports. There was also zero merch available for the game, something even the WBCA Showcase has during their tournament.   Neighborhood   5 The sports complex is located just off Osceola Parkway, literally across the street from the new entrance to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – because of this you’re not far from pretty much everything you need on your trip. For obvious reasons the best place to stay would be at any of the Disney Resorts; guests of the resorts get free bus transportation to and from the arena. The closest hotels, Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation, are two of the park’s lowest priced resorts. For food, anywhere on Disney’s Property is a go-to – Kona Cafe at the Disney Polynesian Resort is a popular stop for sushi and a south seas flavor for dinner, while California Grill at the top of Contemporary Resort is also a popular go-to for a more upscale experience. In addition, popular tourist stops include EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom theme parks. Also, Disney Springs, which is accessible via bus and car, is home to countless restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities for the whole family.   Fans   3 The fact that both teams this year were from Florida was a saving grace for this game. While games during tournaments can lead to some generally sparse attendance at times, the atmosphere is no-less electric. However, the UCF  fans carried the atmosphere here at the Holiday FestiBall for sure. The noise is also amplified inside, so each dunk and three-pointer seem to garner loud cheers regardless of the attendance in the building, and since everyone has made the trip to Disney, you generally have a lot of families who are attending the games, making for a more family-friendly atmosphere. That said, given the relatively low marketing given to this event, it’s understandable why the crowd attendance was so low.   Access   4 Getting to Wide World of Sports is pretty easy, but traffic for certain games can be a pain. Parking is free in all parking lots for this tournament, including right close to the main entrance. In addition, now that the roadways have been re-routed in the area, access to the facility is easy when getting onto the property – there is signage all over Disney’s property leading you to Wide World of Sports, and getting off the main road is easy thanks to the new flyover.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets to the Holiday FestiBall start at $36.50 for upper sideline and lower baseline seats, and rise to $45.50 for lower sideline seats. Courtside seats go for $345 and are for sale to the general public. Parking was free to all fans in attendance. Considering the concessions (what little is here) are on par with most sport stadium prices, the cost is relatively fair for a college basketball game. Extras   3 The facility features a popular picture spot at the main entrance next to the Wide World of Sports globe. There are also numerous sports facilities all throughout the area, including various other events that may be going on, from cheerleading competitions to youth soccer tournaments. During the championship game Mickey Mouse makes an appearance in special basketball-themed attire. Additionally, during the game he makes a surprise appearance for autographs and photos with fans who want to participate during halftime.   Final Thoughts The potential exists for a tremendous event here with the Holiday FestiBall. All the pieces are there; a great facility and location, a holiday tie-in, and local teams. However, with zero merch, little to no marketing, and the absolute bare minimum for fan concessions, it wouldn’t be surprising if this event was overlooked.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Hawk Stadium 31040 Backbone Rd Princess Anne, MD 21853 Maryland-Eastern Shore Hawks website Hawk Stadium website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 1,000 UMES in Princess Anne The University of Maryland – Eastern Shore (UMES) is a Historically Black Land-Grant University located on the Delmarva Peninsula just south of Salisbury, Maryland. Founded in 1886 the university has gone through several names: Delaware Conference Academy, Industrial Branch of Morgan State College, Princess Anne Academy, Maryland Agricultural College and Maryland State College before switching to its current name in 1970. Maryland-Eastern Shore's athletic teams are known as the Hawks, and their baseball team calls Hawk Stadium on the UMES campus home. Hawk Stadium had been falling into disrepair for many years, eventually forcing the team to play off-campus, first at Perdue Stadium, home of the Delmarva Shorebirds, and later at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex , where the Hawks played in a municipal sports complex surrounded by little league fields. This was devastating to team morale, and the team went 0-48 in 2024, the first Division I baseball team to go winless in 15 years. Finally, after many false starts and delays, Hawk Stadium was renovated and re-opened in time for the 2026 season, giving the Hawks the on-campus home they deserve. Food & Beverage 1 There is no food or drink for sale at Hawk Stadium, but there are vending machines in the lobby of the adjacent Hytche Athletic Center if you get hungry. Fans can also bring their own food or drink, which seems like the better option. Atmosphere 3 As part of the renovations, Hawk Stadium received a new set of metal bleachers behind home plate. You will be up close to the action and be able to see everything going on on the field. You can even hear the players, coaches, and umpires shouting. There is music during breaks in the action, but it is not intrusive. A scoreboard in the outfield shows the linescore and has the team logo and name of the stadium as well as a lot of empty space that perhaps was intended to be used for graphics. There is not much going on here other than the game itself, but at least the quality of the stadium has improved from what it used to be. If you look up to the sky, you may see hawks or other large birds circling high above the Eastern Shore. Neighborhood 2 There is nothing much right around UMES. Most of the non-chain restaurants have closed in the past few years, living you with very few options if you want a unique, local place to eat. Salisbury is only a 20 minute drive away and has a lot more options. If going late in the season, you can make a weekend out of it and head to Ocean City or the other Maryland beaches, which are within an hour's drive if there is no traffic (far from a given.) Fans 2 The fans at a Maryland-Eastern Shore game are mostly friends and family of the players on one team or the other. It is the typical northeast college baseball crowd. A handful of students and locals show up, but the crowds here number in the dozens - a hundred on a good day. That does allow fans to focus on the action on the field, which for some purists may be a plus. Access 3 There is a large parking lot located beyond the outfield fence near the Hytche Center, and parking is free. Just don't park too close or your windshield may be smashed by a home run. Restrooms are located in the lobby of the Hytche Center. Enter through the side door down the third base line that has the Hawk logo on it. Return on Investment 5 Admission to UMES baseball games is free, as is parking. At a newly renovated stadium, this is an excellent value. Extras 2 Bullpens are located down the lines next to the walking path to the stadium, allowing fans to see pitchers warm up up close. Be sure to head into the lobby of the Hytche Center, where there is a display of UMES athletes who have gone on to play sports professionally. Amidst numerous bowling and football jerseys, you will find the San Diego Padres spring training jersey of Ira "Dude" Smith, a former UMES baseball player who went on to play in the minor leagues and independent ball. Although he never played a regular season game in the big leagues, he played spring training games for several clubs and is the most famous UMES baseball player in history. Final Thoughts Hawk Stadium has improved significantly following recent renovations, although this is a low bar to clear. It is still a pretty basic stadium typical of those in the northeast, but the program, which hit an all-time low point a few years ago, is rising again and has a stadium to go with it.

Photos by Lance Sutehall and Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Dabos Stadium 200 Coosa St Montgomery, AL 36104 Montgomery Biscuits website Dabos Stadium website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 7,000 It’s Biscuit Ball Y’all! Next to the Alabama River lies Riverwalk Stadium, the home of the Montgomery Biscuits minor league baseball team since 2004. The Biscuits originally played in Orlando, Florida for the first three decades of the team’s existence. In 2003, the then-Orlando Rays announced they were relocating to a new ballpark in Montgomery, Alabama. That ballpark would become Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery’s replacement for Patterson Field which had last hosted Minor League Baseball in 1980. The Montgomery Biscuits are the Tampa Bay Rays AA affiliate and they compete in the Southern League. The Montgomery Biscuits won back-to-back Southern League championships in 2006 and 2007 as well as winning eleven half-season titles, recently winning the first half title in 2024. Food & Beverage 4 There are a variety of concession stands throughout the concourse with the two main ones being “The Railyard” along the first base side and ”The Train Station” by third base. The Train Station offers standard fare such as hot dogs ($5), cheeseburgers ($8.25), chicken sandwiches ($8.25), chicken tenders ($9), pizza ($6), and nachos ($6). The Railyard offers super nachos ($13) with beef, chicken, or pork, Philly cheesesteaks ($12), and wings ($10). The Biscuit Stand, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Smaller concession stands include a half-pound burger stand ($12.50), a Conecuh sausage stand that sells sausage dogs ($7.50), and fittingly a biscuit stand ($6-$10). Coca-Cola products are sold throughout the venue with options including water ($4), Powerade ($5.50), 24oz sodas ($4.50), and 32oz souvenir cups ($8). Alcohol is sold throughout the stadium in the form of 16oz ($7) or 32oz ($13.50) drafts. The venue is cashless. Atmosphere 4 Riverwalk Stadium was built into the side of an abandoned train shed. The concession stands and other parts of the stadium pay homage to the history of the train depot. There is an active railroad by the third base foul pole and trains passing by often sound their horns. There are specialty nights throughout the season including “Taco & Tallboy Tuesdays” where $4 tacos and $4 beers are sold, Military Wednesdays where military personnel get discounts on admission and concessions, and “Thirsty Thursdays” where beers and souvenir cups are half off. The Biscuits have postgame firework displays after games on Saturday nights. Neighborhood 4 Montgomery is the capital city of Alabama and is therefore home to the Alabama State Capitol building. It is located about a mile away from Riverwalk Stadium but the Rosa Parks, Freedom Rides, and Hank Williams museums are within walking distance. For dining options include Bibb Street Pizza Company, Wintzell’s Oyster House, and Dreamland BBQ. There are several hotel chains nearby Riverwalk Stadium including SpringHill Suites, Embassy Suites, and DoubleTree. Fans 3 The fans that come out to Biscuits games have a great time when they come to games. The Biscuits do a great job with promotions to get fans of all ages invested in the baseball games. Big Mo, the Biscuits mascot also plays a large part in getting the fans energized. When the Birmingham Barons come to town, the fans get particularly excited for state baseball bragging rights. Access 4 From I-65, turn off at exit 172 and onto Herron Street before making a right on Bibb Street. Make a left on Coosa Street and Riverwalk Stadium will be on the right. From I-85, take exit 1 turn right on Union Street, and make a left on Madison Avenue before turning right on Coosa. From Highway 82, turn right on Highway 31. Act like you are driving to Maxwell Air Force Base by driving on Birmingham Highway which becomes Maxwell Boulevard. Drive straight on Tallapoosa Street until Riverwalk Stadium is on the left. Once inside the stadium, the Concourse is wide enough for the crowd, the concession stands do not have long lines, and there are enough restrooms throughout the venue. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Biscuits games start at $9 for general admission lawn seats if purchased in advance. “Box” seats along the first and third baselines cost $11, “Super Box” tickets behind home play run $13, and “Executive Club” seats immediately behind home plate cost $15. If you decide to purchase tickets the day of, there will be a $2 surcharge added. If bringing a family with at least 4 people, the Family Pack offers box seats, combo meals, and admission into the “fun zone”. That costs $80 for 4 people (you can add people for $20/person). Parking costs in public lots near the stadium (on weekends, street parking is free). You are looking at paying about $25 solo if you purchase a general admission ticket, pay $5 for parking, and drop $10 on concessions while a date night runs $45. Extras 4 Riverwalk Stadium has been the host of the Sun Belt Conference baseball tournament since 2021. It was also home to the Alabama high school baseball championship until 2021 when it moved to Jacksonville State’s Jim Case Stadium. The venue hosted the NCAA Division 2 national championship from 2004-2007. During the game one of the giveaways involved tossing biscuits in the stands. Final Thoughts Riverwalk Stadium is a beautiful ballpark to come visit when stopping by Montgomery. It serves the Biscuits baseball team very well and is a fun place to spend a Summer evening or Saturday. Make sure you get a biscuit while you are watching the Biscuits!

Photos by Brian Helberg , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Rogers Field at Nat Bailey Stadium 4601 Ontario St Vancouver, BC V5V 3H4 Canada Vancouver Canadians website Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium website Year Opened: 1951 Capacity: 5,132 Baseball Done Right North of the Border at The Nat Referred to locally as The Nat , Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium has been home to baseball fans in Vancouver, British Columbia since 1951. Originally named Capilano Stadium, the historic facility was rebranded following the death of Vancouver icon, Nat Bailey, in 1978. Bailey was a part owner of the former Vancouver Mounties baseball team, and was beloved in British Columbia for founding the White Spot restaurant chain. Scotiabank Field was added to the lengthy name in 2007. The Vancouver Canadians are the Short Season Single-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays. They play in the Northwest League, and the C’s won the league for three consecutive seasons from 2011 to 2013. Vancouver was awarded with the prestigious John H. Johnson’s President’s Trophy in 2013. The award is handed out annually to the top Minor League franchise in baseball. The C’s were busy expanding Nat Bailey Stadium in the offseason prior to the 2015 season. They added nearly 1,000 seats to raise their capacity to 6,013. The Hey Y’all Porch in left field is brand new, as are the seats lining the left field baseline. You will not find a 64 year-old stadium in better shape than The Nat. Food & Beverage 5 Nat Bailey Stadium has a solid collection of food choices, sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The main eating area is located in the concourse behind home plate. Food stands line both sides of the wide walkway. The Canadians do a great job on the classic baseball cuisine. Hot dogs and hamburgers are aplenty, and they are tasty too. The C’s also have a wider array of food available, including sushi and pizza. The ‘Nooner’ burger is perfect for day games, as it is topped with egg, bacon, cheese and the patty. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure you stop by the mini donut stand. It is the last hut on the back wall as you head towards the first baseline on your way back to the grandstand. The tiny treats are topped with cinnamon and brown sugar. They may not be the fanciest donuts you will ever see, but they are undeniably delicious. The donuts are a favorite among Vancouverites, and are doled out generously by the friendly vendors. It’s hard to miss the Hey Y’all Porch in left field, and that’s lucky, because you are going to want to try their famous fried chicken and iced tea. The whole area is a new addition to the stadium, and is a hub of activity for fans looking to mingle during the game. If you are attending the game in a group of 30 or more, the Hard Rock Casino Barbeque Picnic in the Park is the perfect place to take in Canadians baseball. Fans get a seat at a table under an umbrella down the right field line, plus all you can eat barbeque for just $40 a person. The Vancouver area is home to many delectable craft beers, and naturally The Nat offers the best of the best. Named after the famed ski resort, the Whistler Brewing Company highlights the assortment of adult beverages. If the more traditional brews are more to your liking, you can find all the typical beers throughout the ballpark as well. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere at The Nat is truly special. Fun is the goal, and the C’s have succeeded in this department. It is a beautiful stadium, highlighted by a view of the regal Queen Elizabeth Park. There is a wide range of ages working at the stadium, and everyone is extremely helpful and nice. It is very family friendly at the park. There are special sections designated as alcohol free that might be good for families with small children. There are always kids baseball teams in attendance, and thus the stands are filled with young people. A pair of kids sang the National anthems (and rather well I might add) the most recent night I was there. Also, the club let a few youngsters throw out the ceremonial first pitches. There are a few different kinds of seats. The grandstand area features wooden bleachers. The seats in the lower section behind home plate and the seats down the left field line are both made with a combination of plastic and metal. The C’s have a number of special events in between innings designed to entertain fans of all ages. At the end of the 4th inning is the sushi race. Every game, four sushi mascots race down the right field line, competing for pride and for mini donuts. The grounds crew is famous for their work on the diamond, and for their dance moves. At the end of the 5th inning, the crew trots out onto the field and dances along to a (usually embarrassing) song. The night I was there, the grounds crew left it all on the field dancing along to the New Kids on the Block hit, “Step by Step.” At the end of the 6th, the fans get a little exercise by doing the chicken dance. The Canadians’ DJ puts the chicken dance song on blast, and the whole crowd dances along in unison. Neighborhood 4 Nat Bailey Stadium is located in central Vancouver, essentially sandwiched in between Cambie St. and Main St. It is largely residential in the immediate proximity to the park. However, Cambie and Main are just a few blocks away, and both streets boast impressive lineups of restaurants and bars. While the walkability of the neighborhood may not be on the Major League level, it is more than adequate for a Single-A stadium. Queen Elizabeth Park is considered by many to be one of the most picturesque green spaces in the city. There is a lush floral conservatory, and plenty of walking trails. Seasons in the Park is a first class restaurant featuring breathtaking views and Northwest cuisine. Fans 5 The Canadians have dominated the Northwest League in recent seasons, and their fans have grown accustomed to winning. They are very knowledgeable and take great pride in their team. Even if the C’s go down big early, the crowd never loses their enthusiasm. There is a very balanced cross section of fans at Nat Bailey Stadium. There are equal numbers of families, young people, retirees and hardcore fans. There is a laid back feel for the most part, and rowdy spectators are not a concern. Fun is the reason most of these fans show up, and winning is just a bonus. Access 3 If you are a native Vancouverite, you will likely have little trouble getting yourself to Nat Bailey Stadium. If you are a visiting fan from out of town, you may find the area more difficult to navigate. If you are coming by car, prepare for plenty of traffic. Vancouver is famous for its congestion, and driving through the heart of the city during rush hour can lead to some white-knuckle moments. However, signs leading you to the stadium are easily spotted on Cambie and Main Street. Parking is reasonably priced at $7, and there are ample spots. The main lots are located behind home plate and in the outfield behind the right field fence. The stadium is just one level, and there is a chance your vehicle could take a direct hit if you park behind home plate. There are no stands in right field, and a home run ball could find your windshield if you choose to park in the outfield. Being that Nat Bailey Stadium is located in a residential neighborhood, street parking is extremely limited, so choose one of the lots, but don’t go too close to the stadium when choosing your spot. SkyTrain presents an intriguing option for fans. The SkyTrain is essentially a monorail system that runs through Vancouver. It may not be the most attractive transportation system, but it is a very efficient way to get around. The nearest SkyTrain station (King Edward) is located just over a kilometer away from the stadium. Another public transportation option is the bus. You can get to within 3 blocks if you take the buses that run along Main St. Taking the SkyTrain or bus will cost you between $2.75 and $5.50 depending on the time of day and distance you are traveling. Return on Investment 5 The C’s do an amazing job providing fans with bang for their buck. Tickets are very economical, ranging between $14 and $25. You can find great seats in the grandstand behind home plate for $14, or you can sit in box seats closer to the action for $18. Sitting in the WestJet Diamond Club will run you $25, but they are considered the best seats in the house. Seniors (55+) can sit in the grandstand area for $11, and disabled seating can be found along the left field line for $11. Food is a good deal for fans as well. You can pick up a hot dog for $5, and a foot long for $7. Burger’s cost $6.25, and pizza is reasonable at $6 for a large slice. Pretzels won’t break the bank at $5. Sugary treats are affordable, with mini donuts listed at $5 and ice cream at $4.50. Sushi is priced between $8 and $10 depending on the kind you want. Craft beer is currently $7.50 a glass. All told, you can take in a Canadians’ game for a fraction of the cost of attending one of the other major sports games in Vancouver. In fact, you can watch a professional baseball game in a very enjoyable setting for roughly the same price as going to the movies. It is hard to beat the C’s return on investment. Extras 5 The Canadians offer many promotions throughout the regular season. Every Sunday is an A&W Family Fun Sunday. Kids can take home anything from a batting helmet to a jersey on Sundays. There are also bobblehead giveaways featuring some of the more prominent players who have recently donned a Canadians uniform. The C’s occasionally provide fans with opportunities to meet some of their favorite ballplayers from the past. The 2015 season will feature appearances from Tommy John, Devon White, Pat Hentgen and Tony Fernandez. The highlight of the promotion schedule has to be the fireworks extravaganzas. The Canadians entertain fans with special post game fireworks after most Saturday night home games. In 2015 there are nine dates, and you don’t want to miss them. There are multiple places to buy C’s gear at Nat Bailey Stadium. The first hut is located outside the stadium by the main entrance, where you can purchase hats and tees. Inside you will find a larger team store area near the end of the concourse on the third baseline. You can buy the same merchandise as outside, but there are a few additional items (jerseys, memorabilia, etc.) up for sale too. There is a manually operated scoreboard in left-center field, and a giant video screen in center field shows replays. There is a storied history with the C’s in Vancouver, and the organization does a fantastic job educating the public inside the ballpark. Murals and showcases discussing the history of the club and the famous names that have made stops in Vancouver line the main concourse. You get a great sense of how the franchise got its start, and how they have evolved into the one of the top Minor League organizations today. There is a large kids play area in the left field corner that features an inflatable slide. The C’s offer fans the opportunity to sit in non-alcoholic sections. Most teams have these types of sections, but these particular seats are in prime locations behind home plate. Inebriated fans are not much of an issue at The Nat, but these seats would be perfect for families with young children. Perhaps my favorite extra is the special Canadians car that delivers pitchers into the game from the bullpen in left field. The car itself is a golf cart type of vehicle wearing a C’s hat for a roof. It drives the incoming hurler to the edge of the infield before heading back to the ‘pen. Final Thoughts While the actual baseball being played on the field may not be Major League quality, Nat Bailey Stadium offers a first class experience for fans of all ages. It is an enjoyable and affordable way to spend an evening in Vancouver. The people who work at the stadium are very polite and helpful. The fun factor cannot be beaten, and wandering around the stadium gives spectators a sense of childlike joy. I highly recommend you take in a game at The Nat if you are ever lucky enough to be in Vancouver, BC.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Funko Field at Everett Memorial Stadium 3900 Broadway Everett, WA 98201 Everett AquaSox website Funko Field website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 3,682 Fun at Funko The Everett AquaSox are the High-A minor league affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. The club had its genesis as a Giants farm team but became the AquaSox in 1995 when they joined up with the Mariners. They currently compete in the Northwest League. Everett Memorial Stadium opened in 1947, with the ballpark renamed Funko Field in 2019 following a naming rights deal with the well-known local pop culture collectable company headquartered in the city. The stadium is owned by the Everett School District and has a capacity of 3,682. In recent years there has been talk of a new ballpark in Everett, however funding and plans have not yet been confirmed. Everett is located 25 miles north of Seattle in Snohomish County. The city is also home to the Silvertips junior hockey team who play out of Angel of the Winds Arena , which is also likely to host the rumored Arena Football League franchise should it eventuate. Everett has a long history as a centre of aviation. While Boeing moved their corporate HQ from the Pacific Northwest to Chicago in 2018, they maintain a strong presence in the Seattle metro area. The Boeing Everett Factory, the largest building in the world by volume, is located at Paine Field which currently produces the 777 and 737 commercial airliners. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions can be found on the concourse behind home plate. There’s a good selection of ballpark staples and specialty items including hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, chowder bowls, pizza, ice cream, and snacks. Expect queues during well-attended games, but otherwise the food is reasonably priced and of good quality. We enjoyed the pulled pork during our visit. There’s a solid selection of alcoholic beverages covering both mass-produced domestic and local craft breweries. Atmosphere 4 The ballpark is in a largely residential area, but the view from the ballpark is of mountain ranges to the east. Several renovations over recent decades have updated both the playing surface and spectator facilities. There’s a charming manual scoreboard beyond right field, and a video board reportedly amongst the newest in the league in center field. The atmosphere is fun and family friendly, with a very active game-day host always willing to liven things up in between innings. The main grandstand offers reserved seating behind home plate and along the first and third baselines. There are also general admission areas further down the baselines and a grassed home run porch in right field. Kids will love the play zone behind first. The team mascot is known as Webby. Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is about a mile from downtown Everett. The neighborhood immediately adjacent to the stadium is largely residential. There are some chain restaurants nearby. Closer to downtown check out Scuttlebutt Brewing Co while recommendations further afield include Anthony’s HomePort, Shawn O’Donnell’s American Grill and Irish Pub, Middleton Brewing, The Irishmen, and Blazing Onion Burgers. While, sadly, Boeing no longer conducts factory tours, aviation enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy the Future of Flight Aviation Center. Paine Field also features a Flying Heritage and Combat Armor Museum. Hours are limited to be sure to check before you visit. Families should also consider the Imagine Children’s Museum which has a large range of interactive exhibits relevant to the local area along with some great play areas. Hotels close by include Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inn, Travelodge, and Best Western. Of course, Seattle is easily within reach by car and offers a huge range of accommodation, restaurants, and tourist attractions – and of course the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Fans 3 The AquaSox are a solid draw, with average crowds estimated by various sources as around 2,000. The locals support their team well and have a great time doing so. There’s lots of families in attendance. Access 4 Funko Field is easily accessible by car. The I-5 is less than a mile from the ballpark. Take exit 192 toward Broadway. The South Parking lot is free of charge, but if you miss out there, there is additional parking for a small fee at the office lot (3802 Broadway). Try the King Country Metro if you prefer public transit. However, if you are visiting Seattle, it’s quite a lengthy and time-consuming trip north. The nearest Amtrak station is about 1 mile away downtown. Moving around the ballpark is as you would expect for a small stadium. Bathrooms are satisfactory. Return on Investment 5 With single game general admission tickets starting at $10 and Diamond Club at $22, the AquaSox represent an excellent value. There are great promotions throughout the season, and with reasonably priced food and beverage, and cheap parking, there’s no reason not to attend Funko Field if the opportunity arises. Extras 4 The AquaSox have a fun range of merch, players are happy to sign autographs after the game, and there’s a plaque beyond left field marking the spot where Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr’s first professional home run landed on June 17th, 1987. Final Thoughts Fun and affordable, entertaining baseball. Visitors to the Pacific Northwest should definitely add this ballpark to their travel itinerary.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium 5757 US Highway 90 West San Antonio, TX 78227 San Antonio Missions website Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 9,200 Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium – San Antonio Missions The origin of the San Antonio Missions and minor league baseball in the Alamo City can be traced back to the club’s founding in 1888. One of the four charter members of the Texas League, the Missions have found themselves aligned as the farm club for a host of MLB teams over the years – these include the St. Louis Browns, Baltimore Orioles , Chicago Cubs , Houston Colt .45s, Los Angeles Dodgers , Seattle Mariners , Milwaukee Brewers , and currently the San Diego Padres . Over the course of their history, the Missions have had a remarkable amount of success, winning 14 league title and 12 division titles. A litany of Hall of Famers and All-Stars have donned the Missions unis, with a who’s who list including Brooks Robinson , Ron Santo , Billy Williams , Joe Morgan , Dennis Eckersley , Mike Piazza , and Adrián Beltré . Since 1994 the Missions have called Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium their home ballpark. Named in honor of long-time San Antonio politician Nelson Wolff , who was instrumental in getting the park built, the Wolff was the host of the Double-A All-Star Game in 1997, as well as the Texas League All-Star Game in 2011. The ballclub officially took possessions of the stadium in 2006, the last time major renovations took place. These renovations included $1.2 million to improve concessions, replace the scoreboard, and add a new lighting system. However, the clock is ticking on this ballpark – with MLB’s taking over operations of the minor leagues in 2022, they required all stadiums to have certain requirements  that Wolff Stadium just currently does not have. This has put the Missions owners in the spot of having to significantly upgrade or move to a new location; either way, a plan has to be submitted by 2025 . Read on to learn more about what the Wolff is currently like.   Food & Beverage   4 I have no complaints whatsoever with the food and drink situation at Wolff Stadium – there are two main stands, one on the first base side and one on the third base side, that serve all your traditional stadium fare: hot dogs, fries, chicken fingers, nachos, popcorn, soft pretzels, sodas, etc. You can also get Frito pie, jumbo hot dogs, and corn dogs at these stands. Also on the main entrance level you can find a sno cone stand, an ice cream shack (where you can get your requisite ice cream sundae in a replica batting helmet), and a “carnival” stand that serves up all manner of fried goodness (think mozzarella sticks, jalapeño poppers, and fried chicken on a stick). There are also freestanding carts offering up beer and hot sandwiches, such as cheesesteak and patty melts. On the second deck, however, the options somehow get even better – beloved San Antonio institution Bill Miller Bar-B-Q has a stand offering up a pared-down menu that still has some of their hits; these include sliced brisket sandwiches, sausage wraps, brownies, and their legendary sweet tea. Another local fave, Sofia’s Pizzeria , also has a stand up here where they sell whole pies or pizza by the slice.   Atmosphere   3 Quite frankly, the Wolff is starting to show its three decades worth of age. However, there is still plenty in terms of atmosphere to make it worthwhile for fans to attend. First off there is the berm, which is the seating area behind the left field wall, popular with budget-conscious fans and home run ball seekers. This grassy hill allows fans to bring in lawn chairs or blankets to sit on and enjoy great views of the park while watching their wallet (more on this in the ROI section). One of the updates done as part of the 2006-2007 renovation was the construction of an all-you-can-eat-and-drink “fiesta deck”. This area is able to be rented out for groups of 25-200 and offers a great time. There is also a covered picnic area down the right field line, as well as an adults-only bar/patio behind the first baseline stands. Fans can also take in the mini version of the Missions Hall of Fame, with plaques of important figures in team history located on a wall behind the home plate stands. This area is near the Missions team store for all your Missions swag needs; note that there is also a separate store selling merch for the Flying Chanclas (see the Extras section for more on that).   Neighborhood   2 The area where the Missions ballpark currently sits is on the far southwest side of the city, sandwiched between an older residential neighborhood and an industrial park. Wolff Stadium is also within eyesight of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, the “gateway to the Air Force”. Having grown up in this part of town it has a soft spot in my heart; however, it is miles – both literally and figuratively – away from the heart of the city, its vibrant downtown . In the immediate area of the ballpark, the options for dining, lodging, and entertainment are extremely limited. There are mostly chain restaurants that aren’t too far, and there are also a few really good Tex-Mex spots that are a short five-minute drive away – these include Los Dos Hermanos , which serves up all the hits like enchiladas, fajitas, and tortas. Apetitos Mexican Restaurant is also a nearby favorite, serving up breakfast and lunch favorites like chilaquiles, migas, huevos rancheros, and carne guisada. For lodging there are quite a few more options near Wolff Stadium, primarily since the ballpark is so close to the military base. These include Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Lackland AFB  and Best Western Plus Lackland Hotel & Suites , to name a few. For entertainment, however, there are very few options nearby, but you aren’t too terribly far from SeaWorld San Antonio  and Traders Village  shopping complex. All in all, the relative lack of these three key types of amenities are part of the driving force behind the team seeking a new spot for their ballpark.   Fans   4 Fan support has never been a serious problem for the Missions; last season they averaged just under 4,200 fans per game, which filled up the ballpark on a nightly basis. The fans that attend love the team, are into the games, and are passionate about baseball. All of these factors contribute to a winning formula for a minor league baseball team – the team does its best to reward fans for coming out by having quality players and fun activities, and the fans reward the team with their devotion. Hopefully this will be a relationship that can be maintained going forward.   Access   2 Access is another area where the team struggles in comparison to other teams in the Texas League and those across the state. Wolff Stadium, as mentioned, is a 15-minute drive from San Antonio’s downtown, and a 22-minute drive from San Antonio International Airport, both via Highway 90; the ballpark is conveniently viewable from said highway. If you choose to drive there are two parking lots at the stadium, one on the third base side and one on the first base side. There are plenty of spaces available and the cost is relatively low. Should you choose not to drive or use a rideshare, the city’s public transportation option, VIA Metropolitan Transit , does have a stop outside the ballpark.   Return on Investment   4 If there is one area where the Missions truly excel, it is in terms of ROI. Single-game tickets for the Missions can be had for as low as $8 apiece, which is for the berm seating, but seats in the stands are equally as friendly. The team also runs a $2 Tuesdays promotion throughout the season; tickets are $2 each, as are quite a few concession items. Parking for Missions games is normally $10, but is $5 during the $2 Tuesday promotion. Couple all this with a concessions menu where nothing outside of liquor at the bar costs more than $8, and you’ve got a bargain. This is especially a great deal when you factor in the talent that comes in and out of the Wolff Stadium each season.   Extras 4 Like most minor league teams, the Missions do whatever they can to attract fans to the ballpark. They offer a ton of themed nights and giveaways throughout the season, ranging from bobbleheads to Spurs replica Manu Ginobili jerseys, to a Star Wars night and an Avengers night. The team also has fireworks displays on Saturday nights after home games. They also take part in Minor League Baseball’s Copa de Diversion  during the season, which is a lot of fun (and the uniforms are fantastic). The team also boasts a trio of some of the most fun mascots in all of baseball in Ballapeño , a human-sized jalapeno, his mother Mamapeño , who wields a fierce chancla during the Copa de Diversion games, and Henry the Puffy Taco , the living embodiment of a truly unique San Antonio culinary delight (for a more in-depth rundown on the mascots, click here ). Henry is also involved in one of the teams’ oldest and most beloved traditions, tackle the taco .   Final Thoughts I currently do and probably always will have a warm place in my heart, and in my memories, for Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium. I’ve seen a lot of baseball here over the years and for whichever reason comes first, I will miss it if/when it’s gone. With that being said, I have to admit it’s not a stadium that needs to be on anyone’s bucket list. However, I think if you do attend a Missions game here you’ll have a good time. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

