Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Starry Baseball Field 236 N Grantham Rd Dillsburg, PA 17019 Messiah Falcons website Starry Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 1,000 The Falcons Nest Messiah University is a private interdenominational evangelical Christian university in Grantham, Pennsylvania, although the mailing address is in nearby Mechanicsburg. Starry Baseball Field is part of the larger Starry Athletic Complex. The university began as Messiah Bible School and Missionary Training Home and was part of the Brethren in Christ Church. The name changed over the years going from Messiah Bible School to Messiah College, and in 2020 Messiah University. The university is now interdenominational and not part of the Brethren in Christ Church but still is evangelical with an influence in the Anabaptist, the Radical Pietist, and the Wesleyan holiness movements. The Falcons mascot is named Flex, although he was previously known as Fandango. The Falcons compete in Division III of the NCAA and are a member of the Middle Atlantic Conferences. The Falcons receive some of the biggest support in Division III and boast some of the best attendance of all schools at that level in the "Olympic" sports. The Falcons have been very successful in athletics. The men's and women's soccer teams won the NCAA Division III National Championship in 2005, 2008, 2009, and 2012. The Falcons men's soccer team are eleven-time national champions. Messiah University is the only NCAA college to win the men's and women's soccer national championships in the same year, and they have achieved that distinction four times. There also have been national championships in women's softball, women's field hockey, and numerous individual championships in wrestling and wrestling. The Falcons baseball time are five-time conference champions in 2003, 2005, 2008, 2011, and 2012. An amphitheater seating system was installed at Starry Baseball Field in 2010. Food & Beverage 2 There is a small concession stand near the field called the Falcon Hut. It offers cheap concessions from a limited menu. it is a nice little facility but it doesn't offer much if you are looking for more than a small snack. Atmosphere 4 The Starry Athletic Complex is a great little complex to watch sports. You have to access it via a covered bridge. Each of the various fields offers great views and a fun environment for each of the Falcons sports teams. Starry Baseball Field is a nice little field and the amphitheater seating, along with the hills for seating, makes for a nice comfortable place to watch a game. Messiah's "A Warmer Welcome Campaign" is an ongoing effort to enhance the outdoor athletic facilities at the Starry Athletic Complex. The Campaign is set to include a new concession and hospitality facility that will serve Messiah’s entire outdoor athletic complex, expanded and enhanced new seating for lacrosse and softball fans, and improved dugout areas for the baseball field. Neighborhood 3 Starry Athletic Fields Complex is south of the main Messiah campus. There is not much of a neighborhood in Grantham but one can venture into Mechanicsburg and/or Harrisburg for more things to do before or after a game. There is a Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar in Camp Hill if you are feeling like eating a large meal. Vitality Bowls in Mechanicsburg could be a healthier option. Fans 4 Messiah has one of the best fan bases around. They support Falcon sports, no matter which one. If visiting on any given weekend, you are likely to find multiple games going on, with each a healthy attendance. Access 3 Messiah University, itself, is not that hard to access as it is located nearby the Pennsylvania Turnpike, I-83, I-81, and U.S. Route 15. You may have more issues once on campus. The university is easy enough to get around, but the Starry Athletic Fields Complex is located to the south of the main Messiah campus, across an old-style covered bridge. Once across the bridge, there is a medium-sized parking lot that could fill quickly. We ended up parking across the campus and walking as there were so many events going on, not just at the athletic complex. This was not a bad thing, as we found a nice little walking trail, along with a swinging bridge. You need to be aware that the main parking lot might not work out for you. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for attending a game at Starry Baseball Field. Even if there was, you could easily watch the game for free along the field. The limited offerings of the Falcon Hut are also very good with prices. Extras 4 The ability to easily watch so many sports without almost any extra walking is a great extra. Go north of the nearby Criste Tennis Courts to find a delightful swinging bridge that crosses Yellow Breeches Creek. Once across the bridge above look for the campus fitness trail which offers a great walking trail around a good part of the Messiah campus. The Climenhaga Homestead is a historic house on campus that was built by the first dean of the college (Asa Climenhaga) as a way to become better connected to the campus and its students. The homestead now houses guest rooms, meeting rooms, and conference facilities. Final Thoughts Messiah University is already a great spot to watch sports, but with the upcoming "A Warmer Welcome Campaign" it may go to another level. Starry Baseball Field is a simple place but is one that offers a great place to spend a bit of time.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Goodyear Ballpark 1933 S Ballpark Way Goodyear, AZ 85338 Map It Cincinnati Reds Spring Training website Goodyear Ballpark website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 10,311 Reds in Goodyear Goodyear Ballpark, opened in 2009, is the spring training home for Ohio’s two major league baseball teams: the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Guardians.  It is also home to the Guardians and Reds Arizona Rookie Complex League ball teams.  The attractive venue is celebrating its 15th anniversary this 2024 season. It is an extremely enjoyable, good-looking ballpark. The main home plate entrance is beautiful, with plenty of shaded places to sit and wait for the gates to open.  It has several sculptures, palm trees, and other Arizona landscaping to admire. The facility also hosts instructional league games in the fall as well as other events like car shows, July 4th celebrations, local and national baseball tournaments, graduation ceremonies, and more throughout the year. Since 1891, the Cincinnati Reds have had spring training in 24 different cities.  The team moved their spring training site from Florida to Goodyear, AZ, in 2010.  Arizona is delighted to have them as part of the Cactus League. Food & Beverage 4 Baseball fans won’t go hungry at Goodyear Ballpark as there’s a wide choice of refreshments, entrees, and drinks for sale. The permanent stands (Queen City Grill, Hanger 46, and 1901 Charter Grill) more or less offer the same choices:  chicken tenders, hot dogs, Cincinnati cheese coney, Cleveland Polish boys, cheeseburgers, pizza, and traditional snacks, soda, and beer ($5.99 - $12.99). I find the portable carts along the concourse have a better variety:  Salsa (nachos), Steakadelphia (Philly cheesesteak sandwiches), and Burgertopia (hamburgers).  The first baseline has several kiosks (similar to those found in a carnival) selling tacos, kettle corn, ice cream, flavored ice, and more.  The tacos look delicious, and fans can’t go wrong with a Handles (from Ohio) ice cream cone or cup. Good Hops sells adult beverages (including mason jar cocktails), soda (Coca-Cola), water, and snacks.  Other choices for the hophead are the AZ Craft Beer Corner (local AZ brewery beer pints and flights) and Goodyear’s Saddle Mountain Brewing, selling a few choices of their own brewed beers. Fans can bring in a bottle of factory-sealed water and their own food if it fits into a quart-sized clear bag. Atmosphere 5 The staff and game day operations do a fabulous job at making a Reds spring training game leisurely and enjoyable.  And the Cincinnati fans revel in watching their Reds play ball. A single seating bowl descends from a main concourse, which encircles the entire park.  The seats are standard stadium fold-down seats, are comfortably wide, have cup holders, and the rows have average legroom.  Plenty of wheelchair seats line the top of the concourse. Grass berms stretch beyond the outfield walls.  The bullpens are adjacent to each other in left field in front of the berm area. The stadium has a Right Field Pavilion and a Party Patio (under the scoreboard in left field); both offer tables for four on a single-game basis. Goodyear Ballpark Right Field Pavilion, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey The seating areas get plenty of sun, with shade available in the top rows on the third base side and behind home plate.  The third base side has three sections of shaded, cushioned club seating.  Bring sunscreen, though the ladies’ room offers sunscreen for those who forget. Medium-thick nets extend to the end of dugouts (sections 107 – 117). Sit further down the baselines to watch the game net-free.  Fans can view the gorgeous Estrella Mountain Range beyond the first base side. The scoreboard sits in left field and shows the starting lineup, photo of the player at bat (Reds players), line score, pitch speed, the current time, and a McDonald’s logo.  Murals and posters of former players and team logos line the outer concourse walls and just inside the home base entrance, boasting the history of the teams who play at the park. The announcer (female) calls the starting lineups nice and slowly, giving you enough time to complete your scorecard.  Music is never played over any PA announcement.  When played, the music volume is loud enough to enjoy, and still have a conversation with your neighbor without yelling to be heard.  More baseball sports venues should emulate this. Staff throw out t-shirts, and a few sponsors have contests.  Kids can run the bases on Saturday games in March.  Check their website for additional promotions.  Game day is more about the delight of the game, time with family and friends, and the lovely AZ spring weather. Neighborhood 3 Goodyear Ballpark sits across the street from Phoenix Goodyear Airport, which handles mainly general aviation (non-commercial) operations. The city of Goodyear is about 17 miles west of Phoenix, AZ, and like several other suburban areas, is expanding, building, and growing. Besides the ballpark (which is a major attraction in Goodyear), the city is home to Luke Air Force Base, a slew of shopping centers, eight golf courses, Estrella Mountain Regional Park (hiking, trails, picnicking, camping, and fishing), and more. The usual chain restaurants are also a few miles from the park, like Oregano’s, Rubio’s, P.F. Chang’s, etc. For someplace local try Haymakers (breakfast, burgers, beer, bourbon) or Pho House Restaurant (Vietnamese).  Goodyear has over 100 restaurants, so check Visit Goodyear for an up-to-date list of places to eat or drink. Saddle Mountain Brewing Company, Transplant City Beer Co, and 8-Bit Aleworks provide the local hops in Goodyear. Be sure to check their websites for hours of operation. Most of the hotels straddle the I-10 interchanges and are three to five miles from the ballpark. The closest is a Comfort Inn.  The Best Western Phoenix Goodyear Inn and Townplace Suites by Marriott Phoenix Goodyear are other choices not too far from the park.  Be aware that hotel prices are exorbitant during spring training. For other sporting events, visit the same park and watch the Cleveland Guardians play their spring training games. Camelback Ranch (home of the LA Dodgers and Chicago White Sox) is another nearby spring training facility. Phoenix Raceway is a little over eight miles from the park.  Check their schedule to see if a race or event is being held. Fans 3 Reds fans do a good job at rooting on and cheering their team at spring training.  There are plenty of Reds’ caps, jerseys, and shirts in the crowds.  While they don’t sell out, a decent number still come out and root for their team.  Crowds are higher on weekends and when the Reds play the Dodgers or Cubs. Access 3 Goodyear Ballpark is located 17 miles west of downtown Phoenix and 22 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. It is about two miles south of Interstate 10.  Public transportation is not an option to get to this ball field. Parking (free) is mostly on grass lots.  Common at Cactus League spring training facilities, golf cart-type shuttles are on hand to bring fans from the parking lots to the home plate entrance, if desired. The ballpark has four entrances: first base, home plate, third base, and center field, with the home plate entrance being the busiest and most scenic (it’s next to the ticket booth). It can get crowded on the concourse behind home plate. Once inside, except for behind home, the concourse is wide open and is easy to traverse. Fans walk through a scanner and may or may not get their bags checked.  Guests are welcome to bring small bags and purses into the ballpark, as long as their dimensions are less than 16″ x 16″ x 8″. Plenty of serviceable restrooms are spread along the concourse and along the concourse path in the outfield.  Guest services (to the right after entering the home base entrance) offer assisted listening devices for those who are hard of hearing. Return on Investment 4 The Reds spring training home is less expensive to attend than other Cactus League venues. Ticket prices range from $12 (berm) to $35 (club or premium field box).  Tickets are $2 more when purchased on game day.  The ballpark offers a variety of other discounts.  Active military receive a free ticket.  Veterans can purchase outfield tickets at a child’s price.  Seniors received $5 off an infield seat for mid-week games during the early part of spring training.   We recommend checking third-party sites for even better deals. Parking is free, and food and drink prices aren’t as expensive as other Cactus League ballparks.  Plus, fans can bring in their own snacks and water in limited quantities. Extras 5 A few additional things are worth noting. Goodyear Ballpark does a tremendous job of honoring our military and veterans. Statues, a POW chair, ticket discounts, and more demonstrate the respect and appreciation the city has for those men and women. A merchandise shop sells a nice selection of clothes, caps, and trinkets.  Check the clearance racks for discounted items. Giveaways are provided throughout the season, though this might be specifically for the facility’s 15th anniversary. Fans can still watch net-free baseball! The team and ballpark have extremely friendly staff, including parking attendants, ticket booth personnel, ushers, security, and concessions personnel.   They are not pretentious and are genuinely nice people, easy to chat with. Final Thoughts Attending a Reds spring training game at Goodyear Park is a pleasurable afternoon or evening out.   We recommend visiting this diamond if in town for the spring.

Photos by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 ENMAX Centre 2510 Scenic Dr S Lethbridge, AB T1K 1N2 Map It Lethbridge Hurricanes website ENMAX Centre website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 5,479 Rock You Like a Hurricane ENMAX Centre opened its doors in 1974, in anticipation of the 1975 Canada Winter Games. The Sportsplex (as it was then known) was designed for a multitude of purposes. The stadium converts easily to a number of different applications for curling, concerts, hockey, basketball, banquets, etc. Beginning in 2009, the ENMAX Centre underwent a major facelift, with $34 million in upgrades. New features included new luxury suites, a new scoreboard and sound system, new press facilities, new locker rooms for the teams, and a new restaurant and lounge on upper level of the north end. Now in its 50th year of operation, the facility’s upgrades keep it looking and feeling like a more modern arena. The Lethbridge Hurricanes ice hockey began their history as the Winnipeg Jets in 1967 and have been in operation ever since. They changed their name twice while in Winnipeg before moving to Calgary and becoming the Wranglers in 1977. They remained in Calgary until 1987 when they relocated to Lethbridge and were renamed once again, becoming the Hurricanes, a name they have stuck with now for more than 30 years. They are a member of the WHL (Western Hockey League). Food & Beverage 3 There are five primary concession stands around the arena: two each on the east and west sides and one on the north end. Depending on which concession you step up to, you’ll find some different menu options. The three stands to the north of the building all share a fairly standard arena menu that includes fairly conventional concession fare, including hot dogs ($5.50), popcorn ($6.75 for a regular), and fries ($5.25). Pizza ($7.50) is also available at some spots. If you’re looking for something in particular, you may want to shop around at each stand as the menus do vary from place-to-place. There are also a few other specialty stands, including a concession with specialty cocktails (Pina Coladas, Caesars, etc), one with specialty coffees, a Hawaiian shaved ice stand and a roasted nuts stand. There is also a modest selection of beer on tap ($7.50), coolers, hi-balls and wine ($7.75-$8.50) available at the stands. All things considered, the main concession stands are fairly pedestrian in their pricing, options, and quality, but there’s usually also a feature item on the menu, so you might give that a shot if you’re looking for something unique. Upstairs in the Canadian Western Bank Lounge there is a row of seats right up front allowing fans to watch from the lounge’s vantage point as well as a number of tables that give you a view of the ice surface. Further back, there are more tables for a real dining experience with a detailed and delicious-looking menu. The lounge opens two hours before game time, so this is an excellent option for pre-game dining in a very nice location prior to a Hurricanes game. Atmosphere 3 The vibe at the ENMAX Centre is fairly laid back, as it seems to be at most WHL arenas. There are cheers at the right times but the stadium, typically around two-thirds full, is pretty quiet otherwise. Another issue is the seating. After checking a number of different seating locations around the stadium, one thing that stood out, particularly in the corners, was legroom that can most charitably be called “cozy.” In spite of the seats themselves being new and quite comfortable, the lack of legroom makes it awkward to stay facing forward without having to slide your knees to one side or the other. The legroom is snug for a person who is five-foot-eight; it could be downright unpleasant for a six-footer. Additionally, there are about 50 seats in the upper decks of Sections “AA” and “SS” where about half of the view of the rink is completely blocked off by the luxury boxes. You can still see the game on the video feed on the scoreboard, but it makes this handful of seats less than ideal. Aside from those flaws, sight lines from everywhere else in the building are excellent and the venue’s overall atmosphere is fun and inviting. Also on the plus side, there are a number of touches that help provide a sense of Lethbridge’s hockey history. The rafters at the south end of the stadium are lined with championship banners, including eight earned by the Hurricanes over the years. On the west wall of the concourse is the Hurricanes Hall of Fame, with the names of all the award winners who have earned accolades over the years. ENMAX Centre - Banners Behind the Goal, Photo by Jim Flannery, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 5 You really can’t ask for a better location than that of the ENMAX Centre. Located right on Scenic Drive, one of the major thoroughfares for Lethbridge, the stadium is also just a couple blocks from Mayor Magrath Drive and most of the key shops and services in town. You are within walking distance of fast food, casual dining, bars, pubs, shopping; pretty much everything is right there. From Five Guys Burger and Fries to Boston Pizza to Brown’s Social House and everything in between, there is something for everyone. A few blocks to the east of the rink is Legend’s Pub, with a good selection of beers and excellent pizza. North of the arena along Mayor Magrath you’ll find the Kingsman Alehouse, with an even better beer selection and a menu full of quality English pub-style food. Fans 3 The fans are obviously dedicated, as they supported the team through a six-season playoff drought from 2010 to 2015. But it’s a relatively small group of fans. With the stands only filled to 60 or 70 percent capacity, the place feels a bit empty at times. Still, the people who are there clearly know their hockey, as most Canadian audiences do. They cheer at the right moments, boo at the right moments and appear engaged throughout the game. Access 4 Parking at the ENMAX Centre is outstanding, however, the city has begun to charge $5 per vehicle in the last couple years for non-season ticket holders, which is a hassle and makes the event a little less cost effective. There is also reserved parking for fans attending the luxury suites. If you’re looking for a free alternative—and you’re willing to walk an extra couple blocks—the parking is free in the neighbourhood directly north of ENMAX Centre. Having said that, getting in and out of the parking lot is a snap, with traffic clearing out quickly and easily following the game (you can typically get back on the streets from the middle of the lot in about five minutes or fewer). With the stadium situated on a major artery, next to a second major artery, getting to and from the ENMAX Centre from anywhere in Lethbridge will be a quick trip. After a game, it is possible to get to the extreme north end of town in fewer than 20 minutes. If you’re looking to bus in, there is a stop right in front of the stadium, again making getting to and from the venue simple. Approaching ENMAX Centre, Photo by Jim Flannery Return on Investment 4 With game-day tickets available for $25.50 a seat for adults and $14.25 for youths, pricing for walk-ups is excellent, providing great value for your viewing dollar. There aren’t many better deals out there for this level of competition and entertainment. An excellent value for your money. The two dozen luxury boxes are leased by ENMAX Centre and are a hot item, so if you’re interested, make your inquiries to the facility well in advance. Season ticket sales for the devoted fan go on sale in the spring, with early bird deals as well as loyalty pricing for returning season ticket holders. Extras 5 ENMAX Centre has a number of great touches to add to the experience of taking in a Hurricanes game. The Hurricanes have a souvenir stand in the northeast corner of the main concourse called Top Shelf, where fans can pick up hats, tee-shirts, jerseys, and various knick-knacks, all at fairly typical prices. A nifty feature that I’ve seen in many junior hockey arenas is standing room spots all the way around the perimeter of the concourse, which are sold in the same manner as the seats. Apparently many fans prefer to watch games from these standing positions, rather than the seats, so this gives the audience one more unique viewing option. As a facility and franchise with very close ties to the community, ENMAX Centre makes several community tables available around the concourse, allowing community-based fundraisers and awareness campaigns an opportunity to bring their message to the fans. The Hurricanes also have a mascot, Cane, to keep the kids in the audience entertained and to help out with various promotions and giveaways during the game. Also of note, among the upgrades to the facility are the new scoreboard and sound system. The scoreboard provides a hi-res video feed of the on-ice action which is readily visible to everyone in the stands. The excellent sound system beams music and public address announcements to the audience and has characteristics that put it on par with the systems in NHL-quality stadiums around North America. It’s always nice to see recycling bins at stadiums and ENMAX Centre is no exception, allowing the fans to be green while enjoying a night out. Final Thoughts When all is said and done, this is a great place to see the stars of tomorrow doing their thing. If the team can find ways to draw more fans to games with creative marketing strategies, it’ll bring the energy up in the building and make it that much more entertaining.

