The Long Beach Baseball Club of the Pioneer League officially has two names. They will be formally the Long Beach Coast, but also the Long Beach Regulators as an alternative identity for select games this year at Blair Field. ​ The name Coast represents the city's diverse geography, blending its 11 miles of coastline, beach culture with urban life, and uniting different neighborhoods under a shared identity. In contrast, the Regulators name stems from the Long Beach-native Warren G’s 1994 song “Regulate,” which reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped usher in the G-Funk era of Hip Hop. ​ Team president Ena Patel said that the two identities give the brand its aesthetic, which is what it looks and feels like. She added  that the team wants to build something that feels welcoming to everyone in Long Beach, whether they come for the baseball, the family atmosphere, or the culture surrounding it. ​ The ball club picked the colors of teal and black, and released an interlocking “LBC” cap monogram on its official website. The wordmark is simple: the scripted name of the team with a tail and the city name above it. ​ The two separate names are not new in baseball. The Nanaimo NightOwls of the Western Collegiate League is also known as the Bars, a play on the popular Canadian dessert treat, and tons of other clubs have alternative nights on Friday or other select nights of the season. ​ In other words, it’s business as usual in the world of minor league baseball and its cohorts. The Coast will have its home opener at Blair Field on June 2. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 William P. Hytche Athletic Center 1 Backbone Rd Princess Anne, MD 21853 Maryland-Eastern Shore Hawks website William P. Hytche Athletic Center website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 5,500 Eastern Shore Birds The University of Maryland – Eastern Shore (UMES) is a Historically Black Land-Grant University located on the DelMarVa Peninsula just south of Salisbury, Maryland. Founded in 1886, the university has gone through several names: Delaware Conference Academy, Industrial Branch of Morgan State College, Princess Anne Academy, Maryland Agricultural College, and Maryland State College before switching to its current name in 1970. The 745-acre campus has many programs and degrees, with hotel and restaurant management, fashion merchandising, construction management, and professional golf management being some of the biggest, along with engineering. The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) is made up of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) located between Florida and Delaware. UMES is a charter member of the MEAC. The UMES women’s bowling team won the NCAA Bowling Championship in 2012 and is the most consistent team on campus. In 2015, the men’s basketball team played in their first postseason in 30 years, as they played in the first round of the CollegeInsider.com tournament. Once a big-time football program, UMES ended its program in 1979. There is still some talk of bringing the football team back into action. UMES is tied with Florida State for the most alumni appearing in a single Super Bowl game. In the 1968 game (Super Bowl III) between the New York Jets and the Baltimore Colts, UMES was represented by five alumni: Earl Christy (1961–1964), Johnny Sample (1954–1957), Emerson Boozer (1962–1965), Charlie Stukes (1963–1967), and James Duncan (1968–1971). NFL player and coach Art Shell attended UMES. Other famous alumni are Clarence Clemons of the E Street Band and Jamaican track star Merrecia James. The William P. Hytche Athletic Center is named after William P. Hytche Sr., who served as the school’s president from 1975 to 1997. Food & Beverage 3 When you walk into Hytche Athletic Center, there’s a hallway to the right and a hallway to the left, and the doors to the court are straight ahead of you. If you head to the right, you’ll get to the one concession stand at the center. The stand only takes cash, but the selection is respectable as long as all you need is a snack as opposed to a full meal. Hot dogs ($2) and Wing Dings ($3) are the entrees, while candy ($1.25), chips ($1), gum ($0.25), bottled drinks ($2), and bottled water ($2) are the sides. The prices are great, with nothing being more than $3. Atmosphere 3 As soon as you walk into the athletic center, you are greeted by an employee sitting behind a folding table selling tickets. Once you get past the ticket tables, you can truly appreciate the Hytche lobby, which features plaques, portraits, and free posters. The plaques are part of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Athletic Hall of Fame, and really make a great impression on anyone who enters the venue. There are also glass cabinets that hold UMES memorabilia, such as a basketball recognizing Tee Trotter, a point guard from the early 2000s who scored over 1,000 career points with the Hawks. With the sun able to come through the glass roof and cast a shadow inside, it really is a nice-looking lobby as you make your way through the doors into the actual gym. Inside the gym, you’ll quickly realize that basketball isn’t the only sport it hosts. Track & field and gymnastics events also seem to be held in the gym, as there is a lot of extra room around the actual court with mats and ladders stacked all around. There are even a few racquetball courts inside the gym. The good part is that there was a lot of room to walk around on my visit, and I never felt stuck, crowded, or pushed, either getting to my seat or going back out to the lobby. Neighborhood 2 There is nothing much right around UMES. Historically, as it is recognized, Princess Anne is right outside the campus. It is a nice town, but there is not much really going on in the quaint village that would really make you want to spend much time there before or after a game. There are some restaurants in the area. Peaky’s provides good seafood dishes, with the offering of the iconic Smith Island Cake a pleasant surprise. Lynn’s Kitchen is a decent Chinese restaurant. Besides that, Princess Anne doesn’t offer much except fast food places like Popeye’s, Hardee’s, and McDonald’s. It may be a good idea to head the 10 miles or so north into Salisbury, where there is a plethora of restaurants. The Evolution Craft Brewing Company at 201 E Vine Street has a great tasting room and restaurant. Fans 2 The game of this review was not especially packed, but the students were not back from winter break, so that was to be expected. The team also appears to draw a decent amount of locals to watch the good quality of basketball that the MEAC conference offers. Access 3 There should be plenty of parking around the stadium, especially on weekend games. Some daytime in-semester games could be a bit busier. The main problem with UMES is that it is isolated on the DelMarVa Peninsula, relatively far from any real city. The only time that UMES feels like it is not out of the way is if you happen to stop by on the way to an early summer/late spring trip to Ocean City. Maryland. Route 50, which cuts through Salisbury, is the main path for most visitors to that beach vacation spot. Of course, being south of Salisbury means that even on the way to the beach, UMES is a bit out of the way. Princess Anne will never be anything but out of the way for most people. Return on Investment 3 The price is good for Division I basketball. Coupled with the decent concession pricing and no parking fees, the return on investment at UMES games is very good. Extras 3 The bleacher setup along the endlines is pretty unique. And seeing the racquetball courts along the edge of the arena is also a unique sight. Also, make sure to check out the many banners for the successful women’s bowling team. That is not something you see at all schools. The UMES athletic facilities have a strange little mini golf course located on an old basketball court right behind the stadium. It is not open for general use, but it is a strange little sight. Maybe it is used for student activities? The campus is also a nice little quiet place that warrants a quick walk around. The new Student Services Center building looks very nice. Unique End Line Seating at Hytche Athletic Center, Photo by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Final Thoughts When you put it all together, a day at Hytche Athletic Center has its perks and offers a unique experience, especially for the kids. There’s a lot of room to improve overall, especially in entertainment and atmosphere. If the Hawks start bringing more wins to Hytche, expect to see more fans coming out, creating an improved atmosphere.

The Mid-America League unveiled the brand identity of its newest franchise. The Meridian Blues will be the new name of the Mississippi-based ball club that also released its logo and uniforms at a press conference on Wednesday morning. The Blues logo features a red fox wearing a pair of sunglasses and a fedora. The name connects to the musical legacy of the music that has helped play an important role in the musical history of Meridian and Mississippi. Mayor Bland says this team will be a major boon to Meridian’s economy, bringing America’s favorite pastime to town. The branding and jerseys were designed by Joel Bryan of Bryan Creative Group. “The red fox perfectly reflects both local pride and the personality of the organization. As Mississippi’s state mammal, the red fox gives the Meridian Blues a strong, authentic connection to home, something fans can instantly recognize and rally behind. The red fox also lends itself naturally to fun, dynamic mascot and apparel designs that connect with young fans while still appealing to supporters of all ages.” The final design came together after several weeks of development, as the design team explored a range of creative directions to reflect both the rich history of the blues and the identity of the city of Meridian. Throughout the process, they considered incorporating iconic musical instruments and the use of a mascot. Ultimately, the red fox emerged as a natural and fitting centerpiece for the team’s brand identity. The team introduced three sets of uniform concepts that include home whites, road grays, and an orange top alternative jersey with the fox head on the left chest. Two separate caps will be worn, which are navy blue, with one having an orange bill. The Blues will play their home games at Scaggs Field  on the campus of Meridian Community College. It has a capacity of approximately 1,200 opened in 1977, and was renamed after school president Dr. Bill Scaggs in 1998. The ballpark features a few amenities, including rocks in left centerfield that spell out MCC and two decks in left field dubbed “Percy’s Porch” and “The Home Run Deck”. The diamond features a synthetic infield and a natural grass outfield, a new videoboard, and LED lights that allow the team to have light shows in multiple colors.  MCC President Tom Huebner expressed pride in hosting the new ball club, noting that logistical plans are already in place. “We’re able to provide a lease agreement to use our field, and that agreement covers everything from marketing, advertising, use of specific facilities, as any kind of agreement would,” said Huebner. “We’re also going to be providing some dormitory rooms or some student housing for some of the visiting athletes, and so we were able to work that out.” The agreement includes use of the field, marketing and advertising arrangements, and access to campus facilities. MCC will also provide housing for some visiting players, helping ensure a smooth launch for the franchise. The Meridian Blues are scheduled to take the field for their first season in May 2026, giving fans plenty of time to get ready to welcome professional baseball back to Meridian. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Pride Roofing University Center W University Ave Hammond, LA 70402 Southeastern Louisiana Lions website Pride Roofing University Center website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 7,500 Lion's Pride on the Northshore In 1928, Southeastern Louisiana University opened its doors on 60 acres of farmland just north of Lake Pontchartrain in the small Northshore community of Hammond, situated on the former estate of attorney Hunter Leake II. The institution originally began as Hammond Junior College in 1925 at a different location before relocating to its present site and becoming a four-year university. Today, Southeastern has grown into a 365-acre campus with an enrollment of approximately 14,400 students, making it the third-largest university in Louisiana. Basketball at Southeastern Louisiana University began during the 1947-48 season. The Lions initially competed at the NAIA level before moving up to NCAA Division II in the 1970s. Southeastern began its transition to Division 1 during the 1987–88 season, competing as an Independent from 1987 to 1991. The program then joined the Trans America Athletic Conference – the forerunner to today’s Atlantic Sun Conference – from 1991 to 1997, before becoming a member of the Southland Conference in 1997, where the Lions continue to compete today. Since moving to Division 1, the Lions have captured four conference championships, including three Southland Conference titles in 2004, 2005, and 2018. The pinnacle of the program’s success came during the 2004-05 season, when Southeastern earned its first, and to date only, NCAA Tournament appearance, falling to Oklahoma State in the opening round. The Lions have also made one NIT appearance, advancing to the postseason in 2018. The Lions play their home games at the Pride Roofing University Center on campus, a 7,500-seat arena that has served as the program’s home since the 1982-83 season. Before moving into this venue, Southeastern hosted its basketball games at Cefalu Coliseum, which once stood on the site now occupied by the university’s track and field complex. In 2023, the naming rights to the facility were purchased by a Louisiana-based roofing company, Pride Roofing, for ten years. The building is referred to as ‘The UC’ by students and alumni.   Food & Beverage   2 Food and beverage options inside Pride Roofing University Center are extremely limited; there is just one concession stand, located on the north side of the building near the main entrance, making it easy to find, but the stand is small in terms of size and selection. The menu sticks to the basics, offering items such as nachos, popcorn, hot dogs, candy, and chips. While the variety is minimal, the pricing is positive, with all items costing under $5, making concessions affordable for families and casual fans. Coca-Cola products are the exclusive beverage options, and alcohol is not sold anywhere inside the UC. Given the limited in-arena choices, fans looking for a more satisfying meal are better off eating before or after the game. Fortunately, Hammond offers a wide range of dining options a short drive from campus, from national chains along Highway 51 and Interstate 12 to locally owned restaurants popular with students and locals.   Atmosphere   3 Pride Roofing University Center sits on the north side of campus and has a look that’s hard to miss – from the outside, the building resembles a green tin octagon. Fans can enter through two main entrances on the north and south sides, both feeding into an inner and outer concourse that circles the building. At the north concourse, visitors are greeted with an impressive Hall of Fame display, highlighting Southeastern Louisiana’s athletic history across all sports. Individual sections honor each program, while special attention is given to All-American athletes, making it a nice stop when walking along the concourse. Inside the seating bowl, the setup is quite simple, with two levels of seating wrapped in SLU's signature green and gold. One of the biggest positives is that every seat is a chairback. The lower bowl is green, while the upper-level features yellow seating. Above the court, championship banners for both men’s and women’s programs hang from the rafters, alongside two retired jerseys. A basic scoreboard hangs at midcourt, lacking replay capabilities, and the arena itself is noticeably dimly lit, giving the UC a throwback atmosphere. The court is oriented east to west, and the interior is lined with local business signage, which adds a community feel. In fact, the in-arena advertising even led me to a new local restaurant that I checked out after the game; Ronnie's Boudin and Cracklin', located a few miles from campus. Overall, Pride Roofing University Center isn't as flashy as some of the modern college basketball arenas, but it delivers a comfortable environment, and all the seats seem close to the floor, no matter where you sit.   Neighborhood   4 Hammond is the largest city in the Parish with a population of about 20,000. Hammond is a true college town, with most of the attractions centered on the university in a pretty big downtown area. The campus is located within walking distance to downtown, only a few blocks north – this area is quite pretty with a railroad that runs right through the middle of downtown, along with several small parks. You can find plenty of restaurants and bars downtown, including La Carrenta for Mexican, Brady’s for burgers and beers, Tommy’s on Thomas for pizza and Italian fare, Mariner’s Inn and Cate Street Seafood for seafood, Lee’s Diner, and Our Mom’s and Tope La for popular Creole and Cajun foods. For popular spots to get a drink, you can try Cate Street Pub, Red White and Brew, Benny’s Place, or Crescent Bar, while for attractions in Hammond, you have the Louisiana Children’s Discovery Museum, which makes for a great place to take the kids. Keibert & Sons Gator Tours and the Global Wildlife Center, just outside Hammond, are also good options – the latter is home to a drive-through safari-style zoo. For shopping in Hammond, you have Hammond Square, a beautiful outdoor shopping mall with plenty of mall-style chain stores and restaurants. If you have time, I recommend taking a trip to neighboring Ponchatoula, which is about a 5-mile drive south of SLU’s campus. This beautiful small town is centered on its strawberry industry, as the Strawberry Capital of the World – if you are here in the spring, be sure to check out the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival. Ponchatoula has a nice downtown with plenty of restaurants, as well as a giant strawberry right next to City Hall; the city even has a cool market inside an old train station where you can buy all kinds of items, such as shirts, art, and food. For places to stay in the area, there are plenty of hotels in Hammond closer to the interstate, or for a more upscale hotel in Hammond, you can try Michabelle Inn, located in a historic 19th-century home. You can also find plenty of hotels in Baton Rouge if you elect to stay in the Louisiana capital city instead, or from Hammond, you are also only about 45 minutes from the many attractions and nightlife of New Orleans.   Fans   2 The first thing fans will notice upon entering Pride Roofing University Center is that the building feels far larger than the current size of the program. With Lions basketball averaging between 300 and 500 fans per game, large sections of empty seats are common, giving the arena a quiet and spacious feel. There is no dedicated student section, though there is a good number of students present. A solid number of SLU students turn out, including several members of the SLU baseball program. However, rather than clustering in one area, students and fans are spread throughout the seating bowl. For most home games, the upper-level seating is closed, moving fans into the lower bowl and allowing spectators to sit anywhere they choose. No band or mascot is interacting with the crowd, and no in-game efforts to generate noise or energy – as a result, the atmosphere remains strictly focused on basketball. With the Lions playing in the Southland Conference, you can also expect to see many visiting fans in attendance, especially when schools like New Orleans , McNeese State, or Northwestern State visit. For most games, the women’s teams will play before the men’s, and many fans will stay for both games.   Access   4 Getting to Hammond is fairly simple; the city is conveniently located right on the I-12/I-55 corridor, about 40 miles east of Baton Rouge and 40 miles northwest of New Orleans. Getting to SLU’s campus is also pretty easy; just take I-12 to Exit 40, then SLU is about 2.5 miles north of the exit, a few blocks north of downtown. Along the way, you’ll pass by all the shopping at Hammond Square, and you’ll have a nice drive through downtown. You can’t miss Pride Roofing University Center, as it is located across the street from campus on University Blvd, considered the northern part of campus. Louis Armstrong International Airport, closer to New Orleans, is the closest airport if you are flying in. I-55 ends at the Airport, and Hammond is a straight 45-minute drive on that freeway. This drive will take you through Manchac Swamp on the second-longest bridge in the country, though sometimes your GPS may advise you to take Lake Pontchartrain Causeway to the North Shore instead, which is actually the longest bridge in the country. However, it can sometimes take over two hours to get from New Orleans to Hammond based on traffic, if you use the causeway. Once on the arena’s property, you’ll find plenty of parking around the UC. You can even park anywhere on campus and walk under the scenic underpass that goes under University Blvd to get to campus.   Return on Investment   3 Attending a Southeastern Lions basketball game offers a good return on investment. General Admission tickets through the athletic office are listed at $15, which provides admission to both the men’s and women’s games. The best advice is to purchase tickets on the secondary market; these tickets are regularly available for under $5 on sites like StubHub and Vivid Seats, making it far more cost-effective than buying directly from the ticket office. With games rarely approaching capacity, availability is never an issue, and fans can purchase tickets without worrying about sellouts. Another positive is that fans are free to come and go as they please. Parking is free in the large surface lots surrounding Pride Roofing University Center, eliminating this extra expense as well. Inside the arena, with the upper level closed and attendance low, fans can sit virtually anywhere in the lower bowl, including mid-court or closer to the floor. When factoring in the low secondary market ticket prices, free parking, and access to a lower-level D1 basketball experience, Lions basketball offers a strong return on investment.   Extras   3 One extra for the Athletic Hall of Fame on the north concourse, a display which showcases trophies, retired jerseys, historic programs, photographs, and memorabilia representing every athletic program at SLU. It serves as both a museum and a timeline, offering fans a chance to get familiar with the school’s athletic history. One of the most significant pieces in the Hall of Fame honors Robin Roberts, widely regarded as Southeastern Louisiana’s most accomplished and nationally recognized former athlete. Long before her acclaimed broadcasting career on Good Morning America, Roberts was a standout basketball player for the Lions, and her jersey is prominently displayed in the Athletics Hall of Fame. Her impact on the program is further recognized with the retirement of her No. 21 jersey, which was officially retired in 2011 and now hangs from the rafters in Pride Roofing University Center. While still in high school, Robin was visiting LSU  as a potential basketball recruit. On the drive back to her home in Mississippi, she passed through Hammond and made a stop on the Southeastern campus. Drawn to the school’s small, close-knit atmosphere, Roberts ultimately chose to sign with SLU and played with the Lions from 1979 to 1983.  