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

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Ben Hill Griffin Stadium 157 Gale Lemerand Dr Gainesville, FL 32611 Florida Gators website Ben Hill Griffin Stadium website Year Opened: 1930 Capacity: 88,548 Ben Hill Griffin Stadium – University of Florida Gators Across the landscape of college football, the University of Florida stands out as one of the special programs – championship expectations here go beyond Southeastern Conference (SEC) titles; competing for national championships is the norm. Throughout the earlier days of the program’s history, University of Florida football had been respectable but not championship caliber, that is until the return of alumnus and Heisman Trophy winner Steve Spurrier as head coach. After a successful stint as head coach at Duke University , where he took the Blue Devils from perennial ACC doormats to conference champions in just three years, Spurrier returned to Gainesville in 1990. Almost overnight, Florida transitioned from a .500 program to SEC champions, culminating in a national championship victory in 1996 under his leadership. After Spurrier’s departure to the NFL in 2001, Florida experienced a dip in success, but championship aspirations here never wavered. Following three years under Ron Zook, Florida hired then- Utah  head coach Urban Meyer to restore the Gators to their championship ways. In just his second season in Gainesville Meyer delivered, leading Florida to two national championships in three years. While the Gators have not reached those heights since the mid-90s and early 2000s, they have remained a competitive force in the SEC, but the recent inconsistencies have seemingly frustrated the Florida faithful, and appear to have impacted the overall game day experience at “The Swamp”.   Food & Beverage   4 University Avenue, which runs along the northern edge of the stadium, is closed to traffic on Florida Gators football game day, and various food trucks set up shop here, offering everything from brick-oven pizza and tacos to Polynesian cuisine. Inside the stadium concessions are a bit more traditional, but still a step above basic stadium food. While staples like hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and peanuts are plentiful, higher end options include Everglades BBQ’s pulled pork sandwiches and nachos, and Moschella’s Italian fare can also be found. Grilled cheesesteaks, quesadillas, and sausages are also served from carts around the stadium. The University of Florida is the birthplace of Gatorade, so it should not come as much of a surprise that the drink is bountiful throughout the stadium – it is interesting, however, that it can only be found in the Gator-themed Orange and Cool Blue flavors. When it comes to soft drinks, Pepsi products are the beverages of choice, while for alcoholic beverages fans have typical domestic beers, and a craft-style Florida Gator branded Shock Top, along with cocktails from Cutwater and Surfside, as well as High Noon seltzers. While the in-stadium food is solid, the food trucks outside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium truly enhance the overall experience – it would be nice to see more of those options available inside.   Atmosphere   5 The area around Ben Hill Griffin Stadium leaves no confusion as to its Florida location; Spanish Moss-covered oaks populate the tailgating areas outside of the stadium, and palm trees line the walkways and streets leading in. Inside the venue the Gator orange pops, as it is used to highlight all the entry portals around the stadium, as well as large walls of the lower level seating, which welcome fans to “Gator Country” and recognize Florida’s championship seasons. Sideline seating is part of one large seating bowl with upper and lower entry points, while the north and south ends of the stadium have more of an upper and lower deck that partially overhangs the lower level. The west side stands are backed by an extremely large wall of suites and the stadium press box, which runs from end zone to end zone. Seating on this side might help when looking to escape the Florida heat with some shade, but there is not a lot of cover to be found at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in general. Traditions are important in college football, and the University of Florida is no exception. Florida’s marching band “The Pride of the Sunshine” does a fantastic job continuing those traditions, and setting the tone for college football with their pregame performance, occasionally starting with the band’s six-foot-wide drum, “The Biggest Boom in Dixie”. The band also creates several different formations, including an outline of the state of Florida, a script ‘Gators’, and finally a simplistic “UF” that forms a runway for the players to run through, as they take the field before kick-off. The whole pregame presentation does a great job of setting the stage for a high level of college football.   Neighborhood   5 Ben Hill Griffin Stadium sits on the northern edge of the University of Florida’s campus along University Avenue, where athletics, academics, and campus nightlife come together. Just steps away from the football stadium is the O’Connell Center , home to Gators basketball and volleyball – the Gators outdoor track, tennis center, and athlete development facilities are also nearby. Lake Alice is a popular location on campus for outdoor adventure and nature. Around dusk, visitors are drawn to the massive bat houses to watch hundreds of thousands of bats fly into the Gainesville night, and the lake is also populated by modest-sized alligators. Be warned though – even with their smaller size, many of the gators are not afraid to approach humans in search of food scraps. If looking for entertainment that might not be as batty, downtown Gainesville has a thriving music scene that goes into the early hours of the morning, from punk to techno, Latin music, and everything in between. Hotel options are plentiful but get snapped up quickly and are often expensive, so booking early or staying an hour outside Gainesville might be wise. There is also ample RV parking on campus for football game day, so those with such capabilities might look into that option. Despite being located in a city of over 100,000 people, the area around the University of Florida maintains a distinct college-town feel.   Fans   4 Florida Gator fans are a passionate group, and through past successes of the 90s and early 2000s have come to expect excellence at both the conference and national levels. While the program has not consistently maintained those heights as of late, fan engagement remains strong, especially for rivalry games and key SEC matchups. However, attendance has dipped for fewer marquee games, revealing some frustration among the fan base.   Access   3 The University of Florida is about six miles and 15 minutes from I-75, which runs just west of Gainesville – four exits leading directly into Gainesville provide a handful of access points into town. Traffic can become congested before and after football games, and parking options close to the stadium are limited. Parker Park, located two blocks north of the stadium, might be a good place for early arrivers to try and park. For those flying in, the Jacksonville airport is an hour and a half away, while Orlando’s airport is a two-and-a-half-hour drive. Gainesville’s regional airport offers limited service. As with most sports venues, there tends to be a surge of fans waiting to get into Ben Hill Griffin Stadium as soon as the gates open, but allowing 20 to 30 minutes for that initial push to die down leaves a rather easy entry. Inside the stadium, there are two sets of interior concourses – the innermost concourse gets rather congested, even with modest-sized crowds. Ramps in some locations, especially on the western side of the stadium, can also get extremely slippery due to humidity. Alternatively, the exterior walkways are a bit more spacious and not as susceptible to tight quarters from masses of fans.   Return on Investment   4 The current inconsistencies of Florida football have had an unintended effect on the availability of tickets – while matchups against SEC rivals still command high prices, tickets for non-conference games can be found at more affordable rates on the secondary market, sometimes as low as $5. Of course, matchups against SEC and in-state rivals still go for a premium price, but even if you are spending a bit more for these headliners, the experience of these games might be well worth the investment.   Extras   5 Gator mascots Albert and Alberta are ever present throughout the game, mostly on the sidelines, but their statues across the street at the alumni center are a popular place for fans to stop for a photo. Another popular photo op is at the statues of Florida’s three Heisman Trophy winners, Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel, and Tim Tebow, recognized outside the western entrance of the stadium. The ode to Gators heroes doesn’t end with the Heisman statues, however – Bull Gator Plaza pays tribute to the College Football Hall of Famers and All-Americans who have played at Florida. The plaza also features a plaque commemorating Tim Tebow’s “The Promise”; following a disappointing loss to Ole Miss during Tebow’s senior season, he made a promise to ‘Gator Nation’ that the focus and resolve of the Gators going forward would be unmatched. Tebow’s words would later prove prophetic, as the 2008 team would go on to dominate the competition for the remainder of the season, and eventually win the National Championship. To recognize the life and legacy of George Edmondson, better known as “Mr. 2-Bits”, his traditional pre-kickoff “2-Bits” cheer has been carried on at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Typically, an honorary or celebrity “Mr. 2-Bits” leads the crowd in the cheer of “2-Bits, 4-Bits, 6-Bits, a dollar! All for the Gators, stand up and holler!”. Those selected to lead the cheer are typically former Florida football players, but they have also been other accomplished Florida athletes. A display on the west concourse also recognizes the role “Mr. 2-Bits” has played in the culture of Florida football history. In addition, the death of hometown hero Tom Petty in 2017 started what might be the best “newer” tradition in college football – following the playing of “We Are the Boys from Old Florida” by the Florida band, the stadium lights dim and nearly 80,000 cell phone lights illuminate the stands. Petty’s “Won’t Back Down” plays from the speakers as fans sing along in unison, while the stadium’s LED lighting changes from blue to orange throughout the song. It truly is an amazing experience.   Final Thoughts Florida fans, more than anyone, are looking for the return of the Gators to a program that doesn’t only contend in the SEC, but also at the national level. Regardless of the current state of the Florida football program, however, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is still a destination location that is primed to return to its elite-level college football status. From the masses of tailgaters to the pregame Gator Walk, as long as the University of Florida football program is competitive on the national scene, it has all the components necessary to be one of the truly special college football experiences in the country.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 UFCU Stadium 1100 Aquarena Springs Dr San Marcos, TX 78666 Texas State Bobcats website UFCU Stadium website Year Opened: 1981 Capacity: 28,000 Texas State Bobcats – UFCU Stadium Excitement has reached levels that haven't been seen in San Marcos, Texas, in over a generation – the Texas State Bobcats are experiencing a level of prominence they have not experienced to date as members of the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). After a historic 2023-24 season, in which they won a program-high eight wins, as well as won their first bowl game, the Bobcats are riding a wave that fans hope can carry them to even greater postseason glory. After their fantastic campaign last season, investments in the stadium were begun during the 2024 season, including a new multi-year naming rights agreement  and expanding the stadium with a new end zone complex , slated to be completed by 2025. The Bobcats have called their current stadium home since 1981; it was in these early seasons that the team experienced its greatest levels of success, including taking home two Division II national championships (in 1981 and 1982) under Hall of Fame head coach Jim Wacker. The Bobcats are now looking to duplicate some measure of this success with head coach G. J. Kinne – read on to learn what’s got Texas State fans excited in San Marcos.   Food & Beverage   3 The food and beverage options at UFCU Stadium are what I would classify as “fine” – there are plenty of stands where you can get your traditional game day fare (e.g. hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, peanuts, etc.). The alcohol policy at the stadium changed in 2016 to allow the sale of it during games; now you can buy beer (including some from Texas breweries like Karbach, Ziegenbock, and St. Arnold’s) at multiple kiosks and carts throughout the main concourse. In terms of other foods to look out for, you can find a barbecue stand, a Chick-fil-A stand, a Pizza Hut stand, and an empanadas cart. There is also a stand selling fresh-squeezed lemonade and carnival fare such as funnel cake, kettle corn, cotton candy, and candy apples.   Atmosphere   4 The atmosphere at the last game I attended at UFCU Stadium was, quite frankly, electric. For transparency’s sake, this was a rivalry game, with a lot at stake, and the contest was being broadcast nationally on one of the 4-letter network channels. The game had one of the largest crowds in the history of the stadium, and that made the atmosphere even better. For the window-dressing part of this section, UFCU Stadium has several team stores inside for fans to purchase team merchandise. The exterior of the luxury boxes on the home side of the field is also adorned with markers commemorating the team’s successes (i.e. their conference and national championships). The pregame festivities included the performance of the band (more on them in the Extras section), as well as having the school president and his wife, clad in matching Texas State embroidered leather jackets and cowboy hats), lead the team out onto the field while riding a motorcycle – only in college football, only in Texas.   Neighborhood   3 San Marcos is pretty much the picture-perfect realization of a Texas college town. Halfway between San Antonio and Austin, it has grown considerably over the years in terms of population, but it still retains a lot of what made it arguably the Lone Star State’s best college burg. The Bobcats are the only game in town, and the interest in the school shows – especially among the student body in the last few years, as the football team’s fortunes have risen. UFCU Stadium sits right on campus amidst Texas State’s athletics complex ( Bobcat Ballpark  and Strahan Coliseum  are within walking distance), so if you plan your visit right you might be able to catch another Texas State game, depending on the time of the year. In terms of things to do, the absolute main draw to the area is the beautiful San Marcos River . It is a hotbed of swimming, kayaking, tubing (especially tubing), and fishing in the state, as people flock from all around to get a taste of the river when the weather is right. Up until October, visitors to San Marcos looking to take in a game at UFCU Stadium will also be able to get their sample of river life before the temperatures head south. Since this is a college town, most of the dining options near the stadium are going to cater to the student body. However, a couple of highlights to be on the lookout for include Spud Ranch  (gussied-up baked potatoes for the win) and Lucy’s Tacos  (you can’t go wrong with Tex-Mex in this part of the world). There aren’t any lodging destinations (aside from vacation rentals) near the stadium, but there are quite a few within a 10-minute drive of the venue, including Fairfield Inn & Suites Austin & San Marcos  and Motel 6 San Marcos .   Fans   3 While it has not always been the case, especially in recent years, the fans are showing out right now for the Texas State Bobcats. The most recent game I attended – again, a rivalry game, but still – was a virtual sellout. Fans were decked out in their maroon and gold in and around the stadium hours  before the game. They were also exceptionally loud from my vantage point, which added to their home field advantage. However, the one caveat I will put out is that this is virtually uncharted territory for Bobcat fans; things were bleak in terms of fan interest in the not-too-distant past. Keeping this interest in the program, if things should slow down on the field, will be a test they’ll need to take at some point down the road.   