This week's episode takes a look at the world of rebranding from the low levels of baseball all the way to the NBA! Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page. Join us live as we record every other Monday on our social media streaming channels.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 NM State Softball Complex 1830 Stewart St, No1654 Las Cruces, NM 88003 Map It New Mexico State Aggies website New Mexico State Softball website Year Opened: 1981 Capacity: 1050 Aggie Softball The NM State Softball Aggies team has had winning seasons over the last decade, reaching the NCAA Tournament in 2011, 2015, 2017, and 2018. The team began play in 1975 and is currently a C*USA (Conference USA) member. They play their home games at the picturesque NM State Softball Complex on campus in Las Cruces, NM.  The complex was built in 1981 and received renovations in the 2000s.  The university has hosted many conference tournaments featuring top competition from around the country throughout the years.  It also hosts the annual Troy Cox Classic, which Stadium Journey saw during its visit in 2024. Food & Beverage 2 A small concession truck sits behind the stands selling snacks and drinks. Nachos, hot dogs, chips, pickles, popcorn, Cheetos w/cheese, and candy cost $2 - $5. Sundays are $2 hot dog days. Drinks include bottled Pepsi products, water, and Gatorade ($4). Beer choices include canned Coors Light, Modelo, and Mixed-Up Aggie-Rita (a canned raspberry margarita cocktail made especially for NM State). The canned alcohol sells for $8. Outside food and drink are not allowed except for bottled water. Atmosphere 3 NM State Softball Complex offers a pleasant game day outing. Ten to twelve rows of bleachers with handrails sit behind the home plate area.  Two smaller ancillary bleachers are adjacent to the main set and do not have handrails.  The press box sits on top of the bleachers.   The bleachers do not offer any shade, so remember to bring sunscreen for day games.   A medium-thick net guards the seating area, protecting fans from foul balls. The infield dirt is clay with a polymer additive that repels water.  It requires no watering and maintains a consistent playing surface year-round. The outfield is pleasantly treelined.  You can see Presley Askew Field (baseball) through the trees.  The stadium flies other C*USA school flags along the outfield wall. The music is a tad loud but mostly played just between innings.  The music person sometimes plays music at the same time the PA announces the players; fans cannot hear who’s coming to the pitcher’s circle or on deck.  They should take lessons from their women’s basketball counterparts. Neighborhood 4 The NM State Softball Complex is near the other on-campus NM State Athletic fields in Las Cruces, NM.  Plenty of restaurants and hotels are within 1 – 2 miles of the arena. Ten or more restaurants (including fast food) are along University Ave from I-10 to the arena:  I-Hop, Burger King, Panda Express, and Chick-fil-A.  The Game Sports Bar and Grill is a decent pregame place to visit for a beer and a bite.  Weck’s, an NM breakfast/lunch chain, is a worthwhile visit before an afternoon game. Other things to see and do when visiting Las Cruces include the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum about three miles from the stadium.  The Museum of Science and Nature or the Las Cruces Railroad Museum may also be worth a visit, depending on your interests.  Of course, a visit to see the world’s largest chile pepper may be in order, too! Plenty of hotels are near the university.  The closest are the Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces, Comfort Suites University, and Sleep Inn University.   A whole slew more is within two–three miles of the complex. Other sports in the area are the Aggies baseball team and the men’s basketball team.  A trip to El Paso, TX (a 45-minute drive) will take you to the El Paso Chihuahuas, AAA minor league baseball affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Fans 3 The fans in attendance are extremely encouraging to the players.  Average attendance is generally over 600 fans.  For the Troy Cox Classic game, a great many visiting fans were in the stands. Access 3 The softball stadium is near the rest of the university’s athletic fields, south of the Pan American Center. Getting to the stadium is an easy drive off I-10. Free parking is in front of the stadium. Handicapped parking is available, as is a ramp to the bleachers and a few areas for wheelchairs. Las Cruces does have a bus stop (Aggie Green), but it looks operational only M – F, 7am – 6pm, so it may not be suitable when attending late afternoon/evening or weekend softball games. Las Cruces Airport is 12+ miles from the university. The ticket office is a separate building with polite staff manning the booths. I didn’t notice any rules about a bag policy. Your best bet is use a clear stadium bag 12” x 6” x 12” or a small clutch. Clean, accessible restrooms with plenty of stalls are near the ticket booth. Return on Investment 4 The cost of attending an Aggies softball game at NM State is a sports dollar value.  It is $7 for a single game.  The Troy Cox Classic costs $20 for the entire tournament (10 games), $7 for a single game, but $10 for the game against Nebraska.  Kids under 12 get in free. They don’t charge for parking, and even the concession prices are not out of this world. . Extras 2 The stadium proudly displays the Ross Kremer Wall of Honor which honors outstanding Aggies softball players and team accomplishments. The NM State Softball team is entering its 50th season in 2024 with 1,144 wins and a dominant reputation. The team has brought ten championships home to Las Cruces. Final Thoughts Watching a reputable softball team in an attractive stadium is an enjoyable few hours of entertainment on a spring afternoon.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Murphy Center 2650 Middle Tennessee Boulevard Murfreesboro, TN 37130 Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders website Murphy Center website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 11,520 Bluenited When considering some of the most relevant college basketball venues across the state of Tennessee, Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville or Vanderbilt’s Memorial Gymnasium might be the first that come to mind, but the most important very well might be Murphy Center on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University, which has been at the center of the State of Tennessee’s basketball community for decades. Opened in 1972, Murphy Center replaced neighboring Alumni Memorial Gymnasium, whose capacity of 2,500 had been outgrown – Murphy Center would open not just as the home of Blue Raider basketball, but has hosted the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association’s state boys and girls basketball championship games since 1973 as well. Members of the Ohio Valley Conference for 48 seasons, the Blue Raiders joined the Sun Belt in 2000, where they would remain for 12 years before moving to their current home, Conference USA, in 2013. Despite a major reshuffle in that conference, Middle Tennessee recently reaffirmed their commitment to Conference USA as members for the foreseeable future. Food & Beverage   3 Concession stands are situated in the corners of the arena, behind the walls of bleachers (more on this in a moment) at the top of the seating bowl. Concessions are nothing that will knock your socks off, but just the typical hot dogs, nachos, soft pretzels, popcorn, chips, and candy. Sweet treats seem to be the biggest point of interest when it comes to concessions – lines for various flavors of frozen lemonade and the always popular Dippin’ Dots tend to get rather long, along the track that surrounds the seating area. Beverage choices include soft drinks from the Pepsi family and bottled Gatorade. Beer and seltzers are sold at Murphy Center. Basic domestic beers can be purchased at any of the concession stands, but the biergarten dabbles more in creating a social atmosphere for fans to hang out, while they enjoy several craft beers from Murfreesboro brewers Cedar Glades Brews and Mayday Brewery. While the concessions are less than impressive, the beer garden does add a level of social gathering to an arena that might not typically have such a feature. Atmosphere   4 From the outside, the appearance of Murphy Center is very geometrically balanced, with many flat planes and right angles. The building sits elevated upon a mound, as a temple of sorts to basketball.  Large, glass windows wrap around the entire arena, from floor to roofline, leaving few questions about where the nickname “The Glass House” comes from. Murphy Center’s interior design was inspired by Notre Dame’s Joyce Center, with its oval shaped seating bowl, while the exterior’s geometric simplicity is reminiscent of Air Force Academy’s Clune Arena. When originally opened in the ‘70s, Murphy Center was used as a multi-purpose facility, with the floor obviously for basketball, but the upper concourse having a six-lane track and long jump pit built in. Today, this track provides space for a sizable children’s play area of inflatables. The Murphy Center court strays from the traditional hardwood appearance, rather using more of a gray that nicely complements the school’s primary blue color; the seating bowl is a sea of blue seats that encircles the court level. Upper bleacher seats back each of the court level sections, which gives the arena its 11,000+ capacity, but these bleachers are commonly pushed in and rarely used. Foregoing a traditional center hung scoreboard, two large video boards at each end of Murphy Center show a live video feed of the game, with sidebars showing running player scoring, rebounding, assist and foul totals, and a litany of team stats. LED scoreboards also hang over each of the four tunnels leading to the floor, which provide game time and score information. There might not be a college basketball pep band in the country that makes an entrance quite like that of the Blue Raiders – following a drum solo, both the pep band and cheer squads march down the rows of the east stands, as they fill their seats and begin dancing, before picking up their instruments to entertain fans during pregame. Throughout the game, mascot Lightning is an active participant of the spirt squad, willing the Blue Raiders to victory. While Lightning primarily hangs out in the student section, he will occasionally wander around the lower levels of seats, mingling with fans during stoppages in play. Given the configuration of the seating bowl at Murphy Center, the seats at midcourt are the furthest from the playing area. This mostly impacts those sitting at the lowest level, as they have to contend with being pushed back from the action with an awkward dead space/walkway in front of them. Neighborhood   3 Murphy Center sits prominently at the corner of Greenland Drive and Middle Tennessee Boulevard, backed by Floyd Stadium (MTSU football) and Reese Smith Stadium (MTSU baseball). Visitors will not have to look far if wanting to sit down for a bite before the game – Campus Pub and Boro Bar & Grill offer up dive bar experiences within walking distance of Murphy Center. Boro does offer live music late night, so it might offer a bit more entertainment post-game. Alternatively, on the opposite end of campus along East Main Street, Boulevard Bar & Grille provides a bit more of a family friendly atmosphere. If a more concentrated area of bars, restaurants, and shops is what you are looking for, however, take East Main Street away from campus to Murfreesboro town center, where there are several options built around Rutherford County Courthouse. Fans   3 Attendance at Murphy Center has been on a decline since the height of the program’s recent success during the 2016 and 2017 seasons. During this run, the Blue Raiders averaged over 5,000 fans per game; these days that total is closer to 3,000. Middle Tennessee fans are supportive of their Blue Raiders, and a lot of that credit goes to the “Blue Zoo Student Section” and the pep band. What is a bit disappointing, though, is that with a reported enrollment of over 20,000 students, the number of students in attendance at games does not reflect this size. A lot of credit needs to go to the those who are in attendance, however – the Blue Zoo and the Blue Raiders pep band do a great job in setting the tone for the atmosphere within Murphy Center. Alumni and community members also comprise a large portion of those in attendance. Access   4 Middle Tennessee's campus is located less than 4 miles from I-24, which runs regionally between Chattanooga and Nashville. Even though it is not directly off the interstate, Middle Tennessee’s campus is still easy enough to get to via local streets. A moderately sized parking lot along Greenland Drive leaves a short walk to Murphy Center. As referenced earlier, Murphy Center was built as a multi-use facility with a track built around the top of the seating bowl. This track provides fans with a great deal of space to move around the arena, and not have to worry about lines for concessions or the children’s play area backing up and impeding the flow. Return on Investment   3 Purchasing tickets from the Blue Raiders athletics site apparently avoids Ticketmaster fees; tickets here start at $15 and are not subject to the $4.40 service fee. This seems to be a good way to go simply to save a few dollars, and the savings can be used for the $5 parking charge in the lot just outside Murphy Center. Concessions are a bit inflated, but this isn’t much different than you would see at other arenas. When compared to other schools in Conference USA, Middle Tennessee’s prices seem to be in line with the rest of the conference. Extras   4 Banners recognizing MTSU’s conference regular season and tournament championships, along with their NIT and NCAA tournament appearances, hang from the rafters. The retired # 40 of George Sorrell is also displayed amongst the Blue Raider accomplishments. The bounce house area behind the bleachers is a popular location for parents to bring children throughout the game – it can be a great getaway for kids, as getting them to sit in their seats the whole game might be a bit too much to ask for. A history of Murphy Center lines the back side of the bleachers, celebrating its 50th anniversary. This timeline recognizes not just the basketball highlights, but also other prominent moments, including performances from Bob Hope, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks, The Who, Elton John, Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, U2, and an almost endless who’s-who of the entertainment world. A display in the court level concourse tells the story of chemistry professor Dr. Aaron Todd and “Operation Full House”. After being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2004, Dr. Todd made a list of 5 things he wanted to accomplish, one of them being to see Murphy Center set its all-time basketball attendance record – Dr. Todd made it his mission to fill Murphy Center past its capacity of 11,520. On February 26, 2004, Dr. Todd would see his work come to fruition, as 11,807 fans packed Murphy Center for a late season match up against conference rival Western Kentucky Hilltoppers. Final Thoughts In the upcoming years, Murphy Center is slated for substantial enhancements as part of the athletic department’s "Build Blue” master plan. Changes will include the addition of premium suites along the top of the seating bowl, bringing seats at center court closer, and the addition of a new grand entry point. Rendering courtesy of Middle Tennessee State University While Murphy Center will have an updated look, design plans appear to have given special care to not change the facility too much, to the point where it becomes unrecognizable. Rendering courtesy of Middle Tennessee State University Murphy Center is quietly one of the special college basketball experiences in the country; the facility holds a lot of history that has long made it a special gathering place not just for Blue Raider supporters, but for those from all corners of Tennessee.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Galt Arena Gardens 98 Shade Street Cambridge, ON Cambridge RedHawks website Gait Arena Gardens website Year Opened: 1922 Capacity: 1,100 Classic … What is in a name?  What is in a label?  When it comes to labeling something as the “oldest” there is always a bit of debate In 1973, the City of Galt, and the Towns of Preston and Hespeler were amalgamated to form the city of Cambridge.  Long before this, the Galt Arena Gardens opened its doors for the first time in 1922.  Debate remains as to if it is the oldest hockey arena in North America or not.  Matthews Arena in Boston makes a claim.  However, officially, Galt Arena Gardens is considered the “Oldest Operating Arena in the World” meaning, it has continuously operated as a hockey arena for over 100 years.  Owned and operated by the City of Cambridge, Galt Arena Gardens is undeniably a gem and in one word, classic. Galt Arena Gardens is the current home of the Cambridge RedHawks of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League.  Playing at the Junior B level, the RedHawks began their existence as the Hespeler Shamrocks in 1960.  Later renamed the Cambridge Shamrocks at the time of amalgamation, the Shamrocks would eventually head east and settle in Guelph to become the Guelph Platers, among other monikers.  Upon the departure of the Shamrocks in 1982, Cambridge would welcome the expansion Cambridge Winter Hawks that would play south in Galt.  The Winter Hawks would remain until 2017 when their owner made a push to move up to the Junior A level and eventually withdraw from the Ontario Hockey Association.  The Winter Hawks would fold and Scott Hunter would purchase the Guelph Hurricanes, formerly the Shamrocks, and move them to the Galt Arena Gardens in an act that would bring the franchise full circle.  Many who would take the ice at the Gardens would go on to play in the NHL, however, none has put a stamp on the hockey world more significant than Mr. Hockey himself, Gordie Howe.  The 1944-45 season for the Galt Red Wings saw a young Mr. Hockey entertain hockey fans from Galt just prior to him heading to Detroit. Food & Beverage 3 The concession experience at Galt Arena Gardens is not unique for the GOJHL.  There are two main stands on the two separate levels.  Whether they are both open depends on the size of the crowd.  The menu includes what one would expect at this level including hot dogs, chicken strips, poutine, fries, onion rings, nachos, candy, chocolate bars and chips.  Pepsi products are the soda of choice at Galt Arena Gardens and coffee, tea and water are all available.  In the upper east end of the Gardens fans will find Alumni Hall.  This enclosed area is licensed and alcoholic beverages can be purchased, but must be consumed within. Atmosphere 5 Galt Arena Gardens remains truly unique in the hockey landscape.  Built in 1921, it enjoys Heritage Status.  The City of Cambridge, however, has gone beyond to provide upgrades and renovations to retain both the classic feel of the building and modernize it to ensure its functionality for years to come.  The journey back in time begins with the exterior.  Galt Arena features a gorgeous brick exterior with multiple shades of brown.  The design almost gives it a remparts look to it.  The wrot iron marquee awning welcomes fans to the main entrance.  An added bonus is the stone pillars that are to the north and mark the entrance to Soper Park. After entering the main gate, fans are welcomed into a modestly sized lobby.  The history begins there and fans are welcome to discover the artifacts in numerous trophy cases.  The prevalence of former Red Wings Kirk Maltby and Gordie Howe are immediately felt in the trophy cases.  There are a few articles on Mr. Hockey and his time in Galt that have been plaque mounted as well as a portrait of Howe standing outside the arena.  Jerseys and other artifacts from Kirk Maltby are predominant in the cases as well.  Fans can traverse the stairs to reach the upper level, where a full 360 degree loop is possible on the upper concourse.  The interior of the ice surface is striking.  The peaked hardwood ceiling with iron supports gives that barn-like feel to the arena, however rather than the expected triangle peak, the summit of the ceiling is recessed and has small windows at the top to allow natural light in.  The ice surface runs from east to west with five rows of elevated seating around three sides.  The east end has rows of plastic benches and the remainder of the seats are updated, plastic arena seats.  Getting the centre ice logo picture is from the south side.  Fans should consider choosing their seat so that they are situated under one of the gas heaters above the seating bowl as the arena is quite cold.  History continues to flow through the arena.  There are murals at the west end and two large portraits of Kirk Maltby and Gordie Howe.  The portrait of the Queen is at the opposite end above Alumni Hall.  Old pictures can be found throughout the arena, mostly on the west side.  Fascinating artifacts from a time gone by are found in the northwest and southwest corners behind the seats including old zambonis, doors, ticket booths, signs and even a phone booth.  Even the concession stand on the top level has old soft drink signs.  Hanging throughout the arena, above the ice, are various championship banners, mostly from the Cambridge Winterhawks and the Senior A Cambridge Hornets.  The lone Cambridge RedHawks banner for the 2022 Conference Championship hangs on its own and the retired number 91 of Ryan Clarke from the Winterhawks also remains. The gameday atmosphere is fairly simple at a RedHawks game, not dissimilar to any other GOJHL experience.  