The opening of the UC marked Roberts’ final year playing basketball. Pride Roofing University Center also carries a rich history outside of collegiate athletics, particularly in the world of professional wrestling. During the 1980s, the building was a regular stop for Mid-South Wrestling, promoted by Cowboy Bill Watts. At the height of wrestling’s territorial era, the UC routinely hosted packed cards featuring some of the most iconic names in the sport – fans attending events in that era could witness legendary matchups involving The Rock 'n' Roll Express, The Midnight Express, Junkyard Dog, Kamala, Kerry Von Erich, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, and Ernie Ladd. Pride Roofing University Center has also hosted several concerts, including Doobie Brothers, Black Crowes, Cheap Trick, and Ray Charles. In addition, from 2001-2008, the facility hosted the girls' Louisiana High School Basketball State Championships.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.14 Maggs Physical Activities Center 1101 Camden Ave. Salisbury, MD 21801 Salisbury Sea Gulls website Maggs Physical Activities Center website Year Opened: 1977 Capacity: 2,300 Gulls To The Shore Salisbury University is a public university located in the city of Salisbury, roughly 30 miles west of Ocean City, Maryland. Salisbury is a member of the University System of Maryland. The school opened in 1925 and has been known as the Maryland State Normal School, Maryland State Teachers College, Salisbury State College, and Salisbury State University before going to its current name. The Salisbury Sea Gulls compete in Division III athletics in the Capital Athletic Conference, while the football team competes in the New Jersey Athletic Conference. Salisbury is well known for the success of its athletic programs, amassing 19 national championships in team sports and 24 individual national championships in track and field and wrestling. Food & Beverage 0 There is no permanent food stand. Make sure to eat before or after the game, as this arena is not a good place for food concessions. Atmosphere 2 The gym is very nice, but it is basically a high school-type setup. As you enter the arena, you will find wooden grandstands sitting along two sides of a basketball court. Some cheerleaders help enhance the atmosphere. Just outside the gym is the Salisbury trophy case. Neighborhood 4 There are many choices nearby to the university. Fast food joints and various establishments line the road outside. If you have to eat, there is a local branch of the Cook Out chain. A good local choice is the Evolution Brewing Company and their quite nice tasting room. They also offer a full restaurant option next door to that. Another option is the Market Street Inn in downtown Salisbury. I would also recommend stopping over to Ocean City and trying the dizzying array of food options located in this tourist town. OC Wasabi is a personal favorite that offers an amazing sushi roll that contains fried soft-shell crab. Or try the numerous crab options in the area. Fans 3 The only real fans who attend the games are friends and family of the players. A few scattered students attend, but it is obviously not a big event on campus. The majority of students were not back from break, so it may get a slight bump when they are all back. Access 3 The university is located along South Salisbury Blvd./Business US Route 13 just south of Downtown Salisbury. Be aware that on some weekends, there is a large amount of traffic heading east towards Ocean City, as well as traffic heading west at the end of said weekends. Plan carefully, as traffic has been known to back up all the way to Washington, DC, and Baltimore, many hours away. It really can be that bad. Luckily, for most of the basketball season, this should not be an issue. Return on Investment 2 The price of admission is $7. That does not seem high when even high school programs charge around that amount. But for the lack of amenities and level of play, the price is too high. Many Division III programs do not charge, and the Sea Gulls should consider changing that or adding more options to the facility. Extras 1 The Salisbury trophy case is certainly filled with trophies showing the accomplishments and successes of the Sea Gulls. It is worth checking out. Final Thoughts Salisbury is a pretty basic, low-level arena located in a nice suburban setting of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. It is not worth making a trip just for a Sea Gulls game, but if you are in the area, you will enjoy the game for its low level of investment.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena 2501 Lincoln Park Dr Columbus, IN 47201 Indiana Sentinels website Hamilton County Center & Ice Arena website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 1,000 Indiana Sentinels Make Their Mark in Columbus The Indiana Sentinels are members of the Federal Prospects Hockey League. The club debuted for the 2025-2026 season in Columbus, Indiana, at the Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena. A 1,000-seat hockey rink that is a temporary venue for the team until either a new building is constructed or the current venue is renovated. The building’s original name was the Lincoln Center, and it opened in 1958. Architect Harry Weese designed it as a gift to the city in memory of B.F. Hamilton, the founder of COSCO, Inc., a local company headquartered in Columbus. The building featured peaked roofs that were modeled after Swiss chalets. The exterior features a rough-hewn granite boulder, battered walls, and a triple-peaked roof with wood beams. The cost of the gift to the city of Columbus was $600,000 and also included lighted tennis courts, bocci and croquet courts, a children’s playground, and a warming room with a fireplace. The ice rinks were enclosed in 1975 with matching materials to make it a year-round facility. The building's name was changed to the Hamilton Center in 1995. The rink is also home to the Columbus Icemen high school and Columbus Flames youth hockey teams, along with a host of other activities, including the Columbus Broomball Association, Full Throttle Skate Club, and the Lincoln Center Skate Club. Team ownership originally planned on operating an FPHL franchise at the Corteva Coliseum on the grounds of the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. However, plans did not work out, and the focus shifted to the Hamilton Community Center in late 2024. The objective as of this writing is to have a 2,500-seat arena within the next three years for the Sentinels to move into and attract potential investors.  Food & Beverage 3 There are two points of purchase for food and drink options at the venue. The concession stand is located inside the community room, serving hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, pretzels, and candy. There are six-inch pizzas from nearby Mother’s Bear, which include pepperoni and sausage varieties. Customers can add chili to their nachos or hot dogs for an additional fee. Local beer from Hog Molly Brewing Company is available near the rink’s entrance. There are four varieties: Blindside Blackberry Blonde, Munich Octoberfest, Hog Molly IPA, and Gloves Off Nordic Golden Ale, which is made exclusively for the Sentinels. All fountain drinks are from Coca-Cola. Atmosphere 4 The small hockey barn has been nicely updated for Sentinels games. Fans enter through a community room where they’re greeted by a merchandise table, concession stands, and an information booth. The space also features benches and a fire pit, giving fans a comfortable place to relax before the game and during intermissions. The souvenir stand sells a bit of team gear, including t-shirts, caps, and jerseys. The variety is nice and provides a chance for fans to show their team spirit. The “S-Word” logo is sharp and looks good against the navy and gold backdrop. Fans enter the rink through another door and make their way around to the east side of the facility to five rows of wooden bleacher seats. The area is very narrow and crowded during the game, but it also provides the heartbeat of the venue. This is where most of the excitement is from fans cheering, making noise, and holding up signs. There is additional seating behind the goal and an SRO section. This is also a festive atmosphere on a much smaller scale; however, there is much more room to move around and mingle with other supporters. Visiting players make their way to the dressing room through this area, and sometimes a little jabbing between players and fans. The arena features a couple of simple scoreboards, various banners from the high school and youth hockey teams, but no scoreboard for instant replays and fan engagement. The club does have a mascot (he was not present during your visit) and a PA announcer who screams at the top of his lungs to cheer on the Sentinels. His enthusiasm is appreciated, but he gives up Sam Kinison vibes. During intermission, there are on-ice promotions with younger fans, including broom ball and attempts to make a goal from center ice. Neighborhood 4 Columbus has its own downtown with a few other options within driving distance. There are plenty of lodging options in town and along I-65 to make a weekend visit ideal in town for an overnight stay that is in between Louisville and Indianapolis.  Agni is among the best places to eat in town, offering Mexican, Asian, and Indian vegetarian cuisine. 450 North Brewing Company serves great beers and brick oven pizza, even by the slice, and Zwanzigz Pizza also features hoagies, calzones, and salads. There are even more great restaurants, including Henry’s Social Club, The Garbage Pub and Grill, Blackerby's Hangar 5, and Amazing Joe’s Grill.    If interested in shopping, the Edinburgh Outlet Mall is located off of I-65 with further restaurant chain options. In this area, a few nice choices to stay overnight include Residence Inn, Courtyard, Holiday Inn, and the nearby Hotel Indigo at the Columbus Architectural Center. If there is time, the city has two high school basketball gyms that are worth checking out. Memorial Gymnasium  is home to the Columbus North Bulldogs and offers seating for 6,547 people. The Orange Pit  is home to the Columbus East Olympians and is known for its massive array of orange throughout the building. Also, just a bit outside of town is the Edinburgh Gymnasiu m, home to the Edinburgh Lancers, a classic example of a sunken gym. Fans 5 The fans have packed the ice arena this season with games near capacity. They stay from the opening face-off until the final buzzer. It is a collection of experienced and new fans of the sport who chant, cheer, and roar for the Sentinels during the game. There is one fan who holds up signs and ignites the crowd in the east stands to cheer and clap during certain moments of the game. The main lobby also becomes a meet and greet of fans during each intermission. Access 2 The seating area is small, narrow, and due to the team's popularity, it gets a bit crowded and hard to move around for some fans during games. There is additional seating at the end of the rink and a small enclosed space near the entrance of the rink that is ideal for fans on the Spectrum. The main lobby is spacious and houses the restrooms, concession stands, and merchandise tables.  Return on Investment 3 The price of an adult ticket is $17 and $14 for military or first responders with an ID. The team also sells a $10 pre-game party bunker ticket. The price of food is lower than most minor league hockey games, with hot dogs selling for $3 and nachos for $5. The price of a beer is $9 plus tax, and a Sentinels hockey jersey will set you back $144. T-shirts and hats cost between $25 $35.  Extras 3 The fans deserve a big round of applause for their enthusiasm, pride, and passion for the new hockey team in town. The team is sporting a losing record, but the stands have been close to full at every home game. The second point is for the local flavors of Hog Molly beer from Columbus and Mother’s Bear Pizza from Bloomington. They are also not priced that high for a hockey game. The community room earns a point for a nice place to gather with other fans and supporters in between intermissions. The design harkens back to the rink's early days, and the atmosphere adds to the festivities of the evening.  Final Thoughts The Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena is not the ideal professional hockey venue, but fans have come out to support the club. The enthusiasm is evident among young and old fans who have a chance to enjoy professional hockey in their backyard. Hopefully, ownership and the city come up with a more modern and comfortable arena to harness the early interest in the sport. Who knows, perhaps Columbus, Indiana, is a minor league hockey town. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

I recently purchased a Charleston Charlies truckers cap from Ebbets Field Flannels. The cap was on sale, and I took advantage of the low price for one of my all-time favorite minor league logos—a logo featuring an anthropomorphic smiling baseball smoking a cigar. However, the infamous logo that has identified this chapter of Charleston baseball was not used from the start, but slowly emerged from a few factors. The name Charlies was chosen by owner Robert Levine in January 1971 for two reasons: the name was short for the city of Charleston, and for his father, whose nickname was "Poor Charlie". He was a local legend who made a fortune in the junk business. Poor Charlie was known to wear a derby hat and a cigar whenever he was seen in public. The trademark look made such an impact that the team's identity borrowed his look. The club was the Triple-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates and borrowed the same black and gold pullover jerseys for its first season. The caps were almost identical, but with a 'C' instead of a 'P'. However, a small patch on the left sleeve of some photos from the early years showed a roundel logo with ​ It quickly became clear that the derby hat and cigar would be associated with the new baseball team in town. Illustrations of derby hats, cigars, and baseball appeared in local West Virginia newspapers promoting the club, and one columnist even coined the phrase Derby Hat and Cigar Boys. ​ Based on numerous advertisements in local newspapers, the club’s first logo appeared in the April 4, 1971 edition of the Beckley Post-Herald  & The Raleigh Register. The   illustration featured a smirking baseball player smoking a cigar while leaning on a baseball bat. The player also sported a derby hat. However, a different logo appeared on the sleeves of uniforms during the first few seasons of existence. ​The derby hat was in a nod to Levin, who would attend games wearing a derby hat and chomping on a cigar. Similar advertisements would appear in the Charleston Daily Mail  for Helmet and Bat Night at the ballpark. However, a roundel logo featuring a black derby hat adorned the Pirates-style pullover jerseys, and a cigar displayed the city and team name in black script. This was more than likely the official logo of the ball club during its first year, but it does not appear in many media from that time. ​ The illustration was most likely created by the ball club and not by the local newspaper, as it appeared in two different papers. However, I can’t be certain of that fact, and perhaps the more familiar logo was also in production, but not used in the 1971 newspaper ads. I am sure that somebody knows this for certain and can share their expertise on the matter. ​ In 1972, more advertisements were published, and a new logo appeared. Gone was the traditional-looking ballplayer in favor of a giant baseball with a human body swinging a baseball bat. Yes, he had the derby hat and a stogie in his mouth. It appeared various times throughout the season, but by next year, the iconic image of the Charlies made its appearance in the local dailies. ​ On January 22, 1973, the classic baseball head, cigar-smoking, and derby hat-wearing logo appeared in The Charleston Daily Mail  for a Warm Up ‘73: Welcome Home Fun Reception for manager Joe Morgan at the Daniel Boone Hotel. Morgan was about to lead the Charlies to 85 games and a division championship. Nevertheless, an iconic minor league logo was born. ​ The image was popular enough that by 1974, the Charleston Gazette-Mail  published either happy or frowning faces on its front page after wins and losses. It was a simple yet effective branding piece. Back when newspapers were a vital source of information, fans could stare at the front page of the paper and see the image of the club's logo over a cup of coffee at the breakfast table. According to Robert's obituary in 2011 in the Gazette & Mail , he created the smiley-face logo with the hat and cigar in between the seams of the baseball. In the same article, first-year player and former West Virginia State baseball coach Cal Bailey said that Robert's father was the mascot and would always be at games. It was important to take care of his dad and to make him happy. Charlie would sit in the stands at Watt Powell Park with a powered megaphone, tossing comments at the opponents and the umpire. He would always wear his hat and have a cigar in his mouth. Sadly, he passed away in 1981 at the age of 89, and by this time, the ball club was on the verge of relocating elsewhere. The Charlies were a Cleveland Indians affiliate by this time, and attendance was dead last in the league. ​ The team was sold to a new group with the intent of relocation, but that didn’t happen until after the 1983 season, when the club moved to Old Orchard Beach, Maine, and rebranded as the Maine Guides. That team would move to Moosic, Pennsylvania, in 1988 and be rebranded as the Scranton-Wilkes/Barre Red Barons. The club still plays at the same ballpark and is now known as the RailRiders. ​ Baseball returned to Charleston in the South Atlantic League in 1987. The original name was the Wheelers, but the franchise transitioned to the West Virginia Power by the time it moved into the brand new Appalachian Power Park (now GoMart Ballpark) in 2005. In 2009, they introduced an updated Charlies logo decked out in a pirate bandana, earring, and a derby hat. However, due to the times and health concerns, there was no cigar in his mouth. ​ The Power joined the independent Atlantic League in 2021 and rebranded as the Charleston Dirty Birds.  You can purchase a pepperoni roll or a canary on a cap, but not a smiling baseball with a stogie-how unfortunate. ​ However, the Charlies logo has been preserved for more than 50 years since its introduction. The connection between the owner’s father and his favorite headgear inspired a look that was unique and ideal for minor league baseball of that era. Heck, it would be perfect for this era of baseball, sans the stogie. ------ 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: 3.14 JTF Homes Arena @ Zancor Centre 1600 15th Sideroad King City, ON L7B 1A3 King Rebellion website Zancor Center website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 500 Join The Rebellion The King Rebellion joined the Junior A level Ontario Junior Hockey League in 2024 after moving from Brantford to King City.  The franchise was founded in 1966 as the Milton Merchants and moved to Brantford to become the 99ers in 2018.  After Brantford secured OHL hockey with the Brantford Bulldogs , the writing was on the wall that there would be changes in the hockey landscape in Brantford. The 99ers were purchased by Willa Wang of Beijing Xinghongao Sports and Culture Co.  Willa is the mother of Oshawa General Simon Wang, a former Rebellion player who is, as of this writing, only the 3rd Chinese-born player drafted into the NHL.  The renaming of the 99ers provided one of the most unique team names in sports, and it is not just a clever moniker.  The "Rebellion" refers to the role that King Township played in the short-lived Upper Canada Rebellion of 1837. Upon moving to King Township, the Rebellion played their first few months of home games in nearby Nobleton at the Nobleton Arena @ Dr. William Laceby Nobleton Community Centre .  In January of 2025, the permanent home for the Rebellion, Zancor Centre, was finally ready in King City.  Named after the real estate developer, Zancor Centre is a community hub with a pair of NHL-sized arenas as well as a swimming pool, gymnasium, and community rooms.  The Rebellion plays in the JTF Homes Arena. Food & Beverage 3 There is a snack bar in the main lobby that serves the entirety of Zancor Centre.  It is a fairly simple menu, not unlike other arenas in this league.  The menu includes pizza, hot dogs, beef patties, chips, candy, chocolate, cookies, brownies, and muffins.  Soda, Gatorade, water, juice, energy drinks, coffee, and hot chocolate are the beverages available. Atmosphere 3 The Zancor Centre has a somewhat unremarkable, yet functional exterior, featuring a predominance of brown brick.  The main entrance features a slight indentation with a natural seating area on the east end, which helps the Zancor Centre avoid looking like a giant brown box.  Entry into Zancor Centre brings fans into a large atrium with high ceilings that links all of the parts of the centre.  At the east entry, fans are right at the home of the Rebellion, JTF Homes Arena.  After passing a temporary ticket table and merchandise table, fans enter JTF Homes Arena.  There are large windows that allow people to see into the arena.  On gameday, these are mostly covered to ensure that spectators are purchasing tickets.  Inside the arena, there are plenty of markings for the Rebellion, including clear links to the minor hockey associations in King Township, as well as a Rebellion schedule.  One item of interest is a large poster near the entrance to the arena explaining the name Rebellion and the links to the Upper Canada Rebellion.  The ice surface is south-to-north oriented, with seating only available on the east side.  Seating consists of four rows of plastic benches with rails behind for standing room.   There is plenty of standing room at the north end of the rink as well.  Drink rails are available at the north end.  Sightlines are not the greatest, as from pretty much any of the seating spots, fans are required to look through multiple panes of glass through the penalty boxes.  The arena is bright and clean, and windows at the top of the east and west sides let in plenty of natural light.  A simple hockey scoreboard hangs above centre ice. The gameday production at a King Rebellion game is very simple.  The sound system is excellent, and announcements are easy to understand.  Neighbourhood 3 Zancor Centre is located at the northeast end of King City, on the edge of town.  There are a couple of spots for pre or postgame food or drink.  They include Motorino, Hogan’s, the Hunt Pub and Locale King City.  The Rebellion is the only game in town, however, there are other teams nearby.  The OJHL has the rival Aurora Tigers  and Newmarket Hurricanes a short drive away.  The Schomberg Cougars of the PJHL are also close by.  Other tourist options in the area include the King Heritage and Culture Centre and Canada’s Wonderland.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, the Holiday Inn in Aurora is a good option. Fans 2 Assessing fans in the OJHL can be difficult.  Not all teams report their attendance figures and the King Rebellion are among that group.  For the game that was reviewed, there were maybe 120 fans in attendance.  Rebellion fans would probably fall into the “friends and family” category and are generally pretty reserved.  The small capacity of Zancor Centre precludes the Rebellion from attracting an elite level of support that the top tier teams in the league enjoy.  However, by no means are the Rebellion selling out their games.   Access 5 Zancor Centre is located in the northeast end of King City, in King Township, between Richmond Hill and Highway 400.  It is located on the northwest corner of 15th Sideroad and Dufferin Street.  It is approximately 5 km east of Highway 400 and not too difficult to get to.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  For fans who are interested in public transit, there is a York Region Transit bus stop at the corner.  Fans should consult the York Region Transit website for fares, maps and schedules.  Since Zancor Centre is so new, accessibility is at the forefront and getting around is very easy.  Washroom facilities are also good.  Fans should note that JTF Homes Arena is very cold and there are no heaters over the seating section. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for a King Rebellion are $15, cash or card at the door.  Discounts are available for students and seniors.  Kids and minor hockey players of King or Nobleton are free with their jersey.  