Access   3 San Marcos is roughly smackdab in between San Antonio and Austin along Interstate 35 and its endless, ongoing construction projects. The campus is about 35 minutes from downtown Austin and about 45 minutes from the Alamo City’s downtown – if you’re flying in from somewhere, Austin Bergstrom International Airport is 41 minutes away. There isn’t much in the way of public transportation in San Marcos; there are limited bus routes and shuttle buses on campus if you choose not to drive. The only other option is, of course, a rideshare service. Once you get to the stadium, however, parking is plentiful in five full lots open to the public, as well as at numerous businesses nearby that offer their lots for a fee.   Return on Investment   4 Single-game tickets for Bobcats games at UFCU Stadium start at $20 per person, with pre-purchased parking passes starting at $15. Concession prices are also relatively low for FBS/DI football. For the attention that the team is getting these days, this is looking like quite the bargain – I wouldn’t expect these costs to stay this way for much longer if the Bobcats continue this upward trajectory.   Extras   4 Texas State offers up a lot of the pageantry that is unique to college football, and that goes a long way toward making gamedays so special. The festivities start right out of the proverbial gate with the Bobcat Marching Band , aka the “Pride of the Hill Country” – the band performs the school fight song while marching across the field before the game. They also spell out “CATS” and “STATE” as they play “Deep in the Heart of Texas” to the delight of the fans in the stands. The Texas State Cheer  team and their costumed mascot, Boko , also perform throughout the game. In addition, one of the main draws at games is the famous Texas State Strutters . This team, known for their distinctive uniforms, has performed in parades and functions all over the world. The Strutters are a highlight, so plan your halftime trips accordingly.   Final Thoughts I’ve been to quite a few games at the former Bobcat Stadium over the years. However, what Texas State has going on right now at UFCU Stadium is unlike anything I’ve experienced in the past. There is an energy and excitement around athletics – especially the football team – that hasn’t been seen here before. College football fans will find a lot to enjoy about the stadium and the program right now. I think visitors will also find San Marcos a nice place to spend a day. While I wouldn’t put them down as bucket list worthy, the Texas State Bobcats and UFCU Stadium are still worthy of a trip if you have the time. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on X @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Eric Hasman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Huskie Stadium Stadium Dr S DeKalb, IL 60115 Northern Illinois Huskies website Huskie Stadium website Year Opened: 1965 Capacity: 30,998 Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium Huskie Stadium opened in 1965 and after a few renovations, the current capacity has been decreased to 23,595. One renovation that affected seating and stadium arrangement is the Yordon Athletic Center which is in the north end zone and opened in 2007. It contains a 3,150 sq ft. football locker room with a 780 sq ft. gathering area, a 12,505 sq ft. strength and conditioning center (largest in the MAC), an academic support center, an athletic training room with rehab pools, a 150-seat meeting room, video editing room, all ten coaches' offices, football equipment room, coaches' locker room, computer classrooms for student-athletes and a couple of boxes that overlook the football field. In 2003, the field was renamed "Brigham Field" in honor of Robert J. Brigham, a former NIU player, coach, and athletic director. Seating is only on the east and west sides of the field. The south end zone is grass and only has a small amount of standing room and tent space behind the fence. The stadium's AstroTurf playing surface, pioneered in 1969, was recarpeted in 1980 and 1990 before being replaced by a FieldTurf surface in 2001. The east grandstand construction of 1995 featured 10,500 aluminum bleacher seats supported by a steel-beam superstructure and includes 54 rows of seats. Food & Beverage 1 Concessions at the stadium are lackluster and limited. There are two stands on each side of the stadium. The food items are only the basics: Polish sausage, hot dogs, nachos, soft pretzels, and Rosati’s pizza slice for the main dishes. These items are ok, I would say they are not a must-eat. As with other stadiums, of course, there is popcorn, Dippin' Dots, and a cotton candy tub. For non-alcoholic drinks, there are bottled sodas which are Pepsi products, Gatorade, and bottled water. For alcohol, there are domestic beers Coors and Miller Lite. The “Specialty” beers at the stadium are New Belgium, Sierra Nevada, and Heineken and there is an NIU brand Kolsh-style ale, Dawgma. Atmosphere 3 Before entering the stadium be sure to visit “The Yard” at Huskie Stadium. It is free and open to the public. The Yard is located on the West Lawn within, well, yards of the stadium entrances and is the official pregame tailgate for all fans. Inside the “The Yard” is live music, local vendors, and a beer garden. In addition, once in there, you can watch football action from around the country on the giant video screen while your kids check out the inflatable games in the Kids' Zone. If you get there early enough, you can meet both current and former NIU student-athletes and learn what's new at NIU and in the community. Also, the NIU cheerleaders, Mission (a live Huskie Dog), Victor E. Huskie, and the Huskie Marching Band are in the area before the game. Getting into the stadium and to your seats can be cumbersome, especially on the west side. The west side has lots of ramps and staircases going up to the seats. The entrances to each side of the stadium are separate. There is no way to get to the other side of the stadium unless you leave it. So if you decide to watch from the other side, make sure you get your hand stamped to get access. Even though there are two separate seating stands the stadium has a good buzz/college feeling going on once you walk in. There are NIU flags/banners throughout the stadium. The NIU band is constantly playing some song and of course the Northern Illinois “fight song” too. NIU students, who get in free, sit on either side of the stadium. There are ribbon boards on each seating stand with game information and other graphics during the game. In the south end zone is the video scoreboard. It is small but it is readable from anywhere in the stadium. In addition, NIU flags and statues, and /or banners are almost everywhere. NIU has one traditional “Mascot” Victor E. Huskie. In addition, NIU has Mission, a live Siberian Huskie, running across the end zone dragging his ROTC handler after every Huskie score. Neighborhood 4 I would say that DeKalb is a typical small college town. There isn’t much in town besides NIU, but there are some good restaurants downtown and near campus. Since it is a college town, pizza parlors, and fast food joints abound, but there are a few nice sports bars near campus. The “official” bar/restaurant of NIU Sports is Fatty’s Pub and Grille on Lincoln Highway which is located southeast of the stadium on Lincoln Highway. The bar has a great atmosphere, and good food, and is home to the coach’s show. A must-eat there are the Cajun potatoes which are a holdover from the former tenant of the building, a Cajun restaurant. The food at Fatty’s is really good you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. On game days Fatty’s does get crowded but it is a great place to go. Another good place for a sit-down meal is Molly’s Eatery and Drinkery on Lincoln. The menu is more limited, but the sandwiches are good. There are the usual fast food places near the stadium, Culvers, Taco Bell, Chipotle, etc….However, a really good place to go of campus fame is Tom & Jerry’s Gyros also on Lincoln towards downtown DeKalb. The students love the food there and it is reasonably priced. In downtown DeKalb, two places I suggest are Eduardo’s for Mexicans and Lord Stanley. Eduardo’s has your basic Mexican fare and is outstanding. Lord Stanley’s is known for pizza, and beer, and is a good place to watch sports. While you are there you must try the “Willies” which are deep-fried pizza dough bites with red sauce for dipping. Many years ago, Chicago had the “Cows on Parade” downtown and DeKalb has the “Huskies on Parade.” There are many hand-painted Huskie statues all over town and campus which were commissioned by local businesses. I don’t know how many there are in total, but it could be a fun hunt to run around and try to find as many as you can. Fans 4 Attendance at Huskies games is low in my opinion especially considering the success the team has had over the past several years. When the weather is cold or rainy the stadium may be a quarter to half full, otherwise, the Huskies draw about 10,000 to 15,000 per game. The fans are loyal and loud, especially on the student side – they tend to stand the whole time, which could be annoying for some. They stay engaged throughout the game and enjoy yelling at the refs, the music, and cheering for their team, in that order. The fans on the alumni side are a bit less intense but still solid. Access 5 The stadium and surrounding area are very accessible – the crosswalks have talking speakers to tell you which street is open to cross. The stadium is on the west side of the Northern Illinois University Campus and about a 5-minute drive from the intersection of Interstate 88 and Annie Glidden Road. Huskie Stadium is very easy to get to with the parking lots being near the Convocation Center off of Lincoln Highway and lots off of Lucinda. There are several parking lots within walking distance of the stadium. However, to get close you will need a parking pass. The easiest lot, I think, is pretty far away at the Convocation Center which is west of the stadium for $15. I like this lot because is it an easy out after the game. Return on Investment 3 For mid-major football ticket prices are not bad. General admission tickets for the east side seating range from $15 to $25 and the west side is $20 to $30 depending on the game. Reserve seating on the west side range from $30 to $35 depending on the game. Of course, if you purchase season or group tickets they are discounted. If you look on the alum website or even Facebook sometimes there are discount ticket codes too. Premium seating is on the west side of the stadium and goes from approximately the 40-yard line to the 40-yard line. These seats have chairbacks or bench-back seating and are generally reserved for season ticket holders or donors. Otherwise, the rest of the stadium has bench seating. There are no assigned seats on the east side (student side, sections I-Q) so there is no reason to pay extra unless you want a bit more comfort. The stands are very close to the field so there is not a bad seat in the stadium. The cheerleaders perform in the north end zone because there isn’t enough room for them in front of the east or west stands. Extras 3 One point for the huskie statues all over town; it was a lot of fun pointing them out to each other as we drove to and from the stadium. The water tower near the football/basketball stadium has an NIU logo on it, which you can see from the field. A third point for the fireworks after each score. Yes, many teams do this but being so close they feel and sound bigger. The Huskies get an extra point for having a 1963 National Champion College Division flag on the west side of the stadium. However, there is no explanation of the Championship that I found, so -1 point. NIU gets a point for signs on the inside of the west side of the stadium, on the ramps leading to the seats, that show the bowl games that NIU was in and the NIU retired numbers. However, the signs are small and easy to miss, so -1 point. I wish this information was somewhere more visible especially one mentioning that the Huskies were the 1st mid-major to make a New Year’s Day Bowl, the Orange Bowl. Final Thoughts Huskie Stadium is not the best or biggest stadium but it is a lot of fun and a good place to see a game.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Scheumann Stadium 2800 W Bethel Ave Muncie, IN 47306 Ball State Cardinals website Scheumann Stadium website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 22,500 Chirp! Chirp! Ball State Football Scheumann Stadium opened in 1967 and since its debut has expanded to a 22,500-seat stadium for the Ball State Cardinals football program. The stadium has undergone a few changes during the last decade that included $13.7 million in renovations that resulted in a new lighting system, concession stands, FieldTurf, an enlarged press box, and a new video board. Another improvement was enclosing the north end zone seating area that includes open grass seating. These changes have not changed the intimate atmosphere that a visitor would have when attending a football contest at Ball State. The Cardinals play in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), and depending on the weather or opponent, the cozy and relaxed atmosphere could be the perfect recipe for a wonderful Saturday afternoon in Muncie, Indiana. Food & Beverage 3 Walking around underneath the main grandstand, one would find the majority of the stadium’s concessions. The prices are fairly affordable and feature your basic stadium cuisine of pizza, hot dogs, and nachos. For a discounted price, you can purchase a combo that includes a hot dog, bag of chips, and pop or you can enjoy a brat or a barbecue pork sandwich. The jalapeno and cheddar brats are worth a visit, and like many of the other options, are cooked on an open grill. Peruse the game day program and you’ll find that the university lists other concession items that include Chick-fil-A sandwiches, corn dogs, pork tenderloins, elephant ears, and walking tacos. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere is dictated by many factors, including the weather, the opponent, and promotion. When the stadium is packed, it is rocking, as it was for our visit during a beautiful early fall game on parents’ weekend. The parking lot was packed with alumni tailgating in their vans and cars, while the student body seemed to be having more fun at the grass parking lot hours before kickoff. It was a festive mood at Charlestown, an area hosted by the alumni association for select games, on the northwest side of the Alumni Center. A few food trucks are set up, along with craft beer taps. The Ball State marching band and cheer squad entertain a few lucky fans in the parking lot who had a front-row seat from their folding chairs. Once inside, the stadium is separated into three seating sections, plus a grass area at the back of the north end zone. The stadium features a majority of bleacher-style seating from the main concourse to the student section. All of the concessions are underneath the main concourse, along with historic photos of the program’s past and championship banners. It is a very functional stadium that offers a few aesthetics to make it stand out from other mid-sized venues of college football. The grass lawn area in the north end zone is the focal point of the venue. It features a basic but functional electronic scoreboard and the school’s iconic pillars. This area fills up during the early parts of the season when the skies are blue, and the sun is shining. During warmer weather games, a Kid’s Zone is set up with inflatable rides and face-painting tables. Charlie Cardinal is an entertaining and impressive college mascot. During the game, he can be seen on the field with the cheerleaders, leading the band after a touchdown and starting the school chant, ”The Chirp.” When the opposing team is on third down, the student section will move their hands up and down chanting “chirp, chirp, chirp.” It’s a tradition that began in 2004 and was modeled after similar ones at Purdue and Indiana University. Rituals are an important part of the college football game day, and this one is perfect for the Ball State Cardinal fan base. Neighborhood 3 Scheumann Stadium is located right off the main campus and a few miles away from the village area of town. The area can become somewhat congested at times with mall shoppers, but there are a few ideal locations to seek out before or after the game. Downtown Muncie has changed a bit in the past few years, and Elm Street Brewing Company, located in a former ice house from 1999, is worth the visit for its food and decor, but they also serve craft beer. A recommendation for lunch or dinner includes the pitmaster pie with Coca-Cola barbecue, smoked gouda, smoked chicken, house bacon, and brisket, or the Gonzo, a fried chicken breast top with spicy bacon jam, cheddar cheese, and egg on a homemade biscuit. Amazing Joe’s, Savage Ale House, and Sitara Indian Restaurants are other options in town. A cheap eat location is the B&K Drive-In which features car service and a menu that offers Spanish dogs, coneys, homemade root beer, and barbecue pork and brisket that is made on site. A few more places to grab a pint include The Guardian Brewing Company, Twin Archer Brewpub, and Heorot Pub & Draught House. You might be able to grab a bite at these places, but enjoy a couple of pints if you can; they are worth the visit when it’s a town for a Cardinals game. Fans 4 They chant “The Chirp,” but you will likely see less tailgating, barbecuing, or tossing cornhole before the game. Inside the stadium, the student section is lively, with the band performing adjacent to them during the four quarters. In this area, you can see some fans with signage, face painting, and a lot of cheers. On the other side at the main concourse, there are a few die-hard fans who do their best to cheer on the hometown Cardinals. Access 3 Scheumann Stadium is relatively simple to reach from I-69. Local police guide cars into the various lots surrounding the stadium. On busier weekends such as parent or alumni day, some of the main roads are closed to the stadium. However, there are plenty of surrounding lots that offer $5 parking and are within walking distance of the stadium. It should also be noted that lines were long for concession stands, resulting in a 30-40 minute wait for food and beverage. This could be due to the recent shortage of help in our country during the pandemic. Return on Investment 4 The price for single-game general admission tickets is $15 (advanced) / $20 (game day) for adults, and reserve tickets are $25. Kids' tickets are $10. If interested, a Kid’s Club membership is $35 and allows kids into all Ball State athletic games for free, plus many benefits for kids and their parents. A popular option is the Metazoa Ball and Brew Pack which consists of one general admission ticket and two of their beers for $20 when purchased in advance – it increases to $30 on game day. If you know of your plans ahead of time, it might be worth looking into this if a fan of craft beer or a good deal. The game day prices are comparable with other football programs in the Mid-American Conference. The parking is $10 in the purple lot, but there is $5 parking at multiple spots southeast of the stadium. There is no charge to park at the Worthen Arena and the Cardinal and Creek lot. Extras 3 Scheumann Stadium receives two additional stars for the enclosed grass seating behind the north end zone and the student section chanting “The Chirp” on third downs. The Family Zone is a fine addition on the grassy hill that includes bouncy houses and facing paint for the little fans in attendance. Final Thoughts Scheumann Stadium can be a fun outing for mid-major college football. The atmosphere in the parking lot is festive, the ticket prices affordable, and the fan participation quite energetic. True, it might depend on what time of the season you attend a Ball State game but choose wisely – you should have a good time. Chirp! Chirp! ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium 1500 Greenland Drive Murfreesboro, TN 37130 Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders website Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium website Year Opened: 1933 Capacity : 27,303 ‘Boro Built, Middle Made Football has been played at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro since 1911. The program found its permanent home in 1933 with the opening of Horace Jones Field, later renamed Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium, which has hosted the Blue Raiders for more than nine decades. The team’s golden years came under Charles “Bubba” Murphy (1947–1968), who produced four undefeated seasons and established the program as a powerhouse in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) during the 1950s and 1960s, winning seven titles in ten seasons. MTSU remained in the OVC until 1999, when they moved up to the Football Bowl Subdivision. After a brief stint as an independent, the Blue Raiders joined the Sun Belt Conference in 2001, eventually settling in Conference USA in 2013, where they continue their pursuit of a league title. With more than a century of history and plenty of change along the way, football at Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium has remained a constant in the program’s history.   Food & Beverage   4 The traditional concession stands do not bring much by way of originality, sticking mostly to hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels with cheese, peanuts, chips, and candy. Drinks feature Pepsi products, Aquafina, and Gatorade, with a fairly light alcohol lineup of Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Bud Light Seltzer, High Noon, and Nutrl seltzers. Blue Raider Beer Garden does offer a stronger beer selection, however, with local options like East Bank Citra IPA, Landslide IPA from Cedar Grove Brews, and Sun Kiss Amber Ale. Where Floyd Stadium really delivers is with the food trucks, trailers, and tents abounding on the west side concourse. Fans can grab Domino’s pizza, barbecue from Meat Sweats BBQ, and chicken or pork sandwiches, nachos, wings, or tenders from Creative Culinary Creations. The most popular stop seems to be Chicken Shack Express, known for its plates of fried chicken tenders, shrimp, catfish, and wings with fries on the side. For those with a sweet tooth, Dippin’ Dots remain a staple, while Whisk and the Whims serves up ice cream and cake creations that add a local touch.   Atmosphere   3 Game day in Murfreesboro kicks off in Walnut Grove with the Blue Raider “Party in the Grove” – this center of tailgating comes alive about three hours before kickoff. The Band of Blue makes its march down Normal Way to the Lucky Bud Horseshoe in front of Peck Hall, where the band and spirit squads line the walkway, and fans gather to cheer the Blue Raiders on as they give the Blue Horseshoe a rub for luck. Activities in the Grove include live music, inflatables, face painting, caricature artists, photos, and craft stations. Floyd Stadium has taken on a bit of a facelift in recent years, but much of the stadium’s bones have remained the same. The facility is a fully enclosed venue mostly made up of aluminum bleachers, with a second tier rising on the east side. There is a small strip of chairbacks between the 40-yard lines to add a touch of comfort, but the overall setup leans heavily toward a no-frills, old-school experience. The new Smith Student-Athlete Performance Center in the north end zone gives the stadium a welcome modern polish, as well. During the game, an in-game host helps keep the energy up with interactive scoreboard features, while the Band of Blue fills in downtime between possessions. A large videoboard in the south end zone handles replays and live action, topped with a ribbon for game information; the east-side ribbon board supplements this with stats, out-of-town scores, and closed captioning, rounding out the in-game presentation.   Neighborhood   3 Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium sits at the southwest edge of Middle Tennessee’s campus, tucked between Murphy Center (basketball) and Reese Smith Stadium (baseball). For fans looking to grab a bite or drink before kickoff, Campus Pub and Boro Bar & Grill deliver a classic dive bar feel within walking distance, with Boro doubling as a late-night music spot for post-game entertainment. As an alternative, on the opposite side of campus along East Main Street, Boulevard Bar & Grille provides a more family-friendly option. Those wanting a livelier scene will find it a few minutes away in Murfreesboro’s town center, where bars, restaurants, and shops surround historic Rutherford County Courthouse. Beyond food and drink, Murfreesboro also carries plenty of local history – Stones River National Battlefield, less than five miles from campus, marks one of the Civil War’s pivotal clashes, while the nearby Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History showcases fossils, minerals, and regional relics.   Fans   2 In 2024, the Blue Raiders averaged just 13,000 fans per game, a figure that placed them near the bottom of Conference USA. Their rivalry matchup with Western Kentucky tends to draw the best atmosphere, but most games struggle to generate that same level of energy. The liveliest section is the Blue Raider Beer Garden in the south end zone, where fans crowd the fence and pound against it to rattle visiting teams. Still, the smaller overall turnout limits the noise level inside Floyd Stadium. Midweek kickoffs, a regular feature of Middle Tennessee’s schedule, only add to the challenge of building consistent crowds.   Access   3 Middle Tennessee’s campus sits less than four miles from I-24, which connects Chattanooga and Nashville. While the stadium is not directly off the interstate, local streets make it easy enough to reach. Parking is well distributed across campus, with pay lots near the north end of the stadium and multiple free lots within reasonable walking distance. Shuttles are also available from the free lots for added convenience. Outside the stadium, staff stationed in distinctive blue lifeguard chairs make it easy for visitors to find help and directions. Entry is smooth, with five gates spread around the venue to keep lines short, and the concourses are generally wide enough to handle the crowd. The main flaw comes in the upper deck: with no concessions on that level, fans in the highest seats must trek all the way down to field level for food or drink, a hassle that undercuts the otherwise efficient layout.   Return on Investment   4 End zone seats start at $22, making Floyd Stadium one of the more affordable tickets in Conference USA. Concessions here have seen recent price hikes, but overall remain reasonable and will not strain most budgets. Parking is a mixed bag: spots directly around the stadium run $20, while nearby lots and garages cost about $10. The tradeoff is that MTSU also offers at least five free lots, including the Livestock, Lightning, Founders, Corlew, and Bell Street lots, all within a manageable walk for most fans. That balance of paid and free options helps keep the overall cost of gameday down.   Extras   4 MTSU makes an effort to build out the game day experience beyond just the action on the field. The organized on-campus tailgate, pregame pep rally, and Raider Walk all add energy leading up to kickoff. The north end zone concourse has a series of inflatables set up to help keep younger fans occupied throughout the game. Lightning, the school’s royal blue and silver horse mascot, plays a visible role on game day,  mingling with fans at the Walnut Grove tailgate and helping to keep the crowd engaged once the action starts. While not the most distinctive mascot in college football, Lightning adds a steady presence to the Blue Raider experience. The Blue Raiders showcase their history with banners hung along the lower walls and seating sections, honoring conference championships, bowl appearances, and former players who went on to win Super Bowl rings.   Final Thoughts Even though crowds here may be on the smaller side, the overall game day experience in Murfreesboro does not suffer for it. The festive mood is set early in Walnut Grove, where pregame traditions and tailgates create a welcoming atmosphere for fans. The Smith Student-Athlete Performance Center adds both polish and functionality to Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium, giving the venue a more modern touch. While on-field inconsistencies in recent years have dampened some of the buzz, the Blue Raiders still provide an engaging college football outing. From traditions to affordable tickets and a fan-friendly setting, a Saturday at Middle Tennessee captures the kind of charm that makes the sport such a special experience.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Burgess-Snow Field at JSU Stadium 700 Pelham Rd N Jacksonville, AL 36265 Jacksonville State Gamecocks website Burgess-Snow Field at JSU Stadium website Year Opened: 1947 Capacity: 24,000 Burgess-Snow Field at JSU Stadium Over the better part of the last decade, Jacksonville State has proven itself as one of the more dangerous teams of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Not only have the Gamecocks been headaches for Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams such as Georgia Tech , LSU , and Arkansas , they have pulled upsets on the home fields of the Ole Miss Rebels and Florida State Seminoles in recent years. Jacksonville State has made the steady climb from a NCAA Division-II power, playing in four NCAA D-II championship games and winning it all in 1992. The Gamecocks continued their gridiron success when they moved from Division II into the FCS for the 1996 season – it took Jax State ten seasons to reach the pinnacle of the FCS, facing off against nine-time FCS champion, North Dakota State. Jacksonville State now joins the FBS member conference, Conference USA, as one of the handful of new members in college football’s highest division. In preparation for the jump to college football’s top division, Jacksonville State has invested $80 million in upgrades to their football facilities that offer both their student-athletes and fans an improved football experience. Food & Beverage 4 Fans here have a choice of traditional concessions stand items including hot dogs, chili dogs, cheeseburgers, nachos, fountain Coke products, and all the typical concessions stand popcorn, peanuts, and candy options. Fans can order concessions to pick up and go using the Everyday App ; QR codes are posted around the concourse to make downloading the app easier. Those wanting a bit of a break from the norm will want to visit the Food Truck Rally behind the east end zone bleachers – this area features a mix of Brix ‘n Stix Wood Fired Pizza, TJ’s Crawfish Shack, RNB Finz and Chicks LLC, Kona Ice, Main Squeeze Lemonade, and WOW American Eats. Beer is sold at JSU Stadium, but options are a bit limited. Bud Lite, Busch Lite, and Michelob Ultra round out the macrobrews, while Wicked Weed Pernicious, Back Forty Truck Stop Honey, and Bud Seltzer provide a break from the run-of-the-mill beers. All payment options are cashless – payment methods fans can use for concessions and food trucks include credit/debit cards or Apple, Google, or Samsung Pay. The Food Truck Rally is definitely the way to go if looking for a break from the typical concessions stand items; with soul food, wings and fried foods, and Cajun delights, there is a wonderful spread for fans to choose from. Atmosphere 3 The campus game day atmosphere comes to life in the pre-dawn hours. As early as 7 am, fans start staking their claim to tailgating plots along the grassy area at the front of campus. As game time approaches, “The Roost” starts bustling with more excitement which builds in anticipation of the Gamecock Walk where school mascot Cocky, along with band members, cheerleaders, members of the dance squad, coaches, and staff walk from the team buses at Angel Hall to the current football facility. Later, while the Gamecocks make final game preparations, fans start making their way to Burgess-Snow Field. As JSU Stadium continues to undergo upgrades, fans do have a handful of minor inconveniences to navigate. In its second phase of improvements, the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex player development center is starting to take shape behind the stadium's west end zone. At the moment, the visiting team stands lacks seating, but is open for fans to sit in if they so choose. Outside of the club level seats, any of the seating options get fans right on top of the action and give great views of the game. Given the orientation of the field, however, there is not a lot of relief from the sun – the best bet to limit the impact the sun will have on the enjoyment of the game is sitting on the home side of the field, toward the eastern end of the stadium. Fans on the visiting, north side of the stadium will have the sun in their face for much of the game. Throughout the game, there is a nice balance of music piped through the stadium speakers, as well as performances by the Marching Southerners. No matter which form of music is used, the Marching Southerners do a great job setting the tone for a fun football atmosphere. The overall coziness of Burgess-Snow Field will only be improved as progress continues to be made on the player development center and the north side stands. Neighborhood 3 Backdropped by the mountains of northeastern Alabama, JSU Stadium sits on the southern portion of the Jacksonville State campus. Jacksonville, a relatively small town by FBS standards, is just over 12,000 and has every bit of the cozy, small town feel. JSU Stadium stands out amongst the campus dormitories. The stadium’s main seating area also doubles as a dorm, with its first four floors providing student housing. In the immediate area around the stadium there are a handful of pre-gaming options. Struts of Jacksonville, more of a traditional sports bar, and Mason’s BBQ, both on Mountain Street NW, are the most conveniently located spots to grab a pre-game bite to eat. About a mile south of campus is Jacksonville’s town center; this has a handful of restaurants and the Apothecary Draft House, which fans can visit. Jacksonville’s rural setting does provide fans making a multi-day visit to Jacksonville with miles of hiking trails to explore through the northern reaches of the Talladega National Forest, which runs just east of Jacksonville. Pre-game entertainment might be a bit limited, but there is enough between tailgating and local restaurants for fans to keep themselves entertained until the gates open. Fans 3 JSU Stadium is one of the smaller FBS stadiums in the country. Despite its capacity of 24,000, it can be a raucous home field. Much like their JSU basketball pep band counterparts, the Marching Southerners are the pulse of the stadium’s liveliness. It is not just the spirit of the fight song they play or the musical interludes they drop during timeouts – band members are also commonly leading chants throughout the game and lead the enthusiasm of the stadium in anticipation of the game’s biggest moments. There is also a Sweet Caroline style sing-along, with a cue from the band as they hold their instruments in the air as they sway back and forth to Lee Greenwood’s God Bless the USA. As the song ends, fans breakout in a chant of “U.S.A!...U.S.A!” The home fans do a lot to stay into the game, but much of the credit for the fan involvement in the action on the field has to go to the Marching Southerners. Their intensity in supporting the Gamecocks is contagious and goes a long way toward creating a fun college football environment. Access 3 Jacksonville, Alabama is a bit off the beaten path. Fans coming from the west through Birmingham or from Atlanta to the east most likely will use I-20. This will leave just under a thirty-minute drive through Oxford and Anniston, Alabama. State Road 21 leads from I-20 right to the JSU campus. Northern and southern approaches come mostly via state roads and highways. Parking is available for $10 at nearby Stephenson, Dixon, and Curtiss Halls, but lots at the Theron Montgomery Building, Bibb Graves Hall, Ayers Hall, Crow Hall, Daugette Hall, and around Trustee Circle are free. A shuttle bus brings fans from the parking lot behind the library to campus. While the walk is not all that long, the shuttle is a nice amenity. The stadium is accessible from all directions, though the southwestern entrance point is a bit obscured due to the construction of the Loring and Debbie White Football Building. Most fans will enter through the southeast entrance, and fans watching the game from the suites can enter the VIP entrance through the lobby of Meehan Hall. Visiting fans have entry points along the north side of the stadium. Return on Investment 5 College football tickets can be some of the more expensive tickets on campuses, but Jacksonville State makes the experience one that is far from being finically prohibitive for fans to attend. With tickets starting at just $12 (including a $2 service fee), college football fans will be hard pressed to find a more affordable ticket. QR codes are posted around the outside of the stadium where tickets can purchased the day of the game for $15. Fans looking for a bit more comfortable game experience will need to pony up $130 for club level seats ($5 service fee included), but those do include a pre-game meal, fountain beverages, and snacks throughout the game. Jacksonville State wisely invests in their future fans by allowing children 5 and under into games free. This helps grab the attention of younger fans and instills early memories of going to a Gamecocks game. Extras 3 Banners of Jacksonville State’s alumni who have played professionally in football and baseball are displayed throughout the concourse below the main bleacher area. Former JSU golfer, 2016 Masters Champion Danny Willett, is also featured. Fans can watch the live, pre-game radio show broadcasting from outside the southeast entrance before entering the stadium. The original press box on the north side of the stadium gives fans a look at the long history of success the Gamecocks have enjoyed, from the years of conference championships to NCAA playoff appearances and the 1982 Division II National Championship. Final Thoughts Jacksonville State is doing everything it can to make the jump from FCS to FBS as seamless as possible. The investments they have made in facilities, player amenities, and coaching are a good first step in making that move a successful one. Time will tell if the move will be as successful as the Gamecocks performance has been at the Division II and I-AA/FCS levels. One of the challenges is, as members of Conference USA, more than half the conference rivals are more than 700 miles away, which will definitely impact the size of the visiting crowds – nearby Kennesaw State University joining the conference in 2024 will help add a nearby rival to the schedule, and also help bolster visiting crowd sizes. Overall, an afternoon in Jacksonville, Alabama provides a fun game day atmosphere many would not expect. Despite not having the same level of pomp-and-circumstance many of the major college football programs might have, the small town feel of the Jacksonville community helps bolster the overall experience of a day of football with the Gamecocks.