The PA system is decent and the announcer does a good job, however his excitement often results in buzzing through the speakers, making it a little more difficult to understand the announcements.  The RedHawks do have projectors that are used during pregame to project images on the ice.  The mascot, Rowdy the Redhawk, can also be found traversing the crowd and interacting with fans through the game. Neighbourhood 4 The Galt Arena Gardens is located in the East Galt neighbourhood of Cambridge.  There are a number of places for pre or post game food and drink within a very short drive.  Some options include Q BBQ, Alberts Doughnuts, EVO Kitchen, Thirteen, The Black Badger, Voodoo Wingz and Capri Pizza.  Fans can head to downtown Galt, a short drive from the arena, to take in the Gaslight District, Hamilton Family Theatre and Cambridge Community Theatre.  For other sporting options, fans can head north to the Hespeler area and catch some Junior C, Hespeler Shamrocks hockey.  For fans wishing to stay in the area, The Laundry Rooms are a close option. Fans 4 The Cambridge RedHawks have a solid fanbase.  Typically, Saturday Night is RedHawks night and the biggest crowds are drawn then.  In the 2023-24 season, the RedHawks have averaged over 540 fans per game, an improvement of nearly 100 fans per game from the previous season.  This has Cambridge ranking fifth in the GOJHL in attendance and third in their conference.  Although the average doesn’t seem like a lot, the capacity of the Galt Arena Gardens is only 1,100 and there is a significant difference in attendance from a midweek game versus a Saturday. Access 4 Galt Arena Gardens is located in the East Galt neighbourhood of Cambridge.  It is east of Highway 24 and significantly south of Highway 401.  Getting to Galt from the 401 can be a bit of a challenge and the lasting effects of the city amalgamation can still be felt when driving from one end of Cambridge to another. Highway 24, Hespeler Road, can be very slow going at times.  There are large parking lots on the north and south sides of the arena that offer free parking, which should be sufficient for fans who get there with enough time to spare.  Fans wishing to take public transit to the game can find bus stops on nearby Beverly and Dundas Streets.  Fans interested in public transit should consult the Grand River Transit website for fares, schedules and maps. The lobby of the Galt Arena can get a bit congested, but getting around isn’t too difficult.  The washroom facilities are adequate for the arena. Return on Investment 5 Junior B hockey offers tremendous value for the sporting dollar.  Cambridge RedHawks tickets are sold for $12 for adults, with students and seniors going for $10 and children for $6.  Parking is free and concession prices are about what one would expect.  The product on the ice is solid and worth the price.  However, the opportunity to take in all that is the Galt Arena Gardens itself is worth the price of admission alone. Extras 4 An extra mark for the extra attention paid to the 1944-45 season that saw Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe, call the Galt Arena Gardens home as he played one season of Junior Hockey with the Galt Red Wings. An extra mark for Galt Arena Gardens as the longest running, continued use hockey arena in the world. An extra mark for the excellent job the City of Cambridge did modernizing Galt Arena Gardens.  They have kept all the charm and history of the arena while making it functional and modern. An extra mark for the full circle journey of the Cambridge RedHawks having been founded as the Hespeler, and later Cambridge, Shamrocks. Final Thoughts A trip to see the Cambridge RedHawks is a must for all true hockey fans.  Taking in the majesty and history and sheer force of the Galt Arena Gardens is where fans will truly be awed.  Not the most high profile of cities or leagues, a trip to Cambridge to the Galt Arena Gardens is worth every cent.  It is just Classic. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

The city of Pensacola has had a long love affair with the game of baseball. It has hosted teams at the youth, college, recreational, military, and minor league levels over the years. It also has served as a spring training site for teams at the major league level. Baseball in Pensacola: America’s Pastime & the City of Five Flags by Scott Brown provides an in-depth look at the baseball teams and baseball stadiums that have called the city home. Pensacola is one of the oldest cities in Florida, as it was founded in 1559. It would be another three hundred years before the sport arrived in the city. The military has played an especially key role in bringing baseball to the area. Pensacola has always had a large military population due to its strategic location as a port city on the Gulf of Mexico. Baseball games were first reported in the area during the Civil War, as a means of building morale and good physical conditioning for the troops stationed in the arena. The Pensacola Naval Yard had an entire baseball league, with each ship berthed at the facility sponsoring a team. During World War I Ty Cobb was one of the first professional ballplayers to visit the base as a part of a morale-boosting tour. World War II saw several major league ballplayers train for active duty at the Naval Air Station. Among these players was Baseball Hall of Famer Ted Williams, who was an aerial gunnery ace during the war. He also served as a flight instructor at the airfield. One of the airfields in the area was called Bronson Field. It served as the home of several major leaguers during the war and had a team nicknamed the Bronson Bombers. Pensacola’s first minor league baseball team was known as the Fliers as a nod to the base’s major contribution to the game. Following the wars, Branch Rickey and the Brooklyn Dodgers utilized the decommissioned air base as a home for an annual rookie training camp. Pensacola also had civic league teams sponsored by area neighborhoods or local businesses. They typically played their games at either Palmetto Beach Park, Maxent Park, or Magnolia Bluff Park. Even though Pensacola is in the Deep South, several black baseball teams shared the same ballparks with white teams in Pensacola. They would play on opposite nights or have segregated seating in the stands, both of which were considered highly unusual in those segregated times. Pete Caldwell Field was the home of the Pensacola Arthur Giants, while the Pensacola Seagulls were a barnstorming Negro League team that played their home schedule at Legion Field. Pittsburgh was the first major league city to see the potential of Pensacola as a spring training site. The team was known as the Allegheny’s at that time. They erected a simple diamond with a 500-seat grandstand. They were followed by the Cleveland Naps in 1913. The Boston Red Sox held their spring training camp in Pensacola in 1930-1931, while the NY Giants arrived in town in 1936. While they did not hold spring training in the city, the Yankees played a series of exhibition games in Pensacola on their way back to New York City after their preseason camp. Both Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig played in these games. Minor League-affiliated baseball has been in Pensacola since 1927, with some interruptions along the way due to wars and league failures. The Pensacola Fliers/Pilots operated from 1927-1950. They were affiliated with several teams, including the Brooklyn Dodgers, the Philadelphia Phillies, and the Washington Senators. They played their home games at Maxent Park, a 5,000-seat venue that eventually was renamed Legion Park. The Fliers team folded after the Southeastern League went out of business in 1951. The Fliers then merged with the Miami Flamingos and moved to South Florida. In 1956 the Alabama-Florida League added the Pensacola Dons as a new member. Dons named honored the Spanish Conquistadors who once ruled over this portion of Florida. The Dons played their home games at Admiral Mason Park along the Pensacola Bay waterfront. The stadium offered several modern features for the times, including concrete and steel construction and lights for night games. At first, the Dons were not affiliated with any major league team. In later years, the Dons were affiliated with the Kansas City Athletics, the St. Louis Cardinals, the Chicago White Sox, and the Baltimore Orioles. During the last season of their existence, the Dons became the Pensacola Senators as a result of becoming affiliated with the Washington Senators. The team met its end when the Alabama-Florida League went out of business. The Pensacola Pelicans were Pensacola’s representatives in the minor leagues from 2002-2011. They played in three different leagues over the years, including the Southeastern League, the Central Baseball League, and the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball. They played their home schedule at Jim Spooner Field on the University of West Florida campus. They were extremely successful both on and off the field, setting the plate for the next team to move into AA-affiliated baseball. The current Pensacola minor league representatives are the Pensacola Blue Wahoos of the AA Southern League. They began playing in 2012. The home of the Wahoos is the 5,000-seat Admiral Fetterman Field at Community Maritime Park. The ballpark is located along the shoreline of Pensacola Bay. Due to its proximity to the waterfront, the stadium had to be designed to withstand 150 MPH winds during hurricanes. Over the years the Blue Wahoos have been affiliated with the Cincinnati Reds, the Minnesota Twins, and the Miami Marlins. --- Scott Brown’s Baseball in Pensacola provides a great read for anyone interested in the history of baseball in the Deep South.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Case Gymnasium 285 Babcock St Boston, MA 02215 Boston University Terriers website Case Gymnasium website Year Opened: 1972 Capacity: 1,800 Up On the Roof Case Gymnasium, referred to at Boston University as “The Roof”, is the home to the Terriers men’s and women’s basketball teams. The Roof is located on the top floor of the Harold Case Physical Education Center, above Walter Brown Arena, home of the BU women’s hockey team. The Case Center stands on the site of Braves Field, which served as home to the Boston Braves of Major League Baseball from 1915-1952. The Center is located approximately where the left field pavilion once stood. Many pieces of Braves Field still stand, as the stadium (now named Nickerson Field) is still used by BU’s lacrosse and soccer teams. From 2005-2015 the Terriers played the majority of their home games at nearby Agganis Arena. Unfortunately, Agganis proved to be too large for Terrier basketball, so in 2015 it was decided to return all basketball games to the cozy confines of Case Gym. The Terriers have qualified for the NCAA tournament eight times, advancing all the way to the Elite Eight in 1959. In addition, Boston University has qualified for the NIT six times.  Five Boston University alumni have gone on to play in the NBA. Food & Beverage 1 There is a small concession stand in the gym lobby that will do the trick if you need a bite to eat during a Terrier basketball game. Hot dogs, nachos and assorted snacks comprise the entire menu.  On the plus side, nothing sold here costs more than six dollars. Pepsi products are featured at Case Gym. There is no alcohol served at this on-campus facility. Atmosphere 3 Case Gymnasium has a real old school vibe to it. It’s a simple facility that probably looks much as it did when it was built in the 1970s. There’s no giant, center-hung video board, just a pair of dot-matrix scoreboards at either end of the court that post basic game information. One of the things that drives the game day atmosphere at a college basketball game is the presence of the pep band, cheerleaders and student section. While there’s not a huge turnout by the student body at Terrier basketball games, the pep band leads the way in creating a lively atmosphere. They play during all stoppages and keep the energy level up. Performances by the cheerleaders and dance team help keep the fans entertained and engaged. A typical crowd at Case Gym consists of locals, alumni and plenty of youth groups and families. The team keeps the younger fans involved with contests and giveaways throughout the game, including t-shirt tosses, free posters and the very popular pizza giveaway. Younger fans take over the court at halftime. You may even see Rhett, the school’s mascot, roaming the gym and interacting with fans. As you might imagine, a small gym like Case gets really loud when it’s filled and the Terriers are rolling. Unfortunately, a full gym is the exception rather than the rule. Neighborhood 4 Boston University is an urban campus, straddling Commonwealth Avenue for approximately a mile and a half on the Boston/Brookline city line. Located adjacent to Case Gym is Nickerson Field, home to BU’s lacrosse and soccer teams. It is also known to baseball historians as Braves Field, which was home to the National League’s Boston Braves from 1915 to 1952. Walter Brown Arena is located on the ground floor of the Case Center, with Agganis Arena  a block to the east. Fans coming to the BU campus will find plenty of choices for dining in the area. BU students recommend Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers and T Anthony’s Pizzeria, both located within a block of Case Gym. The neighborhood features a diverse variety of dining options, with excellent Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese eateries nearby. The Paradise Rock Club, known nationally for hosting prominent bands like U2 and REM before they hit it big, is located a block away from Case Gym. It continues to host both local acts and up-and-coming national acts. If you expand your search beyond campus, Kenmore Square and Fenway Park are just over a mile away. Not far beyond that are the tourist destinations of Copley Square, Back Bay, Boston Common and Chinatown. All are easily accessed by the Green Line, which has stops up and down Commonwealth Avenue. Fans 2 The Boston University basketball team stands perpetually in the shadows of the school’s very successful hockey team, and the attendance at Case Gymnasium reflects this. Average attendance at Terrier games is just under 900 fans. This figure ranks below the average of the Patriot League, which itself is one of the more sparsely attended basketball conferences in the nation. Despite the smallish crowds present, Case Gym provides an excellent home-court advantage to the Terriers. With its cozy confines, the place can get really loud when the home team gets on a roll. This is done the old-fashioned way, as the fans in the stands provide the noise and energy here. Access 4 It can be easy to pass right by Case Gymnasium without even realizing it. Located at the end of a dead-end street, this nondescript building is marked only by a small sign containing the Boston University logo. Boston can be a difficult city to drive in, with streets laid out in seemingly random directions and construction projects a constant presence throughout the city. However, it’s pretty easy to get to the Boston University campus. It’s located right on Commonwealth Avenue, one of the city’s major drags. Case Gym is located at the end of Babcock Street, right off of Commonwealth Ave. Detailed directions can be found here. Parking is available in a covered lot located underneath New Balance Field, right across the street from the ground floor entrance to Case Gym. On-street parking is also available in the vicinity of Case Gymnasium but be aware of the times that meters are in operation. Additional parking can be found in the garage underneath Agganis Arena. The best method for arriving at Case Gym is to take public transportation, known in Boston as the “T”. The Green Line’s B train has a stop at the top of Babcock Street just a short walk from Case Gym. The main entrance to Case Gym is located on the back side of the Case Center, adjacent to Nickerson Field. Entering into the gym’s lobby, fans will find the concession stand, trophy cases and rest rooms. Depending on where your seats are, you’ll enter Case Gym through one of two doors. Seating consists of individual red folding stadium seats on both sides of the court with excellent views of the action no matter where you sit. We recommend you sit a few rows up to see over the constant traffic on the floor. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Terrier basketball games cost twelve dollars for all seats. Parking is available in the lot across the street from the Case Athletic Center or in the garage underneath the Agganis Arena for twelve dollars. There is plenty of on-street parking within a few blocks of the gym, but it can be tough to find an open spot when there are several events going on in the area at the same time. If you are lucky enough to find a spot, make sure to check the meters, as times of operation and prices may vary. To save money, many fans will take public transportation to Boston University. Known in Boston as the “T”, a one-way fare costs $2.75 and accesses most of the city. The Green Line’s B train has a stop at the top of Babcock Street, just a short walk from Case Gym. If you play your cards right, you can watch a Terriers game for under 20 dollars. Even if you aren’t so frugal, you won’t break the bank at Case Gymnasium. Extras 2 Boston University displays their basketball history throughout Case Gym. Banners honoring conference championships, tournament appearances, and retired numbers hang throughout the gym. A trophy case in the lobby is loaded with mementos from the school’s storied history. On the first floor of the Case Athletic Center is the Boston University Athletic Hall of Fame. BU may not play with the big boys in most sports, but they are certainly a local athletic powerhouse. Veteran ballpark travelers will want to check out Nickerson Field, originally known as Braves Field, home of the Boston Braves until they moved to Milwaukee in 1953.  The Case Athletic Center is located approximately where the left field pavilion at Braves Field once stood. The grandstand of Nickerson Field is the former right field grandstand, and the former ticket offices are now the school’s security offices. Final Thoughts Case Gymnasium, while a fairly basic facility, has many features that make it a unique Stadium Journey. From its location above a hockey rink to its past as a Major League Baseball stadium, there aren’t many gyms quite like this one. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by James Clotfelter and David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Stegeman Coliseum 100 Smith St Athens, GA 30602 Georgia Bulldogs website Stegeman Coliseum website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 10,523 Stegeman Coliseum – University of Georgia Bulldogs Originally constructed in 1964, the 10,000 seat Stegeman Coliseum has served as home to both UGA basketball teams, volleyball, and gymnastics. As it has undergone many renovations, the Steg now holds the modern amenities of new arenas, while preserving the history it has seen throughout its years. The University of Georgia basketball teams play1 in the D1 SEC (Southeastern Conference). Food & Beverage 3 Stegeman offers all the basics you would expect at a stadium, and not much more. All concession standings are grab-and-go with a cashless checkout at the end of the line. To give you an idea of what basic offerings include, expect hot dogs, BBQ sandwiches, popcorn, Chick-fil-A, etc. In terms of drinks, Coca-Cola products are served in addition to basic beer and seltzer options. The offerings at Stegeman may not be as crazy and unique as other venues, but they provide reliable quality in what they do offer at a reasonable price mark. Atmosphere 4 The University of Georgia event staff does a great job of creating a noteworthy game day experience for its fans. Stegeman itself has been consistently renovated to keep its modern appeal. The Athletic Department has even described a "phased approach" to keep renovations frequent. Stegeman is broken up into two levels of seating (sections A-Z and sections AA-YY) with one concourse in between the two levels. At the east and west entrances is a glass exterior to allow the concourse to have an open sense with the natural light entering the arena. Here is where the concourse is at its widest and you can find merchandise, food, restrooms, free gameday programs, and frequent promotional giveaways. As you make the circuit around the concourse you will notice that the walls are embedded with UGA Athletic history. Walking around this part of the concourse is like that of strolling through a museum. Some walls serve as a timeline describing different historical moments or players from a variety of sports. Then others house shelves with trophies, memorabilia, or a team’s championship wall with the years a conference or national championship was won. The interior of the stadium is essentially a typical separated bowl you would find at many college basketball arenas; however, the bowl does not wrap all the way around on the second level, rather it wraps three-quarters of the court. The part of the upper bowl that is not connected to the other side harbors a mural of UGA legends and a small scoreboard displaying player stats. This design allows for a very intimate and thus loud experience at the coliseum. The main scoreboard is a 360-video board that hangs above the center court. It is mainly used for the score, replays, promotions, and crowd shots. All seats are chairbacks with the lower bowl being padded, and the upper being plastic. Being a medium-sized venue, no seat is a bad seat, so I’d advise you not to overspend on a ticket close to the court, as the sightlines from the AA-YY are more than adequate as you are still not far from the court. Before tipoff, a red LED light show is triggered for player introductions, accompanied by a pregame video, loud