Parking on site is free and concession prices are what one would expect.  The product on the ice is high quality and fans will enjoy the experience.  A bit more of a production would add value to the low investment for a Rebellion game. Extras 2 An extra mark for Zancor Centre as a community hub with multiple sports facilities. An extra mark for the strong connection the King Rebellion have built with minor hockey in King and Nobleton. Final Thoughts The OJHL moving from Brantford to King City is an interesting one.  The ownership situation in King is an interesting one as well.  The King Rebellion now enjoy their brand new facility in JTF Homes Arena @ Zancor Centre and time will tell if the Rebellion will be a long term staple for the area or a flash in the pan, much like the Upper Canada Rebellion of 1837. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Smokey Joe Williams Field 950 S Austin St. Seguin, TX 78155 Seguin River Monsters website Smokey Joe Wiliams Field website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 1,200 River Monsters Make Smokey Joe Home The Seguin River Monsters are members of the Texas Collegiate League and play at Smokey Joe Williams Field. The ballpark is named after the hometown hero who played 28 years in the Negro Leagues from 1903-1932. Williams was considered the best Negro League pitcher in a 1952 poll, edging out Satchel Paige, and would have a career 20-7-1 record with 12 shutouts against major league teams in exhibition play. He would be enshrined in Cooperstown in 1999. Two years later, the ballpark would be renamed in his honor. The baseball field opened as Fairgrounds Park in 1960 and was part of a complex that houses the Seguin Arena for rodeos, Seguin Coliseum, volleyball courts, and softball fields. The Guadalupe County Fair is held annually on the grounds. There is a lot of activity taking place at any given time, as baseball, rodeo shows, and league volleyball matches could all take place at the same time. The River Monsters began operations in 2022, and the ballpark is also home to the Seguin High School Matadors baseball program. The Matadors are building a new home, but its presence is felt on signage around the stadium. The Matadors’ name appears on the outfield wall to its 1960 State Championship banner in the main concourse. However, it has not been home to minor league or summer collegiate baseball since the 1976 Seguin Toros operated in the Gulf Coast League. The Toros made national headlines when their owner refused to pay for lodging in Corpus Christi, insisting players make the 330-mile drive between each game. Players then brought out tents and sleeping bags, spending the night on the beach after the second game. The club folded after the season with a 29-48 record. Just in case you were wondering, a river monster is a colloquialism for a catfish. It became the 20th city to call the league home, adopting the colors green and blue. For a city with a Hall of Fame pitcher and only one season of minor league baseball, the River Monsters hope to satisfy its fans with a baseball game during the summer months. Food & Beverage 3 There is one main concession stand underneath the grandstand that handles all of the food and drink during games. The items include hot dogs, nachos, candy, peanuts, popcorn, ice cream, and Hot Cheetos covered with cheese. The soda options include Coke products and the Texas mandatory drinks of Big Red and Dr. Pepper. However, the stadium was not selling beer, but it could change in the future. The food products are not varied, but the hot dogs were steamed and tasty. The cheese-covered Hot Cheetos made for a different type of ballpark snack, and ice cream helmets were available. The only problem is that the ice cream sold out rather quickly. It’s suggested to have dinner before the game since the items here are clearly for snacking. Hot Cheetos at Smokey Joe Park, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 3 The covered grandstand can hold around 900 people and comprises aluminum bleachers. A simple press box is located at the top of the grandstand seating, while open bleacher seats are on each baseline. The club has set up a few banners around the concourse to promote its brand, but that does not include the team mascot. What was interesting was the number of children chasing foul balls out of the ballpark throughout the night. Kids were running in pairs to collect the elusive baseball souvenir, with a few picking up two on the night. When they weren’t chasing foul balls, they were chasing one another down the third-base side of the field in the open spaces. A table is set up with limited tech merchandise near the entrance, a local band played Take Me Out to the Ballpark during the 7th inning stretch, and the sound system was working quite well with the PA announcer coming through loud and clear. There were no promotions on the field in between innings, no silly sound effects, or an overabundance of advertisement. It was simple baseball with a nice gathering on a cool Texas evening. Neighborhood 3 Seguin is 30 miles east of San Antonio and offers a downtown square surrounded by a courthouse. Some eateries range from local barbecue to Italian cuisine. It is advised to eat something before the game, and there are more than enough establishments to choose from in town. Dixie Grill specializes in Southern comfort food, Johnnie’s Bar-B-Que is a local area staple, Mary’s Tex-Mex is worth a visit, and Hawaiian Bros Island Grill offers a taste of Hawaii. There are still more, including The Powerplant, Giuseppe’s Italian Grill, 1838 Grill, and Kirby’s Korner for specialized burgers. If you are a fan of craft beer, Seguin Brewing Company has a few pints ready to drink. Fans 3 Seguin is a new franchise on the TCL, but the fan base appears to be paying attention. A great crowd was on hand that provided a pleasant backdrop to the game, including Little Leaguers, season ticket holders, and curious onlookers enjoying the new team in town. The concession lines are packed, and kids were able to keep the balls they fetched in the parking lot. Access 4 Smokey Joe Williams Field is easy to access. It consists of a covered grandstand with concessions and bathrooms on the main concourse. The parking is free of charge and easy to find with signs throughout the city. Return on Investment 4 The price of a ticket is $6 and is one of the best deals in any league in the state. The concession prices are reasonable, and so is the merchandise. Parking is free for all home games, and Seguin is a great town to spend a few hours in before the game. Extras 3 The River Monsters earn a point for a local band playing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame”. The second point is for the tasty food that includes steamed hot dogs and cheese-covered Hot Cheetos. The last point is for the kids chasing and keeping foul balls instead of returning them for a food item. Final Thoughts There is a lot to enjoy at a River Monsters game, but there is a lot more to improve. The promotions and on-field gimmicks did not take place during our visit, and one could imagine what could have been done with all those kids in the audience. It was a shame to see little merchandise, but that could be due to the current shipping situation. The club has a wonderful ballpark to play in and needs a little more seasoning to make it a truly enjoyable experience ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on YouTube @ballparkhunter, Twitter @ballparkhunter , and Instagram .

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 The Eagles Nest 610 East Clyde St. Frankton, IN 46044 Frankton Eagles website The Eagles Next website Year Opened: 1959 Capacity: 2,500 A Hidden Gem in the Hoosier State Frankton Jr./Sr. High School is home to a 2,500-seat basketball gymnasium affectionately known as The Eagles Nest. The gymnasium was built along with the school for the 1959-1960 academic year. The project cost $940,000, and the first game was played on November 2, 1959, with a crowd of close to 3,000 that saw Frankton defeat Lapel 64-49. There have been many changes inside the gym, from the 49-star US flag to renovations to part of the bleacher seating, but much has remained the same. Visiting the gym is a trip back in time on Friday nights during the cold winter months. That small-school feeling still exists in games against nearby rivals Lapel and Elwood. In December 2025, the gymnasium co-hosted the inaugural Central Indiana Holiday Classic with Elwood High School for the first time. The two-day event features 18 teams from around the state, with six games that begin at 10:00 AM and run until 8:00 PM at each building, culminating in championship games the next day. Food & Beverage 4 The concession stand is located at the entrance to the gym and underneath the grandstand. The long, narrow stand efficiently moves people in and out during the game, offering a handful of menu items that should satisfy every patron. The items include hot dogs, pizza slices, popcorn, nachos, candy, and Pepsi products. Prices range from $2 for a hot dog to $5 for nachos. However, more is served during the Holiday Classic, which serves as a fundraiser for the students of Frankton High. Dirty Sodas are available in seven flavors, including Dr. Pepper with vanilla creamer and lime, and Sprite with cherry syrup, cherries, and glitter. They cost $4 each. Chick-fil-A sandwiches are also available for $7, and locally made ice cream from The Depot is served in a variety of flavors for $5 per scoop. However, Rex’s Chili is a must-have at the game. The homemade recipe has been served since 1990 and is available frozen by the quart at all home games; it is served piping hot during the tournament games. Atmosphere 4 The Eagles Nest is a classic bandbox gym with out-of-bounds lines inches from spectators' feet, foul lines rubbing against the stage and stands, and a low-hanging ceiling. It is a callback to another time in high school basketball in Indiana. It is a gym with many quirks. Three sides of the gymnasium have seating, but one side has newer plastic bleachers that can be folded up to create more room for gym programs during the school day. There is a corner of the seating bowl with railings that separate it from the rest of the bowl. The cinderblock walls are covered with multiple conference championships from the school's numerous sports programs. The stage is bordered in brick and features a red curtain. The stage area includes a few tables and chairs for media and tournament personnel. There is also a photographer hanging off the stage to capture pictures for the school. The stage is also used for additional seating during higher-attendance games, most notably against the rival Lapel High School. On each side of the stage are banners from school championships, an American flag, a conference banner, and a list of advertisers. Neighborhood 2 Frankton, Indiana, has a population of around 1,800 and is over an hour from downtown Indianapolis and 45 minutes from Fishers, where the Fishers Event Center hosts the Indy Fuel hockey  and the Indy Ignite volleyball teams . There are a few places to visit while in town, including MJ’s Scoops and Moore, The Depot Ice Cream & More, Bernie’s Bar, and Maranatha Coffee Co. Fans 3 During the Holiday Classic, a small group of fans made their way to the gym to cheer their favorite team. When Frankton showed up for the later game, the gym began to fill with locals, parents, and a small student section. They cheered, roared, and clapped throughout the game. Access 4 The Eagles Nest is easy to navigate, with concession stands underneath the grandstand and restrooms at the entrance. Additional concession stands are in the main lobby, and service is relatively quick. The 2,500-seat gymnasium is easy to find a seat, but it can become crowded during packed games. Return on Investment 4 A ticket to the Holiday Classic is $15 for the entire session at Frankton and nearby Elwood High School. This allows fans to watch 6 games while spending $2 for a hot dog and $5 for nachos. It is an affordable way to spend the day during the Holiday season. A ticket to a regular Frankton game is $6 per person.  Extras 3 The Eagles Nest earns a point for its stage at one end, which also serves as space for media and officials. It is framed in brick and features championship banners above it. It creates a nice centerpiece for the venue. The gymnasium earns another point for its concession stand underneath the grandstand. The long, narrow area features the old Frankton center court logo and a team photo from the 1934/1935 season. An additional point is earned for the additional concession items of chili, dirty soda, and Chick-fil-A sandwiches in the main lobby. Each purchase of these items funds school programs and scholarship opportunities. Final Thoughts There are newer, more spacious high school basketball gyms in the area. However, many of them lack the atmosphere that is The Eagles Nest. When the gym is packed, the roar of the crowd can be deafening. A true small-school hidden gym in the state that does high school hoops the best . ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey On Saturday, January 10th in the very first playoff game of 2026, the Panthers fell to the Rams in a barn burner in Charlotte. The Rams jumped out to a 14-0 lead, but thanks to turnovers and turnovers-on-downs, the Panthers were able to keep it close, making it 17-14 at the half. The Panthers were able to take a 4-point lead twice in the fourth quarter, only to have the Rams score a touchdown of their own each time, to take back the lead. The Panthers were unable to connect on their final drive, allowing the Rams to escape with the win, 34-31. But while football Carolina licked their wounds, a few hours later in Raleigh, the hockey Hurricanes came from behind to snatch victory away from the Seattle Kraken. The visitors led 2-1 after 2 periods, but the Canes scored 2 goals about 3 minutes apart in the 3rd period, to end up winning 3-2. So while the Panthers season is now officially over, the Hurricanes currently sit atop the NHL Eastern Division standings with 28 wins and 59 points, keeping Carolina fans’ hopes alive to still win a championship this year.

Mock-up of Proposed Revolution Soccer Stadium. Photo courtesy of Kraft Group. Even though they are an original member of Major League Soccer, from day one of the franchise in 1994, the New England Revolution have played the role of little brother to the New England Patriots. The two teams share an ownership group (the Kraft Group) and have always shared a home stadium (first Foxboro Stadium , then Gillette Stadium ). Playing second fiddle in an NFL stadium has never been an ideal solution for the Revs, and the Kraft Group has never been shy about its stated goal of finding an appropriate location to build a soccer-specific stadium for its MLS franchise. Even so, the Revolution remained in Foxboro after 32 seasons. But that all may finally be changing. The Kraft Group, owners of the New England Revolution, announced on Wednesday that they have reached an agreement with the city of Everett, Massachusetts, to build a soccer stadium in the city. Following agreements with the cities of Everett and Boston, a “long neglected” industrial site along the Mystic River will become the home of a proposed 25,000-seat soccer-specific stadium. The new stadium will sit where a dormant power plant is now located, not far from the Encore Boston Harbor casino. Many of the statements made by all sides involved in the agreement focused on the revitalization of the waterfront area. "Under the agreements, we will undertake significant environmental remediation and demolition of the long vacant powerplant, invest in extensive traffic and transportation improvements, and deliver substantial community benefits, including millions of dollars towards infrastructure improvements," the Kraft Group said in a statement. "The project will open the waterfront with the creation of a new public park, strengthen pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, and enhance access to public transit."  The agreement signals that previous objections from Boston city leaders have been overcome. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu criticized the Kraft Group in August over its handling of the stadium proposal. The facility will be located across the river from the Boston neighborhood of Charlestown. Wu argued at the time that fans would travel through overly congested areas to get to the stadium, and that the Kraft Group's environmental mitigation package of $750,000 was too small. Mayor Wu said in a statement, "This stadium will enhance Boston's position as the sports and entertainment capital of New England while transforming a blighted site on our doorstep." Current Power Plant on the Banks of Mystic River in Everett. Photo courtesy of CBS Boston. Outgoing Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria said "My vision for Everett has been for our city to have a vibrant waterfront with access for our residents, new clean industries that bring our residents construction and long-term job opportunities, improved public transit options, and new revenue sources to support city services." In a statement, Everett Mayor-Elect Robert Van Campen said the agreement marks an important milestone for the project. "While this agreement is not the final step, Everett residents will continue to play a central role as this process moves forward. I look forward to working with city partners, community members, and the Kraft Group as the project moves through the review and permitting process."  As part of the agreement, the City of Boston will receive $48 million in subsidies over 15 years to help with infrastructure improvements focused on the neighborhood of Charlestown (which connects to the proposed stadium site in Everett). Everett’s agreement calls for the city to receive $20 million for the building of a park along the shores of the Mystic River adjacent to the stadium. The city will also receive $17.5 million to expand infrastructure at the Orange Line stop at Assembly. The eventual goal is to build a pedestrian bridge from the Assembly stop across the Mystic River to the stadium. Speaking of goals, the Revs have long stated that their goal is to find a home of their own. That goal may finally be realized. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Lloyd Brown and David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 VyStar Arena 590 Cobb Ave Kennesaw, GA 30144 Kennesaw State Owls website VyStar Arena website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 4,600 The Owl's Nest Kennesaw State University is the third-largest university in the state of Georgia, with a student body of 47,000 students. It was originally a commuter college, but in the last 10 years, it has become a more traditional school, with a vast supply of student housing on campus or nearby. The athletic teams at the university are known as the Owls. The school originally fielded teams at the NAIA and Division II levels but achieved Division I status in 2005. The Owls now compete in all sports as a member of Conference USA. The Owls basketball program has been successful at each level of NCAA competition. They won the Division II National Championship in 2005. In 2023, the team won the Atlantic Sun Tournament Championship and received an automatic bid for the NCAA Basketball Tournament. The Owls lost in the first round of the tournament in a buzzer-beater game against Xavier. The on-campus home of the Owls is the VyStar Arena. It was formerly known as the Kennesaw State University Convocation Center, but the arena portion of the venue has changed names as part of a business partnership with the VyStar Credit Union. The Convocation Center opened in 2005 and has a seating capacity of 3,800 in its basketball configuration. It also serves as the home of women’s basketball and volleyball programs. Food & Beverage 2 There is one concession stand serving the arena. It carries the arena standards of hot dogs ($6), cheeseburgers ($9.75), hamburgers ($9.25), nachos with cheese/salsa ($10), pretzels ($7), popcorn ($8), cotton candy ($6), chips ($2), and candy ($4). Drink selections include Coca-Cola brand sodas ($6/ 20 oz.), Powerade ($6), and bottled water ($5). Adult beverages are available, and they include domestic brand beers ($8), premium brand beers ($9,) and canned cocktails ($14). Due to the long lines that exist throughout the game and the high prices for a very average menu, we suggest you eat at one of the many restaurants adjacent to the campus. Atmosphere 4 The spirit teams at KSU do a great job of creating a high energy level at Owl's home games. Scrappy the Owl is always present, leading the cheers and entertaining the crowds during breaks in the action. The VyStar Arena does a masterful job of promoting the KSU brand, as the midcourt section of the playing surface features a huge “KSU” logo, and the gold/black team colors are prominently used in the seating areas, on signage, and at the concession stands. Neighborhood 4 Kennesaw State University is in the northern suburb of Atlanta known as Kennesaw. The neighborhood surrounding the 251-acre campus is made up of apartment complexes, retail establishments, and restaurants. It is also known as the Town Center area, after a regional shopping mall located one exit south of the university on I-75. There are several dining establishments in the Town Center District, including Tin Lizzy, Three Dollar Café, and Taco Mac. Miller’s Ale House and the Mellow Mushroom Kennesaw are also nearby. Lodging is available within walking distance of the campus at the Hampton Inn Atlanta Kennesaw, the Sonesta Suites Atlanta Kennesaw, or the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kennesaw. History buffs may be interested in visiting a pair of Civil War-related sites in Kennesaw while in town for a game. The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield played a major role in the Battle of Atlanta, while the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History features the two actual trains that were involved in the Great Locomotive Chase. Fans 4 The Owl’s fanbase plays a major role in the success of the KSU basketball program. Student seating is located behind the goals at each end of the court. This allows the locals to create havoc for the visiting teams as they interfere with on-court communication, as well as disrupt their concentration at the free-throw line. In addition to the members of the KSU student body, Owl games also draw fans from many of the local high schools. Many of these younger fans have a sibling at the university, and it’s not unusual to find generations of local family members who also attended the school. Access 4 VyStar Arena is easily accessed via Exit # 271/Chastain Road off I-75. Once off the interstate, head west on Chastain Road to the first red light. Turn right at Frey Road and continue to the next traffic light. Turn left and park in the East Parking Deck, which is adjacent to the VyStar Arena. The arena is adjacent to the second level of the parking deck. Follow the sidewalk at the back of the parking deck to the front of the arena. Doors open one hour before the opening tipoff. Students living on campus can simply walk to the arena, as it is located on the campus green. Return on Investment 3 KSU students can attend basketball games free of charge, as the activity fee portion of their tuition covers their attendance. There are a variety of price points for non-students to attend Owls games. These include courtside seats for $37 general admission seating for $30. Guests of KSU students can attend Owls games for $5.25. Concession prices tend to be high for some very average food items. Parking for Owls basketball games is free in the East Parking Deck adjacent to VyStar Arena. Extras 2 VyStar Arena also hosts concerts, seminars, youth camps, community events, and graduations. Numerous celebrities have appeared at the Convocation Center/VyStar Arena over the years. Tennis stars Billy Jean King, Andy Roddick, Anna Kournikova, and Pete Sampras played in indoor tournaments at the venue, while Elton John and other notable musicians played concerts at the venue. Final Thoughts Hoo knew that Owl's Nest was such an outstanding place to take in a college basketball game in the Atlanta suburbs?

Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey We’ve all seen it happen, either in real life or on a SportsCenter highlight or TikTok reel – a couple is at a sporting event when, surprise, surprise, one of them drops down on one knee and pops the proverbial question. If you’re a sports fan worth his or her salt, I’m sure this scenario has at least crossed your mind once or twice vis-à-vis you and your significant other. You and your special someone are up on the jumbotron being cheered on by thousands of your closest friends. Magical, right? To play that scenario out in real life, there are probably a few speed bumps or roadblocks that need to be overcome before you can make this dream a reality. Maybe not first on the list, but probably pretty close to the top is, how much does something like this cost, anyway? Sportsbook Review , an online betting evaluation site, recently did a deep dive on this topic to find out what the costs are across the four major sports leagues in the U.S. What they found was a mix of good and not-so-good news. The NFL, by far the most popular professional sports league in the country, only offers this option at 12 of its stadiums – of these 12, Allegiant Stadium , home of the Las Vegas Raiders, has the highest proposal fee cost at $1,500. The next highest cost is at Hard Rock Stadium , home of the Miami Dolphins, at $750, while the lowest can be found at Lincoln Financial Field , home of the Philadelphia Eagles, for just $25. Moving over to basketball, the home of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, Chase Center , has the highest proposal fee at just $250, while in the NHL, the New York Islanders home ice, UBS Arena , has the highest proposal cost at $500. In the MLB, Citi Field  – home of the New York Mets – and Nationals Park  – home of the Washington Nationals – both lead the list with fees of $1,500, although the Nats charge their fee for a video message only. The full report, including the full list of venues that offer proposals, can be found here . ------ Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Baseball has been played at the site of Wahconah Park  in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, since 1892. The ballpark itself dates back to 1919 and features one of the oldest wooden grandstands still in existence. Unfortunately, that old grandstand was condemned in 2022 and is now scheduled to be razed early in 2026. Wahconah Park has hosted professional and amateur baseball in many forms. Affiliated teams from the Eastern League, NY-Penn League, and Can-Am League played here, as did independent squads from the Northeast League and Can-Am League. Most recently, Wahconah Park has been home to summer college ball, first in the NECBL and most recently by the Pittsfield Suns of the Futures League. The Suns, who began play in 2012, have been forced to sit out the 2024 and 2025 seasons after using temporary bleachers for the previous two seasons. The team’s ownership group, the Goldklang Group, is currently in exclusive negotiations with the city on a replacement for the old ballpark. Pittsfield Parks, Open Space, and Natural Resources Manager James McGrath said there is still demand for use of the ball field, and it continues to host games using temporary bleachers. "We now are in the reality of having a, for lack of a better term, a rusting hulk of a building that can't be used that will need to be removed if there is a new grandstand constructed, or if there is — whatever gets constructed in its place," McGrath explained.  "Even if we were just to have a bleacher system, we need to remove the existing grandstand to make way for a new project." The demolition of the grandstand, including the removal of hazardous materials, will cost $875,000. Construction of a planned $18-million replacement is anticipated to begin immediately upon completion of the demolition. The biggest question facing a new ballpark on this site: Since the original grandstand faces west (causing “sun delays” as the sun sets directly beyond the centerfield fence, giving the Suns their name), will the new ballpark be oriented in a different, more appropriate direction for baseball, direction? Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 SECU Arena Auburn Drive Towson, MD 21252 Towson Tigers website SECU Arena website Year Opened: 2013 Capacity: 5,200 Tiger’s Den Towson University is the second-largest public university in the State of Maryland. Located just north of Baltimore, it is home to approximately 21,000 college students, of which 18,000 are undergraduates. Their football team played for the 2013 Football Championship Subdivision National Championship, falling short to North Dakota State. The basketball team has also had scattered success over the years, most notably in the early 1990s under coach Terry Truax, with guards Kurk Lee and Devin Boyd in the old East Coast Conference. The Truax-led teams made it to two straight NCAA tournaments in 1990 and 1991. The Tigers play in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). In 2022, they played in the National Invitational Tournament (NIT), having been the CAA regular season champions. Towson is also known for their impressive gymnastics program. They have been the 1968 AIAW Division II National Champions, 1995 and 1998 USA Gymnastics NIT Champions, 3-time Calloway Invitational Champions, 15-time ECAC Champions, and 2007 USA Gymnastics National Champions. Towson has stepped up recently in all sports with their athletic program. A major step forward was moving out of the depressing Towson Center and into the shiny new SECU Arena in 2013. I have many great memories of the Towson Center, as I worked there for a few years during college. It certainly had personality, but frankly, it was not a well-designed facility and was showing its age dramatically. During the last year of operation, one of the bleacher sections would not even fully expand. Towson Center is still technically around, as the new arena and the old building are merged, with locker rooms inside the old building. There is still much speculation about what the university will do with the old arena section of the Towson Center. It seems to be used mainly as a practice gym currently. Food & Beverage 2 The SECU Arena has subpar food offerings. There are a couple of concession stands offering no real variety. The concourse is open and has plenty of space for additional offerings if they wish. Prices are okay, but not great. The separate Ledo Pizza stand might offer the best value. There is a small area along the main concourse offering alcoholic beverages. Atmosphere 3 The lowered seating bowl of SECU Arena makes the sound seem to pop here. It can be pretty loud. It may take time, but this place can be a loud arena. The stands surround the court with an upper concourse along with three of the four sides. The Towson pep band also provides some of the atmosphere and adds to the loudness of the facility. The design is a classic basketball pit, so even the lightest crowd noise echoes and rumbles. The upper concourse section seems underused for many games. It would make you wonder if these fully utilized seats would make this place even louder and provide a better atmosphere. Often, one of the lower stands is retracted, and the area is used as a party zone for those giving money to the athletic program. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing right by the arena besides Johnny Unitas Stadium and the old Towson Center Arena. Even though you may have to drive to most places, Towson is a semi-urban environment with a very large shopping mall and numerous restaurants. Some great options are Sushi Hana and Underground Pizza. Baltimore is also a quick drive away, and there are many options around that area. Fans 3 For many years, Towson was known as a commuter school. But in the last couple of decades, there has been an increase in resident students. Students are starting to come to games in larger numbers, helped by a free, convenient shuttle to games. The consistent quality of play is also helping attendance. SECU Arena, as well as neighboring Johnny Unitas Stadium, is located at the far south end of the campus, not near any of the residence halls, so it will take more years and increased awareness to get student attendance to a larger number. Luckily, this new arena is a much more inviting place to go to a game than the older facility was. Access 4 Towson is located right off the Baltimore Beltway/I-695. The only negative is that Towson is a maze of roads getting to the Osler and Auburn locations of the sports complexes. Parking is free and plentiful, although the closest lots are reserved for those buying season passes to access them. There can be jam-ups at the main entrance as security lines, will-call lines, and ticket purchase lines tend to blend. Return on Investment 3 Tickets start at a decent $12-$20, depending on the opponent, for the upper concourse, but it may be worth the extra couple of bucks for end-line tickets in the lower concourse section. . Extras 3 The Towson Dance Team is nationally recognized and provides great entertainment during games. The cheerleaders and pom squad will likely add to the entertainment. In addition, Doc the Tiger is a good mascot, providing entertainment for all ages. Stop at the Tiger statue outside the arena during pregame, as it is a great meeting spot. If you get a chance, you should stop into the old Towson Center to see how much better the new facility is than the one they left. Final Thoughts SECU Arena is a very nicely designed arena for a mid-major basketball program. If the crowd were to come to support the team a bit more, the building could be an intimidating place for opponents to play.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Joe Baumann Stadium 900 Block E Poe Roswell, NM 88201 Roswell Invaders website Joe Bauman Stadium website Year Opened: 1939 Renovated: 2005 Capacity: 410 Alien Baseball The cleverly named Roswell Invaders baseball team plays their home game at Joe Bauman Stadium in Roswell, NM. The Invaders are charter members of the independent Pecos League of Professional Baseball. Both the team and the league were founded in 2011. The Invaders have been successful, winning the Pecos League Championships in 2011, 2013, and 2015. Joe Bauman Stadium Coca Cola Field (locals refer to it as Coca Cola Field – no dash). The stadium is named after Joe Bauman, who set a professional record with 72 home runs in 1954 while playing for the Roswell Rockets of the Class-C Longhorn League. It is adjacent to the Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds about 2 ½ miles south of downtown Roswell. Originally built in 1939, the city renovated the stadium’s grandstand in 2005. Though seating capacity is somewhat smaller than other Pecos League ballparks, the stadium fits well in Roswell and for the Invaders. The field is shared with the Roswell High School baseball team. Food & Beverage 3 One concession stand sits beneath the announcer and official team office directly behind the home plate grandstand. It offers basic snacks like burritos, nachos, hot dogs, Frito pie, and pizza ($4 – $5). Other goodies sold are chips, ice pops, seeds, and candy for $2. Bottled water and beverages are $2 or $3. Adult beverages include 7K IPA (Santa Fe Brewing), Big Luau Cider (Black Cock Brewery), Cerveza Lager, and Electric Igloo Lemonade all $6 for 16 oz. The stand closes early; so get your food at least before the 5th inning. Fans can bring in their own sodas and snacks. Atmosphere 3 An Invaders game provides a low-key, local, welcoming impression where the focus is still more on the game than other extra activities. For seating, be sure to bring a cushion to sit on as all seats are bleachers. Three sets of bleachers line the infield. These were rebuilt in 2005. The section behind the home plate has backs, handrails, and wheelchair spots. The two on each side of the infield diamond are just benches. Some fans bring their own portable chairs for a more comfortable seat. Thick nets cover all three seating areas. The sun sets behind the grandstand so is not really a factor when deciding where to sit. Game day staff plays music, sometimes (but not all the time) deafening loud. So your ear drums don’t get ruptured, sit on either of the side bleacher sections as those are farther from the speakers. Theme songs from the X Files and other extraterrestrial TV shows and movies are aptly disbursed throughout the innings. Walk-up songs are played for the Invaders. Thankfully, the person in charge of music does not play noise or music between pitches; just between innings. And, for the most part, music isn’t played when the announcer is speaking. The PA announcer’s voice is clear. He calls the starting lineup slowly – slow enough for fans to keep up writing out their own scorecard. Nice job. Roster sheets are not available to the general public. The field causes lots of skips and hops of the ball in the infield. Dust rises off gloves and at plates during plays. The scoreboard rests behind the center-right field wall. It shows the basic line score, runs, hits, and errors. Activities involving fans are offered between innings but not the game of this review. Note: Some Pecos League games can be long. The game Stadium Journey attended lasted 4 ½ hours for nine innings of play. It was so long, the sprinkler system automatically came on and individuals had to run and find the shut off valve. Actually, that was pretty funny. Neighborhood 3 Roswell got its name on the map because of an alleged 1947 UFO crash on a ranch outside the town and the follow up conspiracy. Therefore, much of the downtown businesses focus on UFOs and space aliens. A UFO Festival generally takes place around July 4 in Roswell, so fans can check out the festival and see a game if the schedule allows. The most popular destination is the UFO Museum and Research Center. Next is a short, fun, black light walk-through of alien art work; a spacewalk of sorts called Roswell UFO Spacewalk. Visit the McDonalds, shaped like a spaceship with a space-themed interior. Take a few minutes to visit the Visitors Center in town. It’s a worthy resource center on things to see and do. Peppers Grill and Bar is a recommended place for food and drinks and is just a block from the Visitors Center. Los Cerritos Mexican Kitchen comes highly recommended and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Plenty of hotels of various brands line Main St. I stayed at the Baymont Suites and though not walking distance, it is cheap, clean and safe. All of the activities and ‘things to do’ are less than five miles driving distance to/from the ballpark. Fans 3 The Roswell Invaders fans are welcoming and friendly. Families, children, host families, retirees, parents, and more make up the crowd. There is not a lot of them. A few fans ring cowbells when the team makes a good play. Many attendees seem to know each other. Most wear Invaders gear and clothing. They throw out their own trash, not often seen at ballparks. Access 3 Once in town, getting to the ballpark is not difficult. Use Roe Rd off S Main St. The ballpark and a hard-dirt parking lot are on the right. Parking is free. After parking, enter the grounds through an open fence; a small ticket booth is on the right. A paved path leads to the stands and a wide promenade is between the bleachers and the infield wall making it easy to move around. Cement block restrooms are serviceable but I wouldn’t call them nice, though they are clean. Roswell has a small airport (Roswell Air Center) with a limited number of flights in and out of Dallas/Ft Worth and Phoenix. A local bus service is available but it looks like transit times are not conducive to the baseball schedule. Return on Investment 3 A single game ticket is $7.50. Group events offer lower priced tickets. Parking is free and the concession prices are quite reasonable. Extras 3 Several other items are worth noting: A hard copy ticket with the Roswell Invaders logo on it is still given out. The team uses lime green bases for first, second, and third. Pretty cool in keeping with the alien theme. The players interact well with the crowd and in the community. Two members greet fans as they enter the stadium. They walk the stands chatting with visitors and selling raffle tickets for an autographed bat (per se). The players participate in events like a car wash where proceeds are split with the Special Olympics. Final Thoughts If in Roswell, NM visiting UFO and alien-related items during June and July, make an effort to head to Joe Bauman Stadium to catch a relaxed, entertaining baseball game.