Photos by Chris Green and Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Memorial Stadium 76 Canyon Rd Berkeley, CA 94704 California Golden Bears website Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1923 Capacity: 63,186 Roll On You Bears When it comes to college football’s historic venues, Memorial Stadium in Berkeley is arguably one of the more underrated experiences. Because the football program does not have the glorious history of fellow Pac-12 foe USC or some of the nation’s other top-notch programs, Memorial Stadium is not talked of much when it comes to the ultimate college football experience. Though the University of California may be known to some for its activities away from athletics, Memorial Stadium has produced its share of Sunday afternoon gridironers from Craig Morton, Steve Bartkowski, Chuck Muncie, Tony Gonzalez and Jared Goff, to name a few. So historic is Memorial Stadium on November 27, 2006 it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Memorial Stadium is certainly not short on memorable moments, one that includes one of college football’s most iconic endings on some November afternoon in 1982, one that still conjures up bitter memories to then Stanford’s senior QB and future NFL Hall of Famer John Elway. Food & Beverage 4 There is no shortage of food and beverage choices. Below are some of the vast options available for the hungry and thirsty fans… Standard – Hot dogs, burgers, chips, peanuts, pretzels. Pepsi products and bottled water, candy Peet’s Café – Coffee or hot cocoa in a Cal souvenir hot beverage cup, chicken or veggie wraps, kale & cranberry salads Mexican – Tacos, nachos and burritos, churros Others – BBQ chicken on a stick, pineapple sausage skewers, smoked brats, spicy beef hot links Beer and Wine – Bud Light, Firestone 805 and Cupcake Pinot Noir Rotating food trucks for each game are also available along the east concourse and feature many of the Bay Area’s ethnic tastes, including a Greek Food truck that serves up chicken, lamb or mixed gyro’s. If you’re looking to dine on anything but stadium food, there are vast dining options along Shattuck Avenue in Downtown Berkeley. One of my favorites is Ike’s. Ike’s, a popular Bay Area sandwich shop with locations slowly and continuously opening nationwide, is known for its huge sandwiches. My favorite is the off the menu Big Jerry’s Meat on Dutch Crunch bread. Atmosphere 4 Being that the stadium is uniquely constructed into the side of a hill, those willing to make the hike can watch the game for free from Tightwad Hill, providing a view from some 100 feet above the east rim of the stadium. Many of the fans here are regulars even when ticket availability is aplenty. Here also resides the victory cannon, which is fired after each Cal scoring play and after each victory. The views along Tightwad Hill and along the stands of the east rim extend all the way across San Francisco Bay, offering some of the most gorgeous views in college football. Even with its recent, renovations Memorial Stadium still maintains its classic college bowl feel. Because of its bowl shape structure, unless there is a sizable crowd particularly for The Big Game against rival Stanford, crowd noise can fade. That does not put a damper on the enthusiasm particularly from the students who occupy much of the east stands. Sight lines have also improved greatly since the recent renovations and no matter where one is seated, you will never be far from the action. Before you head into the game, the lack of tailgating is made up by the numerous college frat parties going on along the streets leading to Memorial Stadium, giving you the true college feel. Neighborhood 4 If you decide to arrive early, public transit is a great option. A great way to arrive is by way of the Bay Area Rapid Transit subway (BART). The BART has a station in Downtown Berkeley on Shattuck Avenue. Along Shattuck, you will find plenty of pre and post-game dining options. If it’s your first time in Berkeley and you would like to soak in some if its history, you will want to walk up Bancroft Way toward the historic Sather Gate. Once the formal south entrance to campus, the Sather Gate has been the site over the years to many a free speech, and a key location for countless political movements. Not far from the famous Sather Gate is the Sather Tower , another recognizable Bay Area landmark. The Sather Tower, also known as the Campanile, is the third-tallest bell and clock tower in the world. A visit to the observation platform gives you some breathtaking views of the Bay Area and is $4 to the general public, $3 for youth and seniors. This is another must-do for first time visitors to Berkeley. Fans 3 Attendance for Cal Bears game can vary depending on various factors, team performance and start time among them. With the recent renovation decreasing seating capacity to around 63,000, a decent crowd of over 40,000 doesn’t appear as empty as say, The Rose Bowl , where its seating capacity of over 80,000 can make attendance look sparse. The fans who do make the trek to Strawberry Canyon are very vocal. The Rally Committee does an outstanding job of keeping the fans involved with traditional cheers such as “Roll On You Bears” and “This is Bear Territory” after each win. Traditions are aplenty at Berkeley. One of the prouder traditions among the students is letting a red-clad fan know whose home they’re in with a chant of “TAKE OFF THAT RED SHIRT!,” a reference to their rival Stanford. Access 3 As with any college town, parking can be a hassle. Fortunately, there is enough public transit passing through campus, provided by Alameda County Transit. If you are traveling from San Francisco, Oakland, or points beyond, the Bay Area Rapid Transit rail system (BART) is a viable option. As you exit the BART station, if you have any pre or post-game dining desires, Shattuck Avenue offers plenty of pre and post-game entertainment and dining. BART fares vary based on point of travel. The Downtown Berkeley BART Station is a 15-20 minute walk from Memorial Stadium. From the Downtown BART, walk a couple blocks south to Bancroft Way, make a left and walk east toward the stadium. If you are worried about directions, chances are great that other fans will be walking from the Downtown BART. In other words, just follow the crowd! Return on Investment 3 Like most athletic programs, the price for tickets can vary with prices starting at $35 for general admission end zone seats, which can border on reasonable or pricey depending on if you’re looking to watch a high-tier program or just looking to soak in the college game day atmosphere. Should you find yourself getting the most affordably priced ticket you will never be too far from the action. Some of the upper rows along the east rim offer not only a good view of the action but some gorgeous views of Berkeley and the Bay Area all the way across the bay. Though the game day experience may not rival the one’s at some of the more top-tier programs such as Alabama or Ohio State, with its on-campus location nestled along the hills, the atmosphere and surroundings will certainly scream college game day. Extras 3 If you have time after the game, check out the Cal Athletic Hall of Fame located outside the west end of the stadium. The HOF features 315 individuals and seven rowing teams. As you walk along the interior concourse you will see murals honoring past Golden Bears greats such as Aaron Rogers and Marshawn Lynch, as well as other great moments in Cal Athletics, among them, The Play , one of college football’s most memorable highlights that occurred against rival Stanford in 1982 that involved several desperation laterals, the Stanford Band and its trombone player (I’m sure many of you know the story to this…) The Cal Band is never short on entertainment, performing for fans not only throughout the game, but prior to as well, as they can be seen performing on campus at Sproul Plaza, and after the games. Often times, when the visiting school brings their band, they are invited to participate with the Cal Band . Final Thoughts Because most games are played during the afternoon the warm California climate and the views extending across the bay make Memorial Stadium one of college football’s more picturesque settings.The football team has seen its share of recent excitement, capped off by its recent victory over Stanford in The Big Game, bringing back The Stanford Axe for the first time in nine years.For the second year in a row, Cal will be in a post season bowl.If the exciting finish to the 2019 season is any indication, more exciting moments are ahead for the Sons of California.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Alumni Stadium 2604 Beacon Street Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 Boston College Eagles website Alumni Stadium website Year Opened: 1957 Capacity: 44,500 For Boston Boston College fielded their first football team in 1893. They played at the original Alumni Stadium beginning in 1915. As the team grew in popularity through the 1930s and 40s, the Eagles called Boston’s two major league baseball fields (Fenway Park and Braves Field) home. When the Red Sox decided in 1957 that they would no longer allow football to be played at Fenway Park, Boston College built a new on-campus home in just 156 days at a cost of $250,000. With a capacity of 26,000, the new Alumni Stadium’s first game was a match against the Naval Academy arranged by then-Senator John F. Kennedy in 1957. Renovations in 1971 and 1988 have expanded the facility to its current capacity of 44,500. Alumni Stadium also served as home to the New England Patriots in 1969. The Eagles have a storied history, with 28 bowl game appearances and an unofficial national championship in 1940 on its resume. Two Boston College alumni (Art Donovan and Ernie Stautner) are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Seven former players and three former coaches are enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions are not a particular point of emphasis at Alumni Stadium. The majority of the stands feature only stadium basics, such as hot dogs and nachos. The menu at these stands do not offer much in the way of variety. Portable carts along the concourse sell chicken tenders and meatball subs. However, if you head to the stands at the south end zone, you’ll find some welcome variety. Dubbed “Alumni South,” this area features portable carts offering burgers, sausage and pepper sandwiches and since we’re in New England, clam chowder and lobster rolls. These items cannot be found anywhere else in Alumni Stadium. Coca-Cola products are featured at Alumni Stadium. Fans looking for adult beverages can purchase Budweiser and Bud Light at several portable stands. Again, for some variety, head to Alumni South, where brews from local breweries Harpoon and Cisco are sold. Atmosphere 3 There have been many changes in recent years aimed at improving the game day atmosphere at Alumni Stadium. If you haven’t visited Chestnut Hill in a while, the biggest change you’ll notice is the increase in tailgating near the stadium before the game. The school allows the purchase of tailgating permits for games, and fans have responded by filling up seemingly every possible nook and cranny on campus with tailgates. The creativity shown by the fans is impressive. Fans will find much that is familiar during an Eagles football game. What noise there is inside Alumni Stadium comes from the student section in the south end zone. Filled with maroon and gold clad fans every Saturday, the students lead the cheers and are a popular presence on the stadium’s two video boards. Eagles fans have a reputation for being a bit too laid-back much of the time. Unfortunately, this reputation is really very accurate. Even though the pep band, cheerleaders and dance squad do their best to keep the energy up, this is definitely not a rowdy place to catch a game. When a top-ranked team visits Chestnut Hill, you are likely to find as many visiting fans as Eagles fans in attendance. Neighborhood 4 The Boston College campus is located in Chestnut Hill, a village in the suburb of Newton, Massachusetts. Downtown Boston is located about six miles to the east. Newton is a very well-to-do town which frequently ranks near the top of many “best place to live in America” lists. While the area does have some places to shop or eat, they are a bit of a walk or drive from the Boston College campus. A popular destination on game days is Cleveland Circle, about a 15-minute walk from campus, where you will find, among other places, Eagle’s Deli, which is known for its massive hamburger challenges. This no-frills diner is a favorite of Boston College students. As is the case in Greater Boston, streets in this area are frequently congested and busy, so be careful navigating the area around campus. Fans visiting the area during months when the weather is cooperating may choose to spend some time down at the Chestnut Hill Reservoir right behind Alumni Stadium. From the shores of the reservoir you get a view of downtown Boston in the distance. For those fans interested in seeing the best of what Boston has to offer, head towards those tall buildings, you’ll find what you’re looking for there. Fans 3 Eagle football fans have a reputation for being a fickle lot, with a reputation for showing up in big numbers when Notre Dame and other big-name opponents are in town but avoiding Chestnut Hill en masse when other teams visit. Boston College averaged only 26,000 fans per game in 2021, well down form their average attendance in recent years. This figure places them far below the ACC average. True to their reputation, Eagles fans are not the most rowdy you’ll come across, but the team does have their share of devoted fans, and the student section is packed, no matter who is visiting Alumni Stadium. Access 3 The Boston College campus is located in the Chestnut Hill section of the suburb of Newton, Massachusetts, about six miles west of downtown Boston. Despite its location in the suburbs, this area shares the same access issues as downtown Boston. Anyone who has tried to navigate the crowded, crooked streets of Greater Boston by car can tell you how difficult driving in this area can be. If you are visiting from out of town, your best bet is to find a copilot who knows their way around town. Stadium Journey recommends leaving the car at home and using public transportation to arrive at Alumni Stadium. Boston’s subway system, known as the “T,” has several stops that access the Boston College campus. The green line’s B train terminus is located on Commonwealth Ave., right across the street from campus. From here, it is a short five-minute walk to Alumni Stadium. In addition, Boston College operates free shuttle busses that stop at several points around town. The complete route schedule can be viewed here . If driving to Boston College, it’s easier to avoid the city and come in from the western suburbs. Take exit 24 (Commonwealth Ave.-Route 30) off Interstate 95 (also known as Route 128). Follow Commonwealth Avenue for about 5 miles, and you will find the Boston College campus on your right. The area around Boston College is quite scenic, with a nice suburban feel, but traffic can be very heavy at times. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive on campus. Complete driving directions can be found here . Space is at a premium at Alumni Stadium, and the precious parking near the facility is reserved for Flynn Fund donors. Other fans will be resigned to parking at one of the satellite lots, from which they can take complimentary shuttle busses to Alumni Stadium. More information on the parking situation can be found here . Once arriving at Alumni Stadium, fans will find a basic, no-frills facility that is absolutely a product of the time it was built. There is a single concourse that runs below the seating bowl around the entire facility. Getting around the stadium is fairly easy, although passage can get difficult at halftime. All seating consists of aluminum bleachers without chairbacks. Sitting behind the BC bench on the west side of Alumni Stadium will allow you to see the Eagles logo right side up. Restrooms are adequate for a typical Eagles crowd, although lines do form at halftime. Be aware that Boston College practices a clear bag policy for football games. There is a rather large construction project going on at the adjoining Conte Forum, but this does not significantly affect access to the football stadium. Return on Investment 3 The Eagles utilize variable pricing for their games at Alumni Stadium. Tickets start as low as $10, increasing to a maximum of $150 for marquee conference games. For most Eagles football games, ticket prices max out at about $60, with many seats priced even lower. Nationally ranked teams regularly visit Chestnut Hill, as do the Notre Dame Fighting Irish every other season. As mentioned before, fans looking to park on campus should reserve their spots well in advance, as space on campus is extremely limited. Many of the available spots are reserved for donors to the Flynn Fund and season ticket holders. Parking must also be purchased in advance at the satellite lots, with prices beginning at $30. Some parking spots come with tailgating privileges, some do not. It can be pretty confusing, but all the needed information can be found here . Concessions are a bit on the high side but are in line with other facilities in the area. Extras 3 Even though he graduated over thirty years ago, Doug Flutie still casts a giant shadow in Chestnut Hill. A statue commemorating his famous “Miracle in Miami” Hail Mary stands outside Gate D. You will be sure to see plenty of number twenty-two jerseys at Alumni Stadium. Conte Forum, home to the Eagle basketball and hockey teams, is attached to the west grandstand, and the two facilities share a bank of luxury boxes. It is open during Eagle football games so that fans can use the indoor bathrooms or concession stands. Take a walk around Conte Forum and check out the Varsity Club, the Eagles Hall of Fame and the many championship banners won by the hockey and basketball teams. Boston College’s long and storied football history is on display all over Alumni Stadium. Honored players have their numbers posted on the southeast corner of the stadium in a nice new display. Eagles players who were selected in the first round of the NFL Draft are displayed in the other corners of the stadium. Notable players in Boston College football history have their pictures wrapped on posts throughout the concourse. Final Thoughts College football just isn’t a big deal in New England. However, local pigskin fans can get a taste of the big-time at Alumni Stadium. Boston College’s membership in the ACC and longstanding rivalry with Notre Dame guarantees that nationally ranked opponents come to Boston regularly. A fall trip to Boston is certainly a Stadium Journey worth taking. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter or Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photo courtesy of Tulane Athletics Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Yulman Stadium Ben Weiner Dr New Orleans, LA 70118 Tulane Green Wave website Yulman Stadium website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 30,000 Waving At Yulman Stadium New Orleans has long been known as a party town, a foodie’s heaven, and a jazz lover’s nirvana. It is quickly becoming a sports town as well, with the Saints, Pelicans, and the Tulane all on the upswing. Tulane has gone to bowl games for three years straight… a first in the school’s history. Tulane is a private university located in the Uptown New Orleans neighborhood, near to the Garden District, located 3.5 miles from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. It was founded in 1834 and today more than 14,000 students take classes on its lovely tree-lined campus. The sports teams are known as the Green Wave, made famous by a song that appeared in the Tulane student newspaper back in the 1920s. Since it is impossible to depict a wave as a mascot, Tulane has Riptide the Pelican to roam its sidelines. The pelican is the state bird for Louisiana. Tulane football games returned to the campus in 2014, after playing for 40 seasons at the Superdome. Tulane’s original on-campus football stadium was Tulane Stadium, informally known as the “Sugar Bowl,” which held more than 80,000 fans and served the school from 1925- 1974. It also served as the site for the Sugar Bowl postseason bowl game. It was torn down in 1975 and replaced by student housing. Tulane has a long history in football as it first fielded a team in 1893. Tulane’s present stadium, Yulman Stadium, opened in 2014 with a capacity of 30,000. Richard Yulman, a Tulane alumnus, donated $15 million towards its construction cost. Tom Benson, the late owner of the New Orleans Saints, also contributed $7.5 million to the building of the facility and the playing field bears his name. Tulane is a member of the American Athletic Conference, which includes teams like SMU, Memphis, UCF, and Cincinnati. Food & Beverage 5 New Orleans is very proud of its reputation as one of the gastronomic capitals of the U.S., if not the world. This is quite evident in the food available at Yulman Stadium. The Glazer Family Club has its own menu for the more monied alumnus of the school, but students and the general public are not slighted in the offerings at the Tailgate Village, Athletes Plaza, or inside the stadium. The concessions goal at Yulman Stadium is to “provide game fare, with a focus on local specialty flavors.” This means you will have an opportunity to enjoy dishes including fried chicken with Louisiana Pepper Butter Sauce, Petit Po’Boy sandwiches, red beans and sausage with white rice, and mini muffulettas or crawfish meat nachos. In addition, Yulman Stadium does allow the sale of alcoholic beverages. Choices include both domestic, craft, and international beers, as well as wine. Of course, if you want a hot dog and a Coke… that is available as well. Atmosphere 4 Yulman Stadium provides fans with a much more intimate atmosphere than was possible at either the Sugar Bowl or the Superdome. The stadium’s capacity of 30,000 was necessary as neighborhoods have replaced the open fields that existed in earlier times. In order to be a good neighbor, the stadium is designed as a low-profile structure so that it does not tower over the surrounding residential streets. Special lighting standards were followed so that the neighborhoods were not impacted by the tremendous lighting towers found at most stadiums. The venue offers several unique features designed to please the deep-pocketed alums as well as members of the public and the student body. The top of the line Glazer Family Club features 1,500 chairback seats with two club rooms that overlook the 50-yard line. Membership in this area of the stadium includes a sports bar and an enhanced menu of food on the buffet. The Westfeldt Terrace is a roof-protected open-air section with 3,000 seatbacks which provides a panoramic view of downtown New Orleans. There are also party decks that are open to anyone with a ticket. The outside of Yulman Stadium features the Athlete’s Plaza, which hosts both pre and post-game celebrations with music provided by a live jazz band. Neighborhood 4 Tulane is located in the Garden District of New Orleans. It is known for its beautiful houses, which typically have courtyards filled with beautiful gardens. Many of these homes are available for tours. Another major attraction in the Garden District is the Audubon Park and Zoo. This is the New Orleans version of Central Park and is well worth the visit. There are numerous art galleries in the area as well as many smaller restaurants. Fans 4 The return to campus has resulted in the rebirth of the Tulane football fan. It has allowed students, alumni, and parents to gather together for a day-long social celebration followed by the football game. This has resulted in increased interest in the program and a sea of green, blue, and white in the stands, instead of empty seats. Fans begin a game day more than four hours before kickoff under a sea of tents known as the Tailgate Village, The Village is located on the Newcomb and Berger Family Lawns (actually quads on the tree-covered campus). Set-ups can be as plain or as fancy as a group wants them to be. We’ve been to The Grove at Ole Miss, and take it from us, the Tulane tailgate experience is in the same league. In addition to eating, drinking, and just enjoying each other’s company, Tulane provides plenty of amenities. The Tulane band stops by to serenade you. Local jazz bands play a set, the cheer squad leads some warmup cheers to build spirit and there is a family fun zone for the kids. A team store is also on-site to provide you with whatever Green Wave spirit supplies you may need. There is usually a theme to each game (i.e., Kids day, senior day, homecoming, etc.). Access 3 Parking is quite limited on the Tulane campus, and game day parking is prohibited on the neighborhood streets around the campus. Tulane has set up a system utilizing the parking lots at surrounding schools, churches, shopping centers, and private businesses with a free shuttle service providing rides to and from the campus on game days. This serves as a fundraiser for the sites providing parking and helps maintain good relationships between the neighborhoods and the school. If you are not toting a lot of tailgating supplies with you, a great New Orleans way to get to the game is via the St. Charles Streetcar. This allows you to view the many beautiful homes in the Midtown and Garden Districts as you make the trip from downtown New Orleans to the campus. The streetcar has a stop located directly in front of the Tulane campus and costs only $1.25 (correct change only) each way. After the game, you can stay on the streetcar on your return trip to check out other New Orleans hot spots like the Riverwalk and Bourbon Street. Return on Investment 3 New Orleans is a city that is heavily dependent on tourism, and as a result, it can be an expensive place to visit. Many B&Bs in the Garden District will have much less expensive rates than a downtown hotel would charge. Use public transportation to reach most of the big tourist attractions and save a bundle on parking. Museums in New Orleans are quite unique and often are free or have lower costs than other tourist attractions. The Tulane aspects of ROI are quite reasonable. With the exception of the Yulman Club seats, tickets are not expensive. Tickets behind the end zones are $5. If you want to sit on the side at the goal line, expect to pay $10. Tickets between the 40’s on the visitor’s side go for $35. The tickets on the home side of the field are predominately for season ticket holders. However, you can find upper deck seats on that side for $50 or you can splurge and pay $200 for lower-level seats. Parking varies from $10-$25 for lots surrounding the Tulane campus. The closer to campus, the more you will pay for parking . Extras 3 During the 2021 football season, proof of vaccination and/or a negative COVID test is required for admission. Tulane has revived an old tradition in covering the end zones with a green and white checkerboard design. This was one of the original elements the old Sugar Bowl Stadium was known for. Tulane games, especially early in the season, are held in the evening in order to beat the heat. This allows you plenty of time to visit the sites around the New Orleans area. Check out the Jax Brewery, Jackson Square, Mardi Gras World across the Mississippi River and then stop off at Café du Monde for one of their fabulous beignets. Final Thoughts New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the USA, with a decidedly European feel. A visit to a Tulane football game and the Garden District is a great way to get a feel for the sports side of the city. However, you are really cheating yourself if you come only for a game. Immerse yourself in all that New Orleans has to offer… you will feel it is money well spent.Laissez les bon temps roler!

Photos by Jared Goodman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Jerry Richardson Stadium 8701 Phillips Rd Charlotte, NC 28223 Charlotte 49ers website Jerry Richardson Stadium website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 15,314 Sitting on a Gold Mine The University of North Carolina at Charlotte didn’t have a football program until 2008. That’s when the Board of Trustees commissioned a new team for the school, along with a brand-new $45 million stadium. This venue would soon be named for local benefactor and former Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson. The Charlotte 49ers, who began play in the fall of 2013, joined the Football Bowl Subdivision in 2015 after a two-year stint in FCS. Charlotte now competes in Conference USA, and it’s quickly become clear that their 15,314-seat facility is one of the best in the conference. Food & Beverage 4 Richardson Stadium offers dishes from two of the region’s most popular chicken chains: Bojangles’ and Chick-fil-A. The prices at both of these booths are pretty fair, though slightly inflated. For example, a box of Bojangles’ chicken supremes is $8. Among some of the more traditional items are hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, grilled chicken, corn dogs, pretzels, and peanuts. But the highlight of the dining experience at the stadium is undoubtedly the barbecue sandwich. This is Carolina, after all, so be sure to grab one for $6 during your visit. Fair foods such as funnel cakes and cotton candy are also available. Coca-Cola is the beverage served throughout and is priced at $3. Or, you can buy a souvenir cup for $5 and get free refills all day long. Bottled water is $3.50. Domino’s Pizza is also offered, along with stadium staple Dippin’ Dots. Atmosphere 3 The color green is extremely prevalent on the UNC-Charlotte campus, from the trees of late summer to the seats at Jerry Richardson Stadium and beyond. On football Saturdays, a few thousand folks show up to the field decked in their 49er green best. After each Charlotte score, green fireworks are set off from the field house behind the southeast end zone. This definitely contributes to the “flare” of The Mine. The 49ers’ mascot, Norm the Niner, also makes regular appearances both in the stands and on the field. The intimacy of Jerry Richardson Stadium really adds to its small town feel, despite being located near the 16th largest city in the country. The venue’s horseshoe shape provides an excellent view of the surrounding buildings on campus, creating a sort of homey and academic atmosphere. This, however, isn’t a permanent feature, as the stadium is designed in such a way that the seating bowl can be expanded and decks added as the program grows. Neighborhood 4 The Niners home field is located on the west side of campus, near the other athletic facilities at the university. If you want to explore anything in the general vicinity, it’s generally just a short walk away. It’s an even shorter drive to the nearby restaurants and shops, which mostly include chain retailers on Tryon Street, University City Boulevard and JW Clay Boulevard. The region’s only IKEA store is just a few miles from campus and offers a full restaurant and snack bar in addition to the furniture goods on display. But perhaps the best perk of Richardson Stadium’s location on-campus is its proximity to the LYNX Light Rail system, which provides speedy service to Uptown Charlotte, the hip NoDa neighborhood, and the revitalized South End. All three offer a variety of dining and nightlife options just a 20-minute train ride from campus. The nearest stop, JW Clay Station, offers a 5-level parking deck for those wishing to drive, but is also easily accessible on foot via footpaths. From the stadium’s main gate, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the light rail platform. Fans 3 The Charlotte 49ers are not an elite football team by any measure, and often find themselves in the middle of the Conference USA rankings. This doesn’t give fans much to cheer about on game days, but the program is still in its youth. Pre-game, you’ll see lots of gold, black, and green outside the stadium in an impressive tailgating display. The smell of food wafts through the air just outside the main gate, surely stemming from one of the many tents set up nearby. Cornhole is a popular activity, as well as general mingling and socializing. It’s almost as if pre-gaming is just as important to the fans as the football game itself. While the crowd sticks with the team through thick and thin, they’re not usually loud or vivacious in any way. But you can be sure, whether the weather is good or whether the weather is bad, true Niners fans will cheer on their guys on the gridiron each and every Saturday. Access 3 Due to limited parking on campus, finding a spot to leave your car can be very tricky. Gameday permits are available for purchase in advance of the game, and are valid at the Union Deck, West Deck, North Deck, CRI Deck, Lot 11A/21 and Lot 25. There’s also a dedicated football shuttle, operated by Niner Transit, that has stops at the many different parking areas on campus. This bus service will take you directly to the main gate of Richardson Stadium if you choose to park in one of these lots. A word to the wise: do your parking research well in advance. If not, you could be stuck handing over $20 cash to park at the Cone Deck. UNCC is served, as mentioned earlier, by the LYNX Light Rail Blue Line, which has a stop at JW Clay Boulevard and is just a 10-minute walk away. The parking garage at this station is your best option for gameday parking, as it is both free and secure. Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is about 20 minutes away by car and is serviced by most of the major North American airlines. Interstates 85, 485, and 77 are close to campus as well, providing access to Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Virginia in the north and Columbia, Greenville and Atlanta in the south. Return on Investment 3 Single-game ticket prices vary depending on the opponent and how far in advance you purchase your tickets. General admission seats are generally between $10-$25 and are located behind the northwest goalpost. If you’d like to sit on the sideline, expect to fork over between $20-$40 per ticket. Parking prices vary anywhere from $0 to $20, but it all depends on what lot you choose to use. Concessions are reasonably priced, but a full meal adds up fast. All totaled, you could be looking at $20 or more, per person. The Niners do have one interesting option that could save you some dough. The “Extra Point Package”, which includes four tickets, four meal vouchers and free parking, is occasionally available for $65. That’s a bargain when you add everything up. Without this package, a family of four could be looking at spending more than $200 on a single Niners game. Extras 2 Although it doesn’t have much to do with the stadium itself, the 49ers football team has earned an extra point for reaching the Bahamas Bowl in 2019. Despite losing their first-ever bowl game, their appearance in Nassau could mean that the program is trending upwards. This could result in a better gameday atmosphere, more fans, and an overall better experience in Charlotte down the road. While current attendance figures don’t demand a large venue, Richardson Stadium was built with the capability to be expanded up to a total capacity of about 40,000. A larger facility would be nice to see at some point in the future. Final Thoughts The ACC has dominated North Carolina in both basketball and football for a very long time. UNC-Charlotte is aiming to compete with this legendary powerhouse by putting both their school and Conference USA on the national map. With an infant football program and a modern stadium behind them, a gold mine of opportunities awaits the 49ers.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Reed Arena 730 Olsen Boulevard College Station, TX 77843 Texas A&M Aggies website Reed Arena website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 12,989 Aggieland Basketball Reed Arena is in College Station, Texas, in the Texas A&M University athletic complex, near the west side of campus. The facility is home to Texas A&M’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, the volleyball team, major concerts, commencement ceremonies, and a variety of other events. The two-level arena has a single concourse with a seating capacity of 12,989. Reed Arena opened in the fall of 1998 and is named for Houston veterinarian Dr. Chester J. Reed and his wife, Billie Jean (Dr. Reed is a 1947 graduate of A&M). Unlike all the other athletic facilities on campus, Reed Arena operates under the Department of Finance, not the Athletic Department. Reed Arena was the home court for the 2011 NCAA women’s basketball National Champion Texas A&M Aggies and has also served as the site for both the men’s and women’s first round of the National Invitational Tournament (NIT). The largest crowd for a men’s basketball game here (13,888) took place on January 19th, 2016 versus LSU. Food & Beverage 3 Reed Arena has nine permanent concession stands located on the concourse level, along with various temporary stands. The concessions here offer all the expected stadium fare at typical stadium prices. At the regular stands, Aggie nachos are $10, while regular nachos cost $5, and you can add extra cheese or chili to either size for an additional $1.75. There are a couple of food values as well, such as a combo including a hamburger, chips, and a souvenir soda, or a souvenir popcorn, for $10. You can also find Slovacek sausage and bratwurst for $6, or an Aggie dog (a basic hot dog), peanuts, or candy for about $5 each. A standard stadium pretzel costs $6 while the popcorn is a dollar less unless you buy a souvenir popcorn for $10. In addition to the main stands, there are temporary stations that provide different menu options than what you can get at the regular stands. For example, the Aggie Hospitality stand provides California nachos, topped with black beans, Pico de Gallo, cheese sauce, pulled pork, black olives, salsa, and sour cream, or you can get a high-calorie, foot-long chili cheese dog with the hefty price tag of $12. There is also a very good BBQ sandwich for $10, or a slice of pizza for $8. All the fixed concession stands accept credit cards. The soda products offered inside Reed Arena are Pepsi products. The concession stands offer two sizes – regular for $4, or large, which comes in an Aggies Arise souvenir cup for $6. Aquafina bottled water costs $4 for a large and $2 for a regular. While Reed Arena may not offer a significant number of novelty concessions, you should find plenty to choose from to satisfy any appetite while attending an event inside the venue. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at Reed Arena is above average, and although it may not be on the same level as Kyle Field , the 12th Man and the Spirit of Aggieland are alive and well among the “Reed Rowdies.” The Reed Rowdies consists of a student group that promotes Aggie basketball on campus. However, any student attending a game at Reed Arena is considered a Reed Rowdy – the Reed Rowdies are found on the baselines wearing white t-shirts, and can be seen waving towels to rally the team and their fellow onlookers. These students, along with the Texas A&M Yell Leaders, keep the Aggie spirit and tradition thriving during each basketball game. The most recognizable Aggie tradition comes alive at the beginning of each half, and after the game is over – this is The Aggie War Hymn , when you’ll witness Aggie upon Aggie linking arms and legs and swaying back and forth, in a motion like that of a saw blade. This motion is to symbolize “sawing Varsity’s horns off,” referring to Texas A&M’s most-hated rival, the Texas Longhorns. Legend has it that the Longhorns mascot (a Texas steer) used to be named Varsity, but in 1917 a group of A&M students snuck into Austin and branded him with a 13-0 mark, the score of A&M’s 1916 gridiron victory over Texas. UT students are said to have hurriedly responded by adding some branding of their own, turning the 13-0 into the word BEVO (the 1 and 3 became a ‘B,’ the dash became an ‘E,’ and the ‘V’ was added), which is the current name of the Longhorns mascot. Nevertheless, since tradition is king at Texas A&M, the Aggies continue to sing the original lyrics. Their yells and songs still refer to the university as Texas AMC, about the fact that Texas A&M University used to be Texas A&M College. Some games at Reed Arena feature the Corp of Cadets supporting the team from a section on the baseline, near where the Aggie Dance team is situated; the Aggie Dance team performs choreographed routines during timeouts and at halftime. In addition, since Texas A&M doesn’t have a traditional cheerleading squad, the Yell Leaders and the Reed Rowdies get the crowd to participate in A&M’s signature “yells” – the Yell Leaders use hand signals to tell the crowd what yell to do next, by signaling to the front row and then having the fans pass it back up to the top of the arena, so that all the fans can do the yell in unison. Texas A&M’s Yell Leaders are a group of five students, elected by the student body, who lead yells at A&M sporting events. Overall, the atmosphere here at Reed Arena can be spectacular, especially if Texas A&M has a competitive team on the court. But no matter the opponent, the atmosphere is above average, because of the Spirit of Aggieland. Neighborhood 3 Reed Arena is located on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, just off George Bush Drive on the corner of Olsen Boulevard and Kimbrough Boulevard. College Station and nearby Bryan are in East Central Texas, about one-and-a-half hours northwest of Houston. The two cities together are referred to as the Bryan-College Station metropolitan area, and this “twin city” makes up the 16th largest metropolitan area in the state of Texas, with a population of approximately 170,000. College Station is constantly listed among the great college towns, and just north of Texas A&M University, on the other side of University Drive, is the Northgate District. The Northgate District provides many restaurants and bars that have an amazing pre or postgame atmosphere, such as the Dixie Chicken. Commonly referred to as “The Chicken,” this restaurant/bar has been serving College Station since 1974 and is located directly across from Texas A&M’s campus. The Chicken is a great place to grab a beer before or after the game and listen to live country music. Not only is the Dixie Chicken known to be a favorite watering hole among Aggies, but the bar also claims to serve the most beer per square foot of any bar in the United States, and also has a variety of food selections at reasonable prices. For the craft beer lover, just around the corner from The Dixie Chicken is the Blackwater Draw Brewing Company. Or, if you’re looking to find some BBQ in the area, avoid BBQ 13-0, as it is not a good test of Texas BBQ – 13-0 is more for A&M students who need a late-night BBQ sandwich to absorb their earlier alcoholic beverages. But College Station and Bryan have a few much better BBQ places to enjoy, such as Fargo’s Pit BBQ, Kreuz Market, and my personal favorite, C&J BBQ, which has three locations within a few miles of campus, and of which are worth your time. Alternatively, on the south side of campus, there is a well-known College Station burger place, Koppe Bridge. Koppe Bridge has two locations, but the original is on Wellborn Road – originally an old feed store, this restaurant opened in 1992. For history buffs, some of the original timbers on the floor are from the old Koppe Bridge that spanned the Brazos River until the late 1920s, when the bridge was destroyed by flood waters. Texas A&M University’s campus is a great way to spend time before or after a game. The one place on campus that is truly a must when visiting College Station is the Bonfire Memorial, located next to the TAMU golf course. This memorial represents the bond that Aggies have with one another, and embodies the spirit, history, and traditions long celebrated and honored by Texas A&M students and former students; the memorial is a tribute to the individuals who lost their lives or were injured during the tragic 1999 bonfire collapse. The campus is also home to the George Bush (senior) Presidential Library and Museum. Fans 4 Aggie fans are unique compared to those at other schools, in that there is a bond among Aggies. Texas A&M University is recognized as the Home of the 12th Man, a football reference, because the crowd stands throughout the game to show support for their team, each Aggie waiting (figuratively) to be called onto the field to play in the game if needed. This tradition goes back to 1922 when a former Texas A&M football player named E. King Gill was called from the stands during a football game after several players were injured. Gill suited up and sat on the bench for most of the game, but never needed to go in. His willingness to serve, however, ignited Aggie fans to loudly and energetically support their team forevermore; a larger-than-life statue of E. King Gill now stands at one corner of Kyle Field. However, the Aggie Spirit is felt not just in football, but in basketball as well; there are no bandwagon fans when it comes to Aggieland. When you visit Texas A&M you’ll learn that being an Aggie is about much more than just buying school apparel; either you’re an Aggie or you’re not. Despite this extreme loyalty, however, you’ll typically find Aggie fans to be polite and respectful to visitors. Access 3 Reed Arena is located on the campus of Texas A&M University near the intersection of Olsen Boulevard and Kimbrough Boulevard, not far from Blue Bell Park and across from the Davis Diamond softball field. The campus parking lots in the area are reserved or require permits, so it is better to follow the signs for general parking; general parking is cash only at $5 per vehicle. Reed Arena is surrounded by four parking lots, which hold a combined 1500 cars, and the venue is also within walking distance of a 3,750-capacity parking garage. Overall, you should have no problem finding parking, but be aware that while access to Reed Arena is excellent, be prepared to wait at least half an hour in the parking lots after the game, due to the traffic congestion afterward. Reed Arena’s main box office is located at the