music, and smoke. After a tip-off, the promotions team runs numerous giveaways while the band leads most of the school's traditions. And last but certainly not least, late in the second half the coliseum’s lights will turn down and the crowd will hold up their phone flashlights to rally the team for the final stretch. Neighborhood 5 Being the oldest public university in the United States, The University of Georgia is renowned for having one of the most beautiful and historic campuses in the nation. North campus is adjacent to downtown Athens, which is the location of the arch, and the oldest buildings the campus holds. As you move south you will come across major attractions of the campus like Sanford Stadium, the bookstore, the student center, and finally Stegeman Coliseum. If you plan on grabbing a pregame bite while on campus, Tate Student Center holds a Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Barberitos. The classic city has numerous offerings for pre and post-game spots. Whether you are looking for a drink, a bite, or post-game nightlife, there are numerous options in Downtown Athens. Downtown is very calm during the daytime, meaning this will be the best time to stroll through if it’s your first time in Athens as you will be sure to find a pregame option, like El Paso, The Grill, and Taqueria Tusanmi. Arriving early will allow you to swing in the many shops downtown has to offer. After the game, if the college nightlife crowd is something you look to avoid, some options that are not immediately downtown are Locos Grill and Pub, the Blind Pig Tavern, the Taco Stand, and a staple of the state of Georgia, Waffle House. However, if you are looking for a night out after the game, look no further than heading downtown as Athens has the largest number of bars per capita in the United States. Hotels should not book up too quickly in Athens for a basketball game, but if the game you are attending is during the same weekend as a football game, it would be best to book early. If you are lucky, there is a hotel/convention center on campus that is right across the street from Stegeman, which would be the ideal hotel for basketball visitors. Fans 3 As a Georgia local and a current UGA student, the relationship between the basketball program and the fanbase is complicated, to say the least. With constantly being bottom four in SEC play, and never showing much promise of reaching the tournament, dawgs fans usually do not have very much to cheer about. However, under the Mike White era, there are signs that times are changing in Athens. While it has not been a successful SEC season, the Dawgs have shown growth, and the fans have been acknowledging the growth with their attendance. Fans are also excited about five-star recruit Asa Newell, and Jacob Wilkins, son of Dominique, joining the Dawgs next season in hopes of winning ways. Student turnout has increased to an all-time high, and even general attendance is climbing. Pretty much every conference game has been filled to the brim, and when the Steg is filled it can be a loud building to play in. The Athens faithful is interactive with the chants, songs, and traditions that are held at UGA basketball games. Dawgs fans are quick to get into the game itself and want to create that intimidating college atmosphere, but there is a big difference in noise levels when the team is winning, and when they are losing. As for non-conference games, attendance is prone to being sparse in the early months. This new era of Georgia basketball is expected to bring wins to the fans, and I will be excited to see how difficult the Steg is to play at night in and night out when the dawgs are rolling. Access 4 Getting to, from, and out of Stegeman is a breeze. The university opens up its parking decks for free during basketball games, the best parking deck being the south deck lot. And unlike the 90,000+ that are in town for a football game, Stegeman only holds 10,000, so the roads are much easier to navigate traffic-wise when comparing them to a football game. There are multiple gates located at every end of the arena, so getting in is almost always a breeze. The UGA clear bag policy is in effect at all athletic events and information on the regulations can be found on their website. There is one shared concourse by both levels of seating, and it is wide enough to support the crowd of a game. The bathrooms are plentiful, and the lines for concessions move quickly as they are grab-and-go lines. However, everything in Stegeman is cash only. There is a box office outside, but it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance on your phone. Return on Investment 4 Unlike the UGA football experience, the UGA basketball experience won’t make the wallet cry. Single-game tickets start from $5-$15 depending on the game in question, and the resale market on the “TickPick” app can get even lower. Every fan receives a program on entry, and Stegeman holds many game-by-game promotional nights/giveaways during the season, so be on the lookout. The concession prices are reasonable, as basic items like hot dogs cost $2.50 and cheeseburgers are $5. Add free parking on top of that and there is a relatively inexpensive night out. Extras 2 The Promotional team at Stagman deserves a little recognition for the effort they give to the fan experience. They host many giveaways during the game and many creative promotional nights. The history being displayed in the concourse is certainly something that stands out as unique to Stegeman. Final Thoughts Stegeman houses SEC basketball for a reasonable price and offers a quality fan experience that you won't regret. It is far from a place like Allen Fieldhouse, but given the opportunity, Stegeman is well worth the visit.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Stephen B. Dolny Stadium 419 Montague Avenue Greenwood, SC 29649 Lander Bearcats website Stephen B. Dolny Stadium website Year Opened: 2012 Capacity: 750 Lander Bearcats Established in 1872 as Williamston Female College and later renamed Landers College in 1907, athletics at what is now Lander University would not start up until 1968 with the men’s and women’s basketball programs. Initially a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), Landers would become a charter member of the NCAA Division II Peach Belt Conference, formed in 1990. The Peach Belt Conference stretches along the southern coast with teams in North and South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Lander University is about 30 miles north of the South Carolina border with Georgia in the small town of Greenwood. While relatively small in population (approximately 22,000), the city of Greenwood has an impressive list of notable one-time residents including Benjamin Mays, former mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Hootie Johnson, past chairman of the Augusta National; former Wichita State men’s basketball coach Gregg Marshall; and a slew of NFL players, most notably Ben Coates, Super Bowl champion tight end with the New England Patriots. Food & Beverage   4 The concession stand here is located outside of Dolny Stadium, centrally providing concessions for baseball along with the nearby venues. The lodge-style building stands separate from the baseball and softball stadiums; the building housing the concession stand features a deck that overlooks the softball stadium, offering fans the chance to check out the action before returning to the baseball game. The concessions offer many options from Chick-fil-A sandwiches and hot dogs to chili dogs and nachos with a choice of cheese, chili, or both. Candy, chips, and other snacks are also available. The beverage options at Dolny Stadium are extensive, including bottled and fountain Pepsi products and Aquafina water. For those looking for alcoholic beverages, the stand offers Michelob Ultra, White Claw, and bottle-poured wine. Also, Lander University has its own branded golden ale, Bearcat Brew, from the Greenwood craft brewery Good Times Brewing. Atmosphere   3 Dolny Stadium has a rather open feel to it, with only a small brick press box around the top of the seating bowl – the field is pretty much visible from any vantage point around the concourse. Chairback seats run 5 to 7 rows deep from the cut of the outfield grass. For those who might prefer to spread out a bit, or for kids to run and release a bit of pent-up energy, a small grassy berm of seating runs down the first baseline. In addition, a handful of picnic tables dot the concourse that runs behind the seating bowl. Dolny Stadium uses brick support columns and a brick backstop, which seamlessly complement finished wooden support beams in the seating behind the home plate. The combination of wood, brick, and blue stadium seats makes for a nicely presented facade. A chain link fence, with fence supports framed with padding, creates the wall from left field around to center. The wall is a bit short of the standard dimensions with left field at 325’ and 365’ to the left-center power alley; the center field runs at 401’. The outfield wall from the center around to the right is more of a typical padded fence backed with a large retaining wall. With a road that runs atop the wall, the right field distances are a touch short at 355’ to the right center power alley, while the right field goes 320’. A typical inning-by-inning scoreboard sits atop the retaining wall beyond the right-centerfield fence. There are not a lot of distractions by way of sound effects, other than some quips interjected during mound visits from the press box. Inning changes are kept simple, typically filled with either rock or country music as the pitcher comes out to warmups to begin each half-inning. When it comes to the seating at Dolny Stadium, there isn't a bad seat in the house. The seating bowl is right on top of the action, allowing fans to almost feel as if they are part of the game. The seats behind the home plate provide the most shade and cover from any potential sun or rain in the forecast. Several fans also choose to bring their foldable chairs, to sit along the back of the last row of stadium seats. Neighborhood   4 Dolny Stadium is part of Jeff Mays Sports Complex which also includes Doug Spears Softball Field and Van Taylor Soccer Stadium. The proximity of these facilities allows fans to check out other games that might be going on. The Mays Sports Complex is located just off the Lander campus, under a mile from the oak-lined Main Street that runs through downtown Greenwood. Visitors will find several shops and restaurants along Main Street – Mill House Pizza, Howard’s on Main, Kickers Takeout, Buenavista, Montague’s, and Southern Soul on Main all come highly recommended. Those looking for a taste of the local microbrew scene might find Sled Dawg Brewery or Good Times Brewing of interest, both just off Main Street. Closer to May Sports Complex, visit the Dixie Drive-In for a throwback burger dive experience. Fans   3 Lander University ranks in the top half of the Peach Belt Conference in attendance, with just a tick under 200 fans per game. Fans are vocally supportive of the Bearcats, but in all appear to be on the same side. As expected, borderline calls can create a bit of a buzz in the stands, but it is nothing that would not be seen from any typical fanbase. Access   3 Without direct interstate access to Greenwood, visitors heading to Lander’s Dolny Stadium face a bit of a drive. The most traveled roads in the area, I-26 to the east, I-85 on the west, or I-385 coming from the north, leave at least an hour’s drive on state or US highways. Once at Jeff May Complex, most parking is toward the back of the facility, which should suffice if there is just one event going on, but with multiple fields hosting events simultaneously, there might be some competition for prime parking spots. Lots are near Dolny Stadium, so other than navigating the stairs leading to the front entrance, accessing the stadium is straightforward – those needing the assistance of ramps will want to look to the sloped area along the first baseline for easier entry into the facility. The concourse of the stadium runs behind the seating bowl and is reasonably easy to get around, but does not continue around the whole field; rather it horseshoes around home plate and up to the cut of the outfield grass. Since the concession stand and restrooms are shared with the other facilities within the complex, fans do have to exit the stadium to reach them. The field is visible the whole time, however, so the amount of the game missed is minimal. Return on Investment   5 Admission to Lander baseball games is $5 for fans 13 and up, with kids 12 and under free. Concession prices are very reasonable as well and will not break the bank; even alcohol prices are more in line with what would be paid at a pub, more so than an inflated stadium price. And with free parking, Bearcat baseball is an extremely affordable experience. Extras   3 The outfield wall recognizes the Bearcat’s Peach Belt regular season championships and NCAA Division II tournament appearances in 2012, 2014, and 2016, as well as their 2014 and 2016 trips to the D2 College World Series. With Dolny Stadium’s proximity to the softball and lacrosse fields, it is easy to come for a baseball game and stay for a lacrosse or softball game. The Capsugel walking/jogging track runs 4/5ths of a mile through and around Jeff May Complex. Not only does this give fans a bit of an opportunity to get some exercise in, but fans can do so while keeping up with the scores of the various games around the facility – the track is open year-round for community members to take advantage of. Final Thoughts Dolny Stadium gives fans a comfortable baseball experience in an intimate setting, at a wonderful complex that promotes the simultaneous support of multiple Lander University athletic programs. Baseball at Lander University can be much more than just a baseball experience. Jeff May Complex brings together an entire community and athletic department and gives fans an easy opportunity to check in on the status of other games going on, and possibly stick around a bit longer than planned for tight games that might be reaching their conclusion.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Pan American Center 1810 University Ave Las Cruces, NM 88003 Map It NM State Aggies website Pan American Center website Year Opened: 1968 Capacity: 12,573 A-G-G-I-E B-A-L-L Pan American Center is home to New Mexico State men’s and women’s Aggie basketball and volleyball. The arena hosts various other events throughout the year.  The building is celebrating 56 years; it has had several renovations since it first opened in 1968. It sits proudly on the New Mexico State University campus in Las Cruces, NM. The New Mexico State women’s basketball team began playing in the 1973-74 season at the Activity Center.  They moved to the Pan Am Center at the beginning of the 1976-77 season and have been playing there since.  The team won the WAC championship in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019.  They have been to the NCAA Tournament six times.  The Aggies became a member of C*USA (Conference USA) in 2023. Spending a few hours at a women’s Aggie basketball game is enjoyable, fun, and entertaining. It’s well worth the visit. Food & Beverage 3 The arena offers basic stadium fare, enough for a snack during a game.  Sausage and hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn cost $6.  Snacks like churros, jumbo pretzels, Cracker Jack, candy, and pickles run $3 - $5. Pepsi sodas run $6/$7.  Gatorade and bottled water cost $5.  Domestic beers and raspberry margaritas in a can are for sale as well. Fans can get a combo hot dog, chips, and fountain drink for $9.   The nachos seem to be the favorite item of choice for fans. Atmosphere 5 Aggies women’s basketball does a tremendous job at providing a safe, entertaining, pleasurable game day experience. Fans enter the seating area and either travel down to the first level of 25 rows of seats or up to a second level.  A walkway is between the two levels.  At the game I went to, the second level was closed off, and it looks like the university is replacing the chair backs and seats in that level. The seating consists of red plastic fold-down stadium seats (no cup holders) on all four sides of the court.  It includes two levels on the court sidelines and one level behind each basket.  The Jag and Linda Cheema Suites fill out an area behind one of the end zones. The arena has a nice-looking court with light and dark wood and the NM Aggies logo in the center.  Lots of banners (championship, NCAA tournament appearances, retired numbers) hang from the ceiling.  Photos of outstanding Aggie athletes line the upper outer concourse walls. The venue has a clear, crisp center-hung scoreboard over the courts which shows a video of the game, the score, which team has possession of the ball, time left of the quarter, and more.  The end zones both have scores displayed as well. Besides the game, the organization offers plenty of other entertainment.  A passionate pep band plays often.  Lovely! Wonderful!  And a small dance squad cheers on the team.  The players descend the arena’s stairs to get to the court before introductions and the beginning of the second half.  Other activities include t-shirt tosses, the YMCA dance, a young children’s dance club performing at half-time, dance cams over the video scoreboard, and more. The team has a phenomenal announcer who calls substitutions, who scored a basket, the play on the court, fouls, etc. in a clear, understandable voice.  All this is done without extraneous music played at the same time.  The Aggies baseball game day operations should take lessons from their women’s basketball counterparts. The announcer calls “Out of bound – Aggie Ball!”  The crowd responds with “Aggie Ball!”  It’s a chuckle full of fun.  Believe me-- it’s much more entertaining when you’re there than can be described in words.  It puts a smile on your face, and you just can’t help but participate. The temperature in the arena is comfortable.  A long-sleeved t-shirt suffices. Finally, the music volume is perfect as you can converse with your neighbor without yelling. Neighborhood 4 The Pan Am Center is near the other on-campus NM State Athletic fields in Las Cruces, NM.  Plenty of restaurants and hotels are within 1 – 2 miles of the arena. Ten or more restaurants (including fast food) are along University Ave from I-10 to the arena:  I-Hop, Burger King, Panda Express, and Chick-fil-A.  The Game Sports Bar and Grill is a decent pregame place to visit for a beer and a bite.  Weck’s, an NM breakfast/lunch chain, is a worthwhile visit before an afternoon game. Other things to see and do when visiting Las Cruces include the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum about three miles from Pan Am Center.  The Museum of Science and Nature or the Las Cruces Railroad Museum may also be worth a visit, depending on your interests.  Of course, a visit to see the world’s largest chile pepper may be in order, too! Plenty of hotels are near the university.  The closest are the Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces, Comfort Suites University, and Sleep Inn University.   A whole slew more is within two–three miles of Pan Am Center. Other sports in the area are the Aggies baseball team and the men’s basketball team.  A trip to El Paso, TX (a 45-minute drive) will take you to the El Paso Chihuahuas, AAA minor league baseball affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Fans 2 Fans of Aggies basketball include students, alumni, families, and others.  The arena is not full for women’s basketball games.  So far this 2023-2024 season, average attendance is 681. This surprises me as it’s such an enjoyable time.  Attendance increases as the season draws closer to spring. Besides playing tunes, the pep band dances, hops, cheers, spins, and fully encourages the players on the court.  It is fantastic to see such enthusiasm. Access 3 Getting to the Pan Am Center is an easy drive off I-10.  Plenty of free parking surrounds the east and south sides of the arena.  Handicapped parking is available, as are accessible seats.  Check here for more information on accessible features at the arena. Las Cruces does have a bus stop (Aggie Green), but it looks as if it’s operational only Monday-Friday, 7 am – 6 pm, so it may not be suitable for use when attending a game.  Las Cruces Airport is 12+ miles from the university. The venue has a little plaza area with benches outside the ticket office.  It’s a nice place to wait for friends.  The ticket office is a separate building with polite staff manning the booths. Clear bags 12” x 6” 12” are allowed, as are small clutches. Pan Am Center has plenty of clean restrooms on the concourse level. Return on Investment 4 Attending an Aggies women’s basketball game is well worth the price.  They charge only $7 for general admission (you sit wherever you want).  The parking is free.  Food prices are less than in other D1 schools. The university offers an Aggie Country Pass which, for one price ($140 adult, $80 senior, $70 NM State faculty) allows entry to all NM State home soccer, volleyball, women's basketball, baseball, and softball games.  This may be the way to go if you plan on seeing lots of games.  I’ve seen this type of package at other colleges but at far lower prices. . Extras 3 The fabulous PA announcer deserves an extra mention.  Fans can easily keep score of the game just based on his announcement. The stunning court floor is pleasing to the eye and makes an attractive addition to the arena. All the NM State banners and photos displayed provide visitors with the vast athletic accomplishments the university has produced. Final Thoughts Attending an Aggies women’s basketball game is a delightful few hours of entertainment and is well worth your sports dollar investment.  It deserves to be more popular than it currently is.

Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey As the Los Angeles Clippers play out their final season at Crypto.com Arena, excitement is building toward their move to the Intuit Dome come Fall of this year. With the Clippers strongly competing for the top spot in the Western Conference, along with the excitement of this year’s team and the anticipation of the opening of their new home, the Clippers wasted no time in rebranding their look with a new logo along with new uniforms for the 2024-25 season. https://twitter.com/LAClippers/status/1762138370116055305 https://twitter.com/LAClippers/status/1762244028140237067 With construction still ongoing the Clippers aren’t the only ones wasting any time in anticipation for the opening of the Intuit Dome. Two teenagers, likely juveniles, snuck inside the unfinished construction site of the new Clippers arena, adding to the recent news of the graffiti-plastered Oceanwide Plaza project across Crypto.com Arena. A video of their mischief was uploaded to TikTok earlier this week. It shows the two boys hopping a wall and entering Intuit Dome where they shot baskets, deployed a fire extinguisher on a practice court, and appeared to climb onto the roof and the rafters above the main court. This isn’t the first time a TikToker has broken into a local venue or construction site as Dodger Stadium and nearby SoFi Stadium have also been featured in TikToker videos. Unbeknownst my knowledge of the events that took place inside the unfinished venue, on the day I had a chance to pass by and snap some shots (No pun intended) outside the future home of the Clippers, I later happened to cross paths on Prairie Avenue with a media member, one of several in the vicinity covering the headline, and she expressed the potential danger of trespassing in the construction site, as explained by one of the construction workers via KTLA. “It’s unfortunate. They’re doing it as a thrill. But they’re putting their lives at risk,” Walter Zuniga, an Intuit Dome construction worker, said. “If you haven’t been trained … especially at night… not knowing what’s behind you, you could fall into a trench. It could even cost your life.” Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts has said he plans to contact the teens involved and their parents. Because of their juvenile status, their names cannot be released. ---- Follow and view all of Andrei’s journeys on Instagram @thestadiumjourneyman and @dreiinla to view his journeys throughout Los Angeles.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Crenshaw Gym 2204 Henry St Ashland, VA 23005 Randolph-Macon Yellow Jackets website Crenshaw Gym website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 1,310 The Buzz Around Randolph-Macon The campus of Randolph-Macon College is located in Ashland, Virginia, about 20 miles north of Richmond. RMC's athletic programs, known as the Yellow Jackets, compete at the Division III level in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). Randolph Macon's basketball team is one of its most successful programs, having won the Division III National Championship in 2022. The basketball team makes its home in Crenshaw Gym, which originally opened in 1964. The venue seats approximately 1,300 fans and is also home to the volleyball programs. Food & Beverage 1 There is one concession stand in the atrium of Crenshaw Gym that opens half an hour before tip-off. A very basic menu consists of chips, candy, bottled soda, and water. While limited, the options are affordable, with everything costing $2. Atmosphere 5 Although Crenshaw Gym is a Division III venue, the experience here is on par with many Division I arenas. Before the game, a drummer will beat a large drum faster and faster as the crowd claps along and gets hyped. The team's mascot, a costumed yellow jacket, also loves to get the crowd into it. Cheerleaders and a dance team perform on the court during breaks in the action. Crenshaw Gym is a small, intimate gym, with seats on both sides of the court. One side consists of chairbacks and the other of bleachers. Arrive early if you want a chairback, as the arena does fill up. Regardless of where you sit, you will be up close to the action, with fans all around you raising the energy in the building. There is a small atrium just inside the doors of Crenshaw, featuring a merchandise table, a concession stand, and a table selling tickets to those who were unable to use the app to purchase them. The atrium is festooned with the Randolph-Macon logo, reminding you that this is the home of the Yellow Jackets. From there, you can walk through a set of doors to the gymnasium itself and take your seat. Neighborhood 3 Randolph-Macon College is located in Ashland, about 20 miles north of Richmond. Downtown Ashland includes many options, including the Iron Horse Restaurant, The Caboose Market & Cafe, and Trackside Grill. There are hotels available as well, for visitors who are staying overnight. Richmond is a relatively short drive away and offers many more options than would be available here. Fans 5 Although Crenshaw Gym only seats about 1,300, Randolph-Macon fills it to near capacity for most games. The fans are loud and passionate about the Yellow Jackets. Many of them have some connection to the team, whether that is a parent of a student-athlete, a student, or an alumnus. Some of them have been coming to games here for many years. Randolph-Macon may be a Division III school, but the fans here are comparable to many at the Division I level. This is a boisterous crowd, and Crenshaw Gym can get extremely loud at times. Access 2 The Randolph-Macon campus is a few miles off Interstate 95. Once you are on campus, you can park in any lot you want, but lots closer to the arena may already be full when you get here. This will especially be true if there is some other event at the college earlier in the day and fans have arrived and parked for that. At a minimum, you should be able to park in a large lot across Center Street and the railroad tracks from the main campus, about a five-minute walk from Crenshaw. Just watch for oncoming trains, as you will need to cross the railroad tracks at grade. There are also no clear signs directing you to Crenshaw, so we suggest using Google Maps or a similar app on your phone to ascertain the specific location and the right way to walk. Restrooms are located off the gymnasium floor and are small, so there may be a wait to use them. One good thing about access is that the Ashland Amtrak station is located less than a 10-minute walk from Crenshaw Gym, with access up and down the Northeast Corridor. This may not help most people, but for some, it will be extremely convenient. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Randolph-Macon home games are just $10 each, available in advance through the Ticket Spicket app. This is on the high end for Division III, but won't break the bank. When you consider that the environment here at Randolph-Macon is one of the best in Division III, it is certainly a good deal. Extras 4 Free programs and a merchandise table are located in the atrium and are each worth an extra star. Look for the banners in Crenshaw Gym honoring Randolph-Macon basketball achievements, including the 2022 national championship. The pregame tradition with the drum beating faster and faster to get the crowd pumped up is worthy of an extra star as well, and not something you often see at this level. Final Thoughts Don't let the fact that Randolph-Macon is a Division III college fool you. A basketball game at Crenshaw Gym is as good an experience as many Division I schools. With an energetic, packed crowd, and one of the best teams in the nation taking the court, a visit to RMC to check out some college hoops is well worth it to any fan in the area.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Presley Askew Field 1815 Wells St Las Cruces, NM 88003 Map It New Mexico State Aggies website Presley Askew Field website Year Opened: 1981 Capacity: 1,000 Aggies Baseball Nestled amidst a grove of trees sits Presley Askew Field, home of the NCAA D1 New Mexico State Aggies baseball team.  The field is on the university’s Las Cruces campus next to the Softball Complex and the school’s football stadium, Aggie Memorial. After 18 years of being members of the WAC (Western Athletic Conference), NMS Aggies athletic teams joined the C*USA (Conference USA) beginning the 2023-24 season. The baseball team was conference champions in 2002, 2003, 2012, 2018, 2019, and most recently in 2022.  And it has had 71 MLB draft picks and 24 NCAA All-Americans. Food & Beverage 2 The stadium has basic food truck choices for sale along with a separate cart selling just alcohol, all at decent prices.  Items for sale include hot dogs, Frito pies, nachos, pickles, popcorn, candy, chips, and hot Cheetos with cheese.  The prices range from $2 - $5.  Sundays are $1 hot dog days.  The truck accepts cash or credit/debit cards. Bottled soda, water, and Gatorade cost $4.  16-ounce cans of Coors Light, Modelo, and Hop Knot IPA run $8 a can.  A 12-ounce Mixed-Up Aggie-Rita (a canned raspberry margarita cocktail made especially for NM State) costs the same amount.  Nutrl (a canned vodka seltzer) is $6 a can.  Pistol Pete’s 1888 (a blonde ale), made by a New Mexico brewery, Bosque Brewing, is also offered.  Pistol Pete’s 1888 is named after the Aggies mascot (Pistol Pete) and the year the university was founded (1888).  It’s quite intriguing. Atmosphere 3 The music volume is brutal.  Bring earplugs if you are sensitive to deafening recorded noise.  The music person plays loud tunes at the same time the PA announces the starting lineups (especially the visiting team), and the lineups are called way too fast to record on a scorecard.  The music person also blares songs the same time the PA is announcing a batter, so you can’t hear who is at bat.  Very bad.  And he/she plays it between pitches.  Ugh. The stadium’s grandstand is behind home plate and the infield.  Presley Askew Field does not offer any other seating for fans.  Canopies cover the seating area for shade (the sun sets to the west behind the seating structure/grandstand).  You’ll be in the shade, so wear warmer clothes or bring jackets during the early part of the season.  Fans appreciate the shade as the season progresses. The seats and rows are labeled and numbered, but seating is $7 general admission except for several rows directly behind home plate, reserved for season ticket holders.  Otherwise, sit where you want.   The seats are traditional stadium fold-down seats with no cup holders.  The rows offer minimal legroom.  A medium-thickness net protects fans from foul balls. The infield incorporates artificial turf and turf is between all the bases.  The home plate area is fake dirt, and the pitcher’s mound is real dirt.  The outfield is real grass.  I find it an odd combination, but it’s not unusual in college ball. The home dugout is on the third base side.  Trees line the outfield wall, making it quite attractive.  Sit high up in the grandstand, on the first base side, to see a nice view of the Organ Mountain Range. The scoreboard is in left-center field.  It is difficult to read during afternoon games because the sun shines directly on it. If fans bring foul balls to the press box, they win a sweet prize (softball does this as well).  Kids enjoy this.  The staff throws t-shirts into the crowd for excitement.  Two kids participated in a ‘dress like an Aggie’ contest where they had to put on a jersey and other articles to win a prize. Neighborhood 4 Presley Askew Field is near the other on-campus NM State Athletic fields in Las Cruces, NM.  Plenty of restaurants and hotels are within 1 – 2 miles of the arena. Ten or more restaurants (including fast food) are along University Ave from I-10 to the arena:  I-Hop, Burger King, Panda Express, and Chick-fil-A.  The Game Sports Bar and Grill is a decent pregame place to visit for a beer and a bite.  Weck’s, an NM breakfast/lunch chain, is a worthwhile visit before an afternoon game. Other things to see and do when visiting Las Cruces include the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum about three miles from Pan Am Center.  The Museum of Science and Nature or the Las Cruces Railroad Museum may also be worth a visit, depending on your interests.  Of course, a visit to see the world’s largest chile pepper may be in order, too! Plenty of hotels are near the university.  The closest are the Hilton Garden Inn Las Cruces, Comfort Suites University, and Sleep Inn University.   A whole slew more is within two–three miles of Pan Am Center. Other sports in the area are the Aggies softball team and the men’s and women's basketball team.  A trip to El Paso, TX (a 45-minute drive) will take you to the El Paso Chihuahuas, AAA minor league baseball affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Fans 4 Full crowds attend Aggies baseball games, with attendance records averaging about 725 a game so far in 2024; weekend games get the larger crowds.  Some fans set up grills, tables, chairs, and tailgate before the game. Some fans bring their dogs.  A good mix of families, alumni, and students make their way into the grandstand. Fans are vocal and quite active in the stands.  A good portion of the attendees generate a lot of traffic traversing up and down the grandstand; they can’t seem to sit still during and between innings.  Maybe they just need to leave because of the music volume. Access 3 Presley Askew Field is near the rest of the university’s athletic fields, south of the Pan American Center.  Getting to the stadium is an easy drive off I-10.  Free parking, including handicapped, surrounds the stadium.  The entrance has a strong, stable ramp up to the grandstand, in addition to two sets of steps. Las Cruces does have a bus stop (Aggie Green), but it looks operational only M – F, 7am – 6pm, so it is generally suitable only for early midweek baseball games.  Las Cruces Airport is 12+ miles from the university, but only one commercial airline uses the airfield.  The next closest airport is ELP in El Paso, TX, about 50 minutes south. The ticket office is a separate building right in front of the entrance. I didn’t notice any rules about a bag policy.  Your best bet is to bring a clear stadium bag 12” x 6” x 12” or a small clutch. The venue has one set of clean, accessible restrooms with plenty of stalls. Return on Investment 4 New Mexico State Aggies baseball is a very affordable afternoon or evening out.  Tickets are $7 general admission.  You can’t beat that for D1 baseball.  Fans receive a hard copy ticket at the ticket office; no need to download it onto an app.  It is quite a pleasing way to purchase tickets.  More venues should do it this way.   The parking is free, and the food prices are reasonable. Extras 3 Several other things are worth noting.  The batter’s eye cleverly has the NMS Aggie logo silhouetted in it.  It’s quite unique. The stadium boasts an ‘All American’ corner displaying photos of and honoring former players and coaches. A huge merchandise stand across from the food truck sells all kinds of Aggie’s gear (shirts, hats, sweaters, jerseys, etc.). Final Thoughts Except for the music volume, taking in a New Mexico State Aggies baseball game is a perfect way to spend a few hours when in Las Cruces.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 G. B. Hodge Center Hodge Dr Spartanburg, SC 29303 USC Upstate Spartans website G. B. Hodge Center website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 878 This is Spartan Country In a time when college athletic facilities has become a race of who can build the biggest, most technologically advanced, extravagant facility, G.B. Hodge Center on the campus of the University of South Carolina-Upstate has kept simplicity at the forefront. With a seating capacity of 878, G.B. Hodge Center is the smallest venue in NCAA Division I basketball. USC-Upstate made the jump from NCAA Division II to Division I in 2007, becoming members of the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Spartans would stay in the A-Sun until the 2017-18 season, when they would leave for the Big South Conference, which is more concentrated throughout the Carolinas. While Upstate has not earned a trip to the NCAA tournament since joining the highest level, they have appeared in post-season tournaments in six of their seventeen seasons in Division I. Food & Beverage   3 A small concession stand in the lobby gives fans everything they would expect at any large arena – hot dogs, personal size pizzas, soft pretzels, popcorn, and nachos with cheese dipping sauce, along with chips, candy, and the ever-popular pickle are available. And as Georgia is to Coca-Cola, Pepsi is to the Carolinas; soft drinks here are from the Pepsi family of beverages, along with Aquafina and Gatorade. While the inside concessions might not be all that eye popping, BBQ plates from the Greenville-based Big Dave’s All American BBQ are sold outside the arena. Atmosphere   3 G.B. Hodge Center is a rather non-descript building, which would be a bit difficult to pick out if you weren’t sure what it is you were looking at. Its ability to blend into the surrounding campus buildings is part of the charm of G.B. Hodges Center. Once into what is considered Eddie and Anne Payne Arena, the walls of each end of the floor display a large videoboard showing a live feed of the game, along with individual player point and foul totals, as well as team field goal and 3-point shooting percentages and rebound totals. An accompanying more traditional scoreboard provides game time, score, and team foul totals. Despite the closeness of the primary seating area on both sides of the court, USC-Upstate has found room along the sideline of the parquet court for a row of courtside seating. Throughout the game, fans are entertained by updates of Spartan athletic accomplishments and appearances by Upstate student-athletes, but it is the game entertainment crew that deserves a lot of credit for the amount of on-court contests and engagement they have with fans. Neighborhood   3 The USC-Upstate campus is on the outer reaches of Spartanburg, in a bit of an isolated area with not much by way of restaurants or other points of interest. Downtown Spartanburg is less than 5 miles from Upstate’s campus, and provides visitors with a wide variety of restaurants, shops, hotels, and the typical points of interest of downtown areas. The campus of the Southern Conference member Wofford Terriers, as well as Division II Converse University, are also in Spartanburg, just 4 miles away – this could give visitors many more options in planning a full day of sports in Spartanburg. Those looking to experience more of what the city of Spartanburg has to offer might just be interested in taking a walk around the downtown area. Morgan Square is a lovely small park surrounded by several locally owned restaurants, and downtown Spartanburg also has a very vibrant art scene, with several public displays and sculptures throughout downtown. Fans   3 Despite being the smallest venue in D1 basketball, it doesn’t take away from the passion of fans that fill G.B. Hodge Center. The Spartans typically draw well compared to their Big South counterparts when considering their gym is typically half to two-thirds filled for conference matchups. Expect larger crowds for contests against other schools from the area; Gardner-Webb, Winthrop, Presbyterian, and High Point tend to draw some of the larger crowds. A large number of fans definitely is a good indicator of the level of fan support behind a program, but the numbers themselves do not tell the whole story. On nights when the Spartan Army fills G.B. Hodge Center, it can be every bit the homecourt advantage as some of the largest arenas in the nation. Spartan fans are a supportive group; it is just the consistency of filling the gym that seems to be the challenge. Access   4 USC-Upstate is conveniently located two miles off I-85 from North Pine Street, as it transitions to the I-585 bypass. G.B. Hodge Center is situated toward the front of Upstate’s campus, separated from the remainder of the athletic facilities that are concentrated at the back of campus. A relatively large parking lot sits in front of the arena, making accessing the entrance rather straightforward. The lobby is well laid out for fans needing to purchase tickets, or simply needing their tickets scanned for entry before moving into the gym. Accessing seating is not the most convenient set up, as limited space around the court requires fans to get to their seats on either side of the court via the lobby area. Fans are not able to cross along the baseline. The front row of seating can also create challenges when navigating the walkways. When factoring in the legs of spectators and fans coming and going to their seats, congestion can make traversing the walkway a bit of a challenge. Given the size limitations of the gym, passing from one side of the court to the other does require fans to return to the lobby. Return on Investment   5 With tickets starting at just $8 and court-side seats available for $20, it would be hard to find a better deal in Division I basketball. Parking lots are typically free, with the exception of homecoming, when there is a $10 charge for the lots adjacent to G.B Hodge Center; concessions are kept to a reasonable rate as well. All-in-all, the basketball investment at USC-Upstate is worth the minimal financial commitment required. Extras   4 A display featuring Stadium Journey’s recognition of G.B. Hodge Center as the # 15 best college basketball experience in the NCAA’s Division I definitely garners recognition and credit as an extra feature of G.B. Hodge Center. Casts of spartan warriors line the walls above each of the seating areas – this goes a long way in supporting the University’s “Spartans” nickname. While there is not a lot on display by ways of looking at the history of USC-Upstate basketball, the wall behind the team bench does proudly showcase the 1982 NAIA Championship banner. Following the game, children 12 and under are invited to the floor to get some shots up. This is a small gesture that on the surface seems inconsequential, but goes a long way in building the hoop dreams of the next generation of Spartans. Final Thoughts The beautiful thing about college athletics is that game experiences come in all shapes and sizes, and are special in so many different ways – from the largest arena, Syracuse’s JMA Wireless Dome (35,446), to Upstate’s G.B. Hodge Center with its seating capacity of 878. But, as exhilarating as experiencing games at the largest arenas in the nation can be, the arenas at the other end of the spectrum can be just as spectacular for their own reasons. What G.B. Hodge Center lacks in frills and extravagance, it more than makes up for in intimacy and the sense of community practically every fan in the gym feels for one another, and even visitors.