Gardner Dow Field Dedication Plaque. Photo by Sydney Herdle, University of Connecticut. Football was first played at the University of Connecticut in 1896, when the school was known as Storrs Agricultural College and the team was referred to as the Aggies. The football team played on the school’s athletic fields, which were located on the present-day site of various academic buildings, including the Homer Babbidge Library. Tragedy struck the Huskies during a game against New Hampshire on September 27, 1919, when Gardner Dow died as a result of injuries suffered while making a flying tackle during the game. UConn honored his memory by naming the athletic fields after him. The fields would be used for football, as well as several other sports, into the 1960s. The football team would move to Memorial Stadium on campus in 1953. Photo of Gardner Dow, courtesy of UConn Athletics. Shortly after Dow’s death, a dedication plaque was placed on Hawley Armory next to the field. For years, the plaque remained on and inside Hawley Armory, the current home of UConn’s ROTC program and Office of Veterans and Military Programs. UConn recently held a re-dedication ceremony at the  J. Robert Donnelly Husky Heritage Sports Museum , where the now refurbished plaque will make its permanent home. Descendants of Gardner Dow attended the ceremony, including William F. Dow III, of New Haven, who is Gardner Dow’s great-grandnephew. “We are very appreciative of UConn recognizing our relative, whom we knew a little bit about,” said Dow. “We were aware there was a field named after him at UConn, but we didn’t know much about his story. We are now very aware of what he meant and very proud to be here.” Gardner Dow Field. Photo Courtesy of UConn Athletics. Alyssa Kelleher ’04 (CLAS), ’17 MS, the Director of the Veterans and Military Programs at UConn, presented a history of Gardner Dow, including his military service in the World War I era. Several members from Veterans and Military Programs were also there. Also in attendance was Andy Baylock, UConn’s Director of Football Alumni/Community Affairs, who came to the school in 1964 and coached football and baseball on Gardner Dow Field; and Jim E. Penders ’66 (ED), who played baseball as a student-athlete at Gardner Dow Field. He is the father of current UConn baseball coach Jim F. Penders ’94 (CLAS), ’98 MA, who also attended the event. Gardner Dow Field Plaque Dedication Ceremony. Photo by Sydney Herdle, University of Connecticut. The J. Robert Donnelly Husky Heritage Sports Museum  is located on the university’s Storrs campus in the UConn Alumni Center. Admission to the museum, which is open Monday – Thursday from 8 am – 4 pm during the school year, is free of charge. Thanks to Nick Enright at the UConn Athletic Department for alerting us to this story and for providing information contained therein.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Lucas Oil Stadium 500 S Capitol Ave Indianapolis, IN 46225 Indianapolis Colts website Lucas Oil Stadium website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 62,421 A Gold Standard for the NFL Gameday Experience Lucas Oil Stadium is considered one of the top destinations in the National Football League. Yes, other stadiums have been built across the league since its opening in 2008, but when it comes down to every metric, the home of the Indianapolis Colts is among the better gameday experiences in the league. It has a true downtown feel with bars, hotels, restaurants, and nightlife just a few steps from the main entrance. Its design also blends well with the surrounding area but stands out significantly within the city’s landscape. The 62,421-seat venue features a retractable roof that remains open unless inclement weather or lightning is within the stadium, the temperature drops below 40° F, or wind gusts are greater than 40 miles per hour. However, once closed, it cannot be opened during the game. The open roof provides a natural breeze throughout sections of the stadium and provides some great vantage points of downtown buildings. The streets are packed with fans, and nearby Georgia Street is open for pedestrians, allowing fans to openly carry alcoholic drinks in a cup. Touchdown Town is footsteps from the main entrance and provides live music, skills tests for kids, food samples, and more good times. Even if you are not a football fan, there is a lot of excitement to attract fans to the game. Food & Beverage 5 Lucas Oil Stadium features 59 permanent concession stands and 90 portable locations, offering more than 500 points of sale throughout the venue. With so many options available, fans can enjoy a wide variety of menu items without spending excessive time waiting in line. Popular offerings include hot dogs, brats, barbecue pulled pork sandwiches, cheeseburger baskets, chicken strip baskets, pork tenderloin sandwiches, and Hot Box pizza. The stadium also offers value meals—featuring a hot dog, popcorn, and soda—for fans looking for a budget-friendly option. The Funny Car Café, easily spotted on the stadium’s main level thanks to its glowing neon signage, delivers classic ballpark fare with a value-friendly twist. Fans can grab a combo meal featuring a hot dog, popcorn, and soda, alongside brats, chili cheese dogs, and nachos. One standout item, aptly named For the Fans , layers pulled pork and kimchi atop either a hot dog or a bed of nachos. The Lucas Oil Grill expands the menu with a wider range of options, including cheeseburgers, chicken tender baskets, veggie burgers, and garlic cheese curds—an especially popular value at just $5.50. For barbecue lovers, the Smokehouse serves up brisket and pulled pork, both of which can also be piled onto hot dogs or nachos for a hearty upgrade. Local flavor comes courtesy of Hot Box Pizza, a hometown favorite offering cheese, sausage, and pepperoni slices during games. Clutch Kitchen leans into bold flavors with Asian sticky wings, smoked wings, bacon jam–loaded tots, single and double smash burgers, fried or grilled chicken sandwiches, and a classic Chicago dog. Additional kiosks throughout the stadium provide even more variety, including cheesesteaks, pulled pork brisket nachos, assorted sandwiches, and the ever-popular Nacho Grande. Chef Tony’s Test Kitchen rounds out the experience with wing baskets, churros, and tater rings, as well as Cuban and steak sandwiches—the latter topped with bacon, crispy onions, pickles, and barbecue sauce. The beverage selection includes beer, wine, cocktails, hard seltzers, and a featured “cocktail of the game.” The Big Cat Bourbon blends bourbon with lime juice and passion fruit juice for a refreshing option. Budweiser aluminum bottles are available in both small and large sizes, while imported and local craft beers are offered at a slightly higher price during games. Coca-Cola products serve as the stadium’s primary soft drink options. Atmosphere 5 The design of the stadium is neither modern nor chic, but it blends in nicely with existing buildings and nearby factories. At most stadiums, fans enter vast parking lots well before kickoff to set up chairs, tents, and grills and begin their festivities. However, the stadium is a few feet from vast bars and restaurants open early for Sunday afternoon home games. One of the first places you see near the stadium is Touchdown Town, which opens at 10:00 a.m. and closes just before the game starts at 12:30 p.m. For the duration of its two-and-a-half hours of operation, the area provides a perfect canvas for all fans. “Touchdown Town was created to offer fans of all ages a place to gather together to celebrate and build excitement for the upcoming game,” stated Larry Hall, Colts Vice-President of Ticket Operations and Guest Services. “Fans can enjoy a variety of activities, including live music, football drills, giveaways, food, and drink specials. Touchdown Town serves as the Colts premier pre-game party location.” Once inside, there is not a bad seat in the house in the spacious building. The main entrance features a sound stage for pre-concerts that overlooks the football field. Fans line up around the stage or watch pre-game practice on the field. The wide-open area serves as a town meeting hall for fans, and you cannot help but look around in awe if you are a first-time patron. A sound stage for pre-game concerts overlooks the football field at the main entry plaza. Oversized collages of former Colts players and moments against the wall, entitled “A House Built by Champions,” feature an homage to the state’s car racing industry with various model cars on display in the area. Outside the stadium on South Street is the Peyton Manning statue. Manning was the most prolific player in the team’s Indianapolis history and one of the all-time greats. He put the team on the map and could be credited for the construction of the very building that stands behind him. Neighborhood 5 The stadium is within walking distance of 50 different places to eat, drink, and dance. There are ideal spots within blocks in the downtown area, along with a few more choices in other neighborhoods a little less than a mile or so from the stadium. The Slippery Noodle is a local institution and the oldest bar in the state; it offers music, food, and drinks and is across the street from the stadium. Kilroy’s Bar N’ Grill is a local establishment that has made its mark downtown and has plenty of room to accommodate fans before or after the game. If you are looking for a great steak dinner, St. Elmo’s or Harry and Izzy’s are two options. It is under the same ownership and known for its spicy shrimp cocktail sauce that will please the horseradish aficionado. The Fountain Square neighborhood is highly recommended and is bustling on the weekends. A few recommendations are Chili Water and Fountain Square Brewing, video games at Tapper’s, giant burgers at Kuma’s Corner, or duckpin bowling in a retro atmosphere. The Hotel Whiskey Tango Distillery makes specialty drinks and is a great place to talk with friends. Mass Ave is another vibrant area offering more dining and drinking options. A few recommendations include The Eagle for some of the best fried chicken in town, St. Joseph’s Brewery located in an old church, FortyFive Degrees for live music, and BRU Burger Bar for its fantastic homemade ketchup to dip into your fries. If you are with the family, downtown has an array of attractions, including the Indiana State Museum, the NCAA Hall of Champions, and The Canal Walk. However, one of the true hidden gems is the Indiana Experience at the Historical Society. Visitors can step into three-dimensional re-creations of historic photographs complete with characters. Fans 4 The Colts fanbase had been spoiled at the start of the century with only two losing seasons in a 15-year span. The state that historically favored basketball became a football town with the championship success of the team. The team also honors many of its season ticket holders with banners on the top level, and their impact can be felt each game. Access 5 Lucas Oil Stadium is a downtown venue easily accessible from the interstate. The imposing structure is visible off of I-70, and there are more than the city and private lots to choose from to park your car. These lots range from $30-$50, and if lucky, you may even find free street parking on Sundays. If you do more searching and feel like walking, there are less expensive options north of the stadium off of Meridian, Pennsylvania, and Capitol Streets. Downtown Indianapolis has an array of one-way streets, but many are reverted to direct traffic back onto the interstate after the game. The local police do an honorable job directing traffic after the game to ensure smooth sailing from the parking lots onto the city streets and local interstate. Inside the venue, the concourses are wide and spacious for easy access. There is plenty of signage, video screens, and open areas to help guide you through your visit. If you happen to get lost, ask a friendly staff member to help you find your way to a particular area of Lucas Oil Stadium. Return on Investment 4 The single price for a ticket ranges from game to game and depends on how well the Colts are doing on the season. In the past, tickets could be purchased online for as low as $20, but when the team is vying for a playoff spot, those prices will increase to around $60. However, when winning, the crowd noise is booming. Parking can be found around the stadium between $30 to $50, but there are other spots much less that require a bit of walking. There is also free street parking in the Fountain Square neighborhood, about a mile away from the stadium. Extras 4 Lucas Oil Stadium earns several points, including Touchdown Town on Georgia Street before the game. The atmosphere includes concerts, lounge chairs, children’s activities, drinks, and outdoor games. The earlier the season, the better the weather will be in Indianapolis. A second point is for the Bud Light Zone, the perfect spot to hang out with friends and enjoy the game. The area is located on the upper concourse at the north end of the building and is a massive party in all four quarters. A third point is for the customer service counters that offer soundproof headphones and weighted blankets to help offset the loud atmosphere inside the building. There are picture menus at all permanent concession stands, and the team has also added a “ Social Story ” to its website, which provides helpful information and photos. The final point is for a downtown location that is accessible for traffic on foot as well as by car. A visitor can have a walk with a sea of blue towards the stadium before the game or enjoy a few tailgating spots if arriving earlier by car. Final Thoughts It is hard not to be impressed with the gameday experience at Lucas Oil Stadium for a Colts game. It is a stadium properly made for both the players and the fans. The pre-game festivities, friendly staff, frenzied environment, and location steps from some of the city’s best restaurants and bars make for a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. ______ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channe l. Email at marc.viquez@stadiumjourney.com

“Major League Baseball made its 1969 debut on the South Side Wednesday, but the star attraction was neither the host White Sox... It was, instead, a diamond-shaped patch of pool table green-Sox Astroturf- “infield of the future.” ​It was a dubious year for the Chicago White Sox, who finished last season with a 67-95 record and attracted a minuscule 7,493 fans per game. It was their first losing season in 17 years. The team owners, John and Arthur Allyn Jr., predicted that the Sox would draw little more to the ballpark and projected a loss of $438,800 in 1969. ​Ownership launched a $500,000 “high-pressure campaign” to bring fans back to the nearly 60-year-old Comiskey Park; it wasn’t going to be with the players on the team, but with innovations and additions that hoped to spruce up the old place. White Sox Park got a makeover from the inside and out. The greatest change was the addition of $100,000 worth of green synthetic grass infield called Sox Sod, which was the second stadium in the major leagues to use it. This innovation was designed to reduce bad bounces and hops, provide a firm footing, and require lower maintenance than grass. The green hue was hoped to make the stadium look vibrant on color TV sets. "We will be able to use the field just 15 minutes after a heavy downpour, and this means it could save us two or more rainouts a season", said Arthur Allyn. The turf was going to be different from the Astrodome's. The Sox Sod had a base of 13 inches of gravel, 5 inches of asphalt, topped by an absorbing rubberized cushion of three-quarters of an arc, to which the synthetic grass is bonded. ​Sox manager Al Lopez thought that hitting would be different this year, and a line drive would come off much quicker. Shortstop Luis Aparicio said the carpet would cause some ground balls to get to the infielders faster than normal. ​“It will be tougher to bunt a runner from first to second, but it should be easier to get the ball past the pitcher to move a man from second to third.” The future Hall of Famer added that he could see the ball well, but had some trouble with the ball coming off the green and onto the basepaths. Third baseman Bill Melton said the ball would get to him much faster. Sandy Alomar, Sr., added that the turf had truer bounce because, unlike the Astrodome, their sod was permanent.” Even Baltimore Orioles third baseman Brooks Robinson praised the new turf, saying that club officials had to do something to give the Sox more hitting. The team mustered only a .228 batting average, which was below the league average from the previous season. Chicago Daily News columnist Dave Nightingale wrote almost an entire article about the “phony fuzz” and added that the ball speed will be greater,  bunted balls would roll like marbles to the fielder, and tricky hops would be a thing of the past on the new carpet. ​“While we are not committed to putting ‘Soxsod’ in our outfield next year, we are definitely considering it,” Arthur Allyn said. “However, we do want to see how the infield works this year before we make any decisions.” ​Allyn predicted that the turf would be added to the outfield within a few years, but that there was just too much money involved in doing it at the moment. It would have cost the White Sox an additional $300,000. ​Also new were bright blue uniforms, similar in hue to those of the Los Angeles Dodgers or, dare I say, the Chicago Cubs up north at Wrigley Field. The home sets were a complete overhaul, featuring a solid white jersey with blue piping, the iconic Old English Sox design, and white stirrups with blue striping. The pinstripes disappeared, and the caps no longer featured the interlocking block “SOX” logo. For the first time in team history, the Old-English SOX emblem was on the cap and matched the design on the shirt. There was no other color besides royal blue. ​Interestingly, the new uniforms were supposed to have an additional color according to the Chicago Sun-Times article on February 11, 1969. Stu Holcomb, the Sox new PR Director, was planning on having traditional patriotic colors. ​“They will be tailored in red, white, and blue, perhaps even topped with an Uncle Sam Sailor cap. A pointer, little white beard may also be allowed.” ​Holcomb also ditched the powder blue shades of the road jerseys of the past 5 years in favor of traditional grays, just as expansion franchises in Seattle and Montreal were introducing their own powder blue road uniforms. The drab gray uniforms featured the same Chicago script wordmark, but in white against a gray jersey. ​The Sox also introduced royal blue satin jackets with the SOX logo on the chest. Team officials wore Ivy League jackets featuring the Arthur Allyn crest, a design of 50 stars and 13 stripes on a royal blue field. However, there was more at Comiskey Park, including fences brought in to help hitters. A vinyl-coated fence, colored hunter green, was installed in the outfield, moving the right field wall 20 feet and the center field wall 15 feet. Ed Holstein, director of park operations, deemed the walls “the safest on the market.” ​Other changes included a Pitch-O-Meter clock to count down the 20 seconds the pitcher has to deliver a pitch when a runner is on base, or an automatic ball would be called. The hope was to hear fans count down from the stands. Wait, a minute, is this 1969 or 2025? ​A Dugout Lounge was created for all ticket holders, offering dinner and cocktails. About 11,000 seats were switched from reserved to general admission on both the upper and lower decks. A group of 15 young women in mini-skirts, called the “Soxettes,” was introduced to help make fans feel welcome at the games. They were dressed up in red, white, and blue outfits to greet fans. They miniskirt-clad ladies also handed out schedules and matchbooks, and were involved in the community with school visits and TV appearances. Newspaper articles of the time took notice of their presence at the old ballpark. ​Management spent $100,000 on improvements to the lighting in the parking lots and alleys  to make “White Sox Park the brightest area  in Chicago and make customers feel that they can walk out to their cars and have nothing to be afraid of.” The team’s motto was “White Sox Park is the Light, Bright and Right One.” ​Opening day under sunny conditions, but only 11,000 fans were in attendance. After 35 games, the Sox knocked in 132 runs, compared to 92 from a year ago, but were hitting a meager .237, nine points higher than a year ago. In 20 home games, the Sox attracted 165,903 fans - down 39,712 from the same time a year ago. Meanwhile, the Cubs attracted 272,955 fans in 19 games. ​Just as today, there was a stigma that the neighborhood surrounding White Sox Park was unsafe for families. However, GM Ed Short said. The statistics show that the neighborhoods around Wrigley Field and Chicago Stadium had a higher crime rate. Third basemen Pete Ward lived four blocks away and walked to and from the ballpark. "I've lived all over Chicago, and this is the best place yet." ​The changes were seen as gimmicks to a few fans, especially John Battistella of Westchester, Illinois, who wrote a letter to the Chicago Daily News . ​“So what do Arthur Allyn, Stu Holcomb, and Ed Short come up with? Shorter fences, different uniforms for players and concessionaires, but the same patsy hitters. One highlight came on July 20 with the announcement of the Apollo moon landing. The White Sox marked the moment by firing fireworks from the exploding scoreboard, a small band played several songs, and the 16,000 fans in attendance joined together in a prayer for the astronauts’ safe return to Earth. The Sox finish the season with a 68-94 record, 29 games behind the Minnesota Twins in the American League Western Division. Attendance was 589,546 for the season, averaging about 7,278. There were 11 games played in Milwaukee that drew 391,335, about 50 percent of the Sox total attendance for the year. Arthur Allyn was asked if he regretted the decision to spend lavishly (which he reported was closer to $600,000 on improvements). He said not in the least and that he plans on spending even more in the next year and a half on advertising, promotions, facility rebuilding, and providing the public with the sort of team it deserves. “When you’re winning, everything takes care of itself.” The 1969 ballpark improvements and public campaign did not result in winning ways for the White Sox, and attendance did not increase. The year brought many changes designed to make coming to the ballpark fun again. It was worth a ride on the “magic green carpet,” but winning is what the Sox faithful really wanted. And still desire. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter   @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