main entrance, across from the Student Rec Center on Olsen Boulevard. There are also satellite box offices at each of the other entrances, making it very easy to just walk up and buy a ticket. The doors open one hour before tip-off. It is easy to get into Reed Arena from any of the four entrances, and handicap access and restrooms are easily accessible. The concourse is wide and there is plenty of signage to help you find your section, regardless of whether you’re sitting on the lower level or the upper. Texas A&M University does have a clear bag policy for all Aggie athletics home events; to be clear on what bags are allowed into Reed Arena, you can click on www.12thMan.com/BeClear . Return on Investment 5 TAMU men’s basketball ticket prices are very affordable for top-notch college basketball; the price depends on where you want to sit. The best seats in Reed Arena are priced at $25 for courtside, with the rest of the lower bowl at either $20 or $22; balcony seating (upper level) is between $15 and $20. There is also general admission seating for $10 in sections 210-216, which is a great price considering that on most nights you will be able to move over to a better seat. In addition, parking is only $5 and is located right outside the arena, and the concessions prices are very reasonable. Overall the Reed Arena experience has a high return on investment, and Texas A&M University also participates in Flash Seat ticketing, which is a paperless way to manage your tickets. Extras 3 Texas A&M University is one of only six senior military colleges in the United States, and TAMU’s Corps of Cadets is the largest uniformed body outside of the military academies. While all colleges have their unique traditions, at Texas A&M it is a rite of passage to be an Aggie. The song The Spirit of Aggieland speaks of a spirit that “can ne’er be told,” which is not merely a punchline to use at sporting events, but a deep passion that seeps into every Aggie that comes to Texas A&M. In addition, this spirit passes not only throughout the world but even into space, as The Aggie War Hymn was used as a wake-up call on Day 11 of space mission STS-121, for Texas A&M former student and mission specialist Mike Fossum. The people of the Bryan-College Station area show Texas Pride and practice real Southern hospitality, and do not merely preach it, from the simple “Howdy” instead of hello to the “Welcome to Aggieland” water tower and signage throughout TAMU’s campus. Final Thoughts Reed Arena is an incredible venue to see top-level SEC Basketball, with sight lines that are perfect for basketball. And even though basketball isn’t the premier sport at Texas A&M, it says a lot about the program and fans here that the announced attendance was only 2,000 less than capacity for a recent Saturday night game against the #1-ranked Tennessee Volunteers. Reed Arena is also easy to access, has low ticket prices for top SEC games, and boasts the Reed Rowdies continuing the Aggie traditions. College Station is a wonderful college town, but witnessing the Spirit of Aggieland will amaze you. There is a little something here for everyone, but most of all, a simple Howdy from Aggieland makes it worth the trip.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Recreation Center 1 University Way San Antonio, TX 78224 Texas A&M-San Antonio Jaguars website Recreation Center website Year Opened: 2024 Capacity: 900 TAMUSA Jaguars New Rec Center In 2009 the Texas A&M University System opened its newest stand-alone institution, Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMUSA) on the far southwest side of the Alamo City. In the ensuing decade and a half, the school has gone from holding classes at a temporary campus at a closed public elementary school, to operating a sprawling 580-acre (and growing) campus with a student body of over 7,000 (and climbing). TAMUSA took a bold step forward in 2019 in hiring former college football star and longtime athletics administrator Darnell Smith  to lead the TAMUSA Jaguars Athletics Department . Starting with men’s golf and men’s and women’s soccer, and softball, it was a huge leap for the fledgling university. In time for the 2024-25 academic year, the school and their athletics programs took another monumental step forward when they launched their first ever men’s and women’s basketball programs. The move coincided with the opening of a brand-new, on-campus recreation center, which serves not only the broader student body, but also is the new home of Jaguars basketball.   Food & Beverage   2 * For many of the following categories, I am going to be more lenient in my scoring than I normally would be for several reasons. First, this is a brand-new program playing in a brand-new facility, so there are plenty of kinks to work out. Second, the Recreation Center is just that, a recreation center. It’s not a typical collegiate gymnasium, but was built for students to unwind and relax, and to exercise in, while they’re in-between classes. The facility also just happens to be home to a fledgling basketball program. With all of that said, I’m going to give an “incomplete” grade for food and beverage. Currently, there does not exist any concessions inside the Rec Center, and the only permanent options are a handful of vending machines. I give this an incomplete, however, because on most game days, the school brings in several food trucks to serve fans. This is a great innovation and one that will continue to be a popular choice for as long as they call the Recreation Center their home. What makes this incomplete, though, is that this solution is wholly predicated on the unpredictability of the South Texas weather – for example during my most recent visit, a cold, rainy, late February day, there were no trucks. I’m willing to come back for another game soon, however, when the weather does comply to get a better answer to this ranking.   Atmosphere   3 As mentioned, the TAMUSA Recreation Center is a brand-new facility, closing out its first season of use. The designers did a great job in building it for its dual uses for students and for Jaguars basketball. The sightlines are fantastic, the seating is top-notch – you’ll be hard-pressed to find another venue where you are sitting closer to the action than here – and it feels like a venue made for lower-level college basketball. The front doors beckoning you to “Jaguars Country” are also a great touch. The facility really is a blank slate at this point, and I look forward to seeing it get filled in over the coming years as the program continues to grow. My one gripe, if it can be called that, is the lack of merchandise available for fans. A simple table with some items would go a long way in adding to the atmosphere for fans. I’ve seen this a lot at lower-level programs (especially this season); I hope this is something that can be corrected at the Recreation Center in the future.   Neighborhood   3 The TAMUSA campus is located on the farthest reaches in the southwest area of the city. In the not-too-distant past, the land the campus now occupies was virtually wilderness, but the area has changed a lot with the addition of the university, and more and more signs of life can now be seen. That said, you’re still quite a bit removed from San Antonio’s downtown area (about 30 minutes’ drive away). The immediate attraction you must take in if you’re heading to a TAMUSA Jaguars game is the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park . The park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to four of the city’s five historic Spanish colonial missions, which are some of the oldest structures in the southwest, and tell about such a fascinating chapter in history that they need to be experienced in person. If you’re looking for something else to do before or after Jaguars games, you can always make the trip into town and see the fifth mission, the historic Alamo . In terms of dining there are quite a few fast-food options in the immediate area around campus. There are also close to a dozen fantastic neighborhood Tex-Mex spots within a few miles of campus, ranging from La Torre Jalisco and Taqueria Guadalajara to La Gran Señora Mexican Restaurant. None of these spots have websites, which only makes them more “legit” to native San Antonians. Throw a rock in any direction before or after your game at the Rec Center, and whichever taqueria you hit will probably serve you some of the best food you’ve ever had. For lodging options, you are options are kind of limited near the Recreation Center – the nearest spots are going to be Days Inn by Wyndham at Palo Alto  and Best Western Plus Palo Alto Inn & Suites . Both are on the affordable side, but if you’re looking for something higher end, downtown San Antonio has a myriad of other options for you.   Fans   4 This area was one that I was pleasantly surprised about. As mentioned, the weather was not in the least bit welcoming on my last visit, but that did not keep the Jaguars faithful from filling the stands. While the Recreation Center was not at capacity, there were still several hundred students and fans filling the stands. Part of this will admittedly be that the game was the culmination of TAMUSA’s first-ever Homecoming festivities. However, having fans in the building for a ball game is never a bad thing, no matter the reason they’re there. The crowd was loud, and the energy was high. I think the fan base will only grow in the coming years, as the school is really the proverbial “only game in town” in this area of the city.   Access   3 The Texas A&M University-San Antonio campus is about a 30 to 55-minute drive from San Antonio International Airport, and as mentioned, about 25 to 30 minutes from downtown, the literal and cultural center of the Alamo City. If you’re driving in, the exits to campus are clearly marked from the highway, and you can’t miss the university’s “grand entrance” gate. Signage on campus also points the way to the Recreation Center, which is also appreciated. Parking on campus is ample on game days. If you don’t want to drive, the city’s public transportation option, VIA Metropolitan Transit, offers routes to TAMUSA’s campus, but plan accordingly as it will take you quite a while to get there.   Return on Investment   3 Single-game tickets for Jaguars games start at just $8 per person, which is a pretty good bargain for some college hoops. To get in on the ground floor of a brand-new program, and see history in the making at such a small cost, is really the big draw here, making this score what it is. Food and beverage costs will vary based on the food truck status, but parking is free, which is always a bonus.   Extras   2 In terms of Extras, like many of the rest of the ratings in this review, this section is going to be graded on a bit of a curve. The Jaguars offer up some of the accoutrements that most college sports have to offer, for example, the TAMUSA Jaguarettes  cheer team can be found on the baseline and in the stands during basketball games. The school also boasts their own costumed mascot, General the Jaguar , who can also be found at the Recreation Center interacting with fans. More of these Extras will come, as the program stacks years and builds traditions, which will only serve to increase this score.   Final Thoughts I greatly look forward to seeing what TAMUSA does to continue building this program. Having more basketball in the area is good for everyone. The program and the university are off to a fantastic start, and I think the Recreation Center is the perfect first building block for both. While it is not a “bucket list” stop in its current iteration, I can see where they want to go, and I’m excited about it. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Sojka Pavilion 701 Moore Avenue Lewisburg, PA 17837 Bucknell Bison website Sojka Pavilion website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 4,000 The Orange Menace of Sojka The Bucknell Bison men’s basketball team has been the most successful in the Patriot League over the past few years. The Bison won at least a share of the regular season title all but one season between 2011 and 2019. They won the conference tournament four times during that period and nearly pulled off a couple of upsets over high seeds in the NCAA Tournament. However, the Bison’s biggest moment in March came in 2005, when as a 14-seed, they shocked national powerhouse Kansas 64-63 in the First Round in a stunning upset. The Bison play their home games at Sojka Pavilion, which opened in January 2003. Sojka (pronounced Soy-ka) is a 4,000-seat arena that is named for former university president Gary Allan Sojka. It is part of the Kenneth Langone Athletics & Recreation Center, which also includes a swimming pool, fitness center, and Davis Gym, the former home of Bison basketball which now hosts the wrestling team. Food & Beverage 3 Sojka Pavilion has two concession stands on the concourse which serves pretty average fare at affordable prices. Options for meals include hot dogs ($3), hamburgers ($4.75, or $5.25 with cheese), veggie burgers ($4.75), and chicken tenders ($6). Buffalo sauce is available at a table next to the concession stand with the other condiments, so you can make your buffalo tenders if you want. Sides include French fries ($3.25), soft pretzels ($2.50), nachos ($3.50), chips ($1), candy ($1.75), and popcorn ($2.50). Cheese can be added to the fries and pretzels for 50 cents extra. Each Bucknell venue has its signature item, and Sojka is no exception. The Bison basket costs $6.75 and contains beer-battered French fries, bacon, scallions, ranch dressing, and hot sauce. Drinks include Powerade and bottled water for $2.25, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate for $2, and soda for $2.75-$3.25. Combos are also available to add to the already excellent value. Atmosphere 5 When you enter the arena, you will be in the lower lobby of the Langone Center. Depending on which entrance you use, you may have to head down a hallway to get to the lower lobby of Sojka itself. From there, you have to walk or take an elevator up to the concourse. All seats in Sojka Pavilion are chairbacks except for a few bleachers behind the baskets. Several scoreboards are scattered throughout the arena and each one is somewhat different. There is a center-hung scoreboard that also shows timeouts and team fouls and a smaller scoreboard in one corner which shows more basic information. There are also video boards in two corners that show player stats and rotating team stats, but oddly enough, not the score, plus another player stats board behind one basket. Bucknell has contests and promotions during almost every timeout, but the real atmosphere attraction here is the pep band. They play before and throughout the game and are among the very best at this level. Although they may be small in number, they are certainly mighty. The Bison also have cheerleaders and a costumed bison mascot named Bucky. Neighborhood 3 Lewisburg, Pennsylvania may be in the middle of nowhere, but that does not mean there is nothing to do here. Your best bet heading out of the arena is to head north into town on Route 15. Reba & Pancho’s on West Market Street is a local favorite, as is the 7th Street Café, which is exactly where you’d expect it to be. There are also more options just across the Susquehanna River in Milton. Fans 4 Bison fans show up in good numbers for their team, wear orange, and make noise. Although the team doesn’t always sell out the arena, they often come close. Fans are loud, passionate, and knowledgeable, and cheer their team throughout the game. That being said, they’re not afraid to get on their case when the team is doing poorly. As the Bison have been successful for many years, they have gained a larger and larger following among the locals. Access 1 The one major downside of Sojka Pavilion is access. Just getting to campus in the first place is a challenge, as it is far removed from the nearest major cities. Harrisburg is the nearest city of any decent size and is over an hour away. Scranton is two hours, and Philadelphia is two and a half. Unless you’re a local, you’re going to have to drive quite a way. Once you finally make it to campus, parking is a challenge. No signs or directions are telling you where to park, and while there are a few spaces close to the arena, most likely you’re going to have to park in a more distant lot. There are shuttles available, but unless one is ready and waiting, there’s no indication of that. The challenges don’t end there. The Langone Center has numerous entrances and it’s not readily apparent which one to use. Making matters worse, some of the entrances can be locked while others aren’t, meaning fans may have to walk around the building to find an open door. Depending on where you managed to make it, you might have to walk through the building to get to the lobby after you get in. One entrance is signed as the Event Entrance, but the sign isn’t visible until you get close, the door is sometimes locked, and other entrances will also put you directly in the Sojka lobby, assuming they’re open. It should not be nearly this complicated and confusing to make it to a basketball game, and while Bucknell can’t do anything about its remote location, the rest of the issues need to be fixed. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to a Bison basketball game are $15 for adults, $8 for children under 18, and $10 for seniors. Although this is on the high end for the Patriot League, this is also one of the nicest venues in the conference. Throw in the affordable concessions and free, if confusing parking and there is good value here. Extras 5 There are many extras here at Sojka Pavilion. The rafters are almost filled with banners honoring the Bison’s athletic success. There are murals and retired numbers displayed on the concourse. The breezeway to the lower lobby has a display honoring Bucknell's athletic greats of years past. One final star here for the outstanding pep band. Final Thoughts Sojka Pavilion is one of the top basketball venues in the Patriot League. Whether it’s the fans packing the building, the fantastic pep band, or all the displays honoring Bucknell athletics, this is an experience not to be missed for basketball fans in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, getting to the arena can be a huge challenge for many reasons, some within the school’s control, some not, but once you’re here, you won’t regret it.