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 CFG Bank Arena 201 W Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21201 CIAA website CFG Bank Arena website Year Opened: 1962 Capacity: 14,000 A "New" Arena For Charm City The arena now known as the CFG Bank Arena has a long and storied history. It opened in 1962 as the Baltimore Civic Center. During its time as the Civic Center, the arena hosted legends such as The Beatles, Martin Luther King Jr., and Led Zeppelin, as well as being the home floor of the Baltimore Bullets of the NBA until their move to near Washington, DC in 1973. The indoor soccer team, the Baltimore Blast, as well as various sports teams have also made the venue their home over the years. The late 1980s remodel saw a name change to the Baltimore Arena. It also spent most of the early 21st century with the corporate name First Mariner Arena. and then the Royal Farms Arena. The Oak View Group, which was chosen by the City of Baltimore to manage the venue, closed down the arena in early 2022 to perform a massive renovation on the aging arena. The CIAA Tournament is the first event since the remodeling work was done. The official grand opening was the April 7, 2023 concert by Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band. The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is a collegiate athletic conference, mostly consisting of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). CIAA institutions play at the Division II level of the NCAA. The CIAA is the first NCAA Division II conference to have its tournament televised as part of Championship Week on ESPN and it has become one of the largest college basketball events in the nation. The last day of the tournament is known as “Super Saturday” in which the men’s and women’s tournament champions are crowned. For 15 years, the tournament was held in Charlotte, North Carolina. The 2021 event was the first in Baltimore. The yearly event has now been extended through 2025 for Baltimore. Food & Beverage 4 There are only two major food stands open, along with various grab-and-go locations, for the event. This may change once the final renovations are done. It does appear that the arena is going to be more of a concert and entertainment venue that just happens to host a few sporting events along the way. This means the food and drink options are more aimed at the drinking crowd element than food. The Big Chicken and Koko's Bavarian Biergarten Brewery offer simple menus but the food offerings are quite good. Prices are not cheap but are at usual arena price levels. Atmosphere 5 The CIAA had been a major event in the past for Charlotte. It looks like the event is having the same kind of effect on Baltimore. Besides the tourney, there are concerts and events throughout the city during the event. A 14,000-seat venue is not a large arena, but not small either. A benefit of the unique design of this facility is that it tends to make it feel more intimate than it really is. Even the largest events there can feel like smaller ones. The effect of this also means that even less attended events can feel loud. Being a long, multi-day sporting event you will see varying amounts of fans in the stands. Some games will be more packed than others. There are alumni from all the schools attending the event and offering their cheers. There will be bands, mascots, cheerleaders, and dance squads for all of the schools, and they all offer a great addition to the atmosphere. There are some unique changes to the arena since last year. The main concourse has now been moved to the level above the main seating bowl. Walls have been removed to make this concourse now an open view to the action in the arena. This is a massive change to the venue. There are other changes in the seating bowl, such as walkways having been removed and new entry points being added. The arena had a single suite before the renovation and now has several suites and theatre boxes along with some private and premium club spaces. The arena has also gotten fresh paint jobs everywhere. The arena now has a grey and black modern look and feel. Neighborhood 3 The CFG Bank Arena is right in the heart of downtown Baltimore, with its numerous entertainment and food options close by. But the arena is a few blocks from the more touristy sections of town. And those few blocks can make a difference. I am not saying it is unsafe, as talk like that is far overblown in the city. One just needs to use caution and watch their surroundings. The 2015 riots in Baltimore City should not be forgotten, nor should they stop you from attending an event at the arena. Just be aware of where you are. If you do have some time before the game (or after…) a visit to the Pratt Street Ale House is only about a block away. They have good brews and food. Try the crab pretzel for a serious Maryland food experience. Venturing further away from the arena one of my favorites is the Abbey Burger Bar right near the Cross Street Market. The beer selection is good and they offer a dizzying array of burger choices, all of which are likely to satisfy. For slightly more upscale cuisine a visit to the 1100-1200 blocks of North Charles Street where The Brewers Art and Sammy’s Trattoria offer good food at decent prices. Baltimore is home to many touristy attractions such as Harborplace, Fells Point, and Fort McHenry. The American Visionary Art Museum on Key Highway is located on the way to Fort McHenry and should not be missed, although its unique collection will not be for everyone. Fans 5 Tournaments will have varying fan bases, so it may change from game to game. I would imagine the extremely located schools have trouble filling the stands. Pep bands, mascots, and cheerleaders also make the atmosphere rival a big-time college environment. Access 4 The CFG Bank Arena is located in downtown Baltimore about a block from the Baltimore Convention Center and two blocks from Camden Yards. It is close to I-95, with only a couple of turns from the arena putting you on the highway home. Parking garages can be found in all directions from the arena. One garage is even physically attached to the arena. Look for parking deals to come with some event tickets. Street parking is not a great option. Return on Investment 3 The best value seems to be the all-tournament pass at $225. There are day tickets available and they do appear to be more expensive than in years past. Extras 4 Even with the updates to the arena, there are still some cool and unique seating structures around the venue. The weird old squared corner seats still exist but have now been rounded until a better format. The view should be much improved from those seats. It is things like that which will make the old-school design elements a feature in themselves. The fans themselves are an extra at an event like this. They support their respective teams very well and will make this an enjoyable event to attend. Check out the dance and cheer squads as they get the crowds excited. Final Thoughts This is not the same old Baltimore Arena that many may remember. The massive renovation work has transformed the venue into a state-of-the-art entertainment venue. And with a party-type event like the CIAA Tournament, you WILL have a good time here.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 CG Baseball Field 2626 E Pecos Rd Chandler, AZ 85225 Map It Chandler-Gilbert Coyotes website CG Baseball Field website Year Opened: 1987 (a guess) Capacity: 300 (approx) CG Yotes Baseball Chandler-Gilbert Coyotes are NJCAA – Arizona Community College Athletics Conference (ACCAC) members. They play their home games at the GC Baseball Field on the college’s Pecos campus in Chandler, AZ, a southeast suburb of Phoenix. As of this writing (2024), the Yotes (their nickname) baseball team has not won any NJCAA National Championships. Food & Beverage 0 The baseball stadium does not have refreshments for sale.  Fans can (and should) bring their own beverages and snacks.  The facility has a few picnic tables near the stands. Atmosphere 3 The CG Baseball Field is one of the few ACCAC stadiums that has lights.  Evening and night games can be played here, but the schedule still has mostly afternoon games. A scoreboard in left-center shows the basic line score.  Names on the outfield wall include Andre Ethier, Eric Young Jr, Dennis Sarfate, Rudy Owens, James Pazos, and Tyler Hollick. These former CGCC alumni players have all played for or signed with Major League Baseball. Stadium seating is ten rows of bleachers with handrails behind home plate and two smaller ancillary bleachers (4 or 5 rows) on each side of the main seating area.  The Coyotes dugout is on the third base side.  A medium thickness net, not a chain link fence, protects the seating areas from foul balls.  This makes watching the game a little easier for fans.   The bleachers do get shade for 3pm games.  You’ll want to bring sunscreen for games with an earlier start time. The field is actual grass, impeccably green and plush, the kind you want to walk through in your bare feet.  The home plate area and pitcher’s mound look like grey carpet. Visitors see trees and housing beyond the outfield and can even see traffic passing by on Gilbert Road. Game day operations play music between innings, and the home team players have walk-up songs.  The volume is okay.   Like at most ACCAC baseball games, they do not announce the game. Neighborhood 3 The ball field is adjacent to the Chandler-Gilbert Community College Pecos campus.  The cities of Chandler and Gilbert are southeast suburbs of Phoenix, AZ.  It’s suburbia, so shopping strips, fast food, and housing surround the college. BKD’s Backyard Joint and Copper Still Moonshine & Grill are decent sports bars/restaurants 1 - 2 miles away to visit after a game. Downtown Chandler is a little over three miles from the school.  It offers several breweries and brewpubs (SanTan, Pedal Haus, The Perch Brewery, and more).  Downtown Gilbert is five miles from the college and provides several places to dine and drink:  OHSO Brewery, Culinary Dropout, Snooze, Liberty Market, and more. Some of the top attractions in Chandler are the SanTan Gardens – Brewery & Distillery Tour, Crayola Experience (good for families with young children), Chandler Museum (with a wide variety of exhibits), and Chandler Fashion Center mall (for shopping). Mesa Thunderbirds (Mesa Community College) baseball is 10 miles away.  The Chicago Cubs spring training site is a little further.  Hohokam Stadium, where the Oakland Athletics have their spring training, is 12 miles distance.  Downtown Phoenix is 25 miles from the school. For places to stay, I’d recommend choosing something in Chandler like a Hilton Garden Inn, Best Western, or Crown Plaza Resort.  You may be able to get an Airbnb for a little less. Fans 3 A good number of fans show up for the CG Coyotes baseball games.  You’ll often see as many opposing team fans as Coyotes fans since the Phoenix area has several schools in the ACCAC.  Fans here fall into more than the ‘family and friends’ category.  Other students attend the ball games.  At the game I saw, the softball team members showed up after their game was complete. The fans are respectful; all clap their appreciation when a pitcher leaves the game, as well as any good plays at bat and in the field. Access 3 Getting to Chandler-Gilbert Baseball Field is best by car.  The field is a mile north of Loop 202.  It is 21 miles from Sky Harbor Airport. Valley Metro’s bus route 136 has a stop at the corner of Gilbert Rd and E Pecos Rd (the intersection of the school).  That stop is about ½ mile walking distance to the field. Plenty of free parking is available.  Finding a spot might be challenging for midweek afternoon games when school is in session.  The stadium is wheelchair accessible, but it is a 400 to 500-foot walk from the parking lot to the stadium. As with all ACCAC baseball fields, silly bag policies are not in place.  Fans just walk up and find a place to sit on the bleachers.  Sweet! Return on Investment 5 While Arizona is known for Cactus League spring training, that is utterly expensive these days.  It’s a joy to find local, decent baseball in the same area for absolutely no charge.  No parking charge, no fee for watching the game, and you even need to bring your own drinks and snacks - so no elevated charges for food. Watching the game for the game, and not all the extraneous elements, is priceless. . Extras 2 Displaying the names of former CG Coyotes on the outfield walls is worth an extra mention.  Seeing lights at the ballpark is unique and distinctive for an ACCAC college baseball field. Final Thoughts If you’re looking for an inexpensive, outdoor activity to enjoy during the spring months in the Phoenix Metro area, be sure to look up a Chandler-Gilbert Coyotes baseball game.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Maryland Field Hockey & Lacrosse Complex 8483 Paint Branch Drive College Park, MD 20742 Maryland Terrapins website Maryland Field Hockey & Lacrosse Complex website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 1,400 Turtle Lax The Maryland Field Hockey & Lacrosse Complex is exactly what it sounds like – a stadium which is home to the University of Maryland’s field hockey and women’s lacrosse programs. It opened in 2003 across from the Xfinity Center, and was renovated several times, most recently in 2023. The Terrapins' women's lacrosse program is one of the most successful in the history of the sport, having won a whopping 14 NCAA Championships, plus one in 1981 which predates NCAA sponsorship of the sport. The men's lacrosse program does not play here, but rather plays at the far larger SECU Stadium, which is also home to the football team. Food & Beverage 2 There is a food truck called Feed the Turtle just inside the entrance of the stadium, which offers a basic menu. Hot dogs are the only option that can be a meal, although several snacks are available, including candy, chips, fries, cracker jack, peanuts, and popcorn. Bottled water and fountain soda are also available. Hot chocolate can be purchased on cold days as well. Prices are reasonable, with nothing costing more than $5. Atmosphere 3 There is one set of bleachers at the Maryland Field Hockey & Women's Lacrosse Complex, consisting of about five rows of seats all along one sideline. The other sideline contains the press box and team benches. Every seat will put you right up and close to the action. A large scoreboard and videoboard is located to the left of the bleachers, in the corner. There is not much going on here besides the game itself, although there is a marketing table and the occasional promotion to get fans involved. The pep band has appeared at some games in the past, but was not there during Stadium Journey's most recent visit. The team relies on the crowd to create some of the atmosphere here. As mentioned below, expect a large but not necessarily raucous crowd here to help improve the fan experience somewhat. Neighborhood 3 College Park is a small college town with enough in the immediate area to get by but is nothing special. There is a bowling alley a couple of miles away, and a bunch of chain restaurants within walking distance. If you’re looking for some local color, College Park Diner is a favorite with residents and students alike and serves up comfort food 24 hours a day. Looney’s Pub on Route 1 is a sports bar with dozens of big-screen TVs for your viewing pleasure. A couple of hotels are located nearby, including a Marriott just off campus, and The Hotel on campus. (Yes, the on-campus hotel is called The Hotel. Not a very creative name). That being said, if you’re looking to do more than eat and sleep, your best bet is to head down to the Metro station and take the Green Line into D.C. It’s about a 30-minute ride to downtown. Once you’re there, there’s so much to do and most of it is free. Whether it’s visiting one of the historic monuments and memorials, visiting one of the numerous museums, or simply walking outside on the National Mall, there’s something for everyone. All government-run attractions are free to the public, though some privately-run ones are not. Just keep in mind if you want to tour the Capitol or White House, you will need to reserve that ahead of time. Fans 4 The Terrapins draw pretty good crowds to women's lacrosse games, and the stands will be mostly full on a typical matchday. That being said, despite being large in number, the fans struggle to get loud at times. Although they will cheer Terrapins' goals, they are for the most part quite subdued. Occasionally you will hear some people cheering the team or yelling at the refs, but this crowd is not nearly as raucous as its numbers would indicate. Access 4 There are parking lots located both across the street from and next to the Complex. The one next to the field is completely free to park at after 4 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends, which should cover the vast majority of matches between them. The one across the street is split between free parking during those hours and paid parking, the latter of which is available to visitors 24/7 and should be utilized if visiting for a weekday afternoon game. The numbered spaces are paid and can be parked in 24/7 for $3/hour, while the unnumbered ones are free but cannot be parked in on weekdays before 4 PM. The other thing to keep in mind is that if the Terrapins have a home basketball game the same day as the lacrosse match, the parking situation can be completely different, so check the Terrapins’ website for additional information if that is the case. Return on Investment 4 General admission tickets are just $10 per game. Concessions are reasonably affordable, and parking will be free for most games. As a result, a Maryland women's lacrosse game has good value for fans. Extras 1 Free programs are available at the marketing table. That's about the only extra here for most games, although there may be the occasional promotion or band appearance. Final Thoughts The Maryland women's lacrosse program is one of the most storied programs in the sport. Despite this, they play in the small confines of the Maryland Field Hockey & Women's Lacrosse Complex, while the men play in the big stadium across campus. The crowds here are large, and can get loud at times, but this stadium seems out of place and disappointing for such an elite program.

Photo courtesy of Lucky Gambler With Major League Soccer (MLS) returning for the start of a new season on February 21, i-gaming site Lucky Gambler studied which were the most- and least-affordable clubs to be a fan of. According to a press release, researchers from Lucky Gambler indexed all 29 MLS teams and weighted them by eight factors. “When going to a soccer game, the cost of a ticket isn’t the only expense involved, as costs of travel, food, and hotel can also be included,” said a spokesperson for Lucky Gambler in their news release. “Today, even jerseys are becoming more expensive than the price of one game ticket. MLS stadiums are now above the 20,000 average fans per match threshold, but numbers vary greatly by venue.” These factors were determined to contribute to the average fan's experience at an MLS game. Leading the way in terms of most affordable were Minnesota United FC and Allianz Field – the St. Paul, Minnesota-based club was determined to cost fans an indexed score of 81.91 per game. The eight factors that determined the cost were game tickets, the average cost of a jersey, the median cost for a one-night hotel stay that is within two miles of the stadium, the average cost of a meal at an inexpensive restaurant in the city, the number of hotels within a two-mile radius, the average cost of a taxi within one kilometer, the number of jerseys available, and the cost for a one-night stay in an Airbnb. FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium is the second most affordable team scoring 72.34 out of 100 in the index. Minnesota United and FC Cincinnati were virtually equal across the eight factors, with one deciding metric separating them. On the other end of the spectrum, New England Revolution was deemed the most expensive team for fans, with a score of 43.17. “The average cost of living in Foxborough is about 38% higher than the national average and about 11% higher than the Massachusetts state average,” the spokesperson said. “Therefore, it doesn’t come [as] a surprise that New England Revolution [is] the most expensive team to be a fan of. [While] Minnesota United is the cheapest team, with the cost of living in Minnesota at 3% lower than the national average.” ----- Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477. Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Doak Field at Dail Park 1081 Varsity Dr. Raleigh, NC 27606 North Carolina State Wolfpack website Doak Field at Dail Park website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 3,048 Home of the Pack 9 Across the nation, the popularity of college baseball has increased drastically over the past several years. This is the case at NC State, as well, as attendance and interest in the Wolfpack baseball program are at an all-time high. A few years ago, extra bleacher seating was added in left field to push the capacity over 3,000, and those seats have remained in place ever since. Much of this increased interest is due to the success the program has experienced the past few years. NC State has hosted NCAA regionals in 2012, 2013, 2016, and 2018; and hosted the program’s first ever super regional in 2013. That same year (2013) the Pack made their second-ever trip to the College World Series in Omaha. The Wolfpack also reached college baseball’s promised land again in 2021. Doak Field is currently in the midst of a $15 million renovation, which included adding new seats, a new video board, and new LED lights before the 2023 season. Enhancements to take place after the 2024 season will include premium space, concession upgrades, and shaded areas. Even though Doak Field may not be considered one of the ‘premier’ ACC venues, it does provide the Wolfpack faithful with a wonderful facility to watch some of the best college baseball in the country. Food & Beverage 4 For those fans who come to the ballpark hungry, there are several choices to fulfill their desires. There is a large tent dubbed the Wolfpack Grill directly behind the press box, where hot dogs and hamburgers are grilled on-site. These are great options at the Doak. Two other permanent concession stands offer a wide variety of choices including Loaded BBQ Nachos, Pizza Hut Personal Pan Pizza, Chick-fil-A Sandwich, Hot Dog, and Pretzel. Snack items include popcorn, peanuts, Cracker Jacks, sunflower seeds, candy, and Carolina Kettle Chips. Howling Cow Ice Cream from NC State’s Creamery is also available. Beverage options include bottled water, bottled soda (Coke products), and Powerade. Premium and craft beer options are also available. Atmosphere 4 Since NC State’s men’s basketball and football teams both play off-campus, it is nice that the baseball facility is still located on campus. Dormitories rise beyond the left field wall and pine trees line the right field wall, which gives Doak Field a quaint college atmosphere. While the location of Doak Field has been the home of the Pack 9 since 1966, the current seating areas, press box, office tower, concessions, and restrooms were all built in an extensive renovation in 2002. The majority of the seating at Doak Field is below ground, with a spacious open concourse running above the seating area. All of the seating in this area are red chair back seats, which have cup holders. While the chair back seating is nice, these seats are a tad cramped, with not much legroom. At the end of the seating area down the left field line is a spacious grassy berm for general admission seating. Above the berm is a section of bleacher seats that also have chairbacks. The playing surface at Doak is natural grass, with all of the foul ground being artificial turf. There is a new videoboard beyond the right field wall, which features line scores, stats, player bios, and video replays. There is not a bad seat in the house; however, the sun sets over the first base side of the stadium. If you are sitting on the third base side for an early evening game, the sun will be in your eyes until it sets as you look toward home plate. Neighborhood 3 Since Doak Field is located on campus, there are no eateries within walking distance of the ballpark. However, there are a couple of places within a mile of Doak Field. If you are looking for something quick before or after the game, Cook-Out is the place for you. It is located down the street from campus on Western Boulevard and is famous for its “trays” which feature a burger (or chicken sandwich), two sides, and a drink for less than $8. Amedeo’s Italian Restaurant is also located on Western Boulevard across the street from campus and was started by a former Wolfpack football player. There is a large variety of NC State memorabilia located throughout the restaurant, and their Italian food is some of the best in the area. Being located in Raleigh, there is no shortage of other activities to participate in when visiting the city. A good activity before or after a game would be to take the short drive to downtown Raleigh and take a stroll around the state Capitol. The North Carolina Museum of History and the North Carolina Museum of Science are both located within a block of the state Capitol. The closest hotel to campus is Aloft Raleigh on Hillsborough Street directly across the street from the NC State Bell Tower. Fans 4 The fan's support at most college baseball parks around the country depends on two things: the weather and the time of the game. This is often true at NC State as well. Early-season games on a Tuesday afternoon in 40-degree weather will typically draw 1,000 fans or less. However, as the weather warms up, one can expect 2500-3,000 plus fans, especially for a weekend game. Weeknight games against local rivals, such as East Carolina, will also draw capacity crowds. NC State fans are both loyal and passionate, and when the Pack has an ACC power on the ropes, expect the Doak to be rocking. It is not uncommon to hear the Wolf-Pack chant ring our when the Pack is playing well. Pack fans can be rough on the umpires in a good-natured way. Expect to hear “Come on Blue!” when a ball or strike call does not go the Pack’s way. Access 5 Aside from rush hour traffic, Doak Field is easily accessible from both I-40 and I-440. If coming to a game on a work night, it is wise to add a few minutes to work your way through Raleigh traffic. Raleigh-Durham International serves the Triangle and is about a 20-minute drive from NC State. Parking for baseball games is free in the West Deck on Varsity Drive, just off Western Boulevard. It is about a five-minute walk to Doak Field from the West Deck. Fans without a season or weekend parking permit will need to obtain a free virtual parking permit for any games Monday-Friday that begin before 5 pm. The permit will allow fans to park on the West Deck. Fans can park in this location for any games beginning after 5 pm Monday-Friday or on the weekends without having to request a virtual permit. The main entrance at Doak is located near the ticket office behind the home plate. While there is a gate down the third baseline, it is reserved for students only. Security is present at the games but only checks large bags and purses. NC State fully utilizes mobile ticketing. Once inside Doak, you will notice a large concourse that runs above the seating bowl. The concourse offers an outstanding view of the field, and often many Wolfpack faithful will just stand on the concourse to watch the game while talking with other fans. Men’s restrooms are on the first base side, while women’s restrooms are on the third base side. Handicapped seating is available on the concourse above the seating bowl. Return on Investment 3 NC State utilizes a sliding ticket pricing schedule as early-season non-conference games are $5-10, while non-conference games later in the season and conference games are $10-20. Typically, the only single-game tickets available are in the left field bleachers or standing room only. Occasionally you can find game tickets cheaper on the secondary market, as the majority of the stadium is sold out through season tickets, so many season ticket holders will sell tickets for games they cannot attend for $10-15. Extras 3 One neat aspect of attending a game at Doak Field is the duck call that plays when “ducks are on the pond” (Pack players on base). This tradition was started years ago by two gentlemen who would sit behind home plate and blow their duck calls when the Pack had players on base. For weekend games, the NC State mascots (Mr. and Mrs. Wuf) are usually in attendance. Another extra is the picnic tables on the concourse that offer a view of the game. Final Thoughts While Doak Field may not be known as a highly regarded ballpark, it is still a great ballpark and a fun experience for college baseball. Upcoming renovations should further improve the fan experience!