In Marinovich: Outside the Lines in Football, Art, and Addiction Lizzy Wright dives deep into the life of her subject and co-author, Todd Marinovich, the ultra-talented but troubled quarterback. In the 80s, Marinovich was a media sensation. His Dad, Marv, had Todd on a strict regimen as soon as he could crawl, and they essentially went viral. Lizzy took a moment to discuss Marinovich , among other fun stuff. This is Lizzy’s second book. She co-wrote her first, Aggressively Human: Discovering Humanity in the NFL, Reality TV, and Life , with her husband, Steve, an ex-NFL player. Before that, Lizzy worked in intelligence, so she has a colorful background and much to say.   STADIUM JOURNEY: What did you know of Todd before you started working with him? LIZZY WRIGHT: I knew quite a bit about Todd because my husband, Steve Wright, was Todd’s teammate with the Raiders. In fact, when Todd was drafted, my husband was asked by the coaches to keep an eye on him. That, of course, proved to be an impossible task. Once Todd and I reconnected at the 2023 Raiders Reunion, we started talking about the writing process for my first sports memoir, Aggressively Human . He’d always been told that he should write a book, but now he had someone he knew and trusted to do it with him. What I didn’t know or understand: addiction. That was the most challenging part in the writing journey, as Todd still struggles. But I am incredibly proud of his honesty about his battle. It takes real courage to speak the truth, even when it’s not pretty.   STADIUM JOURNEY: What made Todd write the book now? LIZZY WRIGHT: It really came down to timing. Todd had recently moved to Hawaii and was in a great headspace to reflect and share his stories. It took us 9 months of meeting weekly by phone. Most of the time, I came with specific questions about a period of his life, but sometimes we did some freewheeling just to see where it would lead. While Todd appreciated my rigor and discipline most of the time, his free spirit wanted some space to run, too. We did hit a few challenging spells when the subject matter was too difficult and painful for Todd to relive. I had to trust my instincts and adjust when I sensed he needed a break. The periods of heavier drug use and cycling in and out of rehab were examples of some difficult memories to share. That said, we committed to tackling everything, as I believe the sign of a good memoir is the humility and willingness to expose it all: the good, bad, and ugly. I firmly believe that people seek honesty and can tell when there’s purposeful misdirection or avoidance of difficult topics. Marinovich and Wright with NFL Alumni. Photo courtesy of Lizzy Wright.   STADIUM JOURNEY: If anything, what surprised you about football players? LIZZY WRIGHT: As someone who didn’t grow up with football - my high school didn’t have a team - I’d never watched the sport. By the time I made it to college, I was too focused on working my way through Harvard, so I only went to a handful of games. That all changed when I met my husband. I wanted to better understand his world, so I doubled down. The thing that fascinated me most was how the vast majority of the players are gentle giants off the field. One minute, they’d be ready to close the line, someone, and then they’d be signing autographs and kissing babies. The juxtaposition fascinated me. It’s actually what stirred me to write my first book, Aggressively Human . I wanted to understand how my husband could be a mad dog killer who started bench-clearing brawls, but also be the man who will do anything to save a hummingbird. In  MARINOVICH , I had a somewhat different fascination: how could a shy, artistic kid like Todd Marinovich be an incredible team leader in the huddle? There was an unexplainable metamorphosis, an alter ego of sorts. And man, could Todd turn it on when he needed to before falling back into his more natural disposition. I see it as a real talent to lean into whatever is needed in the moment.   STADIUM JOURNEY: What were you into as a kid? Who were your mentors? Was there a Marv in your life? LIZZY WRIGHT: I was focused on school and athletics. I needed sports as an outlet for a whole lot of angst. I was lucky to have a big brother who modeled how to apply my energy with discipline and focus. His guidance, along with some great coaches, kept me on the straight and narrow during my formative years. I never had someone like Marv in my life, and frankly, I’m glad. I’m not sure that kind of intensity is healthy in the early years. To be clear, I have a great deal of respect for Marv’s training methods, especially in the later years, but his early rigor was something to behold. I mention the latter years specifically because it’s hard to argue with the results. Troy Polamalu was Marv’s prize pupil, and wow, what an athlete. In many respects, Troy is one of the best I’ve ever watched. This is where it got tricky, writing in Todd’s voice versus my own. I had to park my feelings about Marv and focus exclusively on Todd’s perspective. In fact, I went so far as to cut off interviewing some family members because it was influencing my thinking. I started to actively dislike Marv and knew I was entering dangerous waters as a writer of memoirs.    STADIUM JOURNEY: So Harvard made the FCS playoffs this year. Let's play what if. What's life like for Todd if he turns down SC and Stanford and attends Harvard? LIZZY WRIGHT: I think a few minds would have been blown at Harvard if that had come to pass. But, playing it out for the sheer fun of it, Todd would have been the glory of the Ivy League. Off the field, I’m betting he would have spent his time partying at Boston College and dating girls at Wellesley. And since he’d only wear flip flops, he’d have his fair share of frostbite. All that to say, Todd made the right choice. Marcus Allen Holds a Copy of Marinovich. Photo courtesy of Lizzy Wright.   STADIUM JOURNEY: How did you find government intelligence work, or did it find you? LIZZY WRIGHT: I was recruited during my senior year at Harvard. I naively assumed that I’d do legislative affairs work on the hill for No Such Agency. Day one on the job, I got the shock of a lifetime: no hill work for me. I was to track Osama bin Laden. And this was pre-9/11. Within a few months of working at the Agency, I was assigned to the USS Cole Bombing Assessment, and everything escalated from there. So much of it feels like another lifetime as I reflect on those years. While I can’t talk or write about specifics of my assignments, I’ve found a creative way to share my experience: writing fiction. That’s how  Saffron Spy , my upcoming espionage thriller, came into existence. I use the book to tease out the moral complexities and trade-offs that are made by those of us who worked in intelligence. This isn't the classic 'Bond stops a nuke and gets the girl' story. It dives deep into the underbelly of deceit, the space no one likes to talk about, where moral compromises are made daily, if not hourly. Intelligence is a tough line of work, and I want readers to grapple with some difficult questions: Do the ends justify the means? And is espionage really a necessary evil? I used my experiences to shape the story, but I want readers to question conventional thinking and hear from an insider.   STADIUM JOURNEY: What's the status of your upcoming spy novel? LIZZY WRIGHT: Unlike my first two books, I invested in a developmental editor for Saffron Spy . Tiffany Yates Martin is one of the best in the business, and I know my baby is in great hands right now. If all goes to plan, I will have it out on submission very soon. I cannot wait for readers to get their hands on this one!    To find out more, check out LizzyWright.com and follow her on social media: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube   Jon Hart is @manversusball

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 George V. Meehan Auditorium 235 Hope St Providence, RI 02912 Brown Bears Hockey website George V. Meehan Auditorium website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 3,100 Ivy League Bears   Meehan Auditorium is named for George V. Meehan, who donated the funds to build an arena to “serve and promote” the Brown men’s hockey team. Notable events to be held at Meehan include a visit from President Lyndon B. Johnson during his 1964 Presidential campaign and the 1965 Frozen Four.   The Brown hockey program is one of the oldest in the nation, having played its first game in 1898. In fact, there’s a plaque in Meehan Auditorium honoring the first-ever collegiate hockey game, between Harvard and Brown, held on January 19, 1898. Brown won that game 6-0 and went on to win the Intercollegiate Hockey Association title, sometimes referred to as the first-ever college hockey championship.   Today, Brown competes in the ECAC and Ivy League. They have qualified for four NCAA Tournaments (1951, 1965, 1976, 1993), reaching the Frozen Four the first three times. 19 Brown Bears have played in the National Hockey League.   Brown sponsored the first women’s ice hockey program in the nation, which started play in 1964. The Bears have played in one NCAA Tournament, finishing as runners-up in 2002. 8 Brown alumni have played professionally in the CWHL, NWHL/PHF or the PWHL. Bear Statue Stands Guard Outside Meehan Auditorium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Food & Beverage 2   There are two small concession stands right near the entrance to Meehan Auditorium. Usually, only one of the two stands is open for Bears games. A basic menu is available here, with hot dogs, pizza slices, pretzels, and other assorted snacks comprising the entire menu. On the plus side, no food item costs more than five dollars.   Coca-Cola products are featured at Meehan Auditorium. Warm drinks are popular choices in this chilly rink, with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available. Augmenting the cold beverages are a selection of beer and wine, including Brown-branded Bruno Brew and Hi NeighBEAR from local Narragansett Brewery.   If you’re short on cash, check out the vending machines on the far end of the rink. The drinks in these machines are actually less expensive than at the snack bar. Don’t tell anyone, it will be our secret!   Atmosphere 2   The Brown athletic department puts on a game-day presentation that is right in line with what you’d expect in an older facility hosting an Ivy League team. It’s reserved, traditional, and almost scholarly in nature.   Overall, athletics at Brown University are not as big a deal as they are at other Ivy League institutions. As a result, the fan support and game day atmosphere are less than they could be, and can vary from game to game. When the pep band is in attendance, and there’s a good turnout by the student body, Meehan can be a fun and energetic place to catch a game. Unfortunately, those games tend to be the exception rather than the rule.   Still, the Brown staff does their best to put on a good show in this old-school barn. Recent additions to the game day include some limited light effects during pregame intros (Stadium Journey was told that attempts to include the larger building lights and smoke effects into introductions were not successful – old buildings, right?) Small scoreboards at either end of the rink display basic game information. The team uses the new sound system well with music during play stoppages, and the PA announcer leans into his work, adding some energy to the proceedings without being too over the top. Contests are held during intermissions to get fans involved in the action.   Even with recent tweaks to the game day presentation, the game day experience at Meehan Auditorium is very similar to what it’s been for years. Stadium Journey continues to hear whispers that there are plans are in the works for some new features at Meehan Auditorium. Efforts to modernize the old barn are in the planning phase. Stay tuned! Brown Pep Band Performs at Meehan Auditorium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Neighborhood 5   Meehan Auditorium is located on the residential East Side of Providence, adjacent to several other Brown University athletic venues, including Paul Bailey Pizzitola Sports Center , Stevenson-Pincince Field , Brown Softball Field  and Murray Stadium . Brown Stadium is located about a mile away.   Thayer Street, which serves as Brown University’s main street, is just a couple of blocks from the rink. Thayer Street is filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and bars. A short distance in the other direction is Hope Street, which continues the eclectic vibe of the East Side with more locally owned shops and places to eat. Nearby Wayland Square and Wickenden Street offer more fine restaurants, shopping, and nightlife options.   Downtown Providence is only a mile and a half away at the bottom of College Hill. Providence enjoys a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest culinary destinations in the country, and visitors to the city will find many diverse and excellent dining and lodging choices here.   Fans 2   Brown annually ranks in the bottom ten of all Division One schools nationwide in terms of attendance. While there is some fluctuation from year to year, average attendance tops out at around 800 fans per game every year. In hockey-mad Rhode Island, these figures can be very surprising.   The fans that do frequent Meehan Auditorium are long-time fans of the program. They know their hockey, but do not support their team in a boisterous manner. Fitting for an Ivy League location, they are quiet and reserved in their support. As mentioned before, it just seems to fit here.   There is a sparse turnout by the student body for Bears hockey games. This is a recurring theme for many Brown sports, and how to get more students invested in sporting events is a focus for the new athletic administration. With the compact geographic footprint and longstanding rivalries of the Ivy League and ECAC, there is often a good turnout from visiting fans. Empty Meehan Auditorium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 4   Meehan Auditorium is located adjacent to the Pizzitola Sports Center  in Brown’s Athletic Complex. While Brown University is located near Interstates 95 and 195, one must navigate a maze of neighborhood streets on Providence’s East Side before arriving at the arena. If attending a game during a weekday, Providence can be a tough city in which to get around. Several RIPTA buses  run regularly to nearby Thayer Street, just a couple of blocks from the rink.   Parking is available for Brown hockey at no charge in any of several small lots shared by the university’s athletic venues. Complete directions to these lots can be found here . Fans unable to find a spot in a lot can utilize free on-street parking in the area around the auditorium. Finding an available spot can be tricky at times, but patient visitors should be able to find spots within easy walking distance of the facility.   Fans will be greeted upon entering the rink by a stuffed Alaskan Brown Bear. A concourse circles the arena, separating the upper and lower seating sections. There are areas for standing room on either end of the rink. All seats are folding wooden chairs painted brown, red, or gold and feature excellent views of the ice.   Restrooms are located on the far end of the arena and are large enough for a typical Bears crowd. Folks needing handicapped access should be warned that this building was built before ADA specifications, so there are stairs to be navigated and no elevators on site, just an old chair lift to get one up the aforementioned stairs.   Return on Investment 5   Tickets are sold as general admission, priced at fifteen dollars for adults and ten dollars for youths. Parking is free in the athletic complex parking lot near Meehan Auditorium or on the streets surrounding the rink. As mentioned before, no concession item costs more than five dollars. Stuffed Brown Bear greets visitors to Meehan Auditorium. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Extras 3                                                                                                 Brown University displays its hockey history proudly, and that’s worth a couple of extra points. Banners for players who went on to play pro hockey or in the Olympics can be found around the concourse. Trophy cases in the lobby are loaded with hardware, and plaques honoring every captain and coach in Brown history hang proudly. All-Americans and All-Conference players are recognized. Banners honoring conference championships, NCAA tournament appearances, and Frozen Fours hang from the rafters.   As you enter Meehan Auditorium, you are greeted by paintings of the “Brown Hockey Legends,” seven individuals who have been instrumental in the establishment and growth of Brown hockey. Meehan Auditorium doubles as a museum for Brown hockey history. It’s quite fitting for the home of two of the oldest hockey programs in the country.   Final Thoughts   Meehan Auditorium, in use for over sixty years, gives you exactly what you would expect from an Ivy League hockey rink. It’s uniquely designed, it’s loaded with history, and features a gameday presentation that is reserved and almost scholarly in nature. While often overlooked in a crowded New England hockey scene, Meehan Auditorium makes for an excellent Stadium Journey.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Amica Mutual Pavilion 1 LaSalle Sq Providence, RI 02903 Providence Bruins website Amica Mutual Pavilion website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 11,273 Get AMP’ed!!! The Amica Mutual Pavilion, which opened in 1972 as the Providence Civic Center, was built to house the Providence College basketball team  and the Providence Reds of the American Hockey League. Rechristened due to a new naming rights agreement with Rhode Island-based Amica Mutual Insurance, “The AMP” (the new nickname really hasn’t caught on yet) is a popular site for national touring acts as well as a regular stop for the NCAA basketball and hockey tournaments.   The Providence Bruins are the American Hockey League affiliate of the nearby Boston Bruins. The P-Bruins moved to the Ocean State from Portland, Maine, in 1992 and currently enjoy the longest uninterrupted affiliation in the AHL, playing their 34 th season in 2025-26. The team has qualified for the playoffs in 26 of its first 33 seasons in the Ocean State’s capital. The P-Bruins have won one Calder Cup in 1999.   Providence is one of minor league hockey’s legendary cities, with a history that predates the AHL. The Reds called Providence home from 1926-1977. The Reds won four Calder Cups and three Fontaine Cups as champions of the Canadian-American Hockey League.   Food & Beverage 4   Most of the concessions at the AMP are located in a pair of food courts on either side of the arena. Stands are operated by local favorites Sal’s Pizza and Saugy Franks. You’ll find all your arena standards here, including burgers, chicken tenders, and oversized pizza slices. Hot dogs come in regular and jumbo sizes.   The snack game is strong at Amica Mutual Pavilion, highlighted by the most popular items at P-Bruin games, Dough Boys, and Del’s Lemonade. Both are so in-demand that they get multiple carts scattered around the concourse. Of course, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, fries, and more can be found at all the stands.   Coca-Cola products are featured at the AMP. A wide variety of macro beers can be found all over the facility alongside many local brews, including Five Minute Major golden ale, brewed by Union Station Brewery.   Atmosphere 4   The AMP is a pretty entertaining place to be on weekend nights. The affiliation with the nearby Boston Bruins ensures that the fans who visit downtown Providence are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the team on the ice.   The focus of the game day presentation is the large video board that hangs at center ice. Videos, fan cams, and graphics grab fans’ attention during play stoppages. Contests and giveaways during stoppages get the younger fans involved, filling the arena with noise at the most random times. Samboni, the team’s mascot, wanders the crowd from time to time, but doesn’t add a whole lot to the experience. Tables set up along the concourse for sponsors hawking their wares provide the occasional bit of swag for visiting fans.     Neighborhood 5     The Amica Mutual Pavilion is located in downtown Providence, within walking distance of a great number and variety of restaurants and attractions. Providence has a reputation as one of the top destinations in the country for foodies, and the area within walking distance of The AMP reflects the diversity and quality of options in the city as a whole.   Federal Hill, Providence’s Little Italy, is located a short walk from the arena. Several nationally renowned Italian restaurants can be found here. Closer to the front entrance of the AMP are local mainstays such as Blake’s, Murphy’s Pub, and the Vig.   Also within walking distance is the Providence Place Mall, an upscale shopping center with several national stores and several more choices for the hungry basketball fan. If visiting during the fall or spring, you may be able to check out Waterfires, an outdoor festival which has been held several weekends every year since 1994, during which eighty cauldrons lining the Providence, Woonasquatucket, and Moshassuck Rivers are lit on fire. Many other cities have copie d Waterfire, but the original started right here in Providence. The full schedule of Waterfire lightings can be found  here .   Entertainment options in downtown Providence vary from the nationally renowned Trinity Repertory Company and Providence Performing Arts Center to historic sites such as the Arcade, the nation’s first enclosed shopping center, and the Rhode Island State House.   Fans 4   Providence received the equivalent of the New England hockey “Golden Ticket” when the incredibly popular Boston Bruins placed their top farm team here in 1992. Since then, the P-Bruins have ranked in the top 5 in terms of attendance in the American Hockey League in almost every one of their 30 seasons.   The Bruins fell out of the top five in the AHL attendance rankings in 2024-25, but still managed to draw over 7,100 fans per game. The team is on pace to match or exceed that figure again this season.   Rhode Island is one of the most hockey-crazed parts of the country, with a rabid fanbase and strong youth programs in all parts of the state. This is reflected in the typical P-Bruins crowd, which is a mix of long-time diehards, casual fans, families, and groups. The Dunk is full of noise and energy throughout the season.   Access 4     The Amica Mutual Pavilion is located in downtown Providence, easily accessible via Interstate 95. Be warned that traffic in and around Providence can be quite heavy if visiting on a weekday, so prepare to take some extra time to arrive. The recent demolition of half of the Washington Bridge, the main access into the city from the East Bay, has exacerbated traffic around Providence.   There is ample parking in the many surface lots and garages around the Amica Mutual Pavilion. Downtown Providence can be a busy place, particularly around the holidays. Fans utilizing public transportation will be pleased to know that both Kennedy Plaza, the hub of the loc al  RIPTA bus service , and  Union Station, the local Amtrak stop , are located a short walk from the Amica Mutual Pavilion.   The Amica Mutual Pavilion features a large seating bowl with excellent views of the court. All seats at the arena are individual folding arena seats. The concourse and restrooms received a makeover in 2008, and the arena is fairly easy to get around. Expect lines to form in the food court and restrooms during halftime, so plan your trips accordingly.   