Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey A new study from Doc’s Sports Service , an online wagering site, has found that home tickets across Major League Baseball vary wildly from team to team, with the Los Angeles Dodgers  charging the most at $76.57 per seat and the Los Angeles Angels  charging the least at just $16.02. The analysts at Doc’s Sports Service reviewed all 2,426 games in an MLB this season. Among their other findings, they discovered that the average minimum ticket price across the league was $34.82, while the median was just $29. “[This shows] that a relatively small number of very expensive games push the league average higher,” said the report. “The spread from the Dodgers at $76.57 to the Angels at $16.02 – nearly a five-times difference – shows how wide the pricing gulf is across MLB teams.” The Dodgers games at Dodger Stadium are far and away the most expensive across MLB. The second highest ticket prices belong to the Boston Red Sox at $63.31, followed by the Athletics – currently playing home games in Sacramento – at $58.32. On the other end of the spectrum, the Miami Marlins were the second least expensive at $17.72 per game, followed by the Chicago White Sox at $18.73. “Brand-name teams like the Yankees and Dodgers drive prices up on the road, with average home prices of $64.65 and $62.51 when they visit,” said the report. “Rivalry and marquee matchups can add triple-digit premiums, such as Mets vs. Yankees at $159 compared with the Mets season average of $36.83.”

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Rogers Arena 800 Griffiths Way Vancouver, BC V6B 6G1 Canada Vancouver Canucks website Rogers Arena website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 19,700 Spirit of the West The Vancouver Canucks were an NHL expansion team in 1970.  They famously lost the coin toss with the Buffalo Sabres that landed generational talent, Gilbert Perrault.  They have also been the bridesmaid in the Stanley Cup Finals three times, in 1982, 1994 and 2011.  The Stanley Cup hasn’t been in the largest city in Western Canada since the Vancouver Millionaires won it in 1915.  There just seems to be a bit of bad luck for the Canucks.  However, the Canucks are the top sports team on the west coast and the locals live and die with their team.  The Canucks actually began as a PCHL team from 1945 to 1970, so the hockey history in Vancouver is strong.  The NHL Canucks began their reign at the Pacific Coliseum, on the grounds of the Pacific National Exhibition.  In 1995, the Canucks moved west, to Downtown Vancouver and what is now known as Rogers Arena.  Food & Beverage 4 The concession options at Rogers Arena are on par with just about any other major league arena.  Burgers at Triple O’s, hot dogs at Steamers, sandwiches at Melt and Carve, pizza at Panago, noodles at Chop and healthier food at Sante are all options.  There are plenty of alcohol options, although Molson Beer is definitely the title sponsor and Molson Canadian is readily available.  The main concourse does not have 360-degree access as the club section requires a ticket to enter that concourse.  The concession area offers a food court type seating area.  Inside the arena, there are bars on both ends of the floor that also offer light snacks. Atmosphere 4 Rogers Arena has an attractive exterior, featuring silver paneling with blue highlights.  It is really wedged into Downtown Vancouver with viaducts on both sides of the arena.  Of note, the opening scene of the movie Deadpool was filmed on one of the viaducts just outside Rogers Arena.  There is no real and true main entry at Rogers Arena and entry is at multiple levels.  There are a number of Vancouver Canucks banners on the outside of the arena.  At the northeast corner of Rogers Arena fans will find Toyota Plaza, a small gathering area with a couple of highlights. A bronze statue of Roger Nielson from the 1982 playoffs where he initiated “Towel Power” stands proudly with his white towel on the end of a hockey stick. There is also a statue of Pat Quinn in a bit of a teaching pose. Inside the arena, the main concourses are fairly wide and non-descript with not too much that is interesting to see.  The upper concourse does offer a few interesting items including the “With Glowing Hearts” display commemorating the 2010 Winter Olympic hockey tournament.  Also, the “Legends Locker Room” is found in the upper concourse, which gives depth to the Canucks who have had their numbers retired.  There is an interactive portion as well as some artifacts. Inside the seating bowl, the floor is east-west oriented with the best spot for the centre logo picture from the north.  The seating bowl is a traditional two level design with luxury suites between the lower bowl and upper deck.  A state of the art videoboard hangs above centre ice and boasts the highest resolution in the league at the time of writing.  On the east side of the video board are the retired number banners of Stan Smyl, Trevor Linden, Pavel Bure, Markus Naslund and Daniel and Henrik Sedin.    The Ring of Honour members are around the perimeter of the ceiling and have names and portraits on the upper fascia.  Members include Thomas Gradin, Kirk McLean, Harold Snepts, Roberto Luongo, Orland Kurtenbach, Pat Quinn, Mattias Ohland and Alex Burrows.  Although the retired numbers are a higher honour, it seems that the members of the Ring of Honour have a higher quality representation.  Also on the east side hang banners for the two Presidents’ Trophies that the Canucks have earned and a banner commemorating Canada’s Gold Medals in hockey at the 2010 Winter Olympics.  On the west side of the videoboard are the banners for the Canucks multiple division championships and three conference championships. A banner commemorating the opening concert by local favourite, Bryan Adams, also hangs.  The roof is vaulted, circus-tent like shape and is fairly unique.  The gameday production at a Vancouver Canucks game is a full on high-tech experience.  The LED lights, projectors and spotlights are all used in the pregame festivities.  Partition lights between the glass panels on the ice are another high-tech touch.  The goal horn comes from the BC Ferry Company and is unique for the west coast.  The mascot, Fin, can be found at times participating in the production. Neighbourhood 5 Rogers Arena is located in Downtown Vancouver, adjacent to Chinatown.  There are a number of spots for pre or postgame food and drink within walking distance of the arena.  Some options include The American, London Pub, Shark Club, Bodega on Main, The Keifer Bar, The Pint Public House and Frankie’s Italian.  A major city like Vancouver has a number of other sporting options.  Rogers Arena is shared with the Vancouver Warriors  of the NLL.  Other options include the British Columbia Lions , Vancouver Whitecaps FC , Vancouver Goldeneyes and the UBC Thunderbirds varsity teams.  Other tourist options in the area include Stanley Park, Chinese Garden, Vancouver Aquarium and the BC Sports Hall of Fame, found in BC Place.  Vancouver also offers among the mildest climates in Canada.  The proximity to golfing, skiing and beaches is excellent.  Fans should also consider taking in the tour of Rogers Arena. For fans wishing to stay near the arena, Hotel Blue and Hampton Inn are just steps away. Fans 5 The Vancouver Canucks enjoy some of the most ardent support in the NHL.  At the time of writing, in the 2025-26 season, the Canucks averaged over 18,700 fans per game.  That is a little lower than the previous season, however, 2025-26 was a particularly poor season for the Canucks in the win column.  The Canucks ranked 6th in the 32 team NHL in 2025-26, up two spots from the previous season.  The Canucks are clearly the heartbeat of Vancouver and even though there are other sporting options, the Canucks are definitely top dog.  Canucks fans are on the louder side when it comes to their vocal support of the team.   Access 3 Rogers Arena is located in Downtown Vancouver, adjacent to Chinatown.  It is wedged between a pair of elevated roads, known as viaducts.  It is found on the east side of Griffiths Way.  Getting to the arena can be a bit challenging due to the different elevations of different roads and fairly significant Vancouver traffic.  There are some surface lots and parking garages in the immediate area, however, they fill quickly.  The best option is to plan to be at the arena early and pre-pay for parking if possible.  There are a number of different public transit options, including the Aqua Bus, buses along Expo Boulevard as well as the subway, which is found at the Stadium-Chinatown stop, close to the arena.  Fans should consult the TransLink  website for fares, maps and schedules. Entries into Rogers Arena take place on a number of different levels and exterior staircases are prevalent around Rogers Arena and BC Place.  Fans should carefully consider their entrance as Rogers Arena has no escalator that goes from the 100 to 300 level concourses. The concourses are of decent size, however, the club section in the 100 level has concourses blocked off.  This does not allow fans without club section tickets 360 degree access to the concourse.  Washroom facilities are adequate for the arena. Stadium Journey recognizes that arena security is constantly changing and strongly encourages consultation of the Vancouver Canucks  and Rogers Arena websites for the most up to date security protocols, including bag policy and prohibited items.  Rogers Arena is a cashless facility. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for the Vancouver Canucks begin at $59.  Upper bowl seats will generally go for $74 and lower bowl seats go up to over $360.  Dynamic pricing makes ticket prices difficult to get the pulse of.  Fluctuations definitely occur depending on the opponent, with Edmonton and Toronto being the top draws.  Concession prices are on the high side and parking will go for at least $25.  The Canucks put together a great experience, however, the expensive nature of that experience will probably preclude multiple visits. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Canucks as the sporting focal point of the Canadian west coast. An extra mark for Rogers Arena as a state of the art arena with production equipment that is top notch. An extra mark for the “Flying V” uniform of the Canucks in the early 80’s, which was voted the ugliest uniform in hockey. Final Thoughts Since their inception in the National Hockey League in 1970, the Vancouver Canucks have been the focus of Canada’s west coast. They have been a franchise that has come close to the ultimate prize on a couple of occasions and provide a great NHL experience. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.86 Daytona International Speedway 1801 W International Speedway Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Rolex 24 at Daytona website Daytona International Speedway website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 167.785 Twice Around Daytona’s Clock The historic Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona is one of the most well-known sports car races in the world. An endurance battle that attracts the best manufacturers and drivers from around the world, this race is on any true race fan’s bucket list. Aside from that, it should be on the bucket list for any sports fan in general. Unlike other historic and thrilling endurance races that are better suited for a more mature audience (looking at you, Sebring 12 Hours ), the Rolex 24 is without a doubt one of the most family-friendly races around. Kids 12 and under are free, and there is plenty to see all race weekend long.   Food & Beverage   5 There is plenty to eat at Daytona in the paddock and beneath the grandstands in the main concourses. From drinks, coffee, and traditional stadium fare to more eclectic choices, the variety is impressive. The main stop is the paddock cafe, featuring chicken tenders and fries ($15), cheeseburgers and fries ($15), hot dogs ($7), foot long chili cheese dogs ($14), nachos ($7), beer ($9-$11), soda ($5.50), and various other snacks. During the 24 Hours there are also a variety of places to get food throughout the infield for fans. From the various bars that pop up near the main displays to simple hot dog and arepa stands around the main walkways, you will never have any issues finding something to eat. Moreover, several food trucks also set up shop in the infield midway area, meaning you can get some unique food options on the go.   Atmosphere   5 There’s nothing quite like being at a 24-hour endurance race; the feeling is electric as the race begins in the afternoon. Then as the sun sets, the lights come on and the look and feel of the race takes on another face – the smell of race fuel, the glow of the brakes in the cold night, the sound of engines roaring lap after lap. The infield campfires grow more numerous and the party picks up only as the night darkens. Later, as the morning creeps back, a sense of urgency comes in as the end nears. And when the checkered flag falls, the celebration begins. Mix into that a weekend full of pre-race support events, practice sessions, and qualifying laps, and you have no shortage of on-track action to see. The track itself is stunning as well – the updates to the main grandstand, thanks to the Daytona Rising project a few years ago, have made the seating outside the infield extremely comfortable for fans. Also, with main concourses that are easy to navigate and concession stands all over, it feels more like a visit to a professional sports stadium for the Super Bowl than it does a car race. On Wednesday night, various drivers, teams, and cars gather across the street at the Twenty-Four Premier at One Daytona fan fest. Racecars are towed from across the street and put on display, and fans can participate in both autograph and driver Q&A sessions.   Neighborhood   4 Daytona is a party town from days gone past when tourists flocked to the beaches during the summer months. However, the sun isn’t always so warm in North Florida in January. Nonetheless, the beaches are still just a few miles away from the track. In addition, right across the street from the track sit numerous stores, malls, and restaurants – from Chipotle and Panera to Olive Garden and Longhorn Steakhouse, there are plenty of places to shop and eat during your stay. The ever-growing area has also improved the immediate area around the track significantly; a new Costco across the street (yes, it has gas as well) is just the latest addition to the One Daytona shopping, dining, and hotel district that connects to the speedway in numerous ways.   Fans   5 The fans at the 24 Hours are like no others in racing – they are diehards who know the sport inside and out and are not afraid to show their allegiance to their favorite driver, team, or car manufacturer. They also know how to party like few others, but are also among the most welcoming in the sport. Any one of the various campsites will have a campfire going with a TV playing a broadcast of the race – you’re always welcome to pull up a chair and take in the atmosphere. 2026 saw the largest crowd in Rolex 24 history descend upon Daytona to watch the famous race, with over 180,000 fans visiting over four days to pack the stands and trackside camping for the annual sportscar celebration.   Access   5 Parking at the 24 is plentiful – not only are there on-site parking lots for those with various parking passes, but the track also hosts various off-site parking options for fans to use, as long as you’re willing to walk. That said, a big downside is the traffic leaving the race Sunday after the checkered flag, which can lead to major backups for fans who stay to see the finish. For those who would rather take a ride, trams are also available to shuttle you in and out of the track from numerous parking lots, as well as to take you from one point to another at the track itself. Lines for tram stops may fill up fast, however, due to the massive crowds, so make sure you bring some patience when it comes to using the tram system on race day. You also can wander the facility as you wish, with any ticket granting access to both the stadium grandstand seating and infield viewing areas. On top of that, Daytona International Airport is literally across the street from the track, and hotels in the area are numerous, including Daytona Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, and others.   Return on Investment   5 The Rolex 24 is a race to be added to any sports fan’s list of must-see events, let alone any race fan. Tickets for this race weekend can get up there in price for a full camping package, but when you consider the quality of the product on the track, the length of the actual race you’re seeing, and the history made every year at the event, it’s hard to argue value versus cost. Two-day weekend tickets for the Rolex 24 race itself are $130.53, while a full weekend ticket is $170.25. Tickets for Friday only ($59.02) and Thursday only ($36.32) are also available for fans, as well as numerous suite and VIP experiences across the entire event.   Extras   5 The 24 Hours race is home to multiple days of racing action, including support races in addition to the main event. Also, most tickets get you into the garage and paddock area at Daytona, which features fantastic views of the track and paddock from the rooftop patio decks. Fans can also get a look into the team preparations, thanks to the viewing windows in each garage bay. The highlight of the fan access is the annual IMSA Twenty-Four Premier at ONE Daytona. This fan fest at the One Daytona district across the street on Wednesday night features numerous cars on display from the various series on track, autograph sessions, fan Q&A sessions with drivers and team owners, and even live pit stop demonstrations. Fans can also look forward to autograph sessions throughout the weekend; by far the biggest is on Friday, when all the drivers line up in the garage area to greet fans. But the biggest plus that few other races offer is the fan walk before the race starts on Saturday – fans can get up close to the cars on pit road, wander the front stretch banking, relax on the grass, and have an up-front seat for the driver introductions. Many of the displays in the infield midway also feature giveaways or unique viewing locations, such as the Lexus lounge on top of their trailer, or the Ferris wheel that has become synonymous with the event itself.   Final Thoughts Taking a trip to Daytona for the Rolex 24 Hours is a visit worth taking. Anyone who is a race fan should attend, and with Daytona’s recent seating upgrades, watching the race from either the infield or the main grandstands is more comfortable now than ever before.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Sebring International Raceway 113 Midway Dr Sebring, FL 33870 12 Hours of Sebring website Sebring International Raceway website Year Opened: 1950 America’s Oldest Endurance Race The historic Sebring 12-Hour sportscar race began in 1950 and has grown into one of the world’s most revered motorsport events during its long history. The world’s best drivers and teams have competed and won here, and every year seems to up the quality of the product on the track. If you are even a modest race fan, Sebring is a must-see for you. However, unlike Florida’s other historic endurance event, the Rolex 24 at Daytona , the 12-Hour has some notable differences that may determine if it’s for you.   Food & Beverage   5 There is no shortage of food vendors around the track at Sebring. From the main paddock and the ever-popular Track Shack – get The Beast; it is probably the best item you can eat at the track and is only known on the secret menu at Sebring – to the various drink and snack stops around the track, you never have to go too far to get something to quench your thirst or ease the pain of hunger. 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. For fans in the far reaches of the track (Ulmann Straight and Green Park in particular), you have a bit of a hike to get to the fan zone or paddock for said food items, outside of a few small snack and beverage vendors.   Atmosphere   5 Nothing compares to Sebring – words are barely able to even describe it either. This is one giant party for everyone who attends; some wild stories can be told of the goings-on at Green Park (the in-field area on the north side of the track), and perhaps it may be best to keep the young ones away from that part of the course at night. This track however has something for everyone – between the main show on Saturday with the 12-hour endurance spectacle, to the various support series races during the weekend, there is no shortage of things for you to see. The energy is always at a high level all day long, and the raceway makes sure to keep you updated via the PA system about what is coming up next on the track, which makes it nice for fans who may not have the schedule in their pocket. However, as much of a party and historic event the 12 Hours may be, the facility itself has some massive upgrades needed. For example, almost all the roads trackside and through Green Park are either dirt or heavily crumbling asphalt, meaning the dust gets really heavy at times. The restrooms around the facility are also beyond abysmal, featuring moldy troughs in the men’s rooms, as well as bugs galore with no AC to speak of when it gets hot outside. Grandstands have been added at various corners, but are no less sparse, and the views of the front stretch and finish line are extremely limited, with no good angles to be had for fans outside of the paddock suites.   Neighborhood   3 There isn’t anything around Sebring International Raceway, as it is quite literally located in the middle of nowhere. Sebring itself is a town located in the middle of Florida, at least an hour and a half away 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 there the whole weekend.   Fans   4 The fans at Sebring are impressive in several ways; not only are they very sport knowledgeable, but they also know how to decorate their campsites. Some have gone as far as erecting large scaffolding at their sites to get a better view of the action, while others prefer a ground-level chair next to a campfire. There are even make-shift bars that pop up around the facility, which are fully operational and open to anyone who wants to come visit. The majority of these fans have been coming to the race for years, introduced by their parents to the event, and are now passing it on to their kids. However, make no mistake – some aspects of this race-themed party are not family-friendly. If you bring anyone under 18, it is probably best to stay in the midway and paddock areas of the track, especially after dark. Green Park has long been home to numerous stories of unspeakable events, including what has become the traditional bonfire of burning couches on the inside of the hairpin after the races are over. Many drunk fans can be found all over the property, and are even known to take water guns to members of the media as the latter drive by in golf carts. Blow up dolls, offensively worded t-shirts, and beer trees are almost a requirement in Green Park as campsite decorations.   Access   4 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, however, and trams help take you from parking lots farther away from the main grandstands and paddock to points of interest around the facility. Improvements to the inward flow of traffic have been made as well, using specific gates for specific access purposes, such as the media and crew using separate gates from fans. 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. Any fan can also come down to the paddock and get up close to the stars and cars of the IMSA series who are in attendance. New for 2026, the track has added a crossover bridge that connects the main paddock with the Ulmann Straight parking outside of the backstretch. Here, fans can also get easier access to the new viewing area down towards Turn 16.   Return on Investment   4 There is nothing like Sebring – a weekend ticket gets you into all the action Wednesday through Saturday, and you can come and go as you please. In addition, the action you are witnessing is of historic significance merely by the stature of the race, and you can feel that pressure in the air mounting as the weekend rolls along. Ticket prices can soar to over $100 a person, but what you are getting is one of the greatest races on the planet, with one of the best race day experiences in the business. The best deal lies in the Super VIP ticket at the Seven Hotel; for $395 fans get a 4-day ticket, parking pass at the hotel, food and drink buffets, access to the hotel viewing mound at Turn 7, and an air-conditioned VIP room on Saturday with an open bar and TVs.   Extras   4 Taking in the race at Sebring has its perks for fans, with various autograph sessions held throughout the race weekend. In addition, fans also have the opportunity to get into the paddock area of the track free of charge, giving you an up-close view of the teams as they prepare for one of the biggest races of the year. Porsche, Lamborghini, and Corvette drivers can get special parking access in the Porsche and Corvette corrals, and can even do guided laps around the track. Also, before the main event on Saturday, all the teams bring their cars out to pit road before the race starts, so fans can come to see the cars and drivers up close before they head out onto the track. After each race, the victory celebration is held in the new victory lane complex at the track, giving fans access to an area of the track that was previously farther away on pit road. New since 2025, a small grandstand has even been placed in front of victory lane to give fans an elevated view of the post-race celebrations.   Final Thoughts Thinking about visiting a sports facility of great historic value with incredibly exciting action for you to see during the entire event? Look no further than the Sebring 12 Hours. This historic race has it all, and you get to experience one of the biggest parties of the year. It is hard to put into words what a weekend at Sebring feels like, but as the sun sets each day and the roar of engines fills the air, you can understand why this has become one of the biggest draws in all of sports, let alone racing.

Images Courtesy of Highmark Stadium Memorabilia As the Buffalo Bills prepare to move into their new $2.1 billion state-of-the-art stadium, the franchise is ensuring that parts of its former home is perserved. In a massive deconstruction effort that began in earlier this, the team has partnered with CollectibleXchange  to harvest and sell off nearly every tangible piece of history from the old Highmark Stadium . A Bittersweet Deconstruction While the stadium is officially scheduled for full demolition in March 2027, the "harvesting" phase is already in the process. Workers are removing iconic fixtures to satisfy a fanbase known for its deep emotional connection to the venue.  Brandon Steiner, CEO of CollectibleXchange, noted that while the process allows fans to preserve "religious experiences" from the stadium in their own homes. Proceeds from the sales are expected to exceed $2 million, with half of the earnings going directly back to Erie County. Stadium Items Available for Fans The inventory ranges from traditional sports collectibles to bizarre pieces of stadium infrastructure that have gained legendary status among Bills Mafia. Seating : Fans can purchase single authentic stadium seats for $549 or pairs for $649. Individual blue seatbacks are also available starting at $99. The Infamous Restroom Troughs:  Perhaps the most talked-about items are the roughly 35 "trough" urinals. Despite their utilitarian nature, they have a massive waiting list of fans eager to install them in man caves or sports bars. The Field:  Portions of the game-used turf are being sold, including smaller pieces preserved in glass cases for $99. Structural Elements: Items like stadium lights, concourse signs, section markers, doorknobs, and even "No Smoking" signs are being salvaged. Field Equipment:  Pieces of the goalposts and even lockers from the team's inner sanctum are being prepared for collectors. Authenticated Autographs: For a premium, fans can pre-order seatbacks personally signed by Bills legends Jim Kelly and Thurman Thomas for approximately $279.99. Memorabilia is primarily being sold through the Official Buffalo Bills Store, with some items also slated for local Buffalo retail stores. Season-ticket holders are being offered special discount codes and priority for certain items. Most orders are expected to begin shipping or be available for local pickup in April 2026. Buffalo Bills Highmark Stadium Reuse Plans The Buffalo Bills have plans to reuse significant elements from the existing Highmark Stadium as they transition to their new facility, New Highmark Stadium . One of the most notable aspects will be the bison statues, which will be relocated to the new stadium to maintain a connection to the team's heritage.  Additionally, elements from the original stadium's architectural design are expected to be integrated into the new structure, reflecting the team's tradition while embracing modern amenities. The Bills aim to create a venue that not only meets today's standards but also honors the legacy of the team's history and its fans.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Circuit of the Americas 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd Austin, TX 78617 NASCAR website Circuit of the Americas website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 120,000 NASCAR Roars into Austin Their first few visits to Circuit of the Americas proved to be filled with struggles for NASCAR – the long circuit layout was a challenge for fans to navigate, as well as for the drivers. However, a change in the track’s layout for 2025 meant that a new shortcut right after the esses removed a large section of track on the back side, meaning fans can see most of the track from the stadium section and get more action in shorter laps. This produced better racing and an overall better show for the fans altogether.   Food & Beverage   5 In the infield fans can expect a great little hole-in-the-wall (only in size) cafe in the paddock, featuring a beautiful patio outside surrounded by trees and bushes, giving a great view of the garages and pre-staging area for most of the cars. Here you can find (when it is open) food and beverages to suit your fancy; chicken tenders and fries are $11.79, as are hamburger baskets, grilled chicken sandwiches, and chicken wrap baskets. On certain days there is also a chef’s featured item, such as homemade meatloaf, beef and broccoli, or chicken primavera for $12. That said, if you are exploring the far reaches of the facility, you have as many options available as you have in the main spectator areas. Food trucks are located throughout the fan zone near the stadium section, while concession stands in both the stadium area, as well as in the main straight grandstands, provide numerous options for fans. Here, local favorites like BBQ and Tex Mex are plentiful alongside sport stadium favorites.   Atmosphere   5 Everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes the crowds. During fan walks on the grid for races at Circuit of the Americas, it is wall-to-wall fans hobnobbing with drivers, teams, and the cars they pilot on track. The track itself is a beautiful facility that lends itself to the fan experience – the main grandstand is even shaded from the harsh Texas sun, thanks to a perfectly-placed roof over part of the seating. By far, the coolest thing here at Circuit of the Americas is the giant tower in the middle of the track. The observation platform in the tower is open to all fans for $20 a person, including an elevator you can ride to view the race from over 200 feet above the action. In addition, the floors in the tower are see-through, giving you the feeling of floating on air – no other track has anything as cool as this.   Neighborhood   3 This is a hard topic, as the city of Austin itself (a good 15 to 20-minute drive from Circuit of the Americas itself), is a bustling city of music, incredible food, and youthful energy. It is no secret why F1 picked this city, and why the annual SXSW festival is held here every year. However, as the track is on the extreme outskirts of town, the racing can easily feel a bit detached from the city’s feel. There isn’t much right next to the track, despite the slowly creeping suburban sprawl that has reached the facility’s property line – hotels are all about 10 minutes away at least, as are any shopping and dining options fans would flock to. Thankfully, the airport is right near the track, providing easy access for your flight in and out of Austin. For great food, one can’t skip Salt Lick or Torchy’s Tacos. Austin is also home to the University of Texas and Zilker Park on Lady Bird Lake, and of course, a stop in Austin isn’t complete without visiting the bats under Congress Bridge. Finally, for hotels look to Hilton Austin Airport or Holiday Inn Austin Airport, which are two of the better hotels that are close to Circuit of the Americas.   Fans   3 The fans are fickle for NASCAR at COTA – unlike F1 where the circuit is jammed with fans on all three days, NASCAR only features a massive turnout for the Cup Series race on Sunday. The Friday and Saturday crowds are paltry in comparison despite having more physical on-track action to take in, leading to a quieter setup and mostly empty grandstands. Nonetheless, the vibes on Sunday are unmatched thanks to the hardcore NASCAR faithful who do show up for the main event.   Access   3 Getting to Circuit of the Americas isn’t hard, in that it’s not hidden away. In actuality you can see it from pretty much everywhere, thanks to its giant light-up tower at night. However, the roads in and out of the track are only one or two lanes, making a big event hard to reach, thanks to the traffic. Thankfully, however, parking is plentiful on site and in various nearby lots, and there are also numerous fan shuttles to take you from the parking lots to the paddock, as well as to various viewing areas around the circuit. Once at the track getting around is easy, thanks to the various tunnels, pedestrian bridges, and signage pointing you on your way around the venue.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets to NASCAR at COTA have become the most affordable on the circuit. To start, kids 12 and under are free Friday and Saturday, and start at just $10 for Sunday. Perhaps the most surprising, however, is the price for tickets in the Turn 12 grandstand – for just over $16 you can get a seat to watch NASCAR’s best battle it out right by the new shortcut section of the track. Front straight seats start at just over $70, while seats in the stadium section range around $50. Turn 1 seating costs $66 , while suites are available from $500 to $1500. Parking on site is also plentiful, with some free lots around the track that offer shuttle service.   Extras   3 COTA features an upcoming theme park, complete with roller coasters being built for the park’s opening in the next few years. Until then you can ride the zip line by the main grandstand to get your thrills. In addition, you can also race on the go-kart track located just outside the main grandstands. The support series paddock for IMSA is also open to all fans all weekend, giving you an up-close view of the sports cars taking to the track during the weekend.   Final Thoughts NASCAR weekend at COTA is unique. While the track is managed by SMI instead of by COTA (which itself is transitioning into a private club member-only racetrack), you’ll see some noticeable changes from the fan side. Thankfully, the new track layout has been met with rave reviews, and the offerings for fans come in very affordably, making this a great budget option when looking to catch some NASCAR racing action.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Lynn Family Stadium 350 Adams St Louisville, KY 40206 Louisville City FC website Lynn Family Stadium website Year Opened: 2020 Capacity: 11,700 Louisville's Home for Soccer Lynn Family Stadium opened in 2020 as the home for Louisville City FC of the United Soccer League Championship. The 15,304-seat stadium was designed by HOK for $65 million and can expand to 15,304 spectators. The venue is one of a handful of soccer-specific venues in the league and provides fans with an up-close and personal view of the action on the field. Before the opening of the new venue, the club operated a few miles down the road at Louisville Slugger Field , dubbed Slugger Field for soccer matches. The Triple-A ballpark is intended for the Louisville Bats minor league club, and the club averaged close to 8,000 fans per game; it was the objective to build its venue and avoid certain situations during the playoffs. The stadium features seating on all three sides of the pitch, with the open end facing the interstate and the Ohio River. A 40-by-72.5-foot video board greets motorists from the outside and fans on the inside. When the sunset for evening games, the beautiful red hues sparkled up above as the sunset in the west. Louisville fans have been lucky since the club established a winning tradition from day one. The club advanced to two conference finals in its first two seasons and then hosted the next three USL Championship Finals. The team was displaced for two years due to the Festival of Trees and Lights taking place at the ballpark. Lou City opted for the University of Louisville soccer field, which had about half the number of people. Those days are now over if the club does indeed continue its winning ways. Food & Beverage 4 Lynn Family Stadium is set up with multiple concession stands, kiosks, and bars to enhance the experience for fans craving something to eat or drink during the match. The options range from local favorites, the usual stadium treats, and vast amounts of alcoholic beverages. Parlour Pizza is a local pizzeria that sells personalized pepperoni and sausage pies at the game. The pies could be shared with two little fans. They also offer garlic breadsticks, smoked tenders, and pints of beer. A few doors down is Gustavo’s Mexican Grill, which serves taco salads, arroz con pollo, protein bowls, nachos, and tacos. Gustavo’s fries are topped with bacon, chorizo, and creamy cheese dip. The rest of the menu items can be found as feature items that include chicken tenders with fries, smashburgers with fries, barbecue pork sandwiches, all-beef hot dogs, soft pretzels, and vegetarian options: black bean burgers and vegan crunchwraps. On our last visit, there was a shareable nacho plate for fans. The Philly’s Best stand brings water ice, ice cream, and other sweet treats. A few more spots for dessert include Moutoux’s and Ehrlinger’s Ice Cream.  The Craft Spda Bar offers Dirty Dr Pepper, Blue Lagoon, Pepsi Dream, and Game Mule drinks. These are all non-alcoholic beverages that mix soda, flavored syrup, and coffee creamer. There is also an array of alcoholic beverages, from beer, wine, cocktails, hard seltzers, and bourbon. A total of 14 bars and kiosks are set up throughout the stadium concourse. There are plenty of bourbon choices from Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill, Rabbit Hole, and Jim Beam. The hard seltzers include varieties from Hard Noon and White Claw.  Noble Funk 502 Brew is a wheat beer that is only $5 for a 12-ounce can. Ten20 Brewing has a kiosk with beers on tap. Falls City Brewing has two specialized beers for the stadium: City Light and Goalden Ale, along with Hipster Repellent IPA. The macro choices include Miller Lite, Modelo, and Mich Ultra. Atmosphere 4 Lynn Family Stadium offers seating for 11,700 and can be expanded to 15,304 fans. Well before the match begins, fans tailgate in the parking lot east of the stadium. RVs, tables, TVs, and flags can be seen up and down the lot. Just north of the stadium is the Fan Zone, which offers pre-game festivities and a miniature soccer field for younger fans. The area includes a miniature-sized soccer pitch and a giant “LOU CITY'' sculpture where fans can pose for photos in place of the missing “I”. The Coopers, the official supporter group of Lou City, make their presence with drums, costumes, banners, and plenty of purple smoke, and on the opposite side of the stadium, a few more fans let off some smoke of their own after the two goals scored on the night. The stadium lights flash vividly before and after the game, and also when a goal is scored by the home team. The roof of the seating area is colored and shaped like the sides of a bourbon barrel. The lights are slanted and can be adjusted for color, depending on the match. The concourse aisles are somewhat narrow, their walls decorated with Lou City art and players’ photos on the west side of the stadium. The opposite side is much more open and features a small table of merchandise. Also embedded inside the stadium are 18 luxury boxes and 250 Premier Club seats. The gift shop has that brand-new smell and plenty of team merchandise from official jerseys, scarves, caps, t-shirts, and women's and children's gear. Racing Louisville also has a section of shirts that feature the club’s colors of deep purple and mint green. Several TV monitors are on display, and so are the team’s USL Championship trophies from 2017 and 2018. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is located in the Butchertown section and within walking distance from the main plaza and Copper & Kings American Brandy Company . The up-and-coming neighborhood has renovated many of its meatpacking warehouses into shops, bars, and restaurants, and provides an ideal spot before or after a match. However, less than a mile from the stadium is the affluent East Market District , also known as NuLu. You will find everything from vintage clothing stores, gourmet eateries, and restored furniture shops. A few recommendations would include La Bodeguita for Cuban cuisine, Royals Hot Chicken , Grind Burger Kitchen , and Feast BBQ for a bite. A few spots for a drink include the Old 502 Winery , Akasha Brewing Company , and the West Sixth NuLu , which offers live music tucked away off the main street, and surrounded by other shops and balcony seating. The Rabbit Hole Distillery and Garage Bar are other recommendations. Fans 4 There are multiple supporter groups at the stadium during matches. The Coopers can be heard with their cheers, instruments, and chants from one end of the pitch. The other side near the open end bar offers plenty of cheering and English-style slang towards the refs and opposing players. In other parts of the stadium, the fanbase is glued to their seat watching the action on the pitch. Access 4 Lynn Family Stadium has a wide-open concourse that wraps around the entire field. It opens up on the south end near the river and offers pleasant views of the city skyline and bridges over the Ohio River. The narrow areas also offer easy access around the match for fans. They also include open views and vantage points of the game. It is located off of I-64 and is easily visible to motorists on the interstate. There are four lots for parking, which must be prepaid for $18. There is additional parking, when available, along the Louisville Waterfront Park on Adams Street and west of the stadium on Witherspoon Street. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket for a soccer match costs as low as $16 through the team's website or at the box office. However, a few secondary market sites offer tickets for a little less. However, still a reasonable price to watch soccer at a first-rate stadium in the USL Championship. The parking for the game is $18 in the various lots (Purple, Green, Gold, and Gray) around the stadium, but free parking on the street along Adams Street can be found if you arrive early to the game. Inside the stadium, a 16-ounce can of beer is $11.99, while a 24-ounce draft beer is $14.49. The price of a hot dog is $6.99, and a chicken tender and fries basket is $14.99. Extras 4 The 72-foot Modelo bar is located under the video board and features several tables where people can stand around. For pregame festivities in the future, we’re excited about the adjoining 1020 beer garden. Fans can purchase Falls City Beer, Yuengling, and Miller, among the brews to choose from, while they watch the action. Final Thoughts Lynn Family Stadium is a wonderful addition to the league and a harbinger for the future of soccer-specific venues in the country. The bright and bold venue is what soccer stadiums should look like and what they could be to both team and fan. Lou City fans have been spoiled with the success on the pitch from their club and now they have an excellent venue to enjoy for many years to come. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Sonoma Raceway 29355 Arnold Dr Sonoma, CA 95476 SRO World Challenge website Sonoma Raceway website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 47,000 Sportscar Dreams in Sonoma Sonoma Raceway has a long and storied history in motorsports. Hosting the likes of NASCAR, NHRA, and IndyCar over the years, it is now home to one of the season opening rounds of the SRO America schedule. Being held in March annually, this event has grown itself to a solid audience of fans, with tons of on-track action all day throughout the weekend. Fan-friendly and budget-friendly, this weekend is likely to soar to the top of the California race fan’s list of events to attend every year. Attendance continues to grow at a rapid rate for this event, making it one of Norther California’s premier sportscar events.   Food & Beverage   4 The track has various concession stands and a large number of food trucks located in the main paddock during the weekend, complete with the likes of burgers ($17.99), grilled chicken sandwiches ($13.99), breakfast burritos ($7.99), and hot dogs ($12.99). The paddock cafe is also open on race weekends, giving everyone another option for food and beverages, with both inside and outside seating options. Other choices include the Philly Cheesesteak ($17.99), Super Nachos ($17.99), and Jumbo Chili Cheese Dog ($16.99). With the increase in fans, concession stands are also open above the Esses with a light offering of drinks and smalls snacks.   Atmosphere   4 The action on the track is top-notch, as SRO World Challenge hosts no less than 10 races during the weekend across 6 different race groups, culminating in the 3-hour GT World Challenge America race on Sunday. Fans can catch everything from the top-level GT3 race teams to the Touring Car and Toyota GR Cup machines of the up-and-coming racers. Four days of practice, qualifying, and racing makes this one of the most jam-packed events of the year for the track and the fans, which means you won’t go long without seeing some great race action. Thanks to an updated schedule, fans can also catch races as early as Friday afternoon. Being a NASCAR and NHRA facility also means that seating is plentiful all around the track. RV parking spots with track views can also be purchased by fans, and the suites offer stellar views, including the new Turn 11 complex with its outdoor patio seating. But one of the best viewing spots has got to be the Turn 2 terrace with seating under arbors and shade trees. On top of this the paddock is completely open and accessible to all fans, giving you an up-close look at how the teams prep the cars for action. Finally, SRO America has done a great job at making the track look like their own, adding plentiful sponsor signage around the facility at every turn and grandstand; this is easily the most professional feeling event on the SRO schedule.   Neighborhood   4 There is practically nothing immediately around Sonoma Raceway, but that makes for quite a nice location for a track. Sonoma is close enough to San Francisco and the Bay Area to make visiting one of the country’s most beautiful cities, with plenty to see and do, an easy task. However, it is just far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city and nestled away in the beautiful hills of California wine country, to give you the country feel you want when relaxing. To the west is Novato, and to the east is Vallejo – food options include In-N-Out Burger, a California fixture, as well as many more. Hotels are also plentiful in both areas, and attractions range from the Golden Gate Bridge and several national parks to the south, to wine country in the north.   Fans   4 A record crowd watched SRO America at Sonoma Raceway this year. Being a large track means even solid crowds can look spread out, but this year saw a significant increase in trackside fans with over 26,000 in attendance during the weekend, a record for the series at Sonoma Raceway. Seating in the main grandstand was packed on Saturday and Sunday, with the trackside terraces filled as well. In fact, on both Saturday and Sunday parking filled up so quickly that fans were forced to park on the hillside at the far end of the track, and shuttled back to the main paddock and viewing areas. Many race fans in Sonoma who want to watch pro racing without the NASCAR prices turn to this event as a great option, especially given the incredible access afforded during sportscar races. On top of this, trackside camping has exploded for SRO weekend, with RVs lining the upper level of the camping area above the Esses, with no visible open spaces.   Access   3 Easily the only downside to Sonoma Raceway is the location of the track in proximity to the highway. From San Francisco you need to take the 101, and from Oakland/Sacramento/Vallejo you have to take I-80. Both highways will take you to the 37, which is the main highway to the track. The problem? Near the track it becomes a one-lane road that widens to two lanes at times, but no wider. Thankfully, when you arrive parking is beyond plentiful around the facility, with many grandstands offering close parking spaces for those willing to drive around. Thankfully, the most recent event seemed to offer a bit of a reprieve in congestion, perhaps thanks to updated construction work finishing up in various areas around the bay.   Return on Investment   5 Going to the track is worth the trip for SRO at Sonoma – this facility is a must-see on any race fan’s list, making it worth the venture into northern California. Tickets to SRO weekends are also incredibly affordable, with weekend passes coming in at just $55. Friday tickets are $16.87, Saturday or Sunday is $33.75, and weekend car corral options exist for $155 (one-day car corrals are available for $84.37 Friday through Sunday). Children 12 and under are free all weekend with a paid adult, and fan parking is also free.   Extras   4 Drivers host several autograph sessions on Saturday and Sunday that are open to all fans. In addition, victory lane is right there next to the main grandstands, which means fans can celebrate with their favorite drivers and teams after each race. New for this year was a large number of car corrals in the main paddock, showing off some of the finest sportscars and supercars around. And finally, the paddock and garages are all open to fans, which means you can get up close to the teams and cars while they work on race setups, and you can talk to the crews during the weekend.   Final Thoughts If you are looking for a racetrack in a beautiful location in one of the most picturesque areas of the country, look no further than Sonoma Raceway. The track features some quality race action for fans to see, and most of the track is visible from the same spot, a rarity in road-course racing. With affordable prices, a growing fan base, and great food options, you have plenty to look forward to as a fan when you arrive at Sonoma.

Image Courtesy of Philadelphia Phillies The Philadelphia Phillies have recently presented a $205 million renovation plan for BayCare Ballpark and the Carpenter Complex, signaling a significant investment in their spring training facilities and home for their Single-A affiliate Clearwater Threshers.  This proposal was officially brought before the Pinellas County Commission on April 8, 2026. Image Courtesy of Philadelphia Phillies Evolution of the Renovation Plans Over the years, the Phillies have explored various plans for improving BayCare Ballpark. Previous ideas included a ballpark village project estimated at $250 million. It would include outfield pools and an expansion of the ballpark's footprint. However, the most recent proposal represents a shift towards a more streamlined approach focused primarily on enhancing the fan experience. The design team at Ewing Cole, which crafted the design for the Phillies Citizens Bank Park , has also designed the renovation for BayCare Ballpark. Image Courtesy of Philadelphia Phillies Key Components of the Renovation Plan The renovation plan includes several vital improvements to upgrade amenities and infrastructure. Key elements include: New and Expanded Entry Plaza: This will create a more inviting entrance experience for fans. Enhanced Team and Fan Spaces: The plans retain popular elements like the tiki bar while adding new areas in the left-field corner and above the center-field batter's eye. Upgraded Concessions and Expanded Concourses: To better cater to fans, the upgrades will provide greater variety and improve the overall dining experience. Improved Lighting and New Seating: Enhancements will make for a more enjoyable viewing experience. State-of-the-Art Videoboard: A new videoboard will provide fans with updated technology and enhanced viewing options. Financial Overview and Funding Gap The specifics of the funding mechanisms have yet to be finalized. The current proposal includes: $80 million from county hotel/motel tourism taxes, utilizing existing funds without the need for bonding $20 million anticipated support from the state $75 million to be contributed by the Phillies, which will cover any cost overruns as well Image Courtesy of Philadelphia Phillies Commitment to a Future in Clearwater In conjunction with the renovations, the Phillies have committed to maintaining their presence in Clearwater through 2047. This extended commitment not only secures the future of Phillies spring training in the area but also supports the Clearwater Threshers, a Low A team in the Florida State League, which also calls BayCare Ballpark home. The Phillies plans for BayCare Ballpark renovations signify a promising future for fans and the local community. By investing significantly in their spring training facilities, the team aims to enhance the overall experience while fostering a long-term commitment to Clearwater.  As plans continue to develop, local stakeholders and fans eagerly await the next steps in bringing this vision to fruition. Image Courtesy of Philadelphia Phillies

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Daytona International Speedway 1801 W International Speedway Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Roar Before the 24 website Daytona International Speedway website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 167.785 Roaring Into the New Year A week before the historic Rolex 24 , Daytona International Speedway is already buzzing with race action. An event that used to be held three weeks before the current date, the Roar Before the 24 has now become part of the fabric that makes up IMSA’s return to racing in January. Featuring three different racing series, this event is mostly a three-day test session for those in the IMSA WeatherTech Series and Michelin Pilot Challenge. However, for the VP Challenge series, this weekend features two races in their season kick-off. With stellar weather in January, this seaside raceway showcases why race fans flock to Florida in the winter. No doubt, this is becoming a must-see event right in line with the Rolex 24  for diehard fans. Kids 12 and under are free, and there is plenty to see all race weekend long.   Food & Beverage   3 During the Roar, there aren’t as many food trucks and pop-up bars to see as you have during the Rolex 24 . The main stop is the paddock cafe, featuring chicken tenders and fries ($15), cheeseburgers and fries ($15), hot dogs ($7), nachos ($7), beer ($9-$11), soda ($5.50), and various other snacks. The main grandstands are closed off during this weekend, limiting the food options for fans.   Atmosphere   4 The Roar features a lot of the things you’ll find at the Rolex 24 , just on a smaller scale. The infield campfires grow more numerous and the party picks up only as the night darkens, just like at the 24 . There are night practice sessions, and two races for the VP Challenge series. Fans are invited on a pre-race grid walk before the VP race on Saturday, and victory lane is also open to fans for those races. The track itself is stunning as well – there are numerous grandstands in the infield for fans to watch the action from, and the track invites local Boy Scouts troops to come camp for the weekend in the infield during the Roar.   Neighborhood   4 Daytona is a party town from days gone past when tourists flocked to the beaches during the summer months. However, the sun isn’t always so warm in North Florida in January. Nonetheless, the beaches are still just a few miles away from the track. In addition, right across the street from the track sit numerous stores, malls, and restaurants – from Chipotle and Panera to Olive Garden and Longhorn Steakhouse, there are plenty of places to shop and eat during your stay. The most popular spot is now One Daytona, a shopping and dining district that features the likes of PF Chang’s, 4 Rivers BBQ, and even the Daytona Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel.   Fans   3 The fans at the Roar are diehards who know the sport inside and out and are not afraid to show their allegiance to their favorite driver, team, or car manufacturer. They also know how to party like few others, but are also among the most welcoming in the sport. Any one of the various campsites will have a campfire going with a TV playing a broadcast of the race – you’re always welcome to pull up a chair and take in the atmosphere. During the Roar many of the fans are kids, as the track invites countless Boy Scouts troops from the area to come and camp at the track during the weekend. That said, there simply aren’t nearly as many fans at the Roar as there are during the Rolex 24 .   Access   5 Parking at the Roar is plentiful; not only are there on-site parking lots for those with various parking passes, but the track also has various off-site parking options for fans to use, as long as you’re willing to walk. For those who would rather take a ride, trams are also available to shuttle you in and out of the track from numerous parking lots, as well as take you from one point to another at the track itself. You can also wander the facility as you wish, with any ticket granting you access to the various infield grandstand seating areas. On top of that, Daytona International Airport is literally across the street from the track, and hotels in the area are numerous, including the Daytona Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel, a Hilton Garden Inn, and others.   Return on Investment   5 The Roar is a race to be added to any sports fan’s list of must-see events, especially if you are a diehard sportscar fan. Tickets for the roar start at $17.03 for Friday or Sunday, or just $22.70 for Saturday, and go up from there, with various options for multi-day access and infield parking and camping available. Kids 12 and under are free of charge, which makes this a no-brainer for families as well.   Extras   2 All tickets get you into the garage and paddock area at Daytona, which features fantastic views of the track and paddock from the rooftop patio decks. Fans can also get a look into the team preparations, thanks to the viewing windows in each garage bay. In addition, the biggest plus that few other races offer is the fan walk before the race starts on Saturday; fans can get up close to the cars on pit road, and have an up-front seat for the driver introductions.   Final Thoughts Taking a trip to Daytona for the Roar Before the 24 is a visit worth taking. Anyone who is a race fan should attend, and with Daytona’s famed high banks, the action is non-stop. The sound of sportscars fills the air all day and night for three days, ramping up the excitement for the Rolex 24  the following weekend.

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey It’s Sunday evening in Noblesville, Indiana, where parents line up in lawn chairs or find seats on the bleachers to watch their kids play ball. The atmosphere is alive with the sounds of balls pinging off aluminum bats, chatter from the dugouts, cleats scraping the concrete, and lively conversations among the crowd. A Historical Gem in Indiana Noblesville, just north of Indianapolis, has been home to baseball for nearly a century. The community has gathered at this beloved spot since the 1870s, where amateur teams like the Ca-Nine, Quicksteps, Villagers, and Walkovers once battled it out on the diamond. One memorable match saw the Villagers dominate the Pendleton Rough and Ready's with a staggering score of 94-14. In December 1925, the City Council acquired 118 acres near the White River, repurposing it into what we now know as Forest Park. The park would blossom into a recreational hub, featuring a playground, golf course, and, of course, a baseball diamond that opened the following summer. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Evolution of the Ballpark Initially, softball games were played on the diamond until the golf course's establishment in 1930 necessitated a move to its current location, providing better access and more parking for fans. The new field was quickly prepared, trees were cleared, the infield plowed, and spectators seated on bleachers lining each foul line. By June 22, 1930, recreational softball games had drawn large crowds. By 1934, the field underwent a major transformation. Tons of dirt reshaped the diamond, and a durable fence and backstop were installed. The next year marked the construction of a 400-seat all-wooden grandstand under the skilled direction of local contractor John Kindig, who generously donated part of his services. Merrit Murphy of the Noblesville Ledger described the seats as "wide, smooth, and comfortable," offering perfect views of the field. This grandstand, along with the fence, was part of a Federal Emergency Relief Administration project that gave the Forest Park diamond a "big league look," complete with dugouts and an electronic scoreboard. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey A Legacy of Baseball The grandstand was completed just in time for its grand opening on May 26, 1935, featuring a doubleheader with the Arcadia Arrows vs. Schacht Rubber Company, followed by the Noblesville Boosters and Noblesville Merchants game. Over the decades, the Forest Park field hosted a variety of games—amateur, semi-pro, American Legion, high school, and youth leagues, fostering local talent, including the now-defunct Noblesville Indians. Today, the Noblesville Babe Ruth League currently thrives at the stadium, which has undergone significant renovations since 2019. Under the leadership of board director Chris Thomas, the facility received annual sponsorships between $10,000 and $20,000, fueling essential repairs and upgrades.  Modern Upgrades and Community Impact The ballpark has been renamed the Jane Beaver Legacy Diamonds at Forest Park, which includes Emmerson Field and Logan Field. Recent enhancements have seen new dirt, a revamped outfield fence, sod upgrades, and new covered batting cages. Remarkably, player membership surged from 145 to 197 in just one year, showcasing the growing interest and support for youth baseball in Noblesville. Forest Park is not just a baseball venue; it’s a historical landmark that embodies the spirit of the community. As the sun sets and the games unfold, memories continue to be made—fostering the love for America’s pastime in this small but vibrant Indiana town. ------ 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: 4.43 Bridgestone Arena 501 Broadway Nashville, TN 37203 Nashville Predators website Bridgestone Arena website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 17,159 Only in Smashville The NHL found what was, at the time, an unlikely home in Nashville when the Predators began play in 1998, but the city’s hockey roots stretch back to the 1960s. The Nashville Dixie Flyers competed in the Eastern Hockey League for nine seasons before the league folded in the early 1970s. Professional hockey returned in short bursts during the 1980s, first with the Nashville South Stars of the Central Hockey League, followed by the Nashville Knights of the ECHL. A second version of the Central Hockey League arrived in the 1990s when the Nighthawks took the ice in 1996; that team was soon rebranded as the Nashville Ice Flyers, whose run ended when the Predators began play in 1998. While Nashville’s hockey history may be relatively brief compared to some league stalwarts, the Predators have firmly established themselves as one of the NHL’s top draws, thanks to both on-ice success and the electric atmosphere that has grown around the team. More popularly known as Music City, Nashville, but specifically the area surrounding Bridgestone Arena at the corner of Broadway and Rep. John Lewis Way, has taken on another identity: Smashville.   Food & Beverage   5 Bridgestone Arena delivers one of the more complete food lineups in the NHL, blending Nashville staples with standard arena options. The basics are all covered including hot dogs, nachos, pizza, pretzels, and Dippin’ Dots, but the menu stretches well beyond that, even including self-spinning cotton candy machines scattered around the concourse. Southern-inspired options also play a major role, with mac and cheese, barbecue served several different ways, and, of course, Nashville hot chicken (available in both sandwiches and as tenders throughout the building). Local flavors are also a large part of Bridgestone Arena’s lineup, led by Rotier’s and Banjo’s Pickin’ Chicken. Rotier’s, a Nashville institution dating back to 1945, lives on inside the arena with its classic burgers and milkshakes, preserving a piece of the city’s food history even without the original restaurant’s atmosphere. Puckett’s brings barbecue options like the Piggy Mac and Cheese, while the Grilled Cheese stand leans into heavier comfort food, with oversized hoagie-style melts such as the Fuggetaboutit. In addition, Christie Cookie Co. serves as the go-to stop for dessert, whether it’s a warm cookie or an ice cream sandwich. If trying to grab something quickly between periods, there are plenty of convenient options. Fan Favs and Hunt Brothers handle quick-hit staples, with items like walking tacos and Hunk A Pizza that are easy to grab without missing much action, while Burger-Burger, as the name suggests, focuses on burgers but also offers hot dogs. Or you can hit up Top Dog, which elevates the traditional frank with creative builds like the Epic Fury, topped with elote and lime crema. Bottomless soda is widely available and typically offers the best value, while those wanting more of a sit-down experience can head to Pete & Terry’s Tavern on the arena’s southern side. The alcohol selection is just as extensive; beyond the typical domestics roughly two dozen craft-style brews are available, including offerings from Jackalope Brewing, Wiseacre Brewing, and Bearded Iris, along with a Predators-branded Homestyle IPA. Bridgestone Arena also offers its own Arena Lager from R.S. Lipman Brewing Co., giving the building a house option alongside the local craft lineup. Seltzers include High Noon, Happy Dad, Ranch Water, Truly, and Nütrl, while canned spirits range from Clubtails and Cutwater to Surfside and various Jack Daniel’s offerings. Single-serve wines from Vino Copa and Cavit are also available, along with Diskin Cider. Hand-mixed drinks are offered throughout the building, and even Jevo gelatin shots make an appearance, rounding out one of the deeper drink selections you’ll find in an NHL arena.   Atmosphere   4 For a facility now in its third decade of use, Bridgestone Arena still feels remarkably modern. The main entrance features a large, rounded, overhanging roof with enormous glass panels, which allow fans to look out onto Broadway and the Nashville skyline. The most noticeable drawback is that the ice is not visible from most concourse areas. The Predators have also created a party plaza just outside the main entrance, where fans gather before heading inside. With vendors, games, and music playing, this area effectively brings the excitement of Broadway right to the arena’s front door. In addition, in the coming seasons this location is scheduled for substantial renovations, which should further enhance the fan experience. Immediately upon entering the venue, fans are met with plenty of options — grab a beer from one of the many bars, scan the wide range of concessions, visit the team store, or simply explore the facility. Several areas throughout the concourse are designed for photos or interactive activities, particularly for younger fans. Bridgestone Arena also offers several different game-viewing experiences, from traditional seating to multiple clubs and suites. The rink-level Lexus Lounge provides access to a large bar backed by a wall of televisions, several buffets, and even a self-serve candy shop. The lounge also provides a unique opportunity for fans to interact with Predators players as they exit the locker room and head onto the ice. Back inside the bowl, ribbon boards between seating levels rotate statistical information throughout the game, while boards on opposing ends of the rink provide closed captioning for game information and public address announcements. You can also catch the action on FangVision, the massive four-sided scoreboard with fang-like corner screens – screens on the underside of FangVision even help fans at ice level avoid straining their necks. The ice itself doubles as a projection surface for pregame introductions and intermission graphics, including shot location visuals, and adding to the atmosphere, Predators’ organist, “Krazy” Kyle Hankins brings the tradition of the arena organ into the game. Public address announcer Paul McCann plays a major role in shaping the atmosphere as well; following his announcements, the crowd responds in unison with a loud, “Thanks, Paul!”, a small tradition that captures the interactive nature of a Predators game.   Neighborhood   5 There are not many arenas that can match what surrounds Bridgestone Arena. Located in one of the country’s top entertainment districts, the venue sits at the head of the Honky Tonk Highway and serves as a gateway to Nashville’s bar and music scene. In addition, it is not just the Nashville nightlife that is a draw, but historic Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum are both just steps away from the venue. This same area also has a large concentration of high-end hotels for those coming from out of town. If looking to pair a Predators game with other sports, options are plentiful. Just across the Cumberland River sits Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans , while the hockey season overlaps with Nashville SC  at Geodis Park and the Nashville Sounds  at First Horizon Park. Nashville is also home to four Division I universities, making college football, basketball, and baseball additional possibilities, depending on the time of year.   Fans   4 Predators fans have built a reputation for turning Bridgestone Arena into one of the loudest barns in hockey, and it does not take long to understand why. During the 2017 Western Conference Final, sound levels inside the arena climbed to just shy of 130 decibels, comparable to a jet engine, and that same energy still carries through the facility today. Even in seasons where on-ice results have dipped, the seats here remain filled. Bridgestone Arena routinely operates above its listed capacity, averaging over 100 percent full on a nightly basis. The crowd does not just show up; they stay engaged from puck drop to the final horn, creating playoff-like atmospheres for big late-season games. Much of that energy is driven by the devoted supporters in Section 303, known as Cell Block 303. This group sets the tone with organized chants, coordinated cheers, and relentless heckling, particularly aimed at the visiting goaltender. Their signature taunts often crescendo with the familiar “YOU SUCK!” that echoes throughout the arena. For newcomers, this group even maintains a guide outlining chants and when to expect them. Despite the intensity, however, the crowd knows when to dial it back, with former Predators typically welcomed warmly when they return. All told, Nashville’s fans bring constant noise, personality, and participation, playing a major role in shaping one of the NHL’s most entertaining game-night environments.   Access   4 Downtown arenas come with plenty of perks, but traffic and congestion are always part of the equation, and Bridgestone Arena is no exception. The venue sits near the junction of three major interstates feeding into downtown Nashville; the challenge is navigating the roads, traffic, and ongoing construction. Parking in the area is plentiful, with lots and garages located just steps from the arena. There are three primary entry points into Bridgestone Arena – the main Party Plaza on Broadway serves two of these entrances, and offers separate lines for those with and without bags, helping expedite entry. The third entry point is located on Demonbreun Street on the back side of the building. Once inside, wide concourses make getting around relatively easy. Concession stands are also plentiful, which helps limit wait times and keeps lines from interrupting the flow of fans. One area that can back up during intermissions is the restrooms, however, so planning visits during play can help you avoid longer waits.   Return on Investment   4 The cost of attending professional sports can add up quickly, and NHL games are no exception. The key is finding promotions and workarounds to make the experience more affordable. At Bridgestone Arena, 100 tickets are released at 10 am (CT) on each game day for just $17, though fans must use the Predators’ app to access them. The team also offers discounts for first responders, military members, and other public servants through GovX. Parking rates vary depending on proximity to the vanue, but one of the better options is Music City Center directly across the street from the back of Bridgestone Arena, where game-day parking is typically around $20. While main level seating can be expensive, there are certainly affordable ways to get inside, to experience what Smashville has to offer.   Extras   5 The main level concourse was designed as an ode to the city’s country music history – the floor resembles a guitar, complete with strings and fret markers, while the façade of the second level is patterned after piano keys. The fan information area displays the skull and bones of a saber-toothed tiger discovered just blocks from the arena, which helped inspire the Predators name. Another option inside the venue is Gnashville, a children’s play area packed with activities for younger fans and those young at heart. The Predators’ youngest supporters will find craft stations, video games, and games set up on a miniature rink. Adding to the local ties is a display recognizing the growing high school hockey programs throughout Tennessee, while Predators' mascot Gnash is also regularly available for photos, making rounds throughout the pregame festivities in the fan plaza, as well as during the game inside the arena.   Final Thoughts When Nashville was awarded an NHL franchise in 1997, it seemed an unlikely place for hockey to thrive. Nothing could be further from the truth — not only has hockey worked in Nashville, it has flourished. Following this season, Bridgestone Arena is scheduled to begin a five-year, nearly $1 billion renovation designed to further connect the venue with Broadway. Plans include a tower hotel and a covered fan plaza at the corner of Broadway and 6th Avenue, among other upgrades aimed at enhancing the game-day experience. Hockey in Nashville is an outstanding experience, from the in-game entertainment to the energy on the ice. What truly sets Bridgestone Arena apart, however, is the vibe of Broadway just steps from the front doors – the country music, party atmosphere that seamlessly carries inside and helps make Smashville one of the NHL’s most unique, fan-friendly destination.

The NFL has officially revealed its collaboration with TMRW Sports to establish a groundbreaking professional flag football league for both women and men, backed by a diverse array of influential investors, including NFL teams and notable current and former players. Fresh off the transformative weekend of the Fanatics Flag Football Classic , the NFL is placing its bet on a groundbreaking, hit-less football league that could redefine the sport.  Four months ago, the NFL announced a $32 million investment aimed at elevating flag football, reflecting the sport's burgeoning popularity across various age groups. This investment, made through 32 Equity, marks a significant shift in focus towards inclusive and accessible competitive play.  Formation of a New League On March 30, the NFL unveiled plans for a professional flag football league designed not only for seasoned athletes but also to embrace the rising tide of women's participation in sports. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving Hall of Fame legends, recently retired stars, and notable figures in women's sports. Troy Vincent Sr., NFL's Executive Vice President of Football Operations, emphasized the importance of this league for both men and women, stating, “As the flag football movement continues its explosive global growth... this is especially meaningful for girls and young women who are helping drive the sport’s growth worldwide.” This statement reveals the intention behind this initiative: to create opportunities for athletes at all levels, from youth programs to the Olympic stage. The investment aims to build a sustainable pathway for talent in flag football, further integrating it into the broader athletic landscape. Growing Popularity of Flag Football According to the NFL, approximately 4.1 million kids are now engaged in flag football across the United States, marking a 50% increase since 2020. The growing involvement has prompted more than 100 colleges and universities to offer women’s flag football programs, laying the foundation for a competitive landscape. Flag football is poised to take the international stage with its debut in the 2028 Olympics set to be held in Los Angeles. The recent Fanatics Flag Football Classic  showcased this potential, with Team USA impressively defeating former NFL stars and current quarterbacks alike, signaling that the sport is not just accessible, but also fiercely competitive. Influential Figures in the New League The new league will see involvement from an impressive roster, including Larry Fitzgerald, Steve Young, Joe Montana, Peyton Manning, and Tom Brady all as advisory board members in addition to Billie Jean King and Alex Morgan as women’s sports advocates. Both current and former NFL players will help shape the league's identity and direction. Tom Brady noted, “Flag football represents so much of what makes this game special... the extensive list of current and former players supporting this league shows just how strongly athletes believe in its future.” Female sports luminaries like Billie Jean King and Serena Williams have also expressed confidence in the league's potential. King stated, “The momentum behind women’s sports has never been stronger, and flag football is poised to play a major role in that continued growth.” Future Outlook of the Flag Football League While an official launch date for the league has not yet been established, it is anticipated that preparations will align with the 2028 Olympic games. The NFL has yet to disclose details regarding team locations or the number of franchises. Following patterns from leagues like the United Football League, there could potentially be eight teams, some based in cities lacking NFL representation. As the NFL moves ahead with this expansive vision, the commitment to supporting flag football reflects a broader cultural shift towards diversity, inclusion, and further safety within athletics, potentially revolutionizing how the game is perceived globally.

Images Courtesy of the Ultimate Frisbee Association The Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) is entering its most ambitious season yet. Combining high-flying athleticism with a fast-paced professional structure, the league has officially set its 2026 season opener for April 24, 2026. It is a high-intensity, organized, managed sport.  Whether you are a longtime "disc-head" or a newcomer catching a glimpse of a 70-yard hammer throw during an NFL halftime, here is everything you need to know about the state of the UFA. The league began in 2012 with just eight teams and a dream to professionalize a sport long associated with college campuses and beach weekends. Over the last 14 years, it has transformed into a polished media property, transitioning from the American Ultimate Disc League (AUDL) to the UFA to better align with its global brand. The Layout: 22 Teams, 4 Divisions The UFA currently operates with 22 teams across North America, organized into four geographic divisions. The Detroit Mechanix and the Los Angeles Aviators both ceased operations. This structure fuels intense regional rivalries and keeps travel sustainable for a growing league. Central Division:   Indianapolis Alley Cats , Madison Radicals,  Minnesota Wind Chill, Pittsburgh Thunderbirds, and Chicago Union. East Division:  Boston Glory, DC Breeze, Toronto Rush, Philadelphia Phoenix, New York Empire, and Montreal Royal. West Division: Oregon Steel, Seattle Cascades, Colorado Apex, Oakland Spiders, and Salt Lake Shred. South Division:  Vegas Bighorns, Houston Havoc, San Diego Growlers, Carolina Flyers, Austin Sol, and Atlanta Hustle . The NFL Connection: Ultimate on the Big Stage One of the UFA’s most successful marketing masterstrokes has been its partnership with the NFL. To showcase the sport's speed, many UFA teams perform halftime exhibitions during NFL games. Playing in front of 70,000 fans, these "Showcase Games" typically feature a 6-to-10-minute condensed scrimmage. They emphasize "big plays"—long-distance scores (hucks) and layout blocks—to prove to football fans that Ultimate players are some of the most elite "dual-threat" athletes in the world, often covering more ground per game than wide receivers. How the Game is Played While the casual park game uses "Spirit of the Game" (self-officiating), the UFA uses certified referees to ensure a fast, broadcast-friendly pace. The Field:  Played on a football-sized field (120 x 53.3 yards). The Clock:  Four 12-minute quarters. The Disc:  The official disc is the Aria Ultimate disc, designed for stability in stadium wind. No Contact:  While physical, it is a non-contact sport; however, the speed of the 175-gram disc means players must use incredible leaping ability and "bidding" (diving) to make plays. How to Watch the 2026 Season When the pulls (kickoffs) start on April 24, fans can catch the action via: WatchUFA.tv :  The league's primary streaming service for every regular-season game. YouTube :  The "Game of the Week" is often featured on their official channel. Local Stadiums:  From high school complexes to minor league soccer stadiums, the UFA prides itself on an accessible, family-friendly live atmosphere. The 2026 season promises to be the most competitive in the league's history.

Photos courtesy of Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium King George St Annapolis, MD 21402 Navy Midshipmen website Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 1,500 Anchors Aweigh All students at the Naval Academy receive a full college scholarship that is paid back with service in the Navy or Marines. These scholar-athletes are true amateur athletes and deserve the utmost respect. At Navy, the baseball players also get the opportunity to play at a very fine facility that is on par with many levels of professional baseball. Professional baseball did play here briefly in 1994. The Bowie Baysox played the 1993 season at Memorial Stadium in Baltimore while their home, Prince George’s Stadium, was being built. But weather delays caused the need to play a few home games in alternate locations at the start of the 1994 season. Max Bishop Stadium, as well as Shipley Field at the University of Maryland, served this temporary need as well. The stadium has been around since 1962, although Navy baseball has been played on the same spot with other fields for years before then, and is named after longtime coach Max Bishop. Bishop served as coach from 1937 to 1961 and earned over 300 wins coaching the Midshipmen. Bishop was also a former Major League player, nicknamed “Eagle Eye,” who, while with the Philadelphia Athletics, helped his team to three World Series, winning two of them in 1929 and 1930. After renovations in 2005, the brand new state-of-the-art field was named after brothers Ron, Bruce, and George Terwilliger, all of whom were players for Navy in the mid-1960s. Two of the brothers contributed to a significant upgrading of the facility during the renovation process. Navy competes in the Patriot League. Food & Beverage 2 There is a simple concession stand located directly behind home plate. It is actually in the stands, so you can keep a good view of the game action while buying food. Nothing exciting, but it is convenient and cheap. Atmosphere 4 Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium is a fantastic college baseball stadium. It was one of the first to add FieldTurf around the entire field (except for the pitcher’s mound and home plate area) when it was renovated in 2005. That renovation gutted the seating area of the stadium, as well. The old metal and wooden bleachers were replaced by chairs with seat backs and concrete concourses. Seating is now comfortable with excellent views. There is even a picnic table seating section on each side of the field, above the normal seats. The best views of the actions are not from the seats. Above the third base dugout is a standing room only area offering excellent views, although you may want to watch for foul balls that quickly enter this area. A similar standing room only area is located a bit further down the third baseline, atop a storage room. There are excellent views of the Naval Academy buildings, as well as College Creek, that make the park very scenic. Neighborhood 4 Annapolis is a fantastic and beautiful city. There are many options for food, and the activities in the area are varied. It is an area without limitations. What is limited is anything to do in the direct neighborhood of Bishop Stadium. It is located at the far end of the Naval Academy campus near where King George Street ends at Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard / Route 450. It is located outside of the security gates of the academy, so access will not be an issue. But being isolated from the main part of campus also means it is isolated from the central part of Annapolis. If one wants to visit downtown after a game, it could be a good idea to find a street parking space on King George Street near the St. John’s College campus, so that you are located halfway between the two places. There are many other historic sites to see around Annapolis. One of the first sites that should be seen is the Maryland State House. Located at State Circle, it is the oldest capital in continuous legislative use since 1772. From November 26, 1783, to August 13, 1784, this building also served as the capital of the United States. Be sure to check out the replica of the ship Federalist located in the rotunda. Food options are abundant in Annapolis. Be sure to try Buddy’s Crabs & Ribs for crabs, or at least a crab cake. It will be messy, but very rewarding. And you must try it with a beer, preferably a Natty Boh. If afraid of the crustacean, you can always fight for a table at Chick & Ruth’s Delly, where the local politicians have eaten for years. This quirky restaurant even recites the Pledge of Allegiance every morning at 8:30 (9:30 am on weekends). It is standard diner-type fare, but the creamed beef is a fine choice. Crabs and crab-type items are also found here. If you need something a bit more upscale, check out the Red Red Wine Bar at 189B Main Street. They have numerous wine choices, even wine flights. Try something accompanied by the Brie Toast. Fans 3 As with most northeast college baseball stadiums, the bulk of the fans tend to be family or friends of both teams. There did seem to be some local fans who just happened to stop by for the game. The fans are knowledgeable, but not necessarily loud. Access 3 The stadium’s location at the entrance to Annapolis, right over the US Naval Academy Bridge on Route 450, means that Bishop Stadium is easy to access. You do not have to enter far into the traffic madness that is Annapolis. It is not clearly marked, but there are many parking spaces available for weekend games. Wainwright Road is a small access road that wraps around Halligan Hall near the stadium. There are numerous spaces around this road, but they may not be available for weekday games, as Halligan Hall is an active facility for academy public works and other offices. Return on Investment 5 The games at Bishop Stadium are free to attend, and parking is free, as well. The seats are close to the action, and the view from the field is nice, so a fan is well-rewarded for attending a game here. Extras 3 Attending a game at the Naval Academy, even in a smaller college sport like baseball, makes one feel good because you are supporting the troops in some small way. The facility usually offers free posters and other items for kids and adults alike. They tend to be located at one of the official entrances to the grandstand, not from the open ends of the stands, so do not miss these. Game day contests may also be located here. Final Thoughts Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium is a field that is as good as many a minor league baseball stadium. And it is far better than many of the college baseball facilities seen in the northeast. If in the area, you should check the baseball schedules and try to see a game.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Mustang Beach 11005 Owings Mills Blvd Owings Mills, MD 21117 Stevenson Mustangs website Mustang Beach website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: n/a A History of Horses There are times when something good can spring from something so bad. Stevenson University and its wonderful athletic facilities are "the good". The events of March 1984 were "the bad", at least for the residents of Maryland. At 2 am on March 29th of that year, fifteen Mayflower moving trucks arrived at the Baltimore Colts training facility in Owings Mills, a northwest suburb of Baltimore. Workers loaded all of the team’s belongings, and the trucks left for Indianapolis, arriving later that day to a massive welcome. The move happened in the dark since the Colts’ owner, Bob Irsay, feared the Maryland legislature would pass an eminent domain bill that would have legally barred the team from moving. The bill passed later that day, but it was too late, as the locally beloved franchise was already gone. In the early years after the Colts left, the former training facility had seen some of its land sold off by the then-property owners, Baltimore City. The main building and field were also used as a training center for local police officers. Football returned from 1994 to 1995 as the Baltimore Stallions of the Canadian Football League (CFL) used the training center. The Stallions were quite a success, easily the most successful of the United States' CFL expansion teams, with strong attendance numbers and appearances in the CFL Grey Cup Championship Game in both years they were in town. 1995, they even won that championship, but when the Cleveland Browns agreed to move to Maryland, the Stallions realized that they needed to move on. Move they did, back to Canada, and they are still known today as the Montreal Alouettes. In 1996, the newly renamed Baltimore Ravens team took up residence in the Owings Mills facility. The team would move to a new center, also in the Owings Mills area, called the Under Armour Performance Center in 2004. That new facility is referred to as “The Castle” for its architectural style. Villa Julie College has always been a bit of a quirky place. Originally located in the Greenspring Valley of Baltimore County and its Stevenson neighborhood, the college was an all-girls school until 1972 and did not even offer bachelor's degrees until 1984. It was also entirely non-residential. Eventually, the college desired to add housing and more of just about everything, so a new campus was added in Owings Mills. This expansion dramatically increased the college’s offerings and student population. In 2008, they decided they needed a new identity and changed their name to Stevenson University. The old campus is still in use. The Owings Mills campus just happened to be right next door to the old Baltimore Colts training facility. Stevenson acquired the building and land and used it as the center of their athletic department. In 2006, it reopened as the Caves Sports and Wellness Center. Some of the locker rooms and facilities are similar to the ones left behind by the Ravens, with necessary remodeling done. In addition, in 2010, the 38,000-square-foot Owings Mills Gymnasium was added. Mustang Stadium is located in front of Mustang Beach. Mustang Beach is also home to a men's beach volleyball team. This review is for the women's team, but it would likely be the same experience. Food & Beverage 0 There is one permanent food stand at Mustang Beach. Atmosphere 2 There is a wonderful atmosphere at Mustang Beach. There are no regular seats, but you may not mind. Sit along the beach courts, take your shoes off, and enjoy the action. Neighborhood 4 Owings Mills is a suburb of Baltimore, so there are plenty of shopping centers and restaurants in the area. Many good options are within easy walking distance, such as Subway, IHOP, and Five Guys Burgers and Fries. The Owings Mills station of the Baltimore Metro subway system is located about a mile away from campus. Fans 3 There were not many fans at the game, but it was also cold and gloomy. Not a great day for beach volleyball. Being a largely commuter university, there may not be too many students at the games. There are residence halls near the beach, so some students' attendance is always possible. Access 4 Owings Mills Boulevard has an exit off nearby Interstate 795. The stadium is a pretty quick one-mile trip from the highway. I worried about traffic in an area that is pretty busy even on normal days, but the traffic was no problem. The university has plenty of parking in the area, and there are no issues here. Parking is free. Return on Investment 5 Admission is free. With free parking, Stevenson University beach volleyball is a good value. Extras 2 The former home of three professional football teams, the Caves Sports and Wellness Center is worth a quick trip. Try to remember 1984 and the pain and struggle that local football fans went through for years. Next to Mustang Stadium is a statue of a Mustang, the university’s mascot. This is a good meet-up spot and photo opportunity. Final Thoughts Besides being on a historic football ground, Stevenson University’s Mustang Beach offers the fans great value, as well as a nice place to watch lacrosse.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Delta Dental Arena 311 W. River Rd. Hooksett, NH 03106 New Hampshire Mountain Kings website Delta Dental Arena website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 1,500 Kings of the White Mountains   The New Hampshire Mountain Kings are members of the Tier II North American Hockey League, a premier developmental league for players looking to continue their careers and advance to higher levels of hockey, including collegiate and professional levels. The Mountain Kings were established in 2023 when their ownership group purchased the local arena and were granted an expansion team.   The Mountain Kings play their home games at Delta Dental Arena in Hookset, NH, a suburb of Manchester. Opened in 1998 as Tri-Town Ice Arena, the facility was the first twin-sheet facility in the state. Northeast Delta Dental entered into a multi-year naming rights deal with the facility in 2025.   In their first three seasons, the Mountain Kings have qualified for the playoffs once, losing in the play-in round in 2024-25.   Food & Beverage 5   We often say on these pages that community rinks have sneaky-good concession options. Delta Dental Arena certainly fits the bill. The arena’s snack bar, named “Rivalries” has different menus for whether you are there for a Mountain Kings game or another event.   For NAHL games, even though the menu is downsized, there are plenty of choices here. Pizzas, burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, fried chicken sandwiches, chicken Caesar wraps and chicken nuggets are all available. An assortment of sides, including fries, onion rings, pretzels, nachos, mozzarella sticks and popcorn fill out the menu. A small cooler offers some healthier choices, including fruit cups and more.   Pepsi products are featured at Delta Dental Arena. There is a full-service bar on the other side of the café area. A good selection of national and craft beers are available, highlighted by $3 Bud Lights at every Mountain King game. Fans looking for a craft beer will find Fiddlehead IPA, New Hampshire Lager by Deciduous Brewery, Cone Head IPA from Zero Gravity and Cloud Candy IPA from Mighty Squirrel Brewing. Center Ice Faceoff at Delta Dental Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Atmosphere 2   While we just finished singing the praises of the concessions of community rinks, the same often can’t be said of the game day presentation at these rinks. The resources are just not there for an elaborate show. At a rink like Delta Dental Arena, the game is the focus.   The sound system here is excellent, and is put to good use with music during play stoppages and a PA announcer who adds some energy to the proceedings. The inclusion of Brass Bonanza after Mountain King goals is a head scratcher, but always welcome. There are a few on-ice promotions during intermissions, but for the most part, the energy in the building is brought by the fans in attendance. Luckily for the Mountain Kings, the fans here are very enthusiastic. The amount of Mountain King jerseys you see in the stands here is most impressive.   Neighborhood 2   Delta Dental Arena is located in a mixed use residential/business neighborhood. Visiting fans will not find a whole lot of dining or lodging options in the immediate vicinity of the arena, but there are choices around for fans who are willing to take a drive.   The Pizza Man of Hooksett is located close to the arena, and seemed to be very busy during Stadium Journey’s visit. There are a few fast-food options close to the I-93 interchange, and Mr. Mac’s Macaroni and Cheese serves up a variety of gourmet mac and cheese dishes just a short drive from the arena. Of course, downtown Manchester is only a 15-minute drive away. Fans will find plenty of dining and lodging options there.   Fans visiting during the winter months will find plenty of winter tourist options in the White Mountains, located just to the north of Hookset up I-93. Several excellent ski resorts can be found in northern New Hampshire. For more information on attractions in the area, visit www.visitwhitemountains.com . Mountain King Jersey Display at Delta Dental Arena. Photo by Paul Baker.   Fans 2   Crowds at Mountain King games are what we here at Stadium Journey like to call “friends and family” type of crowds. The great majority of the people in the stands have a personal connection with the players on the ice, either as billet families, family members, friends or classmates. As you might imagine, they are very involved in the action, and very supportive of the home team. Since the bulk of the Mountain Kings’ schedule consists of games against other northeastern teams, you’ll be sure to see plenty of visiting fans in the stands. This is a place you can feel comfortable sporting the opposing team’s colors.   The Mountain Kings generally draw between 150-300 fans per game, a figure which has remained consistent over their first three seasons. Stadium Journey visited Delta Dental Arena on the team’s final weekend of the 2025-26 season, with an announced crowd of about 200 fans in attendance. This figure appears to be accurate.   Access 4   Delta Dental Arena is located in the town of Hookset, New Hampshire, a town of just under 15,000 residents located between Manchester and Concord. The arena is easily accessible, as it is located about two and a half miles off of Interstate 93, which runs north-south the length of the state from Boston to the Vermont border at St. Johnsbury. Exit 10 will put you on West River Road a short distance from the rink.   There is ample parking at Delta Dental Arena. Fans will enter into a small lobby, where a ticket table will be located. Upon entering the facility, fans will find the Ryan Frew Memorial Rink directly ahead of you. This is where the Mountain Kings play. The snack bar is located at the far end of the arena, as are the restrooms.   Seating consists of molded bleachers that run along one side of the rink and at one end of the ice. Some standing room is available at ice level at the other end of the rink, as well as some areas at the top of the seating area. Fans can also take in the action from the hallway/snack bar area, where several benches are set up. Many fans will choose to watch the game from the warmth of these areas. Delta Dental Arena Exterior. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Return on Investment 5   Admission to Mountain King games is sold as general admission for just five dollars. Parking is free in the arena’s lot. Concessions are reasonably priced as well, making a night at Delta Dental Arena an affordable entertainment option for southern New Hampshire sports fans.   Extras 2   The Mountain Kings have a nice display of all the specialty jerseys the team has worn in their brief history.   Delta Dental Arena has an actual functioning dentist’s office in the facility. Makes sense on a couple of levels, and worth a mention here.   Final Thoughts   What can you say about a hockey rink with an actual working dentist office on site? Ironic? Maybe. Awesome? Definitely! Delta Dental Arena is a solid, affordable place to catch some junior hockey action.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI. Faceoff at Delta Dental Arena. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3. 29 Bowling Green Ballpark 300 E 8th Ave Bowling Green, KY 42101 Bowling Green Hot Rods website Bowling Green Ballpark website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 5,700 Things are Getting Better in Bowling Green The Hot Rods fans are supportive of the team, but are not among the leaders in the South Atlantic League. The concourse is busy and bustling with fans, but the seats are not filled for the opening night of the season. It appears that many at the ballpark are out for an enjoyable night out, which is what the minor leagues are all about. Bowling Green Ballpark has been home to the Bowling Green Hot Rods of the Midwest League since the 2009 season. The 4,559-seat stadium was designed by architectural firm DLR Group and features a concave right-center field wall due to the road behind the stadium and an embedded 6 by 68-foot LED display board in the left field wall. The price tag on the stadium was $28 million when it was completed in 2009. Bowling Green’s population is near 67,000 and is probably best known for being the home to Western Kentucky University and the manufacturing home of the Chevrolet Corvette, with the Corvette Museum located in town. The city is somewhat new to minor league baseball, and there is not a rich history that you might find in other cities, although the town was home to the Bowling Green Barons from 1939 to 1942. The Hot Rods ended the 67-year drought with the completion of ballpark construction in 2009, and looking at its front entrance, there is a nod to baseball past with retro paintings of step-by-step instructions on how to swing a bat in pink and black colors. The ball club is the High-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. Food & Beverage 4 The ballpark’s food and drink selection has improved over the years and now satisfies a wide range of tastes. Classic ballpark fare includes hot dogs, nachos, ice cream, and barbecue, alongside an extensive beverage lineup. State Fair Stand: jumbo hot dogs, chili cheese fries, chili dogs, chicken tenders, cheese curds, pretzel bites, curly fries, and Bavarian pretzels. Checker Flag: brats, burgers, and chicken fingers. Axle’s Eats: pizza, cheesesteaks, and cheesesteak nachos. Thurs–Sat special: build-your-own walking tacos and foot‑long hot dogs with assorted toppings. A decorated bar space with outdoor patio seating on the third base features draft beer, plus cocktails and hard seltzers. The domestic beers include Miller Lite, Coors Light, Busch Light, and Yuengling. The local options include West Sixth Brewing and White Claw seltzers. The Jim Beam Bullpen Bar close to the backstop on the first base line and the stand offers very reasonable cocktails along with draft beer options between the prices of $7 and $8. Lime Margaritas Strawberry Margaritas Bourbon Punch Beam and Coke White Squirel Kolsch Sierra Nevada Pale Ale Atmosphere 3 Before the 2019 season, Bowling Green Ballpark underwent $2 million in renovations that enhanced the experience for visitors of all ages. The upgrades include a full wraparound concourse, letting fans watch the game from multiple vantage points and use the facility during the day for walking or jogging. The most recognizable feature is the close to $800,000 high-definition video board that stands at 35 feet tall by 56 feet wide, almost triple the size of the old video board, and with a video quality that will put it on par with other ballparks in baseball. The 1,500 square foot Splash Zone also includes two new adjacent restrooms and two changing rooms behind the batter’s eye in center field. The 10-foot-tall baseball bat water fountain allows fans to cool off during the hot summer months and provides a new way to beat the heat at the baseball game. The ballpark features an impressive kids' area down the right field line that includes a covered playground, carousel, and radar pitch machine. The official team store is called The Body Shop and has a vast collection of team merchandise plus game-worn jerseys. Axle and Rascoe are the club’s official mascots and can be seen throwing out shirts, waving flags on the dugouts, signing autographs, and posing for photos throughout the concourse. The facility also features an outdoor patio set down the left field line, tier-lawn seating, and table tops on the concourse to enjoy food and drink while watching the game. The press box itself is not directly behind home plate but pushed down the third base side; this gives fans in the Reinhart Club seating a panoramic view of the diamond. Neighborhood 4 Bowling Green is a small college town, but it’s much more than that. Fountain Square Park is in the heart of downtown and offers various places to eat and drink after the game. The downtown area is less than a mile away and a nice spot to visit on the weekends. One place, 440 Main , offers Southern cuisine, including crab cakes, jambalaya, and bourbon pork chops. The Cliffs of Moher Irish Pub  is a casual spot for pints and grub, and The 30 Bird on the Square serves paleo, vegan, and vegetarian options. The Copper Bar and The Dusty Boot are options for drinks, while Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Shop will satisfy your sweet tooth. If your travels take you to Bowling Green during April and early May, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers play baseball less than 2 miles away at Rick Denes Field . There are times when the Hilltoppers play at 4 pm, and the Hot Rods play at 6:35. It is an ideal way to enjoy a doubleheader while in town. About 30 minutes north on I-65 is Mammoth Cave National Park, featuring numerous underground tours that will fascinate and keep you cool during the hot summer months. There is an adventure to be had when you take a two-hour cave tour and squeeze through narrow passages and tunnels. It is one of the great national parks of the United States. Fans 2 The Hot Rods fans are supportive of the team, but are not among the leaders in the South Atlantic League. The concourse is busy and bustling with fans, but the seats are not filled for the opening night of the season. It appears that many at the ballpark are out for an enjoyable night out, which is what the minor leagues are all about. Access 4 Bowling Green Ballpark is within a few miles of I-65, and there is free parking in the various lots on streets near the facility. Once inside, the small and cozy conditions make for a rather accessible stadium. There is even signage directing motorists to the ballpark, something that is not always common in smaller cities. The average fan should have no problems being able to watch the game away from their seat while waiting in line for food. Return on Investment 3 The cost of a reserved seat in advance or on game day is $12, an increase of $4 since our last visit a few years back. Premium seats are $14 in advance. Performance Club seating is $24 in advance and provides fans access to the recently renovated Reinhart Club up above the concourse behind home plate. A full-service bar, wait-staff, and custom menu items give the fan an upgraded ballpark experience for a few dollars more. The Hiller Corner is designed for group outings, reducing overall capacity to enhance the spectator experience. Parking is free in the main lot across the street and on the street. The price of a draft beer is $7 (including both domestic and locally crafted varieties), and from Tuesday to Wednesday evening, certain food and drink prices fall by anywhere from one to two dollars each. They include the following: Turbo’s Tailwaggin’ Tuesdays offers free admission for all dogs. Weiner and White Claw Wednesday: $4 White Claws and $3 hot dogs Bootleggers Thirsty Thursdays $1.50 Beers and $2.50 Drink Specials Fireworks Fridays after the game Extras 3 The ballpark earns a point for free parking, a splash pad for children behind the batter's eye in centerfield, and free admission for dogs on Tuesday nights. Final Thoughts Bowling Green Ballpark is a serviceable ballpark that offers all the amenities for fans. The wrap-around concourse offers fantastic food options, activities for children, drinks for adults, and gorgeous views from multiple vantage points. It is a great spot to check out a game when you are on your way between the Triple-A ballparks in Louisville and Nashville.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Nick Denes Field Avenue of Champions Bowling Green, KY 42101 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers website Nick Denes Field website Year Opened: 1969 Capacity: 1,500 Western Kentucky is the "Tops" in Baseball Nick Denes Field is the home of the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers baseball team. The ballpark sits 1,500 people and is tucked into a corner next to the Houchens Industries-LT Smith Stadium and the Tim and Sarah Ford Fieldhouse. The stadium has undergone many changes over the past few years to not only improve the atmosphere for fans, but also for its athletes. The ballpark features a grandstand with all chair-back seating and a three-level press box. There is additional seating down each foul line, offering additional points of sale for drinks, food, and merchandise. A video scoreboard is situated in right field, concession stands are underneath the grandstand, and a peanut-free zone is down the left field line. The stadium opened in 1969 and is named after former Hilltoppers football and baseball head coach Nicholas Denes. He coached the baseball team from 1958 to 1962 and the football team from 1957 to 1967.  The stadium features synthetic turf with deep red baselines. There is also a 25-foot wall in centerfield. WKU began playing baseball in 1910 and has made five NCAA tournament appearances, most recently in 2025. There have also been 59 players selected in the MLB Draft since its inception in 1965. Food & Beverage 3 The main concession stand is at the main entrance of the ballpark and features the usual ballpark items. They include cheeseburgers, nachos, hot dogs, popcorn, and peanuts. There is also beer, seltzers, and Coca-Cola products. There is a grill and a tent on the right foul line area that cooks up burgers and hot dogs, while a small kiosk on the opposite side offers beer specials and chips. Atmosphere 4 A Hilltoppers game may seem ordinary at first, but it’s actually lively and engaging. The crowd is energetic, not just family and friends, and there are plenty of between-inning promotions for younger fans. Attendees can choose from various food and drink options, enjoy music between innings, and follow player stats and updates on the videoboard. The left field concourse features an area along the left field line with synthetic turf. The area is peanut and seed-free, and fans can bring in lawn chairs to watch the game. Fans are provided with a protective netting on this side, along with the opposite side.  The grandstand is easily accessible and features comfortable chair-back seats. There are also great views from the picnic table area down the right field line. The quirky little ballpark also offers nice backdrops of campus buildings and a water tower.  What is not seen by fans is the inside of the Tim and Sarah Ford Fieldhouse. It offers indoor batter cages and a gym, saunas, ice baths, and mud rooms. There are also coaches' and trainers' rooms and an area of seating for season-ticket holders. The main focal point is the indoor football field that can be used by the baseball team for indoor practice and a baseball locker room that is modern, comfortable, and state-of-the-art. Neighborhood 4 Western Kentucky is a small college town, but it’s much more than that. Fountain Square Park is in the heart of downtown and offers various places to eat and drink after the game. The downtown area is less than a mile from campus and is a nice spot to visit on the weekends. 440 Main  offers Southern cuisine, including crab cakes, jambalaya, and bourbon pork chops.  The Cliffs of Moher Irish Pub is a casual spot for pints and grub, and The 30 Bird on the Square  serves paleo, vegan, and vegetarian options. The Copper Bar and The Dusty Boot are options for drinks, while Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Shop  will satisfy your sweet tooth. About 30 minutes north of Bowling Green, I-65 passes Mammoth Cave National Park, featuring numerous underground tours that will fascinate and keep you cool during the hot summer months. There is an adventure to be had when you take a two-hour cave tour and squeeze through narrow passages and tunnels. It is one of the great national parks of the United States. Fans 4 A vast array of fans supports the Toppers baseball program. The grandstand was filled, along with the additional seating down each foul line. The crowd erupted for runs, scores, strikeouts, and putouts on the bases. For a 4 PM start on a Friday afternoon on a holiday weekend, the turnout was impressive. Access 4 The stadium has two entrances and a large concourse down the left field line that allows for easy access for fans. The concourse on the right field side is much narrower and borders the busy main street-don’t try to chase foul balls in this area.  The stadium is on campus and offers a parking lot across the street. There are two levels of options for fans, along with additional street parking outside of the football stadium and left field fence; however, availability might differ depending on days of the week and other events taking place on campus. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for children, an incredible value for Division-I baseball. The beer and food prices are not as low, but reasonable, and online with other venues of its kind around the conference. An all-beef hot dog is very reasonable for $4, while nachos are $6, and beer and seltzers are $7. Fans can enjoy two cans of Bush Light for $10 during the game. A merchandise table offers caps, t-shirts, and sweaters with the school’s logos in various colors. Caps sell for $40. Except for the caps, the prices are lower than those at the Bowling Green Ballpark , home of the Bowling Green Hot Rods, a few miles down the road.  Extras 3 The ballpark earns a point for the new fieldhouse that offers season ticket holders seats on the balcony overlooking the left side of the ballpark. A second point is awarded to the peanut and seed-free zone on the same side of the venue. The final point is for the $5 adult ticket prices. Final Thoughts Nick Denes Field is a comfortable and relaxing spot for a college baseball game. The prices are low, the fans are enthusiastic, and the vibe is right for a nice day to spend an afternoon in the springtime. ——— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his   YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Lloyd Brown and Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Little Caesars Arena 2645 Woodward Ave Detroit, MI 48201 Detroit Red Wings website Little Caesars Arena website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 19,515 Pizza, Pistons, and Pucks The Detroit Red Wings are one of the earliest teams in the NHL, founded in 1926. Originally known as the Detroit Cougars, they changed their name to the Red Wings in time for the 1932 season. The team has won 11 Stanley Cups over the years, with hockey icons such as Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay, and Alex Delvecchio leading the way. Over those years, the team has called three venues their home ice. Their original home was the Olympia (1927-1979), followed by the Joe Louis Arena (1979-2016) and their present home at the Little Caesars Arena. Little Caesars Arena is also the home of the Detroit Pistons of the NBA. The arena is also a very popular venue for concerts. Food & Beverage 3 Little Caesars Arena offers both sit-down service and the traditional concession stand service to fans. Sit-down options are featured in the District Detroit area of the arena. They include Mike’s Pizza Bar, which offers artisanal pizza ($18) and sandwiches ($16), along with craft beers ($14) or wine ($10). The UWM District Market is divided into multiple sections, including The Coffee House, The Garden, La Cocina, and the Patio Grill. The more traditional concession stands include Little Caesars Pizza (pizza), the 313 Grill Company (fries, burgers, sausages, chips, and sodas), Classics (nachos, pretzels, popcorn, and chips), the Coop (chicken tenders, chicken rollups, fries), and Taqueria (nacho grande, street tacos). The arena features Coca-Cola brand sodas. There are several drinking establishments at Little Caesars Arena. Before the game, you might want to check out the Budweiser Biergarten. This is located on a patio just outside the arena. It is glass-enclosed, so you can still visit during the colder winter months. Two other options are Mike’s Pizza Bar or Bell’s Tap House in the District Detroit section of the arena, which both offer a wide selection of craft beers. The drinking age in Michigan is 21. Atmosphere 4 Even though the Little Caesars Arena is shared with the Detroit Pistons, it is readily apparent that the Red Wings are the primary occupant of the building. Once inside the building, fans will see a wide variety of salutes to the history of the Red Wings, through displays, memorabilia, and statuary. Along the main concourse of the arena, you will find statues of Red Wings superstars Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay, and Alex Delvechio. One of the brick walls lining the concourse features a vintage graphic of the Hockeytown logo with the year the team was founded. The letters from the original home of the Red Wings, Olympia Stadium, can also be found along an interior wall of the facility. Other memorabilia include the team bench from the Joe Louis Arena and a mural featuring Gordie Howe. The team store is also located on the main concourse. As you make your way to your seat, you can’t help but notice the eleven Stanley Cup banners hanging from the rafters of the arena. They are accompanied by eight banners recognizing the retired numbers of Red Wing superstars. The show does not stop there. The pregame program also features action footage with hype music projected onto the ice to get the crowd fired up. Neighborhood 4 Little Caesars Arena is in the Midtown area of the Motor City. This is just across I-75 from downtown Detroit and the other major league sports venues, Ford Field and Comerica Park. The neighborhood around Little Caesars is primarily residential, but the presence of the arena is beginning to spur more businesses to relocate to the area. Little Caesars opens a portion of its building to serve the community during non-event days and hours in a section known as District Detroit. The district features several restaurants, including Mike’s Pizza Bar, the Mixing Board, and the UVM District Market. Downtown Detroit is within easy walking distance of the arena, or fans can take the free Q -Line light rail train to visit the sights in the downtown area, including the ballpark, the football stadium, and the elegant Fox Theatre. One of the most popular sites for pre- or postgame gatherings is the Hockeytown Café. It is located just across I-75 from the arena. The Hockeytown Café was founded by former Red Wings owner Mike Illich in 1999. It is considered one of the top sports bars in the country by ESPN. Fans 4 The Red Wings have developed a deep bond with their fanbase over the past 100 years. Many families have passed their season tickets from generation to generation, as well as shared their stories of multiple Stanley Cup Championships. They tend to wear the red hockey jerseys to show their loyalty to the team and follow the team very closely in the media. Like many of the other Detroit franchises, it has been a while since they have been to a championship game. Rather than complain, the Red Wing fans have developed some unique traditions to will the team back to the playoffs. One tradition is the singing of the Journey anthem “Don’t Stop Believin” after each home victory. When the team does make it to the playoffs, the fans are known to throw an octopus out on the ice. Theoretically, octopi have seven sets of tentacles, the same number of games in a Stanley Cup series. Supposedly, this brings good luck to the team, as it has won several Stanley Cups since the tradition began. Fans will be able to keep up with the action by getting their information from the huge 6,020 square foot center-hung videoboard. It constantly updates the game stats, as well as providing replays of key plays on one of its four video screens. The videoboard also gets the fans charged up during breaks in the action and during power play opportunities. Access 4 Getting to and around Little Caesars Arena is very easy. If you are driving to the arena, you would take the Fisher Service Drive exit off I-75 at the Fisher Service Drive exit. Stay on Fisher Service Drive to Woodward Avenue and turn left towards one of the six parking decks that surround the arena. The rideshare pick-up and delivery area is also located on Fisher Service Drive. If you are staying in downtown Detroit, the most economical way to get to the game is via the Q-Line light rail system. The Q-Line is free to ride and drops you off right in front of the arena. After the game, you would then return home via the stations at Adelaide or Sproat Street. Once at the arena, you can enter through one of the four entrances located on the four corners of the building. Doors open 90 minutes before the puck drop. You will find that the concourses are wide and easy to navigate. There are two levels of seating at Little Caesars Arena. You can take one of the ten elevators or four sets of escalators to your seats. The arena uses a portal system to easily guide you to your seats. The portal number is on your ticket, and you simply follow the signage to your seat location. Portals 1-20 service the lower seating areas, while Portals 21-72 are dedicated to the upper-level seats. Return on Investment 4 Attending a game at Little Caesars Arena is more affordable than at many other NHL arenas. Fans have several options when it comes to saving money when they attend a Red Wings game The average ticket price for a seat in the upper level of the arena averages $55-80, depending on the opposition. Parking can range from $20-30 in one of the arena parking garages, but other private lots in the area charge much less. You can also use the Q-Line light rail system to get to games for free if you are staying in the Downtown or Midtown areas of the city. Food concession prices vary greatly depending on what level of service you desire. The average prices at one of the traditional concession stands are hot dogs ($7), water ($5), pizza slices ($8-10), and a soda ($7). Prices at one of the District Detroit full-service restaurants tend to be much higher. Little Caesars Arena operates on a cashless basis. Extras 2 During the 2025-2026 season, the Red Wings will celebrate their Centennial Season. Numerous special events, unique uniforms, and merchandise items will be incorporated into the celebration. Little Caesars Arena has one of the most unique seating areas in the NHL in its Gondola seats. These seats are suspended from the ceiling and hang out over the ice for a one-of-a-kind view of the action below. Final Thoughts The Red Wings have a long and deep relationship with the Motor City. The Little Caesars Arena is a more than worthy successor to the team’s previous homes over the past century…. the Olympia and the Joe Louis Arena

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Lindsey Nelson Stadium 1511 Pat Head Summitt St Knoxville, TN 37996 Tennessee Volunteers website Lindsey Nelson Stadium website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 4,283 Welcome to Rocky Top Tennessee baseball has a rich history dating back over a century, with the Volunteers consistently competing at a high level in the Southeastern Conference. The program has produced numerous All-Americans, MLB draft picks, and standout seasons, culminating in the 2024 College World Series championship. That title solidified Tennessee’s place among the nation’s elite programs while building on a tradition of competitive excellence and passionate fan support. Lindsey Nelson Stadium, opened in 1993 and named for the legendary Tennessee broadcaster, has been the home of the Volunteers throughout this modern era. Perched along the bluffs above the Tennessee River, the stadium combines intimate sightlines with a uniquely scenic backdrop. Recent renovations, including a $105 million upgrade leading into the 2026 season, added revamped concourses, premium seating, and improved amenities, while maintaining the stadium’s classic charm.   Food & Beverage   4 Food options give fans a wide variety of choices, including nachos with cheese sauce, hot dogs, the UT Smokey Dog, curly fries, and chicken tenders in both regular and Knoxville Hot flavors. The most impressive offerings can be found at Volunteer State Concessions, featuring smoked gouda mac and cheese, a cherry wood smoked brisket sandwich, and brisket-loaded mac and cheese. Individual carts along the field-level concourse include Moe’s nachos and Petro’s Chili and Chips, served in their cup version of a walking taco. Soft drinks come from the Coca-Cola family of beverages. Beer options include typical domestic choices along with SweetWater Hazy IPA, NÜTRL, Twisted Tea, Truly, Mango Cart, the Volunteer-branded Yee-Haw Brewing Vol Lager, and the popular PB&J Mixtape from XUL Beer Company.   Atmosphere   5 Lindsey Nelson Stadium underwent $105 million in renovations leading into the 2026 season. These upgrades include a redesigned home plate entry and plaza area leading to a new Vol Shop, along with revamped concession stands and restrooms. The use of brick throughout, combined with the pine finish under the canopy, gives the stadium an elite feel. The bluffs along the Tennessee River also create a special backdrop that is unlike many in baseball at any level. Seating at Lindsey Nelson Stadium is comprised almost entirely of individual chairback seats at the field level, with clusters of tabletop seating tucked into the left field corner. A mezzanine seating level wraps above the field concourse between the dugouts and is topped by suites and the Rocky Top Club, while designated student seating is primarily made up of temporary bleachers down the right field line. While students are engaged in the game, that area leans more toward a social atmosphere. For example, the Uber Eats Porch along the left field fence consists of group seating areas that include stocked coolers, grills, and televisions. The stadium’s dimensions play a touch small, measuring 320 feet down each line and 390 feet to straightaway center. The left-center power alley sits at 385 feet, while right-center measures 365 feet. Most of the wall stands 10 1/2 feet high, though a small section in right field drops to a thigh-high 4 feet. The scoreboard in right-center is the only location to find game stats in the stadium, displaying inning-by-inning totals, runs-hits-errors, ball-strike-out counts, batter statistics, both game and season totals, and pitch speeds. There is limited use of sound effects and audio drops throughout the game, but nothing overly distracting. Mid-inning breaks are typically filled with ad reads and the occasional in-stand contest shown on the video board.   Neighborhood   5 Knoxville, Tennessee, is a city of nearly 200,000 people, providing visitors with plenty of entertainment options to accompany a Tennessee baseball trip. Lindsey Nelson Stadium sits within the athletics cluster on the southern edge of campus, with the campus’s fraternity houses just outside the first base side of the stadium. The college baseball season overlaps with the end of basketball season at nearby Thompson-Boling Arena , as well as softball season at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium. Knoxville also has several professional teams with seasons that overlap with Tennessee baseball. The Knoxville Ice Bears of the Southern Professional Hockey League play at Knoxville Civic Coliseum and are typically in the homestretch of their schedule during college baseball season. Meanwhile, the Knoxville Smokies of the Double-A Southern League and One Knoxville SC  of USL League One begin their seasons in April at Covenant Health Park in the Old City district. For general points of interest, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the Knoxville Sunsphere, sits about a one-mile walk from campus. The orange-tinted globe rises 266 feet over Knoxville and, as a relic of the 1982 World’s Fair, is open to visitors for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Basketball fans may also enjoy visiting the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, located about a five-minute drive from campus. Those looking for a college-town experience can head to “The Strip” along Cumberland Avenue, just a short walk from campus. Or, for a more dining-focused experience, Gay Street offers a higher concentration of restaurants, breweries, and nightlife. Market Square and Knoxville’s Old City neighborhood, both a short distance away, provide even more options for shops, dining, and entertainment.   Fans   4 Tennessee ranks in the middle of the pack in the SEC in average attendance, drawing just over 5,500 fans per game. At first glance, that figure may not stand out, but the SEC leads all conferences in college baseball attendance. Even a middle-of-the-pack ranking still places the Volunteers among the national leaders, creating a strong and well-supported atmosphere on most nights at Lindsey Nelson Stadium. While certainly passionate, Tennessee fans are not necessarily the most ravenous in the conference when it comes to creating the hostile environments the SEC is known for. Much of the rowdiness tends to surface when Tennessee’s biggest rivals come to town, and those matchups bring a noticeably elevated level of energy. The crowd is engaged and supportive throughout, but the intensity can be a bit more situational than relentless from first pitch to final out, especially for teams that are not big rivals of the Vols. The peak of Tennessee baseball fandom came in the seasons leading up to the Vols’ 2024 national championship. Then-head coach Tony Vitello helped fuel that rise by embracing a “Vols against the world” mentality that stoked the flames of Tennessee baseball fandom, giving the crowd an added edge. While Vitello’s departure has led to a slight dip in the overall atmosphere, the crowd at Lindsey Nelson Stadium remains highly engaged, keeping Tennessee among the sport’s top game-day experiences just outside the most elite environments. Fans here are in tune with pivotal moments and elevate their energy at the right times, helping build tension throughout the game. It is also refreshing to see many Vols fans understand the etiquette of waiting to take their seats between batters, something not very common at the college level.   Access   4 Getting to the University of Tennessee campus can be challenging, particularly with traffic on I-40 running through Knoxville. Construction, road closures, and limited parking around the stadium can create some difficulties, though nothing beyond what would be expected for a sporting event at a school the size of Tennessee. The stadium itself has enough points of entry that getting inside is as easy as expected, and wide concourses help fans move around comfortably. There will naturally be congestion around the concourse during popular games, but the improvements made to Lindsey Nelson Stadium help make getting in, around, and out of the stadium as smooth as possible.   Return on Investment   5 Midweek tickets start at $7.50, while SEC weekend series standing-room-only tickets begin at just under $17; this makes getting into the stadium relatively affordable. Ticket prices for reserved seating can be higher; however, the cost to simply get into the stadium is very reasonable. Free parking is available in parking decks just north of the stadium, which further improves the overall value. Concessions and souvenirs carry typical stadium markups, but nothing unexpected.   Extras   5 “Rocky Top” remains one of college athletics’ classic fight songs and is used frequently to enhance the baseball experience. It plays following home runs and scoring plays, as well as after “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh-inning stretch. It would not be a University of Tennessee sporting event without beloved mascot, Smokey. The Bluetick hound makes his way through the stands, interacting with fans, encouraging cheers, and occasionally trying to start the wave. Down the right-field concourse sits the Volunteer Wall of Fame, recognizing All-Americans, Tennessee Baseball Hall of Fame members, Team USA alumni, MLB draft picks, and more. The outfield wall doubles as a history lesson of Tennessee baseball, highlighting postseason appearances and program accomplishments. Retired numbers for Matt Holliday (1), R.A. Dickey (18), and National Baseball Hall of Famer Todd Helton (3) are displayed in left field. Also chronicled are the program’s All-Americans, SEC championships, NCAA Regional appearances, College World Series trips, and the 2024 national title. Attention to detail is evident throughout the stadium, from the pine finish under the canopy to the Tennessee “T” on each seat back. The tailgating-style Uber Eats Porch adds another distinctive touch that enhances the overall experience.   Final Thoughts Tennessee baseball has built not only one of the nation’s premier programs on the field, but also one of the top overall game-day experiences in college baseball. Lindsey Nelson Stadium blends the backdrop of the riverfront bluffs with modern renovations and detailed design elements to create a ballpark that rivals what might be found at the minor league level. The combination of strong fan support, quality amenities, and an energetic college-town setting makes a trip to Rocky Top a destination for college baseball fans. Lindsey Nelson Stadium delivers a quality, engaging experience that comfortably ranks among the top in college baseball and is a venue many professional organizations would be proud to call home.

Courtesy of Estadios FC Estadio Akron , located in Jalisco, Mexico, stands as a significant landmark in Mexican sports architecture. This multipurpose stadium, primarily used for football, serves as the home of the Liga MX team C.D. Guadalajara . Its journey, from inception to completion, and the subsequent reactions to its design and features, tell a compelling tale of ambition and community. Built inside a manmade hill, can this be the newest ancient stadium in the world? Courtesy of Estadios FC Why the Stadium Was Built The primary objective behind building Estadio Akron was to create a modern facility that could accommodate the needs of C.D. Guadalajara. Before its construction, the club played in the aging Estadio Jalisco .  Groundbreaking took place in February 2004. The initial construction was backed by significant investment, estimated at $200 million, with contributions from various stakeholders, including owner Amaury Vergara. However, financial difficulties and construction challenges led to multiple delays, stretching the completion timeline well beyond the anticipated schedule. After years of setbacks, the stadium finally opened on July 30, 2010. The inaugural event was the first leg of the 2010 Copa Libertadores final, marking a triumphant debut. Additionally, the stadium played a pivotal role in the 2011 Pan American Games, hosting both opening and closing ceremonies, which showcased its capacity of 49,813 to cater to large-scale events. Courtesy of Estadio Akron The reaction to Estadio Akron has been mixed and multifaceted. While fans celebrated the architectural design, which was crafted by notable architects, the stadium's artificial turf became a controversial topic. Many revered players criticized the choice of surface, voicing concerns about injury risks and playability. This discourse came to a head when, in May 2012, the decision was made to replace the artificial turf with natural grass, an action widely welcomed by players and fans alike. It was ironic for the outside walls to be grass, but the field was artificial. The design of the stadium drew praise for its modern aesthetics and functionality. However, it also sparked discussions about its integration into the surrounding landscape. Nestled amid lush green hills, the stadium evokes a sense of harmony with nature, despite the high-tech artificial field that once dominated its pitch. Surrounded by grassy hills, the stadium integrates into its environment while presenting a stark contrast with its artificial playing surface. This juxtaposition has led to ongoing discussions about sustainability and modern practices in sports facilities. The decision to later switch to natural grass reflects a sensitivity to both player safety and ecological considerations, aiming to provide a more inviting and healthy environment for athletes. Ancient stadiums were vital communal spaces where people engaged in social and athletic activities, celebrating competition and honoring the divine. These structures often leveraged natural landscapes, being carved into hillsides or enhanced with terracing to create seating that maximized visibility for spectators. For instance, Panathinaiko Stadium , initially built in 330 BC and later renovated in 140 BC, stands out as the only stadium entirely constructed from white marble, accommodating 50,000 people. It served as a testament to ancient Greek athleticism and culture. Courtesy of Panathenaic Stadium The Panathenaic Stadium is the world's first modern Olympic Stadium, serving as a remarkable archaeological site that links ancient and contemporary sports. Crafted from white Attic marble, it symbolizes the legacy of ancient athletics and the revival of the modern Olympic Games in 1896, making it a monument of international significance in Greece's sporting history. Visitors can experience a unique opportunity to reconnect with their historical heritage at this iconic venue. Similarly, the Delphi Stadium was strategically built at a high elevation, showcasing a "protocol grandstand" for elite spectators, capable of hosting 80,000 individuals for various events, including races and theatrical performances.  Courtesy of Estadio Akron Looking ahead, Estadio Akron is poised to take on even greater significance. It will host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further cementing its status as a premier venue in international football. The stadium not only serves local fans but has become part of a broader narrative regarding the evolution of football in Mexico. Match Schedule at Estadio Akron June 11, 2026, 10 PM, South Korea vs. UEFA Playoff June 18, 2026, 9 PM, Mexico vs. South Korea June 23, 2026, 10 PM, Columbia vs. FIFA Playoff Winner 1 June 26, 2026, 8 PM, Uruguay vs. Spain Estadio Akro, owned by Amaury Vergara, is more than just a stadium; it symbolizes ambition, resilience, and community pride. It has transitioned from a vision to a celebrated landmark, despite its challenges during construction and the controversies surrounding its surface. As it evolves, the stadium is likely to remain a central figure in the hearts of fans and the landscape of Mexican football. Through both its architectural beauty and its commitment to the sport, Estadio Akron will continue to inspire future generations in the realm of athletics and beyond.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Elliot Ballpark Jim Calhoun Way Storrs, CT 06269 Connecticut Huskies website Elliot Ballpark website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 1,500 Husky Hardball Home   Baseball has been played at the University of Connecticut since 1896. The school has been a major regional power in New England over the years, reaching the NCAA Tournament 25 times and the College World Series five times. Their most recent appearance in the CWS was in 1979. 23 UConn alumni have played in the Major Leagues.   Elliot Ballpark is named for Doug Elliot and family, who provided a major gift towards the completion of the facility. Both Doug and Sheila Elliot graduated from UConn in 1982. Their children, Doug Jr. and Jaclyn, also attended UConn. Both Doug and Doug Jr. played baseball for the Huskies and were named team MVP during their senior seasons.   Elliot Ballpark replaced the Huskies’ longtime home, J.O. Christian Field , which served as home to the Huskies from 1968-2019. The new ballpark stands across the street from the old park, which has been repurposed as a practice field for the soccer and lacrosse teams. Elliot Ballpark was scheduled to open for the 2020 season, but the COVID-19 shutdown ended the Huskies’ season before they were able to play any home games.   Food & Beverage 3   There is a snack bar built into the Rizza Performance Center on the left field patio. A decent menu of snack items is available here for Husky baseball fans, including hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, assorted candy and chips. You can combine a hot dog with chips and a drink to save a couple of dollars.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Elliot Ballpark. Fans can also purchase beer or wine here at the concession stand. Domestic brews, including Miller Lite and Corona, are sold here, as well as several specialty beers made especially for UConn athletics. These craft beers include Husky Hops by Kinsman Brewing, TwoConn Easy Ale by Two Roads and UConn Territory by Urban Lodge.   Atmosphere 3   The new ballpark contains many features missing at Christian Field, including artificial turf (a must for playing early-season games in fickle New England springs), lights, turf and dirt mounds in the bullpens. The Rizza Performance Center contains large locker rooms with players’ lounges and showers, coaches’ offices, strength and conditioning areas, film rooms and a cafeteria. It is hoped that these amenities will help the Huskies in recruiting players from beyond Connecticut’s borders.   The centerpiece of the game day experience at Elliot Ballpark has got to be the video board in right field. It’s a rare feature in a New England college ballpark. The UConn staff put the board to good use with graphics, videos and sponsor ads. The ballpark has a good sound system, and music plays throughout the game in typical fashion. The PA announcer goes about his work in a professional manner, giving fans information and adding some energy to the proceedings. There’s a table set up on the concourse filled with UConn swag for fans to take home. Speaking of swag, the UConn Bookstore sets up shop near the entrance to the ballpark with Husky gear for sale. College World Series Appearances and More at Elliot Ballpark. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 3   The University of Connecticut is located in the village of Storrs, part of the town of Mansfield. Downtown Storrs is located just outside the entrance to campus. Storrs has a population of just over 15,000 residents, which pales in comparison to UConn’s enrollment of 32,000. It’s no surprise that the 4,000-acre UConn campus dominates this small town.   Visitors to Storrs can find some solid dining options in town. After the game, head to Mansfield Town Square, where Blaze Pizza, Dog Lane Café and Huskies Restaurant and Cafe are located. Visitors looking for lodging options in town may want to look at the Graduate by Hilton or Spring Hill Inn. If you want more information about things to do in Storrs, check out DowntownStorrs.com .   A must for visiting fans is the UConn Dairy Bar. The Dairy Bar, operated entirely by students, has been in operation since 1953. All products sold here are made fresh on site. While enjoying your ice cream you can watch the cows grazing in the adjacent fields.     Since there aren’t a ton of options near UConn, many fans coming to the area will move on to Hartford, located about a 30-minute drive to the west, or the twin casinos of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, located about 45 minutes to the southeast.    Fans 3   Crowds at Elliot Ballpark can vary in size depending on the time of year, day of week, time of day, opponent, weather, and more. This is the northeast, and it’s best to make your plans in pencil if you’re planning a ballpark road trip in this part of the country. The Huskies draw anywhere from 250-1,000 fans for baseball games. As you would expect, the crowds grow in size as the season wears on and the weather warms up. Stadium Journey visited Storrs on a warm early April Saturday morning (yes, morning) with a crowd of about 500 in attendance. This is a very large crowd for college baseball in this part of the country, but there was plenty of room around the ballpark for an even bigger crowd.   The fans who come to Elliot ballpark are knowledgeable about the team and enthusiastic in rooting on the Huskies. This is a livelier atmosphere than you usually see at a college game in the northeast. Game Action at Elliot Ballpark. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   Elliot Ballpark is located on the southwest edge of campus alongside many of UConn’s other athletic facilities. Fans who haven’t visited the UConn campus in a while may be surprised by how the area looks now, as the hockey, baseball, softball, lacrosse and soccer teams all have new homes. Parking is available in the lot next to the Tuscano Family Ice Forum  and at South Garage across the street from Gampel Pavilion .   The seating bowl at Elliot Ballpark stretches from first base around to third base. Individual blue stadium seats make up the lower sections, while aluminum bleachers without backs make up the upper sections. A walkway separates the upper and lower seating sections. There are accessible seating areas for those fans who require such accommodations. A large berm down the right field line contains plenty of room for fans who wish to bring their own blankets or lawn chairs and set up shop. Several Adirondack chairs are lined up atop the berms for fans wanting a higher vantage point.   There is standing room available down both foul lines. Views from these areas feature unobstructed field level views in right field and picnic tables in left field. Rest rooms are located underneath the stands at Morrone Stadium on the left field patio.     Return on Investment 2   This is the area where the UConn baseball experience falls short of other ballparks in the northeast, and where the FANFARE score for Elliot ballpark is negatively affected. UConn charges for admission to Husky baseball games, which is a rarity in this part of the country. Tickets are sold at $12 for chairback (lower grandstand) seats, $10 for bleacher (upper grandstand) seats, and $7 for general admission (standing room) tickets.   And even more egregiously, UConn charges fans to park at Husky baseball games. According to several fans this writer spoke to, this is a new policy for the 2026 season. Parking in the lot adjacent to the Tuscano Family Ice Forum costs an additional ten dollars. This gives UConn the distinction of being the only one of the 20 Division One baseball teams in New England to charge fans for parking at baseball games.   Fans will find concessions priced similarly to other area venues. Overall, going to a Husky baseball game is more affordable than a minor league ballgame in the area, but when compared to other area college games, it comes up short in terms of value. UConn Alumni display at Elliot Ballpark. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 2                                                                                                 Retired numbers, Husky World Series appearances and conference championships are memorialized on the façade of the Rizza Performance Center beyond the left field wall. NCAA Tournament and Super Regional Appearances are posted up on the right field wall.   Photos of all 22 Husky alumni to make it to the Major League are posted on the wind screen on the back side of the seating bowl. Some recognizable names include Walt Dropo, Charles Nagy, Matt Barnes and George Springer.   Final Thoughts   To be able to compete for recruits on more than just a regional scale, it was clear that UConn needed an upgrade in their facilities. With Elliot Ballpark, this is a mission accomplished. The Huskies now have a home field packed with amenities as good as any ballpark in the northeast. From a fan perspective, the upgrade is just as impressive. Storrs may be off the beaten path, but it’s now a path worth traveling.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photo by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey As the expiration of their lease at the American Airlines Center approaches in 2031, the Dallas Mavericks  are making bold moves to secure their future in the city. Team CEO Rick Welts recently emphasized the franchise's commitment to remaining in Dallas during a sports economic panel discussion, dispelling rumors of a possible relocation. "Dallas is what's really important. Take away anything from today, our commitment is to do  everything in our power to build this in Dallas." This declaration underscores the team's dedication to not only staying put but also enhancing the community through an ambitious new arena and entertainment district. The envisioned facility goes beyond a simple arena; Welts described a mixed-use development that will cater to a wide array of community needs. The plans include a hotel adjacent to the arena, downtown coproate headquaters, a new pratice facility, residential units and retail spaces, and year-round entertainment offerings. .The Mavericks are currently focusing on two prime locations for the new arena, one of which is the Dallas City Hall  site. Another area under consideration is the former Valley View Mall in North Dallas. Discussions with city leadership, including Dallas City Manager Kimberly Tolbert, have been ongoing for over a year as the team evaluates potential sites. Welts noted, "We would like to have 50 continuous acres that allow a real environment where you feel like you're in a space that's well thought out." Photo by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey The estimated costs for repairing the City Hall building are around $329 million, while a complete modernization could exceed $1 billion. Mayor Johnson remarked on the responsibility city leaders have to their taxpayers, indicating that a decision will be made during a council discussion expected in late May. The Mavericks aim to announce the location of their new arena and entertainment district by July. With a construction timeline of approximately 30 months, the goal is to open the new facility before the lease at the current arena expires, ensuring that the Mavericks remain a central part of the Dallas community. Welts added, "So the city is aware of our timetable for any particular site; that puts a lot of pressure, but also puts a lot of motivation to try to get something done in the next few months." The Dallas Mavericks are not just focused on their next chapter but are committed to enriching the city they call home, making significant strides to ensure their legacy in Dallas for years to come.

Photo Courtesy of Zach Beeson In a small, unincorporated mill town in South Carolina, a long-forgotten ballpark is getting a second life—and with it, a community is finding renewed purpose. The Joanna Project, led by Michael Reef Snyder, is restoring a historic textile-era stadium in Joanna, SC, with plans to bring baseball back by May 2026. What was once an abandoned field with overgrown bleachers is quickly transforming into a nostalgic yet functional ballpark that blends history, community pride, and the modern collegiate summer game. From Textile Town to Baseball Revival Joanna, a town of roughly 1,200 residents, was built entirely around a textile mill in the early 20th century. Like many mill towns across the Carolinas, baseball played a central role in daily life. Workers didn’t just clock in—they competed. “In the 1920s, a mill worker might make $50 a week,” Snyder explained. “But if they played baseball, they could make $250. It was a serious competition.” That competitive spirit led to the creation of powerhouse textile teams, including the Joanna Hornets, who reportedly won more than a dozen championships over several decades. The ballpark itself dates back to at least 1950 in its current concrete form, replacing an earlier wooden grandstand that hosted games as far back as the 1910s. Among the notable figures to take the field? Hall of Fame manager Tommy Lasorda, who pitched in Joanna during the 1947 season. Photo Courtesy of Zach Beeson A Ballpark Hidden in Plain Sight For years, the stadium sat quietly behind a local school—its 1,500-seat concrete grandstand slowly being reclaimed by nature. Bushes grew through the bleachers, and the field was reduced to little more than a patch of grass. But the structure itself remained sound. “That was everything,” Snyder said. “If those bleachers weren’t in good shape, this project probably wouldn't happen.” After years of research, community meetings, and inspections, Snyder and his team secured the site and launched a nonprofit effort to restore it—not just as a ballpark, but as a catalyst for local revitalization. Building for the Future, Honoring the Past The renovation is being completed in phases, with an emphasis on preserving the park’s historic character. Phase I includes: A rebuilt playing field New above-ground dugouts designed with a vintage aesthetic Updated fencing, netting, and lighting Fresh paint and structural improvements Capacity will settle around 1,300 fans after modifications to improve sightlines. Future plans (Phase II) aim to add: Permanent concession stands and restrooms Locker rooms A textile baseball museum highlighting the region’s unique history The museum will feature archival photos, uniforms, and even recorded interviews with former players—some of whom are now in their 90s. Photo Courtesy of Zach Beeson The Return of the Joanna Hornets Baseball is officially coming back to Joanna with the revival of the Joanna Hornets, a collegiate summer team that carries the historic name of the original textile-era club. The Hornets will compete in the newly formed Blue Ridge League , joining creatively branded teams like the Carolina Disco Turkeys, Greenwood Flying Monkeys, and Marion Hungry Mothers. The league emphasizes fan experience just as much as player development—something Snyder sees as essential. “We didn’t want games at 10 a.m. on a Tuesday at a high school field,” he said. “We want a true ballpark atmosphere—night games, promotions, and a place where the community can gather.” Despite the town’s small size, the location draws from a regional population of over 100,000 within a 30-mile radius, making it a viable destination for fans and ballpark chasers alike. More Than Baseball What makes the Joanna Project especially unique is its long-term mission. Once the stadium is fully operational, all proceeds will go back into the community through the nonprofit. Plans include funding home improvement projects, local initiatives, and community grants—turning the ballpark into an engine for broader revitalization. “This isn’t just about rebuilding a stadium,” Snyder said. “It’s about rebuilding a community.” Photo Courtesy of the Joanna Project A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering For ballpark enthusiasts, the Joanna Project represents something increasingly rare: an authentic restoration of a historic venue with deep local roots. From its textile league origins to its modern revival, the stadium offers a glimpse into a forgotten chapter of baseball history—one where small towns, mill workers, and semi-pro stars created a vibrant, competitive scene across the South. The season play begins this year on May 22 to kick off Memorial Day Weekend and runs through July 26. The Hornets schedule has not been released as of this writing.  With its preserved concrete grandstand, deep historical roots, and commitment to community impact, Joanna is poised to become a compelling destination for fans seeking unique baseball experiences. For more information on the project or to contribute, visit thejoannaproject.org or follow the Joanna Project and Joanna Hornets on social media. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Abbotsford Centre 33800 King Rd. Abbotsford, BC V2S 7M8 5 Abbotsford Canuck s website Rogers Forum website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 7,000 Home of Johnny Canuck Johnny Canuck is a fictional cartoon character that dates back to 1869.  He gained prominence as a World War II comic strip hero akin to Uncle Sam.  Johnny Canuck was adopted by the original Vancouver Canucks of the Pacific Coast Hockey league as part of their logo.  In 1999 the new Canucks brought the logo back to the NHL team.  Vancouver treated Johnny as a secondary logo, behind the current orca logo.  In 2021, the Canucks moved their AHL affiliate from Utica, New York to Abbotsford, British Columbia and Johnny was made the primary logo.  The lineage of the Abbotsford Canucks dates back to the 1932 Quebec Beavers.  In 1935 they moved to Springfield which were followed by moves to Syracuse, back to Springfield, Worcester, Peoria and Utica.  The team was purchased by Canucks Sports and Entertainment in 2013 when they were the Peoria Rivermen.  The desire was to move the team to Abbotsford, however, the farm team of the Calgary Flames, the Abbotsford Heat, was already there.  The Heat moved to Glens Falls, New York the following season. Home for the Canucks is Rogers Forum.  Built in 2009 as the Abbotsford Centre, the city-owned arena signed a naming rights deal with Rogers Communications in 2025 and renamed Rogers Forum.  At the time of the Heat, Abbotsford was fairly isolated from the rest of the AHL.  However, with the increasing importance of the farm team’s proximity to the NHL team and a few AHL franchises a bit closer, Abbotsford is now a solid location for an AHL affiliate. Food & Beverage 4 Rogers Forum is operated by Canucks Sports & Entertainment, so many of the concession options found at Rogers Arena in Vancouver are also found in Abbotsford.  The selection of concession items is great and of high quality.  Some highlights include premium sandwiches from Crave including the Lumberjack, Prime Rib, Smoked Meat and Pulled Pork as well as premium hot dogs from Dirty Dog. Pepsi products are the soft drink of choice at Rogers Forum and Molson products comprise the main beer options. Atmosphere 3 The main entry for the Rogers Forum is on the east side.  The exterior features brown siding with a glass entry way with plenty of Abbotsford Canucks markings.  A giant goalie mask welcomes fans and is perfect for pictures and a DJ spins tunes in the back of an Abbotsford Canucks pickup truck as fans enter. Inside Rogers Forum, fans are led into the main concourse, which is fairly non-descript and does not feature too much that is interesting.  The Canucks have a smallish team store which also features a number of items for the Vancouver parent club. Inside the seating bowl, the ice is south-north oriented.  A picture of the centre ice logo should be taken from the east side.  The seating bowl is a simple design with a single seating level and suites above the east and west sides.  The concourse opens at the south end to create a large social area.  This is the most interesting part of the arena as large murals for the 2025 Calder Cup winning team can be found here, below the banners for the Calder Cup and Western Conference.  A four-sided video board hangs above centre ice and LED ribbons are found above the east and west suites.  Abbotsford does have a dedicated board with live 50/50 tracking and makes use of LED lights. The gameday production at a Canucks game is very simple.  The in-game host keeps the program moving.  Youth hockey players welcome the Canucks as they enter the ice and stand with them for the National Anthems.  Neighbourhood 3 Rogers Forum is located in the Abbotsford Central neighbourhood of Abbotsford, 70 km southeast of Vancouver. There are some spots for pre and post-game food and drink.  Some options include Field House Brewing, Restaurant 62, Bavaria Restaurant, Anne Marie’s Cafe, Paliotti’s, Lou’s Grill and Old Yale Brewing. There is not much in the way of other sporting options.  University of Fraser Valley is found in Abbotsford and the UFV Cascades compete in USports.  Other tourist options in the area include The Reach Gallery, Mennonite Heritage Museum as well as a number of parks and wineries.  The proximity to Vancouver and Whistler is also advantageous. For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Best Western and Ramada are close options. Fans 3 At the time of writing, in the 2025-26 season, the Abbotsford Canucks averaged over 3,800 fans per game.  This ranked them 25th out of 32 teams in the AHL.  This is also coming off of a championship season which saw the team average over 4,100 fans and ranked them 23rd in the league.  This is an improvement from where the Abbotsford Heat were, however in a building that holds 7,000, there is plenty of room for improvement.  The fans in attendance are fairly reserved and quiet.   Access 4 Rogers Forum is located in the Abbotsford Central neighbourhood on the south side of King Road, between College and University.  The arena is just ¼ km from the Trans-Canada Highway, so getting to the arena is very easy.  It is adjacent to the university and parking is conveniently shared between the school and arena.  Fans who drive to the game will need to pay for parking at a kiosk.  For fans who wish to take public transit to the game, there are buses that run on King Road.  Fans should consult the BC Transit, Central Fraser Valley  website for fares, maps schedules. Getting in and around Rogers Forum is not very difficult and the washroom facilities are good for the venue.  A curious aspect of the seating in Rogers Forum is that not all of the seats are the same size.  There does not seem to be any rhyme or reason to this and seats of one size are not organized in a particular section.  Seats in the same row may actually be different sizes. Although security protocols for Rogers Forum are not complicated, Stadium Journey strongly encourages consulting the Rogers Forum and Abbotsford Canucks  for the most up to date information regarding security procedures including bag policy and prohibited items. Rogers Forum is a cashless facility. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for the Abbotsford Canucks start at $31 for the No Alcohol section.  The next price level up is $45 and tickets go up to $100.  Considering the average attendance, it may be that the Canucks have missed their price point.  Parking will go for $15 and concession prices are on the high side.  Fans will have a good time at a Canucks game, but the experience is fairly simple and a bit on the expensive side. Extras 3 An extra mark for the revival of Johnny Canuck as the logo for Abbotsford, one of the best in the entire AHL. An extra mark for Abbotsford’s close proximity to the parent Vancouver Canucks. An extra mark for the smart green and blue colour scheme enjoyed by the Abbotsford Canucks. Final Thoughts The Abbotsford Canucks are now providing the parent Vancouver Canucks with an ideal affiliate location.  The AHL club has brought historic Canadian character, Johnny Canuck to the forefront of the league and present a good AHL experience for fans. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photo Courtesy of the NFL The NFL officially announced that Super Bowl LXIII will return to Allegiant Stadium  in Las Vegas in February 2029. The league then turned its attention immediately toward Nashville, where the New Nissan Stadium  currently under construction, is being positioned as the primary frontrunner to host Super Bowl LXIV in 2030. During the annual NFL owners' meetings in Phoenix, the league voted unanimously to award the 2029 uper Bowl to Las Vegas. This marks the second time Allegiant Stadium  will host the gamefollowing the massive success of Super Bowl LVIII in 2024. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised the city's hospitality and scale, noting that the 2024 event "set a high bar" that the league is eager to revisit. Las Vegas, along with Los Angeles, has quickly become a favored "hub" city for the NFL's premier events. Image Courtesy of Tennessee Titans Immediately following the Las Vegas announcement, NFL executive vice president Peter O’Reilly confirmed that the league is now turning its full attention to the 2030 selection process, with Nashville as a top contender. Tennessee Titans leadership, including owner Amy Adams Strunk, delivered a major presentation at the owners' meetings regarding the under-construction New Nissan Stadium , which is scheduled to open in 2027. The 2030 date fits the NFL’s preferred "three-year window," allowing a new stadium to operate for three full seasons before hosting a Super Bowl. The NFL remains high on Nashville following the record-breaking success of the 2019 NFL Draft held in the city. The following is a list of future sites for the Super Bowl Super Bowl LXI SoFi Stadium Inglewood, California February 14, 2027 Super Bowl LXII   Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta, Georgia February 13, 2028 Super Bowl LXIII Allegiant Stadium Las Vegas, Nevada February 2029 While 2030 is not yet official, the "exclusive negotiations" style that led to the Las Vegas 2029 announcement suggests Nashville is in a prime position to secure its first-ever Super Bowl hosting duty very soon.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Cushing Field Complex 261 Riverside St. Lowell, MA 01854 UMass Lowell Riverhawks men's lacrosse website Cushing Field website Year Opened : 2001 Capacity : 1,000 Lowell Lax   The University of Massachusetts Lowell, more commonly known as UMass Lowell, got its start in the 1890s as two separate institutions, the Lowell Normal School (later renamed Lowell State College) and the Lowell Textile School (later renamed Lowell Textile Institute). These two schools merged in 1975 to become the University of Lowell. In 1991 UL joined the University of Massachusetts system. Today UMass Lowell is the second largest campus in Massachusetts, with an enrollment of over 18,000 students in almost 200 Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral programs. Total enrollment has increased 50 percent since 2007.   The Cushing Athletic Complex is named for Lester H. Cushing, former athletic director and chair of the Department of Languages at Lowell Technical Institute for 49 years. The complex features two fields; Wicked Blue Field - home to the Field Hockey team, and Riverhawk Field - home to the school’s soccer and lacrosse teams. In 2013 both fields underwent renovations, which included the installation of artificial turf, in preparation for the addition of men’s and women’s lacrosse to the school’s roster.   Lacrosse is a fairly new varsity sport at UMass Lowell. The school began sponsoring the sport in 2015. In their 11 seasons of Division One play, the men’s team has yet to enjoy a winning season, although they did finish with an 8-8 record in 2018. The women’s team, after experiencing losing seasons for their first nine campaigns, reached the America East Conference championship game in 2024 and 2025, losing to Albany both times. Neither squad has qualified for an NCAA Tournament yet.   Food & Beverage 2   There is a small table hidden near the entrance to Cushing Field that serves as the concession stand for Riverhawk lacrosse games. Only snack items are sold here, with hot dogs, candy bars and chips making up the menu. Cans of Coca-Cola products and hot beverages are sold here. Fans are welcome to bring their own snacks into Cushing Field to enjoy during the game. On cold February and March afternoons you’ll be sure to see lots of coffees and hot chocolates from the snack bar and the local Dunkin’ in the stands. You will also see some fans setting up tailgates before and after the games at UMass Lowell.   Atmosphere 2   There’s not a whole lot of room for a team’s staff to insert themselves into the game day presentation at a lacrosse game. That’s not to say there’s nothing going on at a Riverhawks game, it’s just that the action down on the field is the focus here. While fans will enjoy some tailgating before a Riverhawks game (and sometimes during halftime), everyone is here to watch some lacrosse, not to make fools of themselves.   Music plays over a decent sound system during play stoppages, and the PA announcer goes about his job providing game information without being too intrusive. If you’re sitting right in front of the press box the sound may be turned up a bit too loud, but you’ll appreciate this if you’re in the far reaches of the facility. Otherwise, whatever noise there is at Cushing Field is provided by the fans themselves. And the fans here do a pretty good job creating that noise. UMass Lowell Celebrates a Goal at Cushing Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 3   The University of Massachusetts-Lowell is located in the north-central part of the city of Lowell, right near the city line of adjoining Dracut. The campus straddles the Merrimack River along the rapids that fueled the mills that made this area a magnet for industry back in the day. The Cushing Complex is located on the North Campus, adjacent to the Costello Athletic Center .   Lowell has long been saddled with a reputation as a city with low employment, high poverty and crime rates which was best to avoid. Statistics show that Lowell is as safe or safer than other similarly sized cities in the area, but the reputation continues.   Lowell is a working-class city. There isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of the Cushing Athletic Complex to draw visiting fans, but visitors to the city may be interested in exploring the Lowell National Historic Park, which has preserved several old textile mills to tell the story of the industrial revolution. On the grounds of the park is a memorial to native son Jack Kerouac, who was one of the icons of the “Beat Generation.”   Most out-of-towners will likely make their way to nearby Boston, 25 miles to the southeast, but for those looking to stay in town, most lodging options are located out by Interstate 495. There are many excellent smaller restaurants scattered throughout Lowell. The Worthen House Café, located by the Tsongas Center, was established in 1898. Some of its notable patrons through the years were Edgar Allen Poe, Jack Keroac and Jimmy Breslin.   Fans 2   The crowd at a UMass Lowell lacrosse game is what we at Stadium Journey like to call a “friends and family” type of crowd, meaning that most of the people in the stands have a personal connection with the players on the field. Attendance is reported to be in the 150-300 range for most games, which is similar to many schools in the area.   Like many lacrosse crowds, what a Riverhawk crowd lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality. Lacrosse crowds are generally louder and more into the action than those you’ll come across in other sports. That being said, you can feel comfortable at Cushing Field, even if you’re wearing the opposing colors. With the compact geographic footprint of the America East Conference, you’ll be sure to see fans of both teams in the stands. River Hawk Field with the Wicked Blue Field in the Background. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   The Cushing Athletic Complex is located on the north bank of the Merrimack River along with several of the university’s other athletic facilities, including the Costello Athletic Center . The school’s more noteworthy sports facilities, Tsongas Center  and LeLacheur Park , are located on the other side of the river. Interstate 495 travels several miles to the south of Lowell, meaning that to reach the UMass Lowell campus one has to drive through the city. There is ample free parking near the complex in North Garage and the Riverside Lots.   Seating runs the length of one side of the field in the form of metal bleachers. There is plenty of standing room along the back side of the bleachers. There is also a small overlook on one corner of the field, where a few Adirondack chairs and a small set of bleachers are set up. This is a great spot to set up shop if you come to the game with kids, as there is some room for them to move around here.   Rest rooms are located on the ground floor of the parking garage adjacent to the field. There is ample parking all around the complex, and lines are not an issue.   Return on Investment 5   There is no charge for admission or parking at a Riverhawk lacrosse game. If you hit up the snack bar, no item is priced over four dollars. Game Action at Cushing Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 0   Free roster sheets are available for fans who want them, but there is little going on here at Cushing Field that can really be considered extra. This is a pretty basic game day experience. Not that there is anything wrong with that.   Final Thoughts   As a facility, there’s not a whole lot going on at Cushing Field to set it apart from other lacrosse fields in the area. That being said, it’s a solid, if basic, place to catch some lacrosse action on a nice spring afternoon.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Fenway Park 4 Jersey Street Boston, MA 02215 Boston Red Sox website Fenway Park website Year Opened: 1912 Capacity: 37,305 (day) 37,755 (night) The Lyric Little Bandbox   The Boston Red Sox bill Fenway Park as “America’s Most Beloved Ball Park”. Still going strong after over a century of use, no ballpark has been more honored in film, literature, and song than Fenway Park. Fenway’s old-school charms consistently rank it near the top of any ballpark chaser’s list, and it has become one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city of Boston in its own right. Fenway Park is such an iconic venue that even casual baseball fans can recognize its unique design.   Fenway Park takes its name from its neighborhood. The term “fens” is an Old English term for a marshy area. If you walk a few blocks southeast of the ballpark you will find yourself in the Back Bay Fens, one of these marshy areas.   Established in 1901 as the Boston Americans, The Red Sox are one of Major League Baseball’s oldest and most successful teams, winning 9 World Series on top of 14 American League Pennants, 10 AL East Division titles and 8 more Wild Card berths. 42 Baseball Hall of Famers spent at least part of their career with the Red Sox.   Food & Beverage 4   Even though Fenway Park has taken great strides in recent years to keep up with the trends of establishing gourmet options with their concession offerings, most longtime Red Sox fans still insist that the best food at Fenway Park is found at the numerous sausage carts all around the ballpark. If it’s your first trip to Boston, this is where you should stop for that authentic Fenway experience. The prices are cheaper than inside the ballpark, and the quality is excellent.   That’s not to say there are no good options within Fenway Park. The team takes over Jersey Street starting ninety minutes before first pitch. Here fans will find several stands offering some of Fenway Park’s more unique offerings, including El Tiante’s Grille, The Fenway Fish Shack and A Taste of Boston, which features a rotation of local vendors.   Concession stands are seemingly crammed into every nook and cranny of the ballpark, including the Big Concourse in right field, Fenway’s version of a food court. In addition to classic ballpark fare, hungry Sox fans will find plenty of locally-sourced food, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan offerings. A complete Fenway Park concessions guide can be found here.  For visiting fans looking for some distinctly Boston items, lobster rolls, clam chowder and Boston crème pies dot the menus around the ballpark.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Fenway Park. As you might imagine, the beer game is strong at Fenway Park. Sam Adams is the official beer of the Red Sox, so you can find all of their outstanding brews served here alongside other popular national brands. Visiting fans looking for local microbrews will be more than satisfied with the available choices, which include Mighty Squirrel, Wachusett, Lord Hobo, Ipswich Ale, Jack’s Abby, Harpoon, Fiddlehead and Dogfish, among others.   Atmosphere 5   It’s hard to top the game day atmosphere at Fenway Park, which has become one of Boston’s top tourist destinations regardless of whether or not the Sox are in town. Fans flock from all corners of New England and beyond to spend a day at the ballpark. Taking in a game at Fenway has become a must for anyone traveling to Massachusetts.   Fenway Park is loaded with features designed to entertain both the casual and the die-hard fan. Outside the ballpark are statues of Red Sox greats Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski and “The Teammates.” Retired number banners, World Series banners and American League pennants line the exterior of the ballpark along Van Ness and Jersey Streets. Both Lansdowne Street and Jersey Street are mobbed with fans hours before first pitch.   Jersey Street is closed off to traffic before games, and is loaded with concession stands, live bands and the Red Sox Team Store. The old ticket booths here have been transformed to exhibits featuring memorabilia from each of the Red Sox’ World Series championship teams. Also located here is the old bullpen buggy, a popular spot for photos. Concessions, souvenirs, displays and activities for young and old alike are packed into virtually every corner of Fenway Park.   With families in mind, the team has created an exclusive entrance just for kids (Gate K, located in center field). From the third through seventh inning, Wally’s Clubhouse offers kid-friendly entertainment and activities. Virtual reality booths, speed pitch booths and a life-size replica of David Ortiz made out of Legos are just a few of the attractions here.   Balancing the old-school mentality of the long-time Red Sox fan with the need of younger fans for constant stimulation is a tricky act, but the Red Sox do a good job of working out these disparate goals. Video boards throughout the park keep fans engaged and entertained between innings while respecting Fenway traditions.   Neighborhood 5   Old-timers like yours truly may bemoan the fact that the neighborhood around Fenway Park has become more upscale and many of the legendary dive bars and holes in the wall have disappeared, but Fenway-area favorites such as the Cask ‘N Flagon, Sweet Cheeks Q, The Bleacher Bar and The Landsdowne Pub still draw big crowds before and after Red Sox games. You’ll find excellent dining choices around Fenway no matter which direction you travel.   Boston’s small geographic footprint and expansive public transportation system means that even if you do not stay right near the ballpark, it is still easy to get to. Visitors who would rather stay nearby will find Hotel Commonwealth, Residence Inn by Marriot and The Verb excellent choices in the shadows of Fenway Park.   Visiting fans interested in seeing more than just a ballgame will find much to do in Boston. Explore the Freedom Trail, a walking trail through the city that links several historical locations. Tours of Boston Harbor are well worth a look, as is Faneuil Hall, a colonial meetinghouse that has been converted into a shopping and tourist destination. Museums, galleries, and tours of all kinds are located throughout the city, making Boston one of the top tourist destinations in the country.     Fans 5   The Red Sox have returned to playoff contention in 2025, and the buzz is back after a few years of (relatively) smallish crowds at the old ballpark. At the time of this review (the beginning of September), the Red Sox are in the top ten in the majors in terms of attendance, drawing over 34,000 fans per game. Even in their down years, the Red Sox draw crowds many teams would die for. Red Sox fans are simply some of the most dedicated in the big leagues.   One downside to Fenway Park’s status as an attraction in itself means that a portion of every crowd is there to be seen as much as to take in the action. A Fenway crowd is in constant motion, roaming the aisles and concourses throughout the game, which can be very aggravating to the hardcore fan. Despite the less than stellar reputation of some Boston fans, you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family to Fenway. A strong turnout from visiting fans is a common sight, given Fenway’s status as a destination spot.   Some Fenway traditions have taken on a life of their own, such as the singing of Sweet Caroline in the middle of the 8th inning. This has been happening on-and-off since the mid-90’s, and at every game since 2002. Make no mistake, Boston fans are into the game to a greater degree than just about any other fan base. Fenway Park can be as loud in April as it is in August.    Access 3   Let’s be frank here. Boston is a tough city to get around, Fenway can be tough to get to if you’re not familiar with the city, and once you’re there, Fenway can be tough to navigate on the inside as well. Every Bostonian has their own “secret” way to get to Fenway Park, and no two are alike. Every one of the 4.9 million citizens of greater Boston believes their route is the quickest. Simply put, they are all wrong. And no, I am not going to tell you my secret route to Fenway.   The best method for getting to Fenway Park is to take public transportation. The MBTA, or “T”,  as it is known locally, provides several different methods for baseball fans to get to the game. Most fans will take the subway, as the B, C, and D versions of the Green Line stop at Kenmore Station, a short five-minute walk from Fenway Park.   If traveling from the western suburbs of Boston, take the commuter rail, which stops right across the street from Fenway Park at Yawkey Station. There are similar trains which travel into the city from the northern or southern suburbs, but which will require a transfer or two on the subway system to arrive at the aforementioned Kenmore station.   If taking a bus is more your speed, several city routes stop within a short walk of Fenway Park. Routes 8, 9, 19, 60 and 65 stop at the corner of Jersey Street and Brookline Avenue. In addition, route 55 stops on the back side of Fenway, at the corner of Ipswich and Boylston streets.   Over recent decades Red Sox ownership has continually updated and restored this historic park, adding new seating and social gathering areas in previously unimagined places. It makes Fenway Park an interesting mix of old and new features, cramped quarters and spacious sections, obstructed view seats and some of the best sightlines in the Major Leagues.   Return on Investment 3   Going to Fenway Park has always been an expensive proposition. Given the park’s small capacity and the team’s incredible popularity, it’s a supply vs. demand graph come to life.   The Fan Cost Index annually ranks Fenway Park among the most expensive ballparks to visit in all of Major League Baseball. In 2023, the FCI estimated a family of four will spend almost $400 at a Red Sox game. Driving this ranking are Fenway’s high ticket prices, parking charges and concession prices.   That being said, there are ways to make a trip to Fenway more affordable.   -Check out various ticket-resale websites for cheaper tickets. -Avoid the expensive neighborhood parking by taking the T to Fenway Park. -A souvenir soda cup features unlimited refills throughout the game. -Grabbing a bite to eat at one of the sausage carts that line the streets around Fenway Park enhances the Fenway experience and saves a few dollars.   Fenway Park is a cashless facility. Even the ever-present Fenway hawkers are equipped with cashless point of sale devices. Fenway Park’s bag policy is less restrictive than other major league facilities but check the ballpark website  for particulars.   Extras 5   Any ballpark that has been in use for over a century is bound to have had a memorable moment or two on its resume. The Red Sox proudly display their best moments throughout the ballpark, in methods both obvious and subtle. New visitors to Fenway should schedule some extra time to take in as much of the ballpark as possible.   Banners and plaques commemorating Red Sox pennants and World Series championships are present both inside and outside the ballpark. Flags honoring every Hall of Famer to play in Boston line the outside of the park along Van Ness Street. Red Sox retired numbers are hung along the right field façade and again along the outside of the ballpark.   Located by Gate B on Van Ness Street are statues honoring Red Sox legends Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and “The Teammates” (Johnny Pesky, Bobby Doerr, Dom DiMaggio and Ted Williams).   Historical touches abound throughout Fenway Park, starting with the lone red seat in right field commemorating the longest home run ever hit at the ballpark to the plaques located throughout the park highlighting milestones and important features of the park. Even long-time visitors to Fenway can find something new if they explore the grounds long enough. The Red Sox do a great job of creating new content year after year.   The Green Monster, Pesky’s Pole, Wally and Tessie, Sweet Caroline, Fenway Franks, the Big Concourse, Patriots Day, Dirty Water, Fenway Farms, the Citgo Sign, Kenmore Square, Lego Papi, Lansdowne Street, the triangle, the bullpen buggy, the street vendors; the list of things to see and do at Fenway Park goes on and on…   Final Thoughts   A lot of times people use the word “historic” interchangeably with the word “old.” At least in the baseball world, Fenway manages to be both. How old is Fenway Park? It opened the same week that the Titanic sank. While other cities are building billion-dollar complexes to replace ballparks that are only 20 years old, in Boston they are simply finding new ways to put modern touches on this classic diamond.   Fenway Park is not perfect. It’s cramped, it’s crowded, and it’s expensive. Yes, some seats sit right behind poles and some seats face the wrong way. Still, ask any ballpark aficionado where they would like to see a game, and Fenway Park will likely be among their top choices. Fenway Park’s mix of historical touches, quirky features, and modern comforts is unmatched anywhere. Other cities try again and again to find the magic formula that has existed in Boston for over a century.   Simply put, Fenway Park is the standard against which all other ballparks are measured.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Eric Taylor and Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium 1605 Avenue Of The Champions Bowling Green, KY 42101 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers website Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 22,113 Topping The Hill As you leave the interstate and head toward campus, it’s impossible to miss that Western Kentucky University  crowns a hill above Bowling Green. The tops of campus buildings punctuate the horizon for nearly three miles until you arrive. WKU has long embodied a classic collegiate look, and renovations over the last decade have only reinforced that timeless character. Unlike many schools whose updates feel dated or bland, WKU consistently preserves the charm and atmosphere of the traditional college experience. President Gary Ransdell once jumped from a plane and did a drop-in for the 2014 game versus Army. At that game, WKU announced that they became the first university to have a chair reserved for a POW/MIA/KIA. The chair remains empty at both L.T. Smith Field and Diddle Arena for every game. Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium holds 22,113 and opened in 1968. The most major renovations in its history were completed in 2008, the most recognizable of which was adding stands to the west sideline. The renovations put the Hilltoppers’ football home at its current capacity, which qualified the school for a move to FBS in 2009. The field moved from natural grass to AstroPlay in 2002, and WKU installed FieldTurf in 2009. Houchens Industries — a huge grocery chain headquartered in Bowling Green– made a $5 million donation/gift to get the renovation rolling. Because of the gift, the Houchens Industries name was added to the name of the renovated stadium. L.T. Smith spent 49 years coaching the Hilltoppers football team (1920-1968). The stadium was originally named for him in 1968 when it opened. Photo courtesy of Lee Arnold Food & Beverage 4 For some of you, all you need to read is the first item on the list, and you will vote this stadium the best in the NCAA. Beer is sold on campus at WKU. The food prices are fair, considering you have a somewhat upgraded list of options compared to stadiums of similar stature. And with a product named the SUPER Nachos, you can’t lose. The options are also realistic to enjoy from your seat and practical for a football game. Sometimes you can offer too much, and it becomes impractical. L.T. Smith Stadium gets it right. Atmosphere 4 The quality of the sound system inside the stadium is apparent, as the booming voice and blaring music can be heard on the stroll from your car to the entry gate. Once inside, you will be given a healthy dose of that audio that sounded so good from outside the stadium. It may hit some ears with a little more zest than others. The video/scoreboard is a relatively good size by today’s standards. It’s utilized well for game presentation between plays, but there are times when you just want to hear the bands play and not be bothered with a random, uncomfortably screaming for the fans to get up and get loud on third down. My generation’s parents probably thought a scoreboard that showed replays and ads was over-the-top and unnecessary, so I get that and I get “it.” At the end of the day, the college football game is still recognizable in sight and sound. Marching bands are still visible and audible. Cheerleaders and yell leaders remain visible and audible. The “it” remains visible and audible. The west side of the stadium was added during the 2008 renovations. Club level and skyboxes line the west side, while the east side still holds the press box and the largest section of seating. Photo courtesy of Sara Jo Jones Big Red is one of the premier mascots in all of college athletics. It’s not hyperbole to say Big Red has put WKU in the national conscience. They’ve always had a history with NCAA basketball diehards, but he’s put the school on the national and international map — literally. A perennial nominee for the Capital One Mascot Challenge each year, Big Red gives the school a great identity, although his is still debated across the Ohio Valley. He supposedly embodies the spirit of all the fans in one large red “blot” and does a great job of it. The Grass Berm (Sonic Zone) is great in the north end zone. The fan zone is great in the south end zone. These two features tie the east and west side stands together nicely, so there are fans around the entire stadium, although seating is pretty much limited to the east and west stands. The train behind the north end zone reminds you that the outside world still exists and will be there waiting for you when you exit Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Neighborhood 4 There are many places in Bowling Green to eat, but Mariah’s in the historic downtown district delivers a great dining experience that is not white-tablecloth, but not a sports bar dive. The dishes are delicious, and the salads even have black-eyed peas in them. Sounds crazy, but you have to try it. This restaurant has been serving Bowling Green residents since 1980, and should be doing so for generations to come. WKU is a true college town. So many pieces of the city cater to the university. Bowling Green is not too big to swallow the campus whole, but not so small that the campus is the only civilization around. There aren’t many cities better in the Western Kentucky/Middle Tennessee area when looking for a great area to take in a college football game, where options for entertainment are available prior to or following the game. Fans 5 WKU’s alumni base is strong, and the fans are very knowledgeable. There are schools within an hour’s drive that would kill for the alumni pride and support that WKU possesses. There’s nothing else to say other than this school’s fans, for the most part, cheer for their school over the big state school in Lexington. The previous sentence will make a ton of sense if you’ve ever visited or know anyone who has any connection to the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Access 4 The walk to the stadium is beautiful. There’s a reason this team is called the Hilltoppers. If you park near Cherry Hall, you will have the pleasure of walking down a very steep hill toward L.T. Smith Stadium. The walk back will be one you can tell your grandchildren about. It’s a walk that every student and alumnus talks about with the passion and emotion of a soldier telling war stories or a grandparent telling kids about walking to school uphill both ways in the snow. It’s steep. I don’t think there’s a t-shirt at the top that you get for saying you climbed it, but it’s not a bad idea to see if that business model would have legs. Even if you attended college 10 states away and this is your first trip to campus, you will always be a Hilltopper once you’ve hiked the hill. The stadium’s flow is similar to that of a larger venue, without the long hikes to the bathroom or concessions. You may have a rather lengthy and steep walk to the top of the east side stands if you decide to sit that high in the sky, but otherwise, access to everything is rather simple inside or outside the stadium. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are $35 for seats on the west side, $25 on the east side, and $15 for youth tickets and student guests. Western Kentucky students get free entry with their student ID. With the above prices, you can really take part in a fantastic experience, though tickets can be pricey if you sit on the newly-renovated west side stands (much smaller section than the sprawling stands on the east sideline, and every seat is close to the action). Although the ROI may not be a tangible one — unless you gamble, is any return from sports tangible? — The product on the field and game presentation goes so nicely with the entire atmosphere surrounding the campus. Extras 1 The east side of the stadium carries atmosphere with it 365 days of the year. When facing the east stands, you can read the school’s nickname spelled out in large script letters across every section of the upper deck — H I L L T O P P E R S. Final Thoughts Go see a game in this stadium if you are in the area. The fans are fun, the seats are good and the view is great. The charm of campus rolls right downhill into the historic areas of downtown. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant like Mariah’s after the game. There’s no rush to get out of town, so sit down and relax. Work will be waiting for you when you get back on Monday. It’s Saturday. Let Bowling Green take care of you for the weekend.