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 John M. Belk Arena 200 Baker Dr. Davidson, NC 28036 Davidson Wildcats website John M. Belk Arena website Year Opened: 1989 Capacity: 5,295 All Hail, O Davidson Some might only know of Davidson College basketball from the success of the Wildcats in the early 2000s, highlighted by an Elite Eight run led by Steph Curry. However, their high level of success on the hardwood dates back nearly 50 years prior – under Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame coach Charles “Lefty” Driesell, Davidson put themselves on the college basketball map during the 1960s. Driesell took Davidson to back-to-back National Quarterfinals in 1968 and ’69; he also lead them to four Top 10 end-of-season rankings in his decade at Davidson. Davidson would struggle to find consistency following Lefty’s departure after the 1969 season, only finishing with back-to-back winning campaigns once. It wasn’t until Bob McKillop was hired in 1989 that the Wildcats found their winning ways again. Under McKillop, Davidson strung together 29 consecutive winning seasons in his 33 years on the sidelines of Belk Arena, which included 19 postseason appearances. McKillop’s tenure was further highlighted by a run from 2004 to 2009, which saw a 128-40 (.762) record for the Wildcats, including three consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, and capped by a run in the 2008 tournament to the Elite Eight. After spending more than 70 seasons as members of the Southern Conference, Davidson jumped to its current home in the Atlantic-10 (A-10) Conference at the start of the 2014-15 season. Davidson has called John M. Belk Arena home since 1989, when Baker Sports Complex which houses the arena replaced the 2,500 seat Johnston Gym, which the Wildcats had used since 1949; today Johnston Gym has been repurposed as the Knobloch Campus Center. Food & Beverage   4 Concessions are split between the upper and lower levels of Baker Sports Complex – the lower level has a more traditional concession stand, which serves just about everything one would expect in arena concessions, but also offers a decent break from the norm. The typical fare of hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, soft pretzels, chips, and candy are all available. The addition of burgers, spicy chicken sandwiches, and chicken nuggets are also a nice addition, as these items are not found in most arenas. Davidson offers beverages from the Pepsi line of soft drinks, along with Gatorade. The upper level concessions are a bit more specialized, including bratwurst with onions and peppers, steamed bagel sandwiches from Sully’s Steamers, Domino's pizza, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream served in freshly baked waffle cones. Local restaurant Brickhouse Tavern also sets up shop to pour beer from local NoDa Brewing Company; Davidson sells three of NoDa’s brews, featuring the Davidson branded O’Davidson Lager. Pinot Gris is also available. While the set up might not be ideal with the concessions being separated, the offerings more than make up for the minor inconvenience of possibly having to visit two different locations to fill all food and beverage needs. Atmosphere   4 John M. Belk Arena is part of the larger Baker Sports Complex – the facility not only houses Belk Arena, but also the college’s swim facility and other athletic department services. Viewed from the front along Baker Drive, the building’s brick exterior and columned overhang give it a much more historical feel than its 34 years of service might suggest, while the entry from Harry L. Vance Athletic Center has a much more modern feel, with its use of bricks, glass, and curves. Seating is divided into court level seats along both sidelines, with a matching level of upper seating. The lower level of seating remains rather tight, while the upper level of seats is a bit more spacious. Two rows of courtside seating are also available opposite each of the team benches, and clusters of student seating are located at court level on each end of the floor. Davidson’s marketing and promotional team puts a great deal of work into making sure stoppages in play are full of some sort of entertainment. The small yet spirited Davidson pep band takes up a portion of the near end bleachers, and often fills time leading into timeouts as the cheer squad or in-game host prepares for a routine or on-court game. Just about every break in the action is filled with a game or contest featuring students or kids from the stands. The rest of the time is used by the in-house DJ, who makes his presence felt until the ball is put back in play. Since there is no center hung scoreboard, the arena has a very open feel. Rather than the overhead scoreboard, single panel boards are hung high above the seating at each end of the floor, while smaller, more basic time and score displays are located in each of the corners at court level. The large boards not only give fans a live feed of the game, but also have a real-time update of player scoring and foul totals. The dead time during stoppages in play is filled with on-court recognitions, contests, cheer displays , and t-shirt tosses. The downtime until the ball is put back in play is definitely used well and is engaging to fans. Given the configuration of Belk Arena, there really is not a bad seat in the house. Seats in the lower level of the arena are right on top of the action, while the lower rows of the upper level are high enough to not have to deal with passersby in front blocking your view. The upper reaches of the second level do tend to get a bit warm though. Neighborhood   4 Davidson, North Carolina is a quaint lake community of approximately 15,000 people, located just north of Charlotte in the northern most reaches of Mecklenburg County. Main Street Davidson runs along the front edge of campus and is spotted with restaurants, coffee houses, and shops. Those looking for a pregame meal might want to check out Brickhouse Tavern or Flatiron Kitchen & Taphouse, which are two of the more popular eateries near campus. For race fans, about 10 minutes north and just off I-77 in nearby Mooresville, auto racing enthusiasts might find the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame of interest. On campus, Davidson’s athletic facilities cradle the eastern edge of campus. Baker Sports Complex that houses Belk Arena is neighbored by the soon-to-be retired Richardson Stadium the longtime home of Davidson football and track & field, as well as the outdoor tennis pavilion. Visitors for last season games might be able to pair a baseball game at Wilson Field, or even lacrosse or tennis, if those teams happen to be at home. Fans   3 Despite ranking in the lower half of the Atlantic-10 Conference in total attendance, Wildcat fans consistently occupy around two-thirds of the capacity in 5,295-seat Belk Arena. Davidson’s enrollment of nearly 2,000 students does not lend itself to large crowds. However, a notable portion of the student body, roughly 200-300 students, regularly attend games, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere – the remaining audience comprises a mix of alumni and Davidson residents who come out to support the home team. Many of those in attendance sit in the court level seats, creating a notably lively atmosphere. A lot of credit should go to the student sections, nicknamed the “D Block”, at each end of the floor, who really bring a lot of passion to the game. Access   4 Davidson is less than 2 miles from I-77 that runs north from Charlotte. Other than typical traffic congestion the area is relatively straightforward to reach. The Baker Street entrance to campus leads directly to Belk Arena and the adjacent parking lot. For those looking to save on parking and willing to walk a bit, street parking on Davidson city streets might be an option. Make sure to be aware of posted parking signs and regulations. There are several entry points into Belk Arena. Fans parking in the lot adjacent to the facility will find the most convenient entrance through the upper level of Harry L. Vance Athletic Center. The doors on the lower level offer the easiest access to floor seating, though another access point is through the front doors of Baker Sports Complex, which houses indoor tennis, swimming, wrestling facilities, along with Belk Arena. The lobby area that transitions between Baker Sports Complex and Belk Arena serves as a gathering spot for fans before they move to their seats for the game. A spacious, continuous walkway separates the upper and lower seating, providing fans with plenty of room to move around without encountering congestion. Return on Investment   3 Get in the door prices start at around $23 for upper-level seating, which seems a bit high when factoring in $10 for parking on top of the ticket cost; this combination is one of the higher prices in the A-10. Typically, a higher priced ticket will be accompanied by free parking, so the combination of ticket prices and parking rates are a bit of an investment, even for the lowest priced tickets. Concession prices do appear to be rather reasonable when looking at typical arena rates. Extras   4 It would be easy to think that the school which gained widespread recognition for its successes in the NCAA tournament, and the unprecedented NBA career of Steph Curry, would see him plastered on every inch of the facility. However, while Curry’s career is well recognized here, it tastefully does not overshadow the rest of Davidson basketball history. The Williamson Concourse pays homage to the achievements of Davidson basketball during the '60s, under the leadership of Lefty Driesell – the area features large photos of players, a sizable replica of a Sports Illustrated cover labeling Davidson a "Challenge to UCLA", and other significant moments from this era of Wildcat basketball. Just outside Belk Arena, a display commemorates the life of Mike Maloy, the first Black athlete at Davidson and a key member of the Wildcats success in the late 1960s. Lux, the Wildcat mascot, is a visible part of the in-game entertainment, helping the spirt squad hype up the crowd during timeouts and dead ball situations. Final Thoughts Even though Davidson basketball might not be at the height of years past, the program remains competitive enough to be a headache for any opponent they face. Fans can expect highly contested game on nightly basis. When considering the overall peripheral factors that contribute to the game experience, a Davidson game would be a wonderful addition when visiting the Charlotte area.

There are few basketball teams that are more legendary than the Boston Celtics. They have won 17 championships and have featured some of the most iconic teams ever to dribble a basketball. Is the TD Garden comparable to their venerable home, the Boston Garden? Is it all that is expected of it? Grab a beer and join Paul and Dave and catch the latest episode of Stadium Journey's Obstructed Views. You can find Stadium Journey's review of TD Garden and the Boston Celtics game day experience here.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Steven Kerr Memorial Centre 965 Binning St. W Listowel, ON N4W 0G6 Listowel Cyclones website Steven Kerr Memorial Centre website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 800 A Cyclone is in Town Listowel, Ontario is known for a couple of things.  The lead singer of the band Helix, Brian Vollmer, hails from Listowel.  The hit show “Letterkenny” is loosely based on creator Jared Keeso’s experiences growing up around the Listowel area.  Millions of cans of Campbell’s Soup have been produced outside of Listowel.  Possibly the most famous son of Listowel was the “Listowel Pistol” Frederick “Cyclone” Taylor. Cyclone Taylor is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and an original Ottawa Senator whose number is retired in the Canadian Tire Centre and has a street outside the home of the Senators named after him.  Taylor’s name is on the Stanley Cup in two spots.  It seems appropriate that the local team in the town in which he grew up is also named after him.  The Listowel Cyclones joined the Central Junior C Hockey League in 1972.  By 1979 the Cycs moved up to Junior B and currently remain a cornerstone franchise in the Junior B, Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League. The home for the Cyclones is the Steve Kerr Memorial Complex.  Built in 2017 and owned by the Municipality of North Perth, the complex is named after a generous donation by the family of Steven Kerr, who died in a tragic car accident and had played all of his minor hockey in the Listowel area.  The Steve Kerr Memorial Complex replaced the venerable Listowel Memorial Arena.  In 1959, the roof of the arena collapsed and tragically killed eight people.  A movement remains in place to build a park with a proper memorial on the site of the former arena. Food & Beverage 3 There is a concession stand inside the main lobby of the Steve Kerr Complex.  It offers a limited number of options including hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, coffee, apple cider, and tea.  Coca-Cola products can be found in vending machines around the complex.  The Blueline Room is on the upper level on the east side of the arena and offers beer and spirits that must be consumed inside the room. Atmosphere 3 The Steve Kerr Memorial Complex has a bit of an inauspicious look from the exterior.  A simple, rectangular structure with lower brown and grey brick with upper off-white siding, the Kerr Complex is not by any definition unattractive, but will not wow anyone driving by. Inside the main lobby, fans are met with a few temporary tables, the first of which is for purchasing tickets.  Other tables for Cyclones merchandise, program, and 50/50 draws are front and centre.  A bit of exploring can be done through the lobby, which is bright and clean and looks right onto the ice surface.  The donor display features an inscription and explanation about Steven Kerr and his importance to the arena. A large trophy case on the right side of the lobby is dedicated to the friends who were lost in the arena tragedy of 1959.  The case includes a large, beautiful piece of art with the visages of all seven of the children and one adult who perished in the accident.  Artifacts including skates, pennants, and hockey sticks can also be found in the case as well as how fans can make donations to the monument and park that is planned on the former site of the arena. Unfortunately, an opportunity is lost in the lobby, and the larger arena, as there is nothing to be seen about Cyclone Taylor.  This may normally be an acceptable oversight, but when the team is named after the Hall of Famer some acknowledgment is necessary. Inside the seating area, the ice surface runs from west to east with seating on both the north and south sides of the ice.  Behind the elevated seating area with six rows of plastic arena seats is a walking track and railings perfect for standing, which is very popular in Listowel.  When choosing a seat, fans should be aware that tickets are partially general admission. Seats are reserved for season ticket holders and are marked with an ‘R’ sticker on the back.  The Blueline Room at the east end looks over the ice as well.  Championship banners for the 2018 Sutherland Cup as Junior B Champions, 2018 and 2017 Conference Championships, and the 2005 Cherrey Cup as Midwest Junior B Hockey League Champions, predating the reorganizing of Junior hockey, all hang in the west end.  In the northwest corner of the arena, at the track level is a mini-stick arena under the watchful eye of the honoured jersey of Dan Williams, a former Cyclone who passed away in 1999. The memory of the 1959 arena collapse victims is further galvanized in the seating area with a large banner listing all of their names in the northeast corner of the arena.  The arena has a relatively low ceiling and low profile score clock hanging over center ice surrounded by youth hockey banners. The gameday production at a Listowel Cyclones game is fairly simple.  Promotions include program raffles, 50/50 draw, and shootouts are staples at a Cycs game.  Music is played during down times and some songs that are of interest include “Rock You” by local legends Helix and the somewhat appropriate “Rock You Like A Hurricane.” Neighbourhood 3 Listowel is a small town, which is part of the Municipality of North Perth.  The Steve Kerr Memorial Complex is located on the edge of town and looking for a place for a pre or post-game meal or drink will require a very short trip by car.  Fast food and chain restaurants are easily found in town.  Some more unique selections include Hom Restaurant and Roadhouse 23. The Listowel Cyclones are the only game in town.  Fans looking for other sporting options at or above the Cyclones level will be required to head out of town.  Other tourist ideas in Listowel could include checking out Listowel Paddyfest, the largest St. Patrick’s Day festival in North America.  The Drayton Festival Theatre is found in the nearby village of Drayton.  Heading to the site of the original Listowel Memorial Arena is also worth a stop, more so when the park and memorial are completed.  Fans who wish to stay in Listowel can stay in the Listowel Country Inn. Fans 4 The Listowel Cyclones enjoy strong support.  For the 2024 season, at the time of writing, they have averaged over 500 fans per game.  This is an increase from 355 fans in 2023.  In 2024 they are ranked 8th in the GOJHL in attendance, up from 14th.  The game that was reviewed saw more than 900 fans in attendance, nearly a capacity crowd.  Cyclone fans are typical Southern Ontario fans meaning they are generally quiet and get loud when there is something to get loud about. Access 4 Listowel is located at the confluence of Highways 23 and 86 and the Steve Kerr Memorial Complex is located at the northwest edge of town.  Getting to the arena will not be difficult at all and traversing town is not difficult.  There is plenty of parking at the complex and it is free.  Fans who wish to take public transit to the game are out of luck, but this should not be surprising considering the size of the town.  Getting around the Steve Kerr Memorial Complex is not difficult at all and the washroom facilities are adequate for the arena. Return on Investment 5 GOJHL hockey offers one of the best returns on investment that can be found anywhere.  Adult tickets are sold for $12, students/seniors are $10 and kids are $6.  Parking is free and the concession prices are about what one would expect.  The product on the ice is solid and the atmosphere that the Cyclones put together is great.  Overall, a Listowel Cyclones game offers great value and is a great activity for the entire family. Extras 3 An extra mark for the hopefully future Listowel Memorial Arena Park which will be located at the site of the original arena and will provide a permanent memorial for those who perished in 1959. An extra mark for the Listowel Cyclones being named after Frederick “Cyclone” Taylor. An extra mark for Listowel being the home of Letterkenny crater Jared Keeso. Final Thoughts When in Ontario, taking in some Junior B hockey is a great way to get a sense of the province beyond just the big cities.  Listowel is one of the cornerstone franchises of the GOJHL and the Cyclones offer a terrific history.  The Steve Kerr Memorial Complex is a solid Junior B venue and a great place to catch a game. ----- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Photos courtesy of the UFL On February 15 the newly formed United Football League (UFL) unveiled its official game ball. The UFL was created by merging the recent incarnations of the United States Football League (USFL) and the XFL. The new league will begin playing their inaugural season on March 30, 2024 and will feature eight (8) teams from the combined leagues: the defending USFL champion Birmingham Stallions, defending XFL champion Arlington Renegades, DC Defenders, Houston Roughnecks, Memphis Showboats, Michigan Panthers, St. Louis Battlehawks, and San Antonio Brahmas. The new balls have been designed and are handcrafted to “perform at the highest level,” according to the UFL. Each football is embossed with metallic lettering and has the UFL logo hot-stamped in silver, along with the team markings. The design of each UFL ball features premium Horween Red 864 top-grain leather and suede ProTack+ lace. According to a release from the UFL, the goal is to: “[reflect] the contemporary look of the UFL brand yet remains authentic to the game of football.” Big Game Football Factory of Dallas, the largest American-owned football factory in the world, is the company tasked with creating, designing, and building the new balls from start to finish. This year marks the company’s 30th as the industry leader in custom-made footballs. The official league game ball is available for purchase on the newly launched Shop.theufl.com and through TheUFL.com. ---- Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477. Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Hespeler Memorial Arena 640 Ellis Road Cambridge, ON N3C 4N1 Hespeler Shamrocks website Hespeler Memorial Arena website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 720 Shammies are Buzzin In Ontario, Junior C hockey is usually the domain of small towns, but for every rule there are exceptions.  The City of Cambridge has a population of over 138,000 but was amalgamated in 1972 from the towns of Preston, Galt and Hespeler.  Over fifty years later, those divisions are still felt in Cambridge.  Loosely considered the part of Cambridge that is north of Highway 401, Hespeler has a long history with hockey including being the former home of hockey sticks manufactured of the same name. The original Hespeler Shamrocks were founded in 1960 and began in the Central Junior C Hockey League.  The team moved up to Junior B in 1979 and were renamed the Cambridge Shamrocks in 1979.  Success did find the Shamrocks as they won their league in 1963, 1964 and 1970.  They also won the provincial championship, Schmalz Cup, in 1964.  The Shamrocks would move to Guelph in 1982 and return to Cambridge, in an ironic circular turn of events, in 2018 and continue in the GOJHL as the Cambridge Redhawks. The current iteration of the Shammies began in Simcoe in 1959 as a Junior B team, dropping to Junior C two years later.  In 1965 Simcoe would bring home the Schmalz Cup.  Beginning as the Juniors and going through a host of different names, 2017 would mark the christening of the Simcoe Shamrocks and the following year would see the team move to Cambridge to begin again as the Hespeler Shamrocks in the Provincial Junior Hockey League. The original Shamrocks played in the original Hespeler Memorial Arena, built in 1947 and named to honour the veterans of World Wars I and II.  In 1990 the current arena was built and the name traveled from the old arena to the new one.  Eventually a second ice surface was built and added on to the Hespeler Arena.  The Shamrocks play in Rink 1, which boasts a seating capacity of 720.  The Shammies provide a solid hockey experience that fans will enjoy. Food & Beverage 3 Concession options in Junior C hockey rinks are really hit or miss.  The concessions at the Hespeler Memorial Arena are better than to be expected.  The main concession area is found between the two rinks.  Hot dogs, chicken strips, fries, onion rings and poutine are featured on the menu.  Pepsi products and bottled water along with coffee, tea and hot chocolate are the soft drinks available.  In the Blueline Club, essentially on the level immediately above the concession stand, fans are able to purchase alcoholic beverages and consume them within the club, which features windows that look out to the ice surfaces.  The Blueline Club is run by Duke’s Dugout and is in the upper southwest end of the rink. Atmosphere 3 The Hespeler Memorial Arena is a solid venue for Junior C hockey.  The exterior features light brick with green siding and is fairly low profile.   The second ice pad was built to the south of the original building and perpendicular as opposed to parallel.  Upon entering the lobby it is clear to fans that Hespeler Arena is a community hub and the home of the Shamrocks.  There are youth hockey pictures all over the lobby. The Shamrocks do a good job of advertising their presence within the lobby with trophy cases dedicated to the team.  A framed collage dedicated to the arena from former NHL player and Cambridge native Kirk Maltby can be found in the lobby also.  A temporary ticket table welcomes fans and once a ticket is purchased it is up to the second level.  Nods to the Shamrocks continue on the upper floor with a trophy case featuring player profile photos.  Also of note is a framed print of the original Hespeler Memorial Arena. Inside the seating area, the ice surface runs from northeast to southwest and the elevated seating area is on the northwest side.  The seating area consists of nine rows of plastic stadium seats.  The southeast side of the arena features a ton of youth hockey banners.  In the west corner a selection of NHL jerseys from Cambridge locals is proudly displayed. Honourees included Paul Woods, Ken Ellacott, Red Laurence, Tim Brent, Kirk Maltby and referee Bob Hodges.  The Shammies banner in the north corner announces the home of the team and a simple scoreclock is on the northeast wall.  A couple of other items of note for the arena itself include the need of a paint job and the significant temperature drop when entering the seating area.  Gloves are a good idea and selecting a seat under the gas heaters is also a good plan.  Championship banners or other recognition of either the original Shamrocks or current franchise would be good. The gameday production for the Shamrocks is fairly simple.  Music is played during breaks in the action.  Junior hockey staple promotions including the 50/50 draw and program raffle are also available.  Unfortunately the PA system in the seating area is not terrific and announcements are difficult to understand at times.  They are, however, crystal clear from the Blueline Club.  The one piece that is easy to hear is the encouragement of “Go Shammies” after nearly every announcement. Neighbourhood 4 Hespeler Memorial Arena is located in the Hespeler Village neighbourhood of Cambridge.  There are a number of places to stop for pre or post game food or drink that are within a very short drive.  Some spots include Ernie’s, Four Fathers Brewing, Freida’s, The New York and The Angry Oak. For fans looking for another sporting option in Cambridge, the Junior B Cambridge Redhawks of the GOJHL play in the Galt area of town.  Other tourist options in Cambridge include Hespeler Village, the Hamilton Family Theatre, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory and the McDougall Cottage Historic Site.  For fans who wish to stay close to the arena, the Comfort Inn and Homewood Suites are options. Fans 2 Hespeler Shamrocks games average between 150 and 220 fans per game.  While it is true that the Shamrocks play in a larger centre than many other PJHL teams, they do have plenty of sports competition in the Tri-City area.  It appears that Hespeler is in the bottom third in attendance in the PJHL, so there is plenty of room for improvement.  Fans in attendance are typical Southern Ontario fans, as in fairly quiet who get loud when something big happens Access 5 The Hespeler Memorial Arena is located in the Hespeler Village neighbourhood of Cambridge.  The arena is on the south side of Ellis Road.  It is just north of Highway 401.  There will be a bit of traversing through residential areas to get to the arena, but that will not be a problem and traffic won’t be an issue.  There is plenty of free parking on site.  For fans who wish to take public transit to the game, there are bus stops on Ellis Road and nearby Cooper Street.  Fans should check the Grand River Transit website for fares, schedules and maps.  Getting around the arena is not a problem, however, if there are two games going on at the same time, the concession area can get a little crowded.  Washroom facilities are adequate for the arena. Return on Investment 5 The investment in a Junior C hockey game is pretty low.  Adult tickets can be had for $10 and children and seniors can get in for $5.  Parking is free and concession prices are what one would expect.  The premier time for Shammies hockey is Sunday afternoon, leaving plenty of time in the evening for other options.  The product on the ice is good and the investment is such that bringing the family won’t dent the pocket book.  Overall, a very affordable and solid experience. Extras 3 An extra mark of the community focus and embracing of history in Hespeler. An extra mark for the bee motif that travels through Hespler.  A marketing strategy in the early 1900s, the image of the bee and beehive came with the slogans that Hespeler was a “honey of a place to live” and a “beehive of industry.”  The Shamrocks have embraced the bee with hive icons on their logo and the hashtag “boysbebuzzin”. An extra mark for the volunteers who help make the Hespeler Shamrocks run. Final Thoughts A unique Junior C experience, the Hespeler Shamrocks offer the small town vibe of Junior C hockey in a moderately sized city.  Taking in a Shamrocks game at the Hespeler Memorial Arena is affordable and an overall “honey” of an experience. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

The wait is over. The New England Knockouts have released their team branding and it packs a punch. The Brockton, Massachusetts, ball club will play its first season in the Frontier League at Campanelli Stadium. The primary logo features a bulldog wearing boxing gloves and holding two baseball bats. He has a backward cap and is looking forward. The team name is above him and dotted with rivets, an homage to the south shore’s industrial history. The bulldog resembles the bruiser personality of every boxing champion; the gloves he is wearing are a tribute to Brockton’s infamous tie to the sport: Rocky Marciano and “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler. The secondary marks feature the bulldog again and have him wearing a crown and ready to box.  The next mark spells out “KO”, short for “knockout”, and uses a ring bell for the letter O. The final mark reads “City of Champions” in cursive font. The official colors are titled “Jab” (navy blue), “Hook” (sky blue), “Overhand” (red), “Bell" (yellow), and “Canvas” (cream). The team was originally going to be called the Chowdaheads, a name chosen by fans in an online contest. The name received 3,100 votes, but team officials overruled it after it received a lukewarm reception. On December 15, the organization announced that the new name would be Knockouts to honor the city’s boxing history. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Whiting Oilers 1751 Oliver St. Whiting, IN 46394 Whiting High School Oilers website Whiting Memorial Gym website Year Opened: 1950 Capacity: 2,400 There are many great high school gyms in the state of Indiana. However, many of them in "The Region'' sometimes get overlooked. One of them is the Whiting Memorial Gymnasium. It is close to 75 years old and has the aesthetics of an old hockey barn that transports the audience to another era of high school hoops in the Hoosier State. Whiting High School built the gym for its basketball team. The dedication game took place on November 20, 1951. The gym had been in the planning stages for three years by the board of education to replace the school’s former gym, which held only 500 people. The Oilers were somewhat of a powerhouse over a century ago, with three sectional championships between 1921 and 1924. It would take almost 60 years to win another one when the school finished the 1980-1981 school year with a 16-4 record before capturing the sectional tournament title. Food & Beverage 3 The gym has a concession stand that offers hot dogs, nachos, soft pretzels, candy, and soda pop (can or bottle). There is a spot where fans can top their hot dogs or nachos with jalapenos. The prices range from $2 for a pretzel to $3 for a hot dog or a pretzel. However, customers should bring cash since the building does not accept credit cards. Atmosphere 4 The gym looks old, feels old, and smells old. That is a good thing because there’s something about this place that sets it apart from other gyms in the state. The arena’s ceiling features exposed steel trusses, and all of the seating is on the upper balcony of the building, which features hand railings and color-coded sections. The majority of the seats are painted red, white, and blue (even though some of the colors have faded). The paint was donated by Mobil Oil in time for the Bicentennial in 1976 and never repainted almost 50 years later. However, they add a unique aesthetic to the old-school fieldhouse. It has created a debate on whether the colors were for the Mobil or our country. The seating puts fans in a unique perspective on the action on the court. The theater-style seats offer a bit of comfort compared to collapsible bleachers, and one feels like they have stepped back in time when watching a basketball game. There are multiple banners of school championships on the walls, the concourse floors and walls have the same design they had in 1950, and old signage directing fans to the bathrooms, seating, and concession stands also add to the nostalgia. The gym was constructed as a memorial to fallen soldiers with the respect of removing one's hat in their honor. That rule is no longer enforced, according to the principal. Neighborhood 4 Memorial Gym is located in a residential neighborhood a block from downtown and a few miles further away by car on US-41.  There are many regional and independent restaurants, bars, shops, and coffee shops to choose from before the basketball game. There are many Mexican restaurants, including San Luis, La Michoacana (ice cream), Dos Sabores, and The Taco Dive. Beggars Pizza is a regional chain that specializes in Chicago thin-style pizza, and Center Lounge and Grillers are ideal spots for pub food. The Bulldog Brewing Company and The Standard Taproom are great places for a drink or two. Whiting is home to the Mascot Hall of Fame, which honors the sport's best mascot and offers interactive exhibits for children. Oil City Stadium is the home of the NW Indiana Oilmen of the Northern League, but they are off until the beginning of June. The city is only 16 miles from Chicago. Fans 2 Whiting High School has an enrollment of 420 students, and it shows in the stands. There is only a sprinkling of people for the game, with students hanging out on the pullout bleachers. According to the school principal, there hasn’t been a packed house in about 30 years. Access 3 The gym is next to the high school, a block from downtown, but not visible to first-time visitors. A small parking lot directly outside the school’s doors. Four main staircases lead fans to the seating on the upper level. There is seating on the main floor for fans, with plenty of room to enjoy the game. There are additional bathrooms and a concession stand on the main floor. Return on Investment 3 The gym itself is worth the price of admission, but there is not a lot of other excitement beyond that. The crowds are small, the cheer block is missing, and it can be a very soundless game from a crowd perspective. Fans will enjoy the banter from the players and sidelines, cheerleaders make their presence felt, and concession prices are reasonable, but it is cash only. Extras 3 Whiting Memorial Gym earns a point for its design, which features theater-style seating on the upper balcony level, an arched roof, steel trusses and beams, and color-coded seats. The gym earns a second point for its jalapenos that fans can add to their nachos at the concession stand. Final Thoughts Whiting Memorial Gym is one of those arenas that is a time capsule. It does not look like other current high school gymnasiums. It offers fans a chance to watch a basketball game in a special setting with theater-style seating and views that are on top of the court.  It might be one of my top five fieldhouses in the state. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo courtesy of the AP The College Football Playoff (CFP) Board of Managers announced on February 20, 20204, that they have voted to unanimously revise the qualifying criteria for the 12-team playoff that is scheduled to begin with the 2024-2025 season. The updated playoff field will now include the five highest-ranked conference champions, plus the next seven highest-ranked teams as determined by the CFP Selection Committee. “This is a very logical adjustment for the College Football Playoff based on the evolution of our conference structures since the board first adopted this new format in September 2022,” said Dr. Mark Keenum, President of Mississippi State University and Chair of the CFP Board of Managers. “I know this change will also be well received by student-athletes, coaches, and fans. We all will be pleased to see this new format come to life on the field this postseason.” The updated format modifies the original plan, in which the six highest-ranked conference champions would be joined by the next six highest-ranked “at-large” teams. The new format replaces the existing “best four” playoff structure which has been in place since 2014. The reformatting to the 5+7 is in large part a response to the latest round of conference realignments, a byproduct of which saw the virtual dissolution of the PAC-12 Conference. Under the new 12-team format, the four highest-ranking conference champions, seeded one through four, will receive first-round byes, with seeds five through eight hosting a first-round playoff game at their respective home fields. The quarterfinals and semifinals will be played as part of the New Year’s Six rotation of bowl games: the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, Capital One Orange Bowl, Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential, and the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The quarterfinals for this season’s playoffs will take place on Dec. 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025, while the semifinals will be January 9-10, 2025. The College Football Playoff National Championship will be Monday, January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. ---- Follow Eric Moreno’s Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477. Visit Eric Moreno’s writer’s portfolio site at ericmoreno.contently.com.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Historic West Gym 2717 S Morgantown Rd Greenwood, IN 46143 Center Grove HS Trojans website Historic West Gym website Year Opened: 1954 Capacity: 4,000 The Center Grove High School West Gym opened on December 14, 1954, and would serve as the Trojans home for basketball until January 1996, when its current facility, the Vandermeer Gym, debuted. However, like many former venues, the West Gym was not dismantled or left in squalid conditions. It would serve the high school as an auxiliary gym for freshman basketball games and other sporting events. It is that reason why the varsity basketball team will utilize its old stomping grounds from time to time. The gymnasium was designed by Ralph Legeman, who designed several other ‘sunken gyms’ throughout the state. His design was considered one of the best for high school hoops in the Indianapolis area. Legeman also designed the high school that opened for the 1954-1955 academic year, and it helped ease the pain from the loss of the former school and gym two years earlier. A fire broke out on November 1, 1952, at the old high school building. The fire began between 11:00 PM and 12:30 AM after the annual Halloween Carnival had concluded. The flames shot up to 150 feet in the air, and firefighters worked all night to put it out. Sadly, both the school and gymnasium were destroyed. The blaze was determined to be caused by faulty wiring. The basketball team lost all of its equipment except for its white home jerseys and continued playing on the road for the rest of the season. A holding company was created to rebuild a new high school, and residents bought shares to fund the project. $625,000 was raised to build a new school and gym. Today, the school and gym remain on the same site through various renovation projects. Food & Beverage 3 A small concession window offers hot dogs, nachos, Coca-Cola products, popcorn, and candy during games. Unlike other gyms in the state, a visible menu board does not offer prices. The menu board is accessible via telephone, and payments can made via credit card or cash. Atmosphere 3 The West Gym has been kept in pristine condition and makes for a nostalgic time to enjoy a high school basketball game. The wraparound concourse provides an ideal view of the game from any area. Fans are close to the action towards the button few rows where there isn’t much room between the playing court and stands. The design is identical to many sunken gyms of its kind around the state, but the West Gym does not have any banners, signs, or the little touches of a gym in Edinburg, Connersville, or West Vigo. However, having the gym open for one day a season is a great way to relive a few memorable moments from the school’s past. Neighborhood 3 Center Grove High School is in Greenwood, about 20 minutes south of downtown Indianapolis. It is in a residential neighborhood, close to the Greenwood Mall, 15 minutes east of the high school. This area offers an array of regional and national chain restaurants, shops, and other points of interest. Fans 3 The crowd feels a little different at games in the West Gym. No cheer blocks or student sections were providing a soundtrack to the game. There was more of an older crowd that featured an array of alumni, parents, and others taking a peek inside the old venue. Access 3 The West Gym is located at the southwest corner of the high school off Montgomery Road and close to Pennington Road. There is construction taking place, but there is parking directly in front of the gymnasium. The other option is to park in front of the current gym Vandermeer Gym, and walk over through the school. Once inside the arena, a main concourse wraps around the seating bowl, providing an unobstructed view of the basketball court. A small concession stand and restrooms are available on the concourse level. Return on Investment 3 The ticket price is $6, and it provides fans a chance to witness a high school game at Center Grove's old gym, where a lot of memories were made. The gym will celebrate 70 years in December 2024, and it is nice to be able to go back and enjoy a game. Extras 2 An extra point is awarded for the West Gym used for select varsity games throughout the season. These games are connected to alumni events that bring back memories for all those attending. A second point is the usage of the historic gym. It still looks fantastic for a gym of its age. Final Thoughts The Historic West Gym is a pleasant way to enjoy a high school basketball game in the Indianapolis market. The 70-year-old sunken gym still offers a glimpse of the school's past and present. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com