Return on Investment 3   Tickets to P-Bruins games are priced at $37-45 for lower bowl seats, with upper-level seats priced between $30-37. The P-Bruins run specials that will help defray the cost of tickets, with $10 off, Two for One, and Me Plus Three packages offered for practically every game on the schedule.   As you may expect, parking in the downtown area around The Dunk will incur another charge. Parking in the lots and garages around the arena costs between $20-40, depending on location and night of the event. If you don’t mind a little walk, you can park at the Providence Place Mall and get your parking validated for just $5. Enclosed walkways bring you from the mall all the way to the Dunk. There is plenty of free parking in the neighborhood for those who want to search a little bit.   Concessions are generally in line with other venues in the area. Local fans comparing a P-Bruins game to the big boys in Boston will undoubtedly enjoy the lower prices here.   Extras 3                                                                                                 Providence is an original AHL city, with a professional hockey history that predates the league. Hanging from the rafters of The Dunk are banners commemorating championships won by the Providence Bruins and their predecessor, the Providence Reds. Located in the lobby are plaques honoring local soldiers, the Providence Bruins 1999 Calder Cup championship team, and Providence player of the 20 th century Zellio Toppazzini.   Be sure to seek out the historical touches that abound around the arena, in particular the interactive kiosks on the far side of the concourse that commemorate the long history of the Providence Reds. The Reds have their own historic society that continues to operate today. In addition, the Rhode Island Hockey Hall of Fame has added an interactive kiosk to the display.   Fans looking to pick up some Providence or Boston Bruins gear will enjoy the well-stocked Pro Shop located at The Dunk. In addition, there are small kiosks on the concourse and in the lobby. The team has numerous specialty nights throughout their schedule, and has started adding merchandise for these theme nights, including the very popular Providence Fightin’ Parms.   Final Thoughts   Providence and the Amica Mutual Pavilion are often mentioned among the top American Hockey League travel destinations. The combination of a modern arena, frenzied fan support, and a fantastic downtown area makes The AMP a first-rate destination. Rhode Island has no shortage of quality hockey arenas in the area. It’s a quality Stadium Journey destination.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 MassMutual Center 1277 Main St Springfield, MA 01103 Springfield Thunderbirds website MassMutual Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 6,800 A Decade of Thunder   The Mass Mutual Center debuted in 1972 as the Springfield Civic Center. Attached to the arena is the largest convention center in western Massachusetts, which was built in 2005. In addition to hosting several minor league hockey teams over the years, this was the home of the Hartford Whalers for part of the 1978 season when a roof collapse at the Hartford Civic Center forced the Whalers to search for a temporary home.   The city of Springfield is a charter member of the American Hockey League, with a hockey history that goes all the way back to 1926. Seven Calder Cup Championship teams have played in Springfield.  The original AHL team in the city, the Indians (who were rebranded as the Kings from 1967 to 1974) played in Springfield for 60 seasons before moving to Worcester in 1994.   Ex-Indian players Bruce Landon and Wayne LaChance secured an expansion franchise for the following season, but the team, named the Falcons, was plagued by inconsistent attendance and a revolving door of affiliations. At the conclusion of the 2015-16 season, it was announced that the Arizona Coyotes were purchasing the team and moving them to the Tucson Arena as part of the AHL’s westward expansion.   On May 4, 2016, a consortium of local business owners announced they were purchasing the Portland Pirates and relocating them to Springfield for the 2016-17 season. The name Thunderbirds was chosen to evoke not only images of the mythological bird but also to honor the Air Force’s presence in the region. The Thunderbirds have qualified for the playoffs three times in their first nine seasons, reaching the Calder Cup Finals in 2022.   Food and Beverage 5   The MassMutual Center has an impressive array of concessions options for such a small arena. Highlighting the offerings is a stand run by Bear’s BBQ, where hungry fans can grab their popular Mac Attack bowls topped with brisket or pulled pork. Randy’s Wooster Street offers its specialty pizza slices, and Barrio Cantina serves up Tacos, nachos, and flautas. The Tater & Tot stand serves up its signature chili served over loaded hot dogs, tater tots, and baked potatoes.   Fenway Park’s legendary Sausage Guy operates a busy stand, and fans can also hit up the Chick-fil-A stand for a sandwich or the Casa del Sol Cantina for some loaded nachos. Stadium Journey recommends getting yours in a souvenir goalie helmet. Fans looking for a healthier alternative can head to the Jugitos stand, where assorted smoothies and acai bowls are sold.   Fans looking for a pub-type atmosphere can visit the Breakaway Lounge or the Center Grille, where a selection of drinks and arena classics is served up. If you have a sweet tooth that needs a fix, Crumble serves up their oversized gourmet cookies, and fans can get soft serve ice cream and Dippin’ Dots.     Pepsi products are featured at the MassMutual Center. Fans looking for adult beverages will find no shortage of options, headlined by the Michelob Ultra Bar. Alongside a massive selection of macro brews is local favorite Thunder Boom IPA from White Lion Brewing. Bear's BBQ Stand at MassMutual Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Atmosphere 4   After decades of sporadic crowds and a lackluster game day atmosphere in Springfield, the Thunderbirds front office has found the magic formula to attract fans and bring excitement to MassMutual Center.   The Thunderbirds staff put on a high-energy show with a lot of noise and distraction to keep casual and younger fans interested. They integrate the arena’s lights, video board, and sound system to maximize the atmosphere in this small facility. The team’s mascot, Boomer, is the center of attention from the moment he takes the ice for pregame introductions. The schedule is filled with giveaways and special events, and the team store is stocked with special items honoring Springfield’s hockey heritage and special themes like the Ice-o-topes. During intermission, the ice is loaded with youth hockey teams, vehicles packed with folks throwing t-shirts into the stands, and more. “Organized chaos” is the term that comes to mind.   There’s a large video board that is put to great use with replays, fan cams, advertisements, and graphics. The sound system is fantastic, and the energy is high. The team employs a PA announcer and an emcee who make sure the fans are engaged. On the concourse, fans can purchase tickets for the 50/50 or jersey raffle, and younger fans can head to the kids’ area at the back of the arena, where there are coloring stations, a video game screen, and a slapshot cage.   Neighborhood 4   The MassMutual Center is located in downtown Springfield, long considered an area to avoid, but whose reputation is changing as the area goes through a metamorphosis. Central to the area’s rejuvenation is the MGM Springfield Casino, located just a block from the arena.   Despite the many new places going up around the casino, Stadium Journey recommends a trio of old dining options for visiting fans. First and foremost is Red Rose Pizzeria, located downtown since 1963, where diners can enjoy quality pizzas and enormous servings of Neapolitan fare.   Also worth a look is The Student Prince Café and the Fort, where German-style food and drink have been served since 1935. Finally, fans can head over to Theodore’s Blues, Booze, and BBQ, where local and national blues acts perform every Friday and Saturday while the staff serves up some of the area’s best BBQ.   Of course, Springfield’s biggest attraction may be the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, located a mile from the MassMutual Center. Also located nearby are the Springfield Armory and the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum. Located near the museum are several life-sized statues of Dr. Seuss characters.   Fans 4   This writer has been attending games in Springfield since the 1990s, and the success of the T-birds has been astounding. The team has averaged over 6,000 fans per game in each of the last three seasons and is well on its way to a fourth straight season topping that mark in 2025-26 as we approach the new year.   So why have the Thunderbirds succeeded when the Falcons struggled to attract fans? The team has worked hard to integrate itself into the fabric of the community, has attracted groups with ticket deals, and has enriched the game day experience with improvements to the facility.   Overall, a Thunderbirds crowd looks similar to many others across the minor league hockey landscape. You’ll find lots of families, groups, and diehard fans who’ve been coming downtown for hockey games for decades. There’s a lot of enthusiasm and noise in the crowd here, especially when fans from the nearby Bruins or Rangers farm teams descend on Springfield. Warmups at MassMutual Center. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey.   Access 3   The MassMutual Center is located in downtown Springfield, MA, a city of almost 156,000 residents. Springfield is the third-largest city in Massachusetts and the fourth-largest city in all of New England. The MassMutual Center is easy to get to, as it is just a few blocks from Interstate 91. Interstates 291 and 90 (the Mass Pike) run just a few miles away. Springfield refers to itself as “The Crossroads of New England.”   Springfield’s Union Station , with hubs for Greyhound, Peter Pan, and Pioneer Valley Transit bus lines, as well as Amtrak and CT Rail trains, is located only a half mile from the arena. Several Pioneer Valley Transit bus routes stop at Court Square, right across the street from MassMutual Center. Plentiful parking can be found at the MGM Casino garage, in surface lots in the area, or on-street for fans who want to search for it.   So, why the average access score? Two reasons. Bruce Landon Way, directly in front of MassMutual Center, continues to be closed, even though the garage and construction in the area appear to be completed.     Secondly, the MassMutual Center is just too small for the crowds showing up these days. A happy consequence of the increased attendance is that the facility has a hard time handling crowds that large. There’s just not enough room for everyone on the concourse during intermissions, so time your trips to the concession stands and restrooms wisely.   Return on Investment 4   Prices for Thunderbird tickets start at $21, escalating to $39 for the most expensive seats. The team offers several ticket deals, including Deuces Wild Fridays, featuring $2 domestic drafts, hot dogs, and sodas, and Winning Wednesdays, where a T-Birds win gets you a ticket for another weekday game. Sunday games are designated as Sensory Sundays, with special sensory booklets given out to those fans who need them.   Parking will cost an additional $10 in the Civic Center Garage across the street from the MassMutual Center, with free parking on local streets and in the MGM Parking Garage. With concessions generally priced in line with other local venues, a night at a Thunderbirds game is an affordable entertainment option for Western Massachusetts sports fans.   Extras 3   The Springfield Hockey Hall of Fame is located on the arena concourse. Significant persons in the area’s hockey heritage are honored here. Among the familiar names you’ll find here are Eddie Shore and Willie O’Ree.   The Thunderbirds also honor the city’s hockey heritage with banners honoring all of Springfield’s Calder Cup champions and several retired numbers.   If you can, be sure to check out the tiny team store in the northwest corner of the arena. Throwback merchandise from the Indians and Falcons can be found here, as well as the popular Simpsons crossover merchandise featuring the Thunderbirds’ alternate identity, the “Ice-O-Topes.” Time your trips well, as lines can last throughout the game.   Final Thoughts   Springfield is an original AHL city, but it looked like their time in the league was done when the Falcons left town. That all changed when a new team and new ownership arrived, reinvigorating interest in minor league hockey in the city. The MassMutual Center may have a definite '70s vibe to its design, but the game day experience here is all new. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and  Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Greg Venuto, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Canadian Tire Centre 1000 Palladium Dr Ottawa, ON K2V 1A5 Ottawa Senators website Canadian Tire Centre website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 18,652 Sens Hope To Move Back To The Capital The Canadian Tire Centre, which opened in 1996, is more a point of discussion not for where it is, but where it isn’t. The CTC, whose main tenant is the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, is situated in Kanata, a 25-minute trip from Parliament Hill without traffic, but can take 50 minutes to one hour by car on weeknights through rush hour traffic on Highway 417. The alternative is a train-to-bus combo that makes the trip in about 1:20. After the game, it often takes 20-30 minutes to get an Uber/Lyft, and there is no central place for rideshare pick up, which makes for a logistical nightmare as passengers are forced to wait in sub-freezing temperatures post-game. The good news is help could be on the way as the Senators have acquired land downtown and intend to build a new facility. The big question is when construction starts and when the new home be ready to move in. Location, location, location. The building was named The Palladium upon opening in 1996, became the Corel Centre until 2000, and was called Scotiabank Place from 2006-2013. The arena will turn 30 in January 2026. The Senators, who play in the NHL’s Atlantic Division, are moving forward with plans for a new home at LeBreton Flats, having recently signed a land-sale agreement with the National Capital Commission (NCC) in August 2025 for 11 acres. This project is part of a larger redevelopment including housing, retail, hotels, and restaurants, aiming to solve current arena accessibility issues, though land cleanup and design mean a potential opening is likely around 2031-2032. Senators fans, stay patient. Sens fans are patiently waiting for their team to win its first Stanley Cup. Ottawa reached the finals only once in 2007, losing to the Anaheim Ducks. Unfortunately, the Sens supporters are surrounded by more established hockey hotbeds in Toronto, four hours to its southwest, and Montreal, two hours to its east. The current iteration of the Senators is not the original professional team in Ottawa. The original Ottawa Senators were a force in the pre-Original Six days and dominated the early 1900s, claiming eleven Stanley Cup Championships between 1903 and 1927. The Ottawa Black Bears of the National Lacrosse League also play in the building. The Senators are currently owned by Michael Andlauer. The sale was approved by the NHL in September 2023. The team was sold following the passing of Eugene Melnyk in 2022. Andlauer is best known for his logistics companies (Andlauer Healthcare Group) and has prior hockey experience, including owning the OHL's Belleville Bulls. Food & Beverage 4 The concession scene at Canadian Tire Centre offers plenty for the hockey fan to indulge in. CTC starts with the Grab and Go. Fans can grab popcorn, candy, snacks, soft drinks, and beer, and use the self-checkout for a quick exit. The other options included Smoke’s Poutinerie, Tim Horton’s, ByTown Grill (including Cuban sandwiches and burgers), Capital Eats, Chef’s Kitchen, Gabriel Pizza, and Popcorn Factory. Then there are a host of bars serving beer, high-end mixed drinks, and cocktails. CTC serves Coca-Cola products, as well as Dr. Pepper and Canada Dry Ginger Ale. Some of the bars include: Wayne Gretzky Distillery, Six 1 Three, Lone Star Cantina, Hard Rock Club, and Go Sens Go. Hard Seltzer is $14.39, Twisted Tea is $15.15, Domestic beer is $14.08, and Premium is $14.75. A bottle of Dasani is $5.75, and $7.05 for Smart Water. A 9’ cheese pizza is $14.15 from Gabrie,l and a Canadian Cubano is $23 from ByTown Market. Atmosphere 3 The Canadian Tire Centre is probably a mid-level NHL venue for atmosphere. It features solid sightlines and is a good place to take in a game with not as many amenities. The exterior of the CTC is impressive as the cylindrical structure is lit up and has nothing blocking its view. A long canopy along the central sidewalk leads fans into the building and offers protection from the elements (wind and snow), which can be brutal. Ottawa gets a significant amount of snow, averaging around 88-92 inches per season (223 to 234 centimeters), which makes it one of the snowiest national capitals. Ottawa gets more snow than Toronto and sometimes double the amount in some winters. The "Sens sign" in front of the building provides prominent signage and the perfect spot for fans to stop for a selfie on the way in. Behind the sign is a natural gas fireplace. The Molson Cup is located on the third level, a Canadian hockey award given to the player on a Canadian NHL team with the most three-star selections in a season. CTC uses a blend of organ music and popular music. The scoreboard is not one of the better ones in the NHL. The screen is a bit smaller than most, and the board does not show which players are on the ice during live play. The Ottawa Team Shop is located inside the building in the main lobby at Gate 1 and is open from 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday. Neighbourhood 3 Most likely, if you are visiting Ottawa from out of town, staying downtown is the preferred choice. There is an outlet mall and a few hotels, including Wyndgate by Windham and Microtel Inn and Suites, reasonably close, but they are not within walking distance. The Fairfield Inn and Suites is slightly more than one mile away. A very short drive to Terry Fox Drive will bring fans to the Kanata Entertainment Centrum, which is a large retail area with many dining options. Beaver Tails, which is an Ottawa must, can be found at the nearby Tanger Outlets. Beaver Tails, established in 1978, is known for its unique Canadian pastries, but also offers hot dogs, poutine, and ice cream. Ottawa boasts one of the premier tourist destinations in Canada. Being the capital city, the Parliament buildings are high on the list of places to see. There is plenty of availability for a free 40-minute tour of either the House of Commons or Senate, which can be booked online Parliament of Canada . Museums are another way to beat the cold and learn about the city and the nation. The litany includes: Museum of Nature, Canadian War Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Royal Canadian Mint. Lansdowne Park and the Rideau Canal are worth checking out, and skating on the canal is highly recommended. Typically, the canal opens for skating around New Year’s Day. Fans 4 The Senators fans were invigorated last year as they made the playoffs for the first time in seven seasons. Led by young studs Tim Stutzle, Brady Tkachuk, Jake Sanderson, and Dylan Cozens and first-year coach Travis Green, the Senators were back in contention. Ottawa played to about 92% capacity last year at 17,306 per home game. The Senators are averaging 16,811 midway through the current season. The fans are enthused but not as fervent as the fans in their two nearest competitor cities, Toronto and Montreal. The Sens fans are urged on by team mascot Spartacat, who is an energetic, anthropomorphic lion who debuted in 1992. Spartacat makes his way around the CTC witha drum in hand to lead the “Go Sens Go” rallying cry. Access 3 The doors open for Senators games two hours before game time. Entry was simple as CTC has frictionless scanners located at Gates 1, 2, and 3. Patrons can walk through the scanners without emptying their pockets. Bags will still need to be x-rayed. The arena is conveniently located off Highway 417. The exits that will lead you to Canadian Tire Centre are Terry Fox Road and Palladium Drive. There are plenty of parking lots surrounding the arena. Parking runs from $21-40. It is recommended to pre-pay through Ticketmaster. ​​ Parking Lots 5 and 9 are “SLAP SHOT” lots, which allow you to park and pay from your phone. Slap Shot Lots must be paid upon arrival (or up to 4 hours in advance of event time) through the Indigo Neo Parking App on a mobile device. Just pull in, park, register your plate, and pay. Fans coming from downtown can take the 1 train to the 62 bus, which stops at Palladium, 5 minutes from the arena. For more information, visit octranspo , The Sens’ website states guests dropping off/picking up passengers may use Frank Finnigan Way, located directly in front of Gate 1. But there is no dedicated area for rideshare,s which is a big negative. A difference not seen at any other NHL venue is that tickets are not scanned at the entry point but instead scanned as people enter the level of their assigned seat. The other quirk is that fans cannot walk completely around the lower bowl, as the Bell Club (sections 109-113) prevents a complete revolution. Return on Investment 3 According to the Fan Cost Index for the 2024-2025 season, the Ottawa Senators were one of the cheapest options in the NHL, ranked 28th at $487.29. That’s the best value in Canada and second best in the league. Prices of food and collectibles are comparable to those of other NHL buildings. Ticket prices are on the more reasonable side, except for rivalry games vs. Montreal or Toronto. Upper level tickets can be secured for weeknights for as little as $5,0, while lower bowl will run as low as $150. Extras 3 The Senators earn an extra point for their return to the original expansion logo in 2020 that the Senators wore during their first season in 1992. The change has been well-received as it brought back the familiar two-dimensional profile of the Roman soldier with minor tweaks to the colors and design The arena garners another point as CTC was the final Canadian building to showcase NHL icon, Wayne Gretzky. Gretzky’s final game in Canada was played at the Corel Centre on February 21, 1999. There is also the Wayne Gretzky Distillery in Section 109, which opened in 2024. The third point is for the beautiful Molson Canadian Fan Deck (opened 2016) on the second level in sections 214-216. The special VIP vinyl stadium seats are behind the net the Senators shoot at twic,e with a full bar directly behind the seating area. A check of TicketMaster Canada revealed a ticket in the fan deck to a March game v Anaheim goes for $156 Canadian or $114 USD. Final Thoughts The Canadian Tire Centre is more than an adequate venue to watch a hockey game. Sens fans dreaming about a new shiny toy in downtown Ottawa might have to wait a bit before the Yellow Brick Road to the capital is complete. Follow Greg Venuto’s stadium journeys on Twitter @VenutoGreg and Facebook .

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Mercedes-Benz Stadium 1 AMB Dr Atlanta, GA 30313 Atlanta Falcons website Mercedes-Benz Stadium website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 71,000 The Falcons' Home Nest Is One Of The Best The Atlanta Falcons have called three stadiums home since they joined the NFL as an expansion team in 1966. The first was Atlanta Fulton County Stadium, the second was the Georgia Dome. They began playing in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2017. Mercedes-Benz Stadium has been hailed as one of the next generation of sports venues due to its advanced technological features, its very successful sustainability efforts, and its “fans first” concessions program. Food & Beverage 5 Mercedes-Benz Stadium was a pioneer in the NFL with its Fans’ First Concessions program. This program offers stadium basics at value prices. This includes stadium standards such as hot dogs (2), sodas ($2), pizza ($3), nachos ($3), fries ($3), and beer ($5). Soft drink refills are free at all stadium concession stands. The stadium also features several local eateries in its concession offerings. They include Fox Brothers BBQ, Farm Burger, Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand, Sublime Doughnuts, Molly B’s Kitchen, and Sweetwater Brewing Company. Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A has several locations throughout the stadium, but they are not open on Sundays. Atmosphere 4 The fun begins hours before the kickoff in the Home Depot Backyard, the tailgate area located just north of the stadium. Activities include a pep rally, photos with Freddie the Falcon, food tents, music performances, sports skill contests, and some great fan giveaways. Mercedes-Benz Stadium has received rave reviews from both home and visiting fans due to its innovative design and unique features. The halo board above the field was the first of its kind and offers terrific replays of important plays during the game. The stadium can open or close its roof, depending on the weather in the area. When the roof is closed, the crowd noise can be deafening, and a big advantage for the Falcons. The 300-level concourse offers a terrific look at the history of the Falcons franchise. It is known as the “100-yard club". The concourse floor looks like a football field, with yard lines and markings. The pillars in this section feature the likeness and stats of some of the team’s greatest players. The Falcons Hall of Fame is known as The Ring of Honor, and its most recent inductees are team owner Arthur Blank and former QB Matt Ryan. Neighborhood 4 Mercedes-Benz Stadium is located within a few blocks of Atlanta’s top tourist attractions. State Farm Arena, home of the Atlanta Hawks, is next door to the stadium. The College Football Hall of Fame is within walking distance of the stadium. Other sites of interest include the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Center for Human and Civil Rights. These are all located within Centennial Olympic Park. Fans 3 Football fans in the South are known for their rabid support of their teams. Falcon’s fans are no different. They begin the season with high hopes, filling the stadium and creating quite a loud environment when the roof is closed at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Unfortunately, the Falcons have only been to two Super Bowls in their history. They’ve really never gotten over their Super Bowl loss to the Patriots after leading 28-3 at halftime. What we are trying to say is that fan support starts at the highest level at the beginning of the season and can drop off dramatically once the team falls out of playoff contention. That being said, the Falcons have great rivalries with two of their NFC South opponents, the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers. Access 3 Parking at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is typically purchased on a season ticket basis. Traffic on the interstate highway system is slow on weekends, especially when multiple downtown events are being held. If you must travel by car, it is a good idea to use the WAZE app to guide you past any traffic snarls. We recommend you use public transportation to get to Falcons games. The MARTA rapid rail system has two stations (Vine City and the SEC (Sports/Entertainment/ Conventions) Station serving Mercedes- Benz Stadium. It is a very time-saving and cost-effective way to reach the stadium, compared to other means of transportation. The rideshare pickup/delivery areas are located several blocks from Mercedes-Benz Stadium along both Northside Drive and Centennial Park Drive. Once you arrive at the stadium, the gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. There are four main gates into the stadium, with multiple lines at each gate. Return on Investment 4 The Falcons have a relatively large season ticket base, especially considering the cost of a PSL. Individual game tickets can vary greatly on the secondary market. Tickets against a division rival (especially Carolina and New Orleans) can cost more than $100 for seats at the 300 level of the stadium. However, games against non-conference teams can drop ticket prices dramatically. Mercedes-Benz Stadium pioneered the concept of cashless purchases and value menu items to keep costs down for fans, while also speeding up the ordering process. This is known as the Fans First Food Experience. It has been extremely popular since its inception. Parking at one of the stadium-owned lots can cost more than $50. The MARTA rapid rail system can deliver fans to the stadium for $2.50 each way per person, no matter how far you travel on the system. Extras 5 Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host eight matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup competition. Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host Super Bowl LXII in 2028. The stadium hosted some of the largest concerts ever held in the Atlanta area, including concerts featuring Garth Brooks, the Rolling Stones, Beyoncé, Elton John, and Taylor Swift. The stadium was the first LEED-certified venue in the NFL. It was recognized for its efforts to trap rainwater, recycle materials, compost leftover food, and make sure 90% of waste never makes it to a landfill. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is also home to the largest bird sculpture in the world. This falcon’s wingspan is more than 64 feet, and he is more than four stories tall. Final Thoughts Mercedes-Benz Stadium remains one of the most innovative stadiums in the NFL and in the world. Its cutting-edge technology and one-of-a-kind design still amaze visitors when they see it in person.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Wintrust Arena FANFARE Score: 3.71 Wintrust Arena 200 E Cermak Rd. Chicago, IL 60616 DePaul Blue Demons website Wintrust Arena website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 10,387 DePaul Blue Demon Basketball Review Wintrust Arena is the home of the DePaul University Blue Demons and is situated near McCormick Place in Chicago's South Loop neighborhood. Opened in 2017, the arena has a distinctive design with a sweeping curved roof above four transparent sides. It has a capacity of 10,387. ​DePaul played basketball sporadically since 1908, but it was not until 1923-24 that a full season record was kept. It coincided with the Blue Demons opening of University Auditorium, a former barracks for the Student Army Training Corp. during World War I. ​In 1942, George Mikan and head coach Ray Meyer arrived on campus, leading the Demons to the 1943 Final Four and an NIT championship in 1945. Mikan would graduate in 1945, leading the Minneapolis Lakers to five BAA/NBA championships, and be considered one of the greatest big men of his time. Meyer would coach for 42 years and finish with a 724-354 record. He would lead them to the 1979 Final Four that featured rookie standout Mark Aguirre. ​Before playing at the Wintrust Arena, the Blue Demons called the   Allstate Arena in Rosemont , Illinois, home for 37 years. The switch to the South Loop moves the team much closer to campus, a little less than 7 miles. The arena is also home to the  Chicago Sky of the WNBA during the summer months. ​ Food & Beverage 4 Although there are not many options at the arena, there are plenty that will satisfy the cravings of anyone in attendance. A few higher-level concession options add excitement, along with 25 percent discounts on beer before tip-off. ​Windy City Burger Company and Big Chicken  are located behind the student section on the main concourse. Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken serves deep-fried chicken strips and fries combo. They are all served with Shaq Sauce, a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and spices, with a tang from a touch of pickle juice. Windy City offers brisket burgers in two wide varieties. The Jump Shot is the most popular and is topped with cheddar cheese, grilled onions, and special sauce. The Inferno Burger is a one-pound patty of beef, with pickled red onions, bacon, spicy pepper relish, and special sauce on a brioche bun. There is also a plant-based burger. All items are served with fries. Fans can choose from the Demon Dog Combo Meal. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. ​ Other concession options include the hot dog combos and nachos. The Demon Dog Combo is a footlong with mustard, cheese, pico de gallo, and jalapenos. The shareable nachos come in a souvenir bowl with jalapenos, ground beef, pico, and sour cream. There are small options for these items as well. Popcorn is available by the bucket along with Garrett Popcorn Chicago mix, consisting of cheddar and caramel popcorn. Another Chicago favorite, Connie's Pizza, is available in personal pies. ​Pepsi products are the drink of choice, and the alcoholic beverages include Coors Light and Banquet, Modelo, Topo Chico Seltzer, and Revolution Anti Hero IPA and Cold Time Premium Lager. Wine and cocktails are also available in the building. ​ Atmosphere 3 The arena is a basketball-first venue with ideal seating on all four sides, a wraparound concourse, and open areas to enjoy the game while away from your seats. The 10,000-plus venue features chairback seats with cup-holders and easy access to and from the seating bowl. The arena is split into two levels and offers great sightlines with a majority of the seats in the lower bowl close to the action on the court. A giant videoboard hovers over center court that provides stats, replays, information, and promotions during the game. There are also ribbon scoreboards on each end of the court.  DIBS gets the crowd started before tip-off at center court, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. The videoboard comes in handy during pre-game introductions, including DIBS (Demon in a Blue Suit) waving the team flag, and flanked by cheerleaders and fire. He revs the crowd up and can be found on the sidelines and in the stands throughout the game. Cheerleaders entertain fans during breaks in the action on the court, and the band adds the soundtrack to the game. The Blue Demon Club Lounge is located between sections 106 and 112 on the main concourse. It offers ticket holders access to all-you-can-eat food, soft drinks, and a full-service bar. Non-ticket holders can also walk through the area. Most arenas restrict access to visitors, requiring them to walk around the lounge area. Neighborhood 4 The Wintrust Arena is located in the South Loop at the McCormick Place Convention Center. The arena benefits from multiple dining options, tourist attractions, and convenient transit connections. The neighborhood doesn’t suffer from pregame or postgame dining options. Fans can head a mile west into Chinatown for standout spots such as MingHin , Triple Crown , and Joy Yee —ideal destinations for anyone looking to explore one of the city’s most flavorful neighborhoods. Closer to the arena, Chef Luciano Kitchen and Chicken serves up some of the city’s best fried chicken and seafood, while Windy City Ribs & Whiskey offers rib tips and links, and Pizano’s  for deep dish and thin-crust pizza. A mile away from the arenas is the Pleasant House Pub , specializing in British-inspired fare such as meat pies, bangers and mash, and happy hour specials. Additionally, Fatpour Tapworks  has a full menu and a tasty array of cocktails, spirits, and beer. A few miles south of the Arena is Rate Field, the home of the White Sox, and just a Metra stop north is Soldier Field, the home of the Chicago Bears  and Chicago Fire . The stop also provides access to the Shedd Aquarium  and the Field Museum along the banks of Lake Michigan.   Fans 3 The fan base for Blue Demons games comprises a diverse group of students, family members, alumni, and casual fans who converge in Chicago for college basketball. The arena is around 7 miles south of the DePaul campus, perhaps making it a little inconvenient for the student base to attend regularly. The game we attended was less than usual, due to final exam schedules and the holiday season. However, the crowd reaction was lively and made the half-empty building come alive during certain moments of the game. Access 5 Regardless of your mode of transportation, accessing the Wintrust Arena is rather simple. Public transportation options include the CTA bus, CTA elevated train (The “L”), and the METRA commuter train. ​ The METRA Commuter Train has a stop a couple of blocks north of the building at the 18th Street exit. Commuters can purchase a one-way or an all-day pass. The CYA Green Line has a McCormick Place stop two blocks west. The Red Line (Cermak/ Chinatown) stop is four blocks west of the arena. No. 3 King Drive is the most convenient CTA bus route, running north and south along Michigan Avenue. It has a stop at the corner of Michigan and Cermak. ​ The arena has two main entrances, one from the Skybridge that leads fans directly to the main concourse and the main exterior entrance at the corner of Indiana Avenue and Cermak Road. This entrance provides access to the venue’s ground level and offers escalators to the main concourse. ​ Return on Investment 4 ​ Ticket prices on   the website TickPick  this season are as low as $2 and as high as $19 against some of the best from the Big East. That is an incredible value for any Division I basketball program, let alone one that is located in the city of Chicago. ​The best places to park for games would be in the McCormick Place parking lot. The closest lot is A, and that will cost anywhere from $27-$40 for the night. Check prices on the website SpotHero  for the best prices for Blue Demon games. The concession prices tend to be on the higher side, but also along the lines of other arenas and stadiums in the heart of Chicago. With that being said, beer prices are slashed 25 percent before tip-off and  ​ Extras 4 ​ The Wintrust Arena earns a point for offering 25 percent off beer before tip-off. The arena earns a second point for the skybridge that takes fans from the parking lot across the street and into the arena.  The third point is allowing access to fans to walk through the Blue Demon Club Lounge without having to walk around the entire section. The final point is for the Windy City Burger Company and Big Chicken concession stands that offer premium food options at the game. The Skybridge from the McCormick Parking Garage leads directly into the arena, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. Taking a Bag? The bag policy is similar to that of other venues. Bags that are allowed at the Wintrust Arena include plastic, vinyl, or PVC that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. They include fanny packs, backpacks, or sling bags. Non-clear purses or bags of 10” x 6” x 2” and one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags are also allowed. Final Thoughts The Wintrust Arena is a comfortable, modern arena that is ideal for college hoops. The price of tickets, easy access, and the neighborhood make it a nice option for sports fans visiting Chicago. There are many other sporting options, but many can't compete with the pricing at Blue Demons men's basketball games. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel . Email at marc@stadiumjourney.com

The gang gets back after a year hiatus to discuss their favorite trips, cities, games, and biggest surprises of 2025. You can find all of our fantastic video content on Stadium Journey's YouTube page.   For audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast, visit HIAC Talk Radio .

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Pucillo Gymnasium 105 Pucillo Drive Millersville, PA 17551 Millersville Marauders website Pucillo Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1910 Capacity: 3,000 Marauding In PA Millersville University of Pennsylvania (commonly known as Millersville University or MU) was founded in 1855 as one of Pennsylvania's normal/teaching schools. One of its biggest programs is meteorology. Malik B and Black Thought of The Roots are two of the university's most well-known alumni. The Roots are best known by many people as the house band of the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Pucillo Gymnasium opened in 1970 for a cost of two million dollars. It also underwent renovations in 2008 and a new floor and locker rooms were installed in 2015. The gymnasium is named in honor of Dr. John A. Pucillo, who served with distinction as coach, athletic director, and administrator at Millersville from 1925 to 1957. Millersville participates in varsity sports as part of NCAA Division II. Their sports teams are known as the Marauders. The Marauders compete as a member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). In lacrosse, the school was the 1982 AIAW Division III national champion. Food & Beverage 3 There is a nice concession stand in the gymnasium's lobby. Prices are incredibly cheap. I don’t think I saw a single menu item over $5. You won’t want to make the limited options your main meal, but at the same time, your wallet will be happy. Atmosphere 3 The venue is a pretty basic small college gym with seats on both sides of the court and a few on the sides, especially at the second level which also seems to serve as a running track. Many of the games, such as the one we attended, are doubleheaders with the women's teams so you may see many fans come and go. When students are in session, especially during weekday games, there will be much more of a student presence which will make for a better atmosphere. Neighborhood 3 Millersville is a nice little town located just to the west of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There are a few food and drink options in the immediate vicinity. Although it is not the most exciting place, I tend to go to the Sugar Bowl just down the street. They have simple pizza slices and sub sandwiches at a good value. Wayback Burger is another local option. Some great food options exist in the nearby Lancaster area. A very nice hotel, the Lancaster Arts Hotel makes a nice place to stay and watch games. The hotel serves as an art gallery and lodging establishment while making use of former factory space. Fans 3 The fans are about what you expect for a small college venue. The students can make it better at the games they attend. The PSAC conference offers some great local rivalries with schools such as Bloomsburg, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock, and Shippensburg. Expect to see a decent number of rival fans in attendance. Access 4 Lancaster and Millersville are easy areas to navigate. Routes 30 and 222 are well-known, large roads that any tourist visitor to the area will be more than familiar with. The university is located about half an hour from the state capital, Harrisburg. It is also about an hour and a half to Baltimore and the same distance to Philadelphia. Parking is fairly plentiful around the university and the stadium. Parking is also free but watch for any regulations during weekday games. Return on Investment 4 Attending a Millersville game is about on the same price level as high school athletics. Tickets can be had for under $10 at the door. Parking is free. Extras 2 The lobby cases also hold information about the members of the Lancaster County Sports Hall of Fame. Following extensive renovations to the lobby in 2017, it was renamed the Anttonen Lobby in honor of Dr. and Mrs. Ralph (Doc) and Judith Anttonen. Final Thoughts Millersville University plays a good level of basketball and the opponents of the PSAC do offer some skilled opponents, which makes a game here a good value for the sports fan.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium 9900 Hemphill St Fort Worth, TX 76134 NAIA Football National Championship website Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 8,000 NAIA National Championship – Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium The National Alliance of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)  was founded in 1940, in part as an alternative to the NCAA and focusing on smaller schools (many of which are private and/or faith-based institutions). Since 1956, the NAIA has held playoffs and a National Championship game  for their participating football schools. The 2025 rendition of the NAIA National Championship was played this year between the Grand View University Vikings  and the Keiser University Seahawks , squaring off in Fort Worth, Texas at Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium. Normally home to Crowley Independent School District’s high school teams, as well as NAIA member Texas Wesleyan (Rams) , this stadium is one of the higher-end Texas high school football venues. While the Grand View Vikings took home their second straight National Championship, and their third overall, everyone who attended felt like a winner. Read on to learn more about the facility and the game.   Food & Beverage   2 First and foremost, fans attending games at this stadium need to understand that it is a high school venue, so the food and drink options are what you would expect at a high school and/or small college facility. You can get your nachos, hot dogs with or without chili, and hot links (which are a nice addition), as well as popcorn, candy, bottled water, soft drinks, and sports drinks. The stadium has two stands, one on each side of the facility, across from each other on the north side of the field. Lines do tend to bottleneck at the expected times, such as at halftime and during long breaks in the action, but by and large things move fairly quickly. One more caveat, again, as this is a high school venue; alcohol is not available.   Atmosphere   2 Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium is a fine venue, but for the most part, anything in terms of atmosphere is geared towards its regular high school tenants. The stadium is adorned with plenty of NAIA banners and signage during this championship matchup, however. There is also a store that sells NAIA Championship merchandise; some of the t-shirts are even printed on demand, which is a nice touch. Beyond the team logos on the scoreboards, however, you won’t find much else telling you who is playing that day – this doesn’t detract from the game too much, however. Anything else “atmospheric” about Crowley Stadium is centered on the Crowley Eagles and North Crowley Panthers.   Neighborhood   3 Fort Worth is one of the largest cities in Texas, and the second largest in the sprawling behemoth that is the DFW metroplex. For sports fans in Texas this is the place to be, as every major professional league and several big time college brands call the area home; the Dallas Cowboys , Dallas Mavericks , Texas Rangers , Dallas Stars , and FC Dallas are all located within 45 minutes of Crowley Stadium, while both TCU and SMU   play their Division I sports a short drive from the stadium as well. If you time your visit right, you should be able to take in at least one other game while you’re in town. If you’re looking for something else besides sports to do, a visit to Cow Town should not be done without a stop to the Fort Worth Stockyards , which is exactly what someone who’s never been to Texas imagines it would be like – a daily cattle drive of Texas longhorn steers is the highlight of a complex replete with historic sites, reenactors, entertainment and dining venues, museums, and shopping of all kinds. Live music can also be found around every corner, and the area is truly just a site to behold. In terms of dining and lodging, there’s an embarrassment of riches for both scattered throughout the Metroplex; your only limit is your budget. However, if you’re looking for something in the immediate area of the stadium, there are a few choices. For dining, Piattello Italian Kitchen  is an award-winning spot a short drive from the stadium. If you’re looking for scratch-made Italian cuisine, Piattello is the spot for you. You might also visit Courtside Kitchen , a pickleball spot that serves sandwiches, burgers, wings, and cocktails. When it comes to lodging, there are quite a few spots within a short drive of Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium – these include Motel 6 Fort Worth – Burleson  and Home2 Suites by Hilton Burleson . As with dining, however, your budget is what’s going to impact your selection.   Fans    3 I was not sure what to expect as far as turnout for this game, as neither Des Moines, Iowa (home of Grand View University), nor Fort Lauderdale, Florida (home of Keiser University) are anywhere near Fort Worth, Texas. Consider me pleasantly surprised by the turnout, as much of the home team side for Grand View was filled on the lower bowl; those fans were loud as all get out and were into the game the whole way through. On the opposite side of the stadium, there were less fans in attendance for Keiser, but they were no less vocal. If this is how the NAIA does it, I am going to spend some more time at their games in the coming years.   Access   4 The site for this year’s NAIA National Championship, Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium, is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Fort Worth, and just under an hour’s drive from Dallas, less than a 40-minute drive from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. So, it makes it fairly centrally located to what’s going on in the Metroplex. Located just off Interstate 35W, getting to the stadium is pretty much a straightforward drive. If you do venture up the highway, you will have the benefit of the facility being sandwiched between two Buc-ee’s , one in Fort Worth and one in nearby Hillsboro. Once you get on-site parking is plentiful, as both lots are open for the game, one on the home team side and one for the visitors.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets for the NAIA Championship go for as low as $40, with parking at $10. There are also no concession items greater than $6, so the only thing that price-wise might be a sticking point is getting one of the on-site printed shirts at around $45 each. All in all, that’s not too bad of a hit to the budget for a college football championship game.   Extras   2 Being as the two participants this year are small schools, I didn’t expect them to travel with a lot of the regular pageantry that would normally be found at their home games. Keiser, for example, brought no mascot nor band, nor their cheer or dance squads. Grand View only brought their mascot, Viktor. I love a good mascot, and Viktor leaned into his surroundings on this visit, as he was replete with a cowboy hat (on top of his Viking horns), a lasso, and bib overalls. He also sported a wooden stick horse, which was a nice touch.   Final Thoughts This game was a lot of fun and ticked off another item on my bucket list. College football is at its best when it relies on its history, traditions, and the often zaniness that can happen with a fan base. Schools at the NAIA level seem to be, for the most part, immune to the problems plaguing the higher levels – and that is naturally a good thing. It might be a little Pollyanna-ish to think this way, but the game seemed simpler and from another time. The old cliche of guys playing for the love of the game seems apropos here. If you’re a fan of college football and the way things used to be, definitely take in the NAIA National Championship – and if it’s at Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium, all the better. Lastly, congrats to the two-time defending champion Grand View Vikings. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .