Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Molineux Stadium Waterloo Rd. Wolverhampton, England WV1 4QR United Kingdom Wolverhampton Wanderers website Molineux Stadium website Year Opened: 1889 Capacity: 31,700 Wandering Around Molineux Ever since seeing relegation from the Premier League in 2012, Wolverhampton Wanderers have plummeted down the English football ranks, playing the 2013-14 season in the third tier, better know as the “Sky Bet League One.” However, under new manager Kenny Jackett, order is looking to be restored, as they are favourites to be promoted back into the Championship. The Wanderers have always been apart of England’s rich footballing history, as they were founders of the Football League in 1888. Not only this, but the East Midlands club can be thanked for the development of continental soccer, as they helped create the European Cup, or what is now called the “UEFA Champions League.” During an eleven year spell, between 1949 and 1960, the Wanderers won the League three times and the domestic cup twice. As for the stadium, Molineux has played host to Wolves ever since 1889, and in recent years, has been renovated to 31,700 in a hope to give Wolves a stable base, something that has always been lacking. As for the ground, it is…well, weird. In 1990, when Sir Jack Hayward took over the club, it paved a way for new developments. He modernised all the stands to meet the FA’s regulations and brought the capacity to 28,525. At the time, it was one of England’s finest stadiums. However, over the years, it has slowly declined–much like the team–and now looks grotty. The Billy Wright and Steve Bull stands are weirdly shaped, almost bending outwards from the pitch. The view from where I sat on the Steve Bull stand was admittedly very good, yet was rather cramped! The newly renovated Stan Cullis on the other hand, looks rather swanky, though it is still awkwardly shaped, placed to the right of the pitch, rather than in the center. Food & Beverage 3 As I say in all my reviews of traditional English stadiums, the food and beverage is poor and overpriced. And Molineux slips right into this category. A beer and hot chocolate came to a staggering £6.50 ($10.75) – one of the highest prices I have ever encountered. Bearing in mind that League One clubs are small, Wolves really do stretch the limit on their prices for fans. As for food, burgers, chicken burgers are £4.50, which is extortionate considering the quality. As for the service, there are many areas to buy food from inside the ground, and the queues are dealt with swiftly. Other foods include £3 ($5) pies, in a range of varieties like “Meat and Pie” and “Cheese and Onion.” Overall, the food is, well, okay, with prices like that of Premier League clubs. The facilities are fine, including the catering, serving a range of Wrights Pies including; Steak and Ale, Chicken Balti, Moroccan Chick Pea (all £3.60), Hot Dogs (£4.50), Sausage Rolls (£4) and Vegan Sausage Rolls (£4), Teas & Coffees (£2.30), Bovril or Hot Chocolate (£2.40). Atmosphere 3 The fans pack the grounds before the match and various vendors set up shop selling merchandise and food. There is also live music and big screen TVs outside the entrance for pre-match party atmosphere. Everyone in the crowd is more than likely wearing a bright yellow kit with the Wolves logo. If every stand sung and roared like the fans on the “Jack Harris” stand, the rating would undoubtedly be five-star. However, this was not the case. Before the match, all the home fans came together to sing “Hi, ho, Wolverhampton” which hit me hard, as the noise was incredible. Yet after that, the atmosphere fell flat. The only exception was the “Jack Harris” stand, situated by the away fans, who sung their hearts out whilst the team were doing well and were incredible. As it’s a small stand, the fans packed together and this really stood out, intimidating the away fans. When the team were losing however, Molineux fell silent and the fans started getting on at the team, which only encouraged the travelling team. Now, I understand that the fans are disgruntled at the situation they currently find themselves in, and this has clearly affected the noise in the ground. When in the Premier League, Molineux was a fortress and it really played 12th man for the team, as Wolves managed to beat teams like Man United, Chelsea, and Liverpool. Neighborhood 3 Around the ground, the area is fine, and I have no complaints. In and amongst the area, there are a few pubs – dominated by home fans as you expect. Eating is fine, as there are a quite a few local takeaways, which I advise as the food is cheaper and an overall better quality. If wanting to make a day out of your visit to Wolverhampton, this can be achieved by visiting Bentley Retail Park. After taking a trip there on a previous day, there is a top class Hollywood Bowl bowling alley, cinema, and other cheap fast food outlets, such as KFC and McDonald’s. Fans 4 After seeing their team be very mediocre for the past decade, it’s easy to understand that Wolves fans are frustrated. However, I have to applaud the Wanderers’ support, as it is just magnificent. Even in League One, fans continue to fill Molineux, which provides a special experience for away fans, as many traveling teams are used to crowds of around 5,000, not 30,000! Wolves have always been a well-supported team and this is shown by the ambition of the owners, as they have plans in the future to extend Molineux to over 50,000, which is a little unrealistic at this stage. As for away days, Wolverhampton are easily the best in League One, filling out away ticket allocations every week. My only issue with the fans is something quite remarkable. The fans in the Jack Harris Stand started hurling abuse at their own set of fans around the ground. Now you’re probably thinking “What?” But this was the case. These fans started ironically jeering and swearing at the other home fans in the other stands when they finally started singing. This amazed and shocked me, as it was really uncalled for. However, if you look at it in another perspective, I suppose it shows that the fans were desperate for the atmosphere to improve and to get behind their beloved team. Access 4 Parking direct outside Molineux is something I heavily advise against, unless you want to get there two hours in advance! The traffic around the ground can be very busy, so if wanting to park, I advise to park around 15 minutes away from the ground and walk the rest, as it saves so much time. There are many car parks in this area, though what we did was book a spot at a car park in advance online, for only £3 ($5). This saved so much time and was great value, as we were only fifteen minutes away from the ground and was guaranteed a place. The other popular form of transport includes going by train. Wolverhampton Train Station is a fifteen minute walk from the ground and eliminates the obstacle of possible heavy traffic. If wanting to add a special touch to your experience, it is possible to get a train to Birmingham Train Station and then a tram to Wolverhampton, where you can walk to the ground. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices range in two categories and an adult can attend a game for as low as £25 in Category B. The highest price ticket is £46 in Category A; depending on your price point and the view you want of the pitch, the choose is yours. Tickets for 65 plus range from £15 to £26.60 and fans under 17 can get in from as low as £6 to £26.50. Extras 3 Firstly, Wolves is a unique club, as they have their own museum. Opened in 2012, the museum presents a lot of content for diehard Wolves fans and also the neutral. For example, there are a few interactive activities, like “Beat The Goalie,” in which you compete to score past a computer generated keeper. Outside the ground are three quite stunning statues. The first is of club legend Billy Wright. This bronze figure captures Wright running with a ball tucked underneath his arm, giving the experience a historic feel. The second is of historic manager Stan Cullis and this again gives the overall experience a special feel, as this is magnificent. The third statue is of Sir Jack Hayward who was the club’s owner from 1990 to 2007. Additionally, inside the ground are a number of Sportingbet.com betting parlours. Also, outside the ground is the programme £3 ($5) and admittedly this is a very poor one, as the printing quality is shoddy and the actual material is a cheap paper, which makes it so flimsy. Final Thoughts Overall, I found visiting Molineux a great occasion, as it was special to see a packed house for a third-tier football match. The atmosphere was special throughout the first half, and the quality of football was unexpectedly incredibly high. My only issue is the lack of care for the stands and also the ticket prices. In my opinion, visiting Molineux is something I wouldn’t advise against as it has some nice features, yet this isn’t a ground that stands out as amazing, as it needs a lot of improvements.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Phoenix Municipal Stadium 5999 E. Van Buren St Phoenix, AZ 85008 Oakland Athletics website Phoenix Municipal Stadium website Year Opened: 1964 Capacity: 7,897 Farewell to Phoenix Muni 1982-2014, Oakland Athletics Spring Training Phoenix Municipal Stadium (known as Phoenix Muni to locals) closed its doors as the Oakland Athletics Spring Training facility in 2014. The Athletics will move their spring training games to Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, AZ in 2015. Phoenix Muni opened its gates in 1964 for SF Giants spring training games. Besides the Giants and the Athletics (beginning the 1982 season), it has also hosted the Phoenix Firebirds (former AAA team of the SF Giants). The ASU Sun Devils will begin play at this stadium in the 2015 season. It was renovated in 2003 which included more comfortable seating, better access to concessions and team shops, and created private indoor suites and a covered patio suite. One point of note is when the New York Giants moved from the Polo Grounds in New York to San Francisco, they brought with them the light poles for Muni, and they still stand today. Like its parent club, the Athletics spring training is more about the baseball than any other frills or gimmicks. It continues to be just basically baseball which, for this author, is quite refreshing. Food & Beverage 3 Your standard ballpark fare is here: dogs, burgers, peanuts, pizza, pretzels. A Division Champs Combo which includes a big dog, a beer/soda, and a small bag of peanuts is $13.75. Pepsi is the soda provider at Phoenix Muni. Other options include a BBQ pork sandwiches, nachos, pizza, foot long dogs, corn dog, and nachos grande, and Asian noodles ranging from $3 – $8. Standard beer options include Bud, Bud Light, Coors, Coors Light, etc. There are two Angelo’s Italian ice/gelato carts on the concourse. There are several craft brew carts throughout the concourse so be sure to check those out if standard domestic beer is not your preference, though they can be pricey at $11. Vendors parade the stadium stands and offer snacks such as churros, sno cones, ice cold beer, and lemonade among others. Specialty items include Honeybear’s BBQ sandwich $8 and Loco Patron Chicken Tacos $8. I was told Honeybear’s BBQ sandwich is pretty bad (dry), at least at the game I attended. Perhaps it was just a bad batch. The third baseline concourse offers a nice spot to get some food and beverage with picnic tables in which to enjoy your nourishment. It has Blue Moon ($10) and Coors Light (other concessions are available as well). It appears most concessions are cash only. Atmosphere 5 Since Phoenix Muni is one of the oldest ballparks in the Cactus League (Spring Training in AZ), it has lots of history. And that will continue when the ASU Sun Devils arrive in 2015. Historical events are etched in the concourse floor. Most folks ignore them or don’t realize they are there. Do take the time to stroll around the concourse and read the etched messages in the floor to read the history this stadium offers. There are banners honoring individuals who have been recognized in the MLB Hall of Fame as well as the World Series championships of the Oakland Athletics. Will these be replaced by the many retired numbers of ASU ballplayers? If you want to sit in the shade (recommended on those hot AZ spring days) choose upper box seats above row four for tickets. Most seats are the traditional plastic green fold down variety. Bleachers with backs are in the outfield. The scoreboard is small and hard to read; it provides minimal information: balls, strikes, outs, hits, runs, errors. Bring binoculars if you care about reading the scoreboard. The music volume level is absolutely fine during the game allowing fans to talk with their neighbors vs. yelling at them. The bullpens are on the field beyond the first and third bases. There are beautiful geological formations of Papago Park beyond the left field. Watching a game here is about baseball. Not the other stuff. That said, there are a few promotions and giveaways during the game. Neighborhood 3 There’s still not much to see or do walking distance from the arena. Phoenix Zoo (about ½ mile from stadium) Desert Botanical Gardens (about 1 mile from stadium) Both worthwhile visiting before or after the game (the zoo closes at 5pm so that might be a better pregame visit). A minimal number of local or chain restaurants are within walking distance. There’s a Ladybug Café, a Starbucks, a Filiberto’s Mexican Restaurant, and Samis Gyros all ½ mile from the stadium. Besides that, there’s just not much close by. The Phoenix area does offer nine other spring training venues as well as a plethora of other attractions to see and do. Fans 5 One just has to admire Athletic fans for following their team even though the current ownership does not appear interested in investing in the team or their regular season stadium. The fans are engaged, respectful, energizing, easy to talk with and very knowledgeable of their team and the game. They are helpful when asking questions about the play at hand and/or Athletics information. And they are passionate even booing an appealed call that didn’t go their favor. Attending an Athletics game is worth it regardless of the venue in which the team is playing because of the fabulous fans. Access 3 If you have a fear of heights (like this author does) then you will have trouble. The parking lot is across a four-lane street. One must walk across a bridge to get to the stadium. If you do have a fear of heights, try the light rail or have a friend drop you off on the stadium side of the street. Handicapped parking is available on the stadium side of the venue so no difficulties for those folks. A light rail station is ½ mile from the stadium – Valley Metro’s Light Rail. There are bus routes available as well. Plenty of bathrooms are available and they are clean with a minimal wait after the game. There is ample seat and leg room in the seating areas. The concourse does get crowded during the game making strolling through them a chore. We’ll see how that translates when ASU occupies the facility. Return on Investment 4 Tickets range from $12 – $24 for a spring training game. If you live in the area, the Oakland Athletics also offer some season ticket packages as well as 10-game packages. The food prices seem high to me. Getting to a stadium to see a game where the game is more the focus than the other promotions is always a plus in my book. And watching the last season the Athletics played in the venue is worth the expense. Do check out a game here when the ASU Sun Devils take the field in 2015. Extras 4 Watching a game at Phoenix Muni is about the baseball being played on the field. The definition of a fan is a person(s) who is enthusiastically devoted to something. I’ll give the Athletic fans a few extra points as they are not only devoted, they are passionate and they deserve some credit. Also notable is the history that is displayed throughout the stadium, including the light poles from the Polo Grounds and the etchings on the floor of the concourse. Final Thoughts This is a final farewell to Phoenix Muni as a superb venue in which to watch an Athletics spring training game. It’s a bit sad as it is a great ballpark. A future review will see if the ASU Sun Devils provide the same presence and experience.

Photos by Ed Pelle, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Thomas Assembly Center Stadium Blvd Ruston, LA 71272 Louisiana Tech Bulldogs website Thomas Assembly Center website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 8,000 No Doubting Thomas Assembly Center Louisiana Tech is most well-known athletically as the football powerhouse that NFL great Terry Bradshaw led to three Division II National Titles. Although Northern Louisiana would be considered football country, the area has produced some great basketball talent over the years. All-time greats such as Joe Dumars, Elvin Hayes, Willis Reed, Robert Parish, and Karl Malone for whom the basketball court is named at Louisiana Tech University, have all called this part of the state home. It is also home to arguably the greatest basketball player of all time: Bill Russell (my apologies to King James). Located across the street from Joe Aillet Stadium, home of Louisiana Tech football, the Thomas Assembly Center has been home to men’s and women’s basketball since opening in 1982. It is also the home of women’s volleyball with a seating capacity of 8,000. The Lady Techsters women’s basketball team has a long history of excellence at this facility. They have won three National Titles since 1981 and have been National Runners-up four times. They also have the distinction of hosting the largest crowd at the Thomas Assembly Center for a game in 1985. The men’s basketball team has also had some success. They have qualified for the NCAA Tournament on five separate occasions. The program has produced recent notable NBA players P.J. Brown and Paul Millsap, and three Bulldog greats have banners hanging in the arena. Jackie Moreland was the first All-American to play at Louisiana Tech, playing from 1957 to 1960 before moving on to the NBA. Ruston native Leon Barmore led the Bulldogs to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1967 and later became the coach of the Lady Techsters. His winning percentage as women’s basketball Head Coach is the highest ever in Division I basketball. NBA Hall of Famer Karl Malone also played here during his college days and is still active at the University, having donated both time and money. After spending 12 seasons in the Western Athletic Conference the Bulldogs joined Conference USA as a member starting in the 2013-2014 season. Food & Beverage 2 There are three concession stands located around the concourse which serve rather standard fare for an arena of this size. Some of these items are hot dogs ($3), nachos ($4), chili cheese nachos ($5), popcorn ($2), chips ($2), peanuts ($2), and candy ($2). Pepsi products are sold here ($3 per bottle) and coffee is offered as well ($2). Interestingly some of the items listed for sale on the concession stands billboards other than what I mentioned above are no longer offered or have outdated prices. Atmosphere 3 Thomas Assembly Center has a perfectly circular construction with one main concourse. The seats have a steep pitch to them, so all the seats in the arena have a good view in this intimate environment. The main scoreboard does a great job of getting the crowd into the action with little vignettes featuring the players or mascots. There are two smaller scoreboards that are located behind the baskets at ground level. These scoreboards keep track of the players’ points and fouls but are obscured constantly throughout the game by the placement of the cheerleaders and dance squads directly in front of them. Though it is only a minor issue, a repositioning of the boards or cheerleaders would help improve the experience. The Bulldogs have two mascots. Champ is a traditional mascot in the sense that it is a dog costumed person trying to excite the crowd during breaks in the game. Tech XXI is an animal mascot that sits with his handlers overlooking the game from one of the gates. He seems calm and is used to the attention he gets from Tech fans. The Bulldogs do a great job at preserving their past accomplishments with major displays to the left and right of the main entry gate on the main concourse. The women’s basketball National Titles are in a case to the left of the entryway. Neighborhood 3 Ruston is a quaint southern town that just happens to be home to a world class university. It’s hard to recommend doing anything other than tailgating with some of the best fans around, but if you feel more comfortable leaving the campus to eat at perhaps a more relaxed setting, then I have a few suggestions. When looking for a place to eat before or after the game, do what the students do and follow them to Griff’s Burgers located on the southern edge of campus. Griff’s has a few other locations in the Southern United States. For a more traditional sports bar, visit the Dawg House Sports Grill. They have several beers on tap and serve a large menu in a Bulldog-themed setting. They have an extensive menu but I have listed some of the regional dishes that you might not find in other locales: Fried Corn ($5.75), Fried Pickles ($4.75), Fried Mushrooms ($5.75), Crawfish Bread ($8.49), Chicken Fried Steak ($11.49), Shrimp Po-Boy ($11.25), Steak Fingers ($8.25), Crawfish Etouffee ($11.49), and Southern Smothered Tilapia ($11.49). While in town be sure to drive the one mile or so west to the campus of Grambling State University which has a long and celebrated sports history. Visit the Eddie Robinson Museum and check to see if the Grambling State Tigers are in town for a possible sports doubleheader. Fans 4 One of the great things in college sports is the smaller towns across the United States that rally around a local team. While Ruston, Louisiana might not be that large in terms of population, its fans are very passionate about all happenings at the University. The parking lot surrounding the arena begins to fill up early because some fans here will actually tailgate the basketball game, a practice unheard of in more northerly climes. Often the total attendance is only around 5,000, even on weeknights or against early season inferior opponents. The fans here are knowledgeable and keep coming back in droves. Access 3 Parking around the Thomas Assembly Center is free, although the spaces closest to the main gate are reserved for those with a parking pass, such as season ticket holders or donors. This area won’t increase your walk by much if you should not have a parking pass. Getting to the campus is easy from Interstate 20. Take exit 84 south for about a mile and you will be driving past the athletic facilities. Getting to Ruston from a farther destination is a bit more complicated. By air the nearest commercial airport is located 32 miles east in Monroe, Louisiana. You would then have to rent a car and drive over. Further out there are regional airports in Jackson, Mississippi and Shreveport, Louisiana. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices run from $10 up to $28 for the closest seats in the house. I would recommend the cheaper seats here because they are still going to be fairly close to the action at a good angle to see every play. With no parking fees and reasonable food prices, a family of four could easily have an inexpensive night of quality entertainment at the Thomas Assembly Center. Extras 3 I have to give a point to the excellent speaker system which keeps you tuned into the play by play when you leave the seating area, even in the bathroom. Also be sure to check out the Charles Wyly Athletic Center located at the southeastern base of Aillet Stadium, which has a museum dedicated to 100 years of Louisiana Tech football. Be sure to stop at the souvenir stand on the main concourse which has close to a hundred separate items for sale. Final Thoughts These are exciting times at Louisiana Tech as things look to be on the upswing for men’s basketball. The program has a new, more nationally known conference for the team to showcase their great on-court product. A deep run in the NCAA Tournament could be in the near future. I would highly recommend checking a game out here as it is easily the best basketball experience in the northern half of the state of Louisiana.

Photos by Andy Mantsch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 J. Ollie Edmunds Center 202 E Pennsylvania Ave DeLand, FL 32724 Stetson Hatters website J. Ollie Edmunds Center website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 5,000 Balling with the Hatters Stetson University lies north of Orlando on I-4 not far from I-95 in the small town of DeLand, Florida. It was founded in 1883 as DeLand Academy, but was changed to Stetson University six years later in honor of famous hat manufacturer and supporter of the university John B. Stetson, hence the name “Hatters”. Just north and within easy walking distance of Main Street in downtown DeLand, Stetson is a quaint tree-lined campus that has a distinct small town private school feel to it. DeLand itself has a small town Main Street full of pubs, restaurants and local shops. Stetson is an NCAA Division I basketball member of the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Hatters basketball team has played in the Edmunds Center since 1974. Since the program elevated to the Division I level in the early 70’s, they have never made an NCAA tournament. The Edmunds Center lies on the north end of a beautiful campus and within easy walking distance of downtown DeLand. Food & Beverage 2 When you first walk through the doors at the Edmunds Center, you’ll find one high school style concession stand directly in front of you between the doors leading to both sets of bleachers lining the court. I’d love to say this adds to the local charm of visiting the campus, but the menu really is basic and lacking in character. Hot dogs, cheese pizza, popcorn and a selection of candy bars are the selections available, making it feel like it could be any local rec league concession stand across the country. Prices are cheap, but for the simple hot dogs and cheese pizza, this isn’t a surprise. The refillable cup for $3.50 is probably the best option available. Atmosphere 2 Once you pass the double doors in the gymnasium, you’ll be immediately whisked back to memories of high school basketball. Bleachers span one side of the court, while old plastic seating rises up the other side. The ceiling is flat, with the side-court hoops raised over the seats. Both ends of the courts run squarely to a wall, meaning you really do need to select the right door for your side of the court, as there’s no way around in the gym. The scoreboard is of the old light-up numbers variety with no info on players or the foul situation. If you’re looking for the replay of that big play, you’re just out of luck. General admission will get you a bleacher seat on one side of the court, while paying a little extra will get you a plastic curved seat on the other side. The oddest part of the seating is the very gradual tier that drifts away from the court. This means that if you were to go to the furthest seats back, you’ll be about twice as far from the court as you are elevated. It’s a strange feeling, and I can’t imagine the bizarre site line if the place was packed and you had to sit that far from the action. The whole place really does have an odd recreated 1970’s feel, and not in the traditional basketball sense. It feels like you’re in a plastic seated movie theater/basketball gym. The best part of it is that there isn’t much of a crowd, so putting your feet up while being only a few rows from the action isn’t a bad deal for the price. Neighborhood 4 Between the beautiful greenery of campus and the nostalgic charm of Main Street DeLand, this has to rate high. The only reason I couldn’t rate this five stars is because you will be a bit limited on overall dining and entertainment options by the size of the town. That does not, however, mean you won’t find some attractive options. Only a few blocks away, you’ll find Byte (a restaurant that came strongly recommended by some locals), as well as a few blocks full of dining options. If you’re looking for a drink, The Abbey Bar has indoor/outdoor seating and a few local beers to sample, as well as a decent wine collection. You’ll also find plenty of athletics apparel stores full of Stetson Hatters merchandise before you head to the game. I would strongly recommend parking in the free-after-5 lots behind the local businesses for dinner and a drink before walking along north along the beautiful Stetson campus to the Edmunds Center. There is also parking next to the arena on campus and a café across the street, but I think you’re missing out if you don’t hit the main strip of DeLand. Fans 2 Well, the fact that there were a few fans in attendance when I visited gets it the first star. A formal student section is almost nonexistent, as they tend to just be spread around the bleacher side of the court. The seat-back side had sporadic clumps of fans wearing Stetson green, as well. To be fair, I was impressed with the knowledge of the few fans in attendance. They seem to know the players by name and know their tendencies pretty well. So while small, the Hatters do have a loyal fan base from DeLand. It would just be nice if anyone else would turn out to see the games. Access 4 Getting to the Edmunds Center couldn’t be easier. From either I-95 or I-4, you just follow the signs to DeLand and it’ll be just north of the city center. Traffic isn’t a concern, and parking is easy either on the main strip or in the lot next to the Edmunds Center. Walking the area is simple, as it’s all a direct line up and down New York Avenue. Once inside the Edmunds Center, everything is basically ground level. Go to the left for the premium seating and to the right for general admission bleacher seats. Premium seating has two rows for floor seats readily available, but the ascent of the bleachers is very gradual and easy. The restrooms are standard, but clean enough. Just make sure you use the correct door out or you could be facing a door with no handle. Return on Investment 2 The experience is relaxing enough, especially with the combination of the quaint campus and town. But as far as the Edmunds Center and Hatters experience, you’re not going to find anything remotely special. It really is like attending a high school game in a lot of ways. Tickets are affordable, and there’s no need to spend more than $15, since all the seats on both sides will be open anyways. Food is cheap, but it’s also cheap food. Overall, it’s very affordable for a forgettable team and venue. Extras 2 All the credit here goes to the five-star town of DeLand and its picturesque southern charm. Unfortunately, I have to also review the basketball venue, and Main Street America can only help out so much with such an off-the-radar experience.

Photos by Sean MacDonald, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 H.O. Clemmons Arena 1500 L.A. Prexy Davis Dr Pine Bluff, AR 71611 Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions website H.O. Clemmons Arena website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 4,500 Fine Stuff at Pine Bluff In 2010, the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions won the opening game in the NCAA Tournament, the last time it was played before the First Four was introduced. The Lions went on to lose their first round match to eventual champion Duke and returned to relative obscurity in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), widely considered to be the worst of the 32 conferences in Division I basketball. That doesn’t mean they should be ignored though, and although we at Stadium Journey left them as one of our last college basketball venues to review, they are definitely not the least. The Golden Lions play in H.O. Clemmons Arena, part of the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Complex on campus. Built in 1982 and renovated in 2006, the arena is named for Hubert O. Clemmons, who served in the university’s athletic department in various capacities for 56 years. He coached the basketball team from 1957-77 and was responsible for bringing them back into the SWAC in 1997 after a 20-year absence. Although Clemmons Arena is a typical campus facility, it offers the dedicated sports traveler a unique experience and is worth a visit for those who might be in the area. Food & Beverage 2 There is a single concession stand with a plastic menu listing standard options. The most expensive items are $4, including all-beef hot dogs, Polish sausage, Frito pies, and small nachos with cheese. Judging from what I saw, the nachos should be avoided, as they do not seem to be filling, but the other choices are acceptable. I tried a hot dog and found it to be better than average. Add chili to any order for $1. Other snacks include pickles for a dollar, popcorn and jumbo cookies for $2, chips for $1.50, or peanuts for 75 cents. Being a campus venue, no alcohol is for sale, but you can have bottled water or bottled soda for $3. Atmosphere 3 The court has large stands on both sides that are set back about 15 feet from the sideline, so seats slightly off the floor are a better option. One side has about eight rows of dark seats with chair backs, which seemed to be reserved, while the rest are general admission benches. The most important thing is to sit on the side closest to the main entrance as the speakers from the scorer’s table across the court are pointed in that direction and if you sit on the other side, you will not be able to hear the announcements very well. During the media timeouts the 80-member band that takes up the baseline benches will often strike up a tune and there are dancers on the benches next to them who have an interesting routine. There are also your typical cheerleaders, some of whom can do about 15 consecutive backflips in what is an impressive display. One thing I like is that the P.A. announcer gives updates on other UAPB athletic events as well as SWAC basketball games taking place. It’s a verbal out-of-town scoreboard if you will. Neighborhood 2 Pine Bluff is a rural community about 40 miles south of Little Rock. There is not much near campus, which is surrounded by a residential area and several churches. The closest attraction is the Arkansas Railroad Museum, which is open from 9 am to 2 pm from Monday to Saturday. In terms of eateries, the Colonial Steak House is just two miles south of campus and gets very good reviews, while Gino’s Pizzeria seems more suitable for those on a budget. If you are visiting on a weekend, make sure to get your beer on Saturday, as Arkansas doesn’t allow alcohol sales on Sunday. Fans 3 There was a crowd of over 4,300 at the game I attended, a great turnout for a school with an enrollment of about 3,300 students. Many of the fans are long-time supporters who know each other and there is camaraderie apparent as many fans greet friends throughout the game. The student body is well represented, but not particularly interested in the game itself. Early in the second half a sizable group left after some angry words were shared. Many others followed anticipating some fisticuffs perhaps, only to return minutes later disappointed as “nothing happened.” Not something I have seen before or want to see again. Access 4 UAPB’s campus is just north of downtown along University Drive, with the HPER building on the west side along L.A. “Prexy” Davis Drive. Do not use the 1200 University Drive address that you might find online, that is the general university address. Parking is free and there is a lot right next to the arena, and another, more open one at the corner of Watson and Davis. You can ignore the warning signs threatening you with a towing, as the lots are not checked during the evening. Inside there are two entrances to the gymnasium with one right next to the main entrance and the other hidden in an opposite corner. As mentioned, use the first one and sit on that side to hear the speaker. Should you prefer muffled sounds, you should not cross to the other side inside the gymnasium but exit the gym and find your way to the second entrance. Return on Investment 3 Tickets were listed at $15, quite high for this level, although that included two games as the Lady Lions played before their male counterparts and I was charged only $10 for the men’s game, typical for low-level Division I college hoops. Of course, the SWAC is not great basketball, but it is still Division I and you won’t regret your outlay here. Extras 2 I’m giving a point for the band which had 80 members and kept the crowd entertained during the breaks as well as the eight dancers next to the band who were very energetic in their sparkling silver uniforms. As well, a point for the banner celebrating the 2010 opening game win which is the largest in the entire gymnasium. Final Thoughts H.O. Clemmons Arena is not a place that most sports fans are going to put on their list of must-see venues, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. The crowd is lively and the game is probably the most interesting thing going on in Pine Bluff. If you are in Central Arkansas and the Golden Lions are at home, consider a visit and back the SWAC.

Photos by Ed Pelle, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Joe Nathan Field Circle Rd Stony Brook, NY 11794 Stony Brook Seawolves website Joe Nathan Field website Year Opened: 2011 Capacity: 1,000 Shock the World Stony Brook University officially began competition in NCAA Division I athletics in 1999 with little to no fanfare. In the years that followed several of the programs made strides in adapting to the new, more difficult level of competition, but the athletics department lacked a singular defining win that would make news on a national level. The men's soccer team did qualify for the NCAA Tournament three times prior to 2012, as did the men's lacrosse team, with a 2010 run to the NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals. The Stony Brook baseball team had also been a successful program with three conference titles prior to 2012, but the culmination of the 2012 baseball season saw the Seawolves make an improbable run to the College World Series in Omaha as the lowest seeded team remaining in the field. No team from the Northeast had accomplished this feat in 26 years and even Big Ten power conference commissioner Jim Delaney had previously complained that teams from the north would not be able to compete with their rivals from the South, demanding changes to the NCAA structure of college baseball. The team adopted the simple mantra of "shock the world" and won on the road at a regional in Miami, Florida and then again at a Super Regional at LSU. After defeating LSU on the road some fans of the prohibitive favorite from Louisiana even began to display "Geaux Seawolves" signs at the College World Series in a gesture of respect. The run to the College World Series is to date the most well-known accomplishment of Stony Brook Athletics and made the program known to more casual fans who resided outside of the Long Island area. Stony Brook baseball plays its games at Joe Nathan Field, which is dedicated to former MLB player and the most prominent baseball figure in the program's history after a large donation by Nathan to upgrade the facilities. The renovations were completed prior to the 2011 season. The current configuration of the field seats 1,000 and has a full FieldTurf playing area. Although Joe Nathan is known for his career as a relief pitcher for several MLB organizations, he began his professional career as a shortstop and was converted to the position despite protesting against the switch. Food & Beverage 1 As is usually customary in the Northeast where there are usually no concessions, supporters bring food for the team. What is unusual at Seawolves games is that supporters tend to bring food for everyone in attendance. The phrase "you can't complain if it is free" seems apt here, though incoming athletic director Shawn Heilbron has stated in interviews that he would like to address this issue by adding better seating and amenities for baseball. Atmosphere 3 Located at the northern most corner of campus adjacent to the softball field, Joe Nathan Field is a symmetrical playing surface 330 feet long down the foul lines and 390 feet from home plate to dead center. There is a bullpen along the third base side and a bullpen behind right field. If you were to circumnavigate the park you would not be able to watch the action from the outfield area as it is fenced off. Fans tend to cluster in the stands behind home plate, though some will prefer to stand along the foul lines. Along the third base line bullpen are large signs highlighting each victory stage in the 2012 post season run. The field of play is entirely artificial which is a significantly better approach than those baseball fields which only have an infield diamond artificially installed. The seating provided for the fans is of the aluminum bench variety with a small press box at the top of the stands behind home plate. Neighborhood 3 Located on the north shore of Long Island, Stony Brook is a quiet town that is very close to the Long Island Sound. Historically the north shore of Long Island had been home to some of the most influential aristocrats and many of these historic estates are still in existence. One such estate belonging William Vanderbilt has been turned into a museum in nearby Centerport. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $3 for children under 12 years of age. There is also a planetarium that Suffolk County, who oversees the property, built there in 1970. For pre or post game libations there are two great sports bars within walking distance of Joe Nathan Field on the other side of the train tracks. The Bench Bar and Grill has several large televisions placed throughout the establishment with sports programming always on. They have 25 beers on tap daily and a full menu of lunch and dinner dishes. Some highlights are steak and mushrooms ($19.99), St. Louis BBQ ($18.99), bourbon glazed pork chops ($16.99), seared tuna ($17.99) and rigatoni chicken alfredo ($15.99). Jake Starr Cafe is located one block east and has a similar set up with sports themed television programming, a full bar and an extensive menu. I would highly recommend a deluxe burger platter here with several combinations at starting at $11.75. Fans 3 Interest in all things Stony Brook has been on the upswing in the last few years. Since the 2012 post season run, baseball fans have turned out in larger numbers than ever. Often visitors to campus on other business will ask if the baseball team is in, and the location of the field hoping to see the Seawolves play while they are in town. Access 3 One of the great things about the Joe Nathan Field is its proximity to a Long Island Railroad terminal. It is very easy to walk from the station to the game. Most people in attendance will drive in headed north on Nicolls Road. Once you make a left on North Boundary Road right before the train trestle you are looking at the center field fence of Joe Nathan Field. Parking is available right next to the field without charge. You could even travel to, or from Southern Connecticut easily on the Bridgeport-Port Jefferson auto ferry which is a sponsor of Stony Brook Athletics. The terminal is only four miles away in neighboring Port Jefferson. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for baseball games and parking adjacent to the field is also free. The only costs here would be transportation to and from the venue. The opportunity to see high level NCAA Baseball up close for free cannot be understated. Extras 2 Behind the grandstand is a tree with two flat large rocks next to it. This shady outpost is constantly one of the most popular spots to watch the action from, though it may not have even been placed there by design. Stony Brook has a very large, interesting campus filled with modern buildings, large outdoor art pieces and a hospital on the eastern side of campus. Taking one of the free campus buses through the University would give you a sense of just how much is going on here. Final Thoughts After the post season run in 2012 the pressing question was, could this success be the product of a team that had all its parts magically come together at the right time or was this run the dividend of many years of hard work by the people involved with Seawolves athletics. As a few seasons have passed since 2012 it seems apparent that a consistent high level of play is the new benchmark for the baseball team. The future seems bright as the University has taken a renewed interest in providing a better experience for the fans in every athletic program.

Photos by Harrison Huntley, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Brooks Field Riegel Rd Wilmington, NC 28403 UNC Wilmington Seahawks website Brooks Field website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 3,000 UNCW's Diamond Hawks Brooks Field brings along an interesting story. Home to the UNCW Seahawks since its opening in 1957, it has also hosted two separate minor-league baseball teams. Two teams tried their hand at placing a team in North Carolina's port city, yet both were forced to fold shortly after their arrival due to the lack of a stadium. The Seahawks are the constant in all of this and they continue working on their goal to reach Omaha. While their stadium is fine for the previous standards, but to reach the level of a consistent contender, the overall stadium experience falls just a bit short. Food & Beverage 3 The park's concession stand is located behind the first base bleachers. The spread is pretty standard: pizza, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and other snacks. Coca-Cola sponsors the Seahawks and beverages can be purchased in 20 ounce cups. Most notably, there are three combo options that can really save you money. Be sure to take advantage of those if you buy concessions at the park. Atmosphere 3 UNCW games are a no-frills baseball experience with an absence of on-field activities and contests. The seats are either plastic seats or metal benches. The PA system has an echo on either side which gets a little troubling, but it's not too bad. Overall, there is nothing that really stands out from the experience. Neighborhood 4 While the campus may not be in downtown Wilmington, businesses, hotels, and restaurants have flocked to the area and created a college town neighborhood. One of my personal favorites is Two Guys Grille. Two Guys is a beach themed restaurant featuring American cuisine. Famous for their Philly Cheesesteaks, Two Guys offers salads, burgers, and other sandwiches. There are many more local and chain restaurants in the immediate neighborhood, and also in downtown Wilmington. The city is home to a lively downtown area with many shops and restaurants. Fans 3 Most of the fans are family and friends of the players and that is not at all a bad thing. It does, however, mean that they are much more controlled in their cheering. There are few traditions or chants to be heard. They know all the players by first name and are always supportive. Access 3 Finding the campus of UNCW couldn't be easier. Interstate 40 becomes College Road which runs right along campus. The problem is once you are on campus, you must navigate the maze of campus roads to find the stadium. Once at the stadium, there is ample parking along the intramural fields. Restrooms can be found below the press box behind home plate. They are a bit cramped, but accessible. Return on Investment 3 Tickets are $7 for reserved seating behind home plate and $5 for general admission elsewhere. If you must have a chair back, then opt for the $7 tickets. The general admission seats are metal benches and if that doesn't bother you, then you can save a couple of bucks. The food is reasonably priced (especially considering the combos) and parking is free, so no complaints there. Extras 2 The historical markers around the stadium present a nice nod to previous teams and the success they enjoyed. I give another point for the kindness of the staff. Everyone I talked with was very friendly and willing to help with anything I needed. Final Thoughts If you are simply a fan of the game and enjoy baseball without distractions, then this would be a good field to visit. The Seahawks continue to improve their on-field product and have begun to consistently reach the NCAA tournament. Hopefully in time, they will improve the fan experience. The current atmosphere is not a bad one by any means, but considering other programs in the state, it probably could be better.

Photo Credit Spatms Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.86 David R. Stopher Gym Nicholls State-Acadia St. Thibodaux, LA 70310 Nicholls State Colonels website David R. Stopher Gym website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 3,800 Nickel’s Worth at Nicholls When you go to south Louisiana, you have to go all the way down to the bayous to find a city named Thibodaux where the Colonels of Nicholls State University reside. Nicholls is probably the southernmost university in the state and as the campus sits across from Bayou Lafourche you know you’re down with the gators. If you’re ever down at Nicholls State for a basketball game you should know that the teams play in David R. Stopher Gymnasium, which opened in 1970. The Stopher caps out at 3,800 fans but for a small D-I school, there are some perks about it. Food & Beverage 2 Concession stand? Let’s just call it a snack bar. In Stopher Gym, there is one snack bar area where you can get hot dogs and nachos for $3 each. However, the beverage prices are set pretty high. PowerAde ($3), bottle of water ($3), and the soda is $3. And the snack bar is located as soon as you walk in the door of the gym. I thought I was arriving at a packed game when I walked in, but it was the snack line mixing with the ticket line. Atmosphere 1 The atmosphere was very high school like, having the few loyal fans who dress up and then the older crowd who is just spectating. One thing I was really impressed with was the upper section of the seats that were upstairs. They looked to be regular bleacher seats and could be used as such, but there also were mini seatbacks that could fold up and give you some back support. I did expect a more rowdy atmosphere since the Colonels are the only school in this area of the state and it was a conference game, so the atmosphere overall was a disappointment. Neighborhood 3 Thibodaux is a pretty small college town, which means you won’t find a whole lot to do in the area. If you’re into history though then you’ve struck gold here. There is a sugar plantation that has been running since the late 1800s in the area and the downtown area seems to have a nice taste of history behind it as well. Other than that, you’ll find your ordinary small college town, which includes fast food chains and a shopping strip about a mile away from the campus. However I must add that there are a few restaurants there that you must visit. One is called Politz’s Steak and Seafood; remember you are in the south along the bayous so the seafood is what you want to concentrate on experiencing. Fans 1 The fans weren’t in abundance for whatever reason – maybe the students go back home on weekends – but the fans that were there made sure you knew they were in the building. There wasn’t much chanting going on and the only noise really was that which came from the band members. I thought for sure all colleges had a fan base and student section; that was until I arrived at the Stopher. When you talk about student support, you can count on one hand those who showed up for the Colonels. The band did the best it could along with the cheerleaders and dance team, but the fan element definitely was missing and the school needs to find a way to get fans in the stands. Access 2 Access to the college and gym wasn’t the easiest thing, being that there isn’t a major interstate to take to just get off and make a few turns. You get there through the highways and the way I went I just followed the Bayou Lafourche, that way I couldn’t miss it because the campus is located directly across from it. To make things trickier there aren’t any signs that say arena or sporting complexes once you’re on the campus. Once you get to the back of the campus, Stopher Gym doesn’t stand out at all from the other building of the school, so it’s confusing as to where the gym is. I wasn’t particularly happy with riding around the campus hoping to stumble upon it because I like to know where I’m going. But once you’re in, the Stopher is easily accessed. As soon as walk in you get tickets, concessions, you look to the right you see bathrooms, you look straight ahead there’s the court – very high school-esque to say the least. Return on Investment 3 Here’s what I consider to be the only treasure you’ll find for watching the Colonels basketball. With ticket prices ranging from $5 – $12 and free parking, you will not find a much cheaper basketball experience. The concessions aren’t worth the time, but if you hold out on the food there, you’ll notice on the back of your ticket a free McDonalds Big Mac coupon. And yes, it works in the surrounding McDonalds in Thibodaux – I know from experience. If you’re looking for the best of college basketball this definitely isn’t the place, but if you’re looking for a cheap game to attend and a free Big Mac, here’s where you need to be. Extras 1 The only treasure is the ticket to get in because you get a free Big Mac after the game – win, lose, or draw. Other than that, the Nicholls experience didn’t quite give me my nickel’s worth. Luckily I’m a Big Mac fan though.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info Milford Ice Pavilion 291 Bic Drive Milford CT 06460 Sacred Heart Pioneers men’s hockey website Milford Ice Pavilion website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 1,000 Pioneers at the Pavilion The Milford Ice Pavilion, or “MIP”, has been the home of the Sacred Heart Men’s and Women’s Ice Hockey programs since their inceptions in 1993. Featuring general admission bleacher seating, the cozy confines of the MIP ensure that fans are right on top of the action. Sacred Heart, with its 6000 total students, is the second largest catholic university in New England. The Pioneers compete in the Atlantic Hockey Conference along with several other small universities in the northeast. The Athletic Department as a whole made headlines last year with their hiring of former major league baseball player and manager Bobby Valentine as their Athletic Director. Food and Beverage 3 Marty’s snack bar is located adjacent to the bleachers at the MIP. Voted best snack bar of any ice arena in Connecticut, it certainly has one of the most ambitious and impressive menus that you will ever see in a snack bar of it size anywhere. All the standards are here, featuring bottles of Coca-Cola products, juices, waters, and Powerades of every color of the rainbow. Fountain sodas are also available for those who prefer their beverages that way. For those looking for something a little more substantial, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, BLT’s, grilled cheese, French fries, chicken nuggets, and egg sandwiches are available. Marty’s also boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, such as chicken parmesan, sausage and peppers, meatball, and steak and cheese. Fans looking for snacks will be pleased to find assorted baked goods, cookies, nachos, popcorn, and pretzels. Try the house special heated chocolate chip cookie with whipped cream and a cherry on top to satisfy that sweet tooth. For those feeling a bit too chilled by the cold ice rink temperatures, different varieties of soup are available. The menu at Marty’s is so vast that it would be impossible to list all the items sold here. The snack bar opens bright and early in the morning to serve all the hockey moms and dads carting their pee-wees off to an early morning skate all day long through the Sacred Heart games in the evening. Prices are very affordable, with no item costing more than $5. If you need to eat while at a Pioneer game, you won’t need more than $10 to completely fill up. There are major arenas with less variety in their menus than is seen at Marty’s. The quality is decent, the prices are good, and lines move quickly. Atmosphere 2 There is not much of a game-time atmosphere during Sacred Heart games at the MIP. What energy there is here is entirely due to the presence of the Sacred Heart pep band. They are very active throughout the game, and do their best to both pump up the home squad and intimidate the visitors. Unfortunately, with the small size of the crowds at the MIP, their efforts largely are for naught. Shuttle busses are available from the nearby SHU campus, but few students make the trek from Fairfield to Milford. Attending a game at the MIP is a no-frills, basic experience. There are no in-game promotions, giveaways, or extras here. Music doesn’t blast over a high-grade PA system during play stoppages. In fact, there are several times during a game that the PA system is playing music at the same time the pep band is performing. Those looking for an elaborate in-game presentation will not find it here. Another factor working against the Pioneers here is the fact that they can hardly even be considered the primary tenant in their own rink. There is a striking trophy case in the MIP lobby, but every item inside it is from the various youth teams that call the Milford Ice Pavilion home. Inside the arena are located several banners commemorating local high school teams and the aforementioned youth teams. Sacred Heart banners can be found, but they are mixed in with all the others, and given no preferential treatment whatsoever. This NCAA Division I program is on an equal footing in this regard with a team made up of 8 to 10 year olds. It doesn’t make for much of a home ice advantage. Neighborhood 2 The Milford Ice Pavilion is located just off Interstate 95 on the edge of a residential area. There is nothing to do in the immediate area of the arena, so fans looking for food or lodging in the immediate area will follow Bic Drive south to Route 1, located about a mile away from the MIP. Route 1 runs parallel to Interstate 95 a short distance from the MIP, and there is no shortage of places to eat or stay on this route. Unfortunately, the majority of the eateries on this road belong to national chains. For fans willing to search a little harder, there are gems to be found in the area. Milford, however, is not considered to be a destination city. Hockey fans travelling to the area will most likely continue on to New York, Hartford, or nearby New Haven. New Haven is located 15 minutes to the east of Milford, and has a multitude of museums, fine architecture, and a growing reputation as one of the finer culinary cities of its size in the nation. Fans 1 Crowds at the Milford Ice Pavilion average in the 200-300 range, and would be best described as a “friends and family” type of crowd. Despite the availability of shuttle busses for students to get to the game from campus, there is a minimal turnout from the student body. What students do turn out are generally there to watch the game, not to get engaged in the antics seen at so many other college venues. With several opposing teams located a short distance from the MIP, a decent turnout from visiting fans happens regularly, with the visiting fans at times outnumbering the locals. Access 3 The MIP is located on the southern coast of Connecticut in the area known as the “Gold Coast”. The Sacred Heart campus is located 12 miles away in neighboring Fairfield. This area of Connecticut is very heavily traveled, as New York City is only an hour’s drive away on Interstate 95. Fans traveling to the area by air can fly into New York or Hartford, located just over an hour to the north. From either of those cities, travel by car is the most efficient method to arrive at Sacred Heart. The Milford Ice Pavilion couldn’t be much easier to get to. If driving, take exit 35 off of Interstate 95. Turn onto Bic Drive, and the MIP is a third of a mile ahead on the right. The town of Milford has a train station that is a regular stop on Amtrak’s busy Northeast corridor route, located 3 miles from the MIP. Local bus routes do not directly serve the MIP. Driving is the only practical method for arriving at the MIP. Once inside the MIP, there isn’t a whole lot of room to roam inside this small facility. All the bleachers are located on the same side of the rink, with a walkway at the bottom of the seating area providing access. Access to the other 2/3 of the arena is restricted to the teams playing that day. Fans requiring accessible seating will find room at either end of the rink to suit their needs. Bathrooms at the MIP are very small, cramped, and due to the heavy use that the arena gets throughout the day, not the cleanest facilities you will come across. Return on Investment 4 An evening at a Sacred Heart hockey game is a very affordable alternative to local professional hockey in the area. Tickets are sold as general admission for $8. Youth tickets are $5, and visiting students and seniors are admitted for $4. Sacred Heart students can attend Pioneer games for free. Parking in the MIP lot is free, and there is more than enough room in the lot for the average SHU crowd. Concessions are varied and reasonably priced. On average, it will cost you less than twenty dollars to attend a Pioneer game, get something to eat, and enjoy college hockey played at its top level. Kudos to the staff at SHU for their fan appreciation efforts during Seniors’ night, as all fans were admitted to the last game of the season free of charge. Extras 0 A hockey game at the Milford Ice Pavilion is a no-frills experience. Final Thoughts At the Milford Ice Pavilion, the hockey is the thing. Fans looking for elaborate in-game entertainment, promotions and creature comforts seen at larger venues will have to look elsewhere. With several other Division One programs and professional hockey teams in the immediate vicinity, Sacred Heart hockey often struggles to gain attention in the local market. Fans looking for affordable, family friendly hockey played at a top level will find exactly what they are looking for here. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.86 John A. Ryan Arena 1 Paramount Place Watertown, MA 02742 Bentley Falcons hockey website John A. Ryan Arena website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 1,250 Hockey in the JAR-o The John A. Ryan Arena, or JAR as it is known locally, is a public skating arena located in the Boston suburb of Watertown, MA. In addition to serving as the home of the Bentley University Falcons, the JAR is home for several local high school teams and local youth hockey teams. Food & Beverage 1 There is a small snack bar located near the entrance to the Ryan Arena. Only your basic items are available here, with the menu consisting of pizza slices ($2.50), nachos ($4.00), and hot dogs ($2.75). Fans looking for snacks will be happy to find pretzels ($3.50), cotton candy ($3.00), candy bars ($1.50), and fried dough ($4.00) available. Cans of Coca-Cola products ($1.50) are available for purchase, but most fans choose coffee or hot chocolate ($2.00) to help deal with the very cold temperatures inside the JAR. Many fans in attendance opted to bring in their own hot drinks from the local Dunkin’ Donuts. As you might expect from a small snack bar, the food offerings are chosen for their value, not their quality. Atmosphere 1 The atmosphere inside the JAR is about what you would expect when you attend a game at a local rink. Standard arena rock plays over a tinny PA system during play stoppages, not one, but two mascots roam around, and there is a decent turnout from the student body. Unfortunately, for the most part, students do not sit in an organized section, gathering in small groups to watch the game. As a result, their cheers and taunts tend to be disorganized, and fall flat. For most of the game, the crowd is rather quiet, making for a lifeless experience. In fact, despite the fact that I was seated three sections away, I could clearly hear Bentley’s play-by-play commentator describing the action on the ice. Neighborhood 3 The town of Watertown may be best known today as the site of the gunfight and apprehension of the Boston Marathon bombers that effectively shut down greater Boston for the better part of 24 hours in April 2013. When not in the news, Watertown is a working class suburb known for its quiet neighborhoods, diverse population, and good public schools. The JAR is located in a commercial area in downtown Watertown. Within a short distance are several grocery stores, shops, and places to stop and grab a bite to eat. While Watertown is hardly considered a destination city, there is more than enough to keep local fans happy and occupied. Given Watertown’s proximity to Boston, most fans from out of town should choose to explore the nearby city rather than remain in Watertown. Fans 2 Crowds for Bentley hockey games average somewhere in the range of 400-600 per game. Shuttle busses are available to bring students to the JAR from the nearby campus, and there is usually a decent turnout from the student body. The student section at the JAR is known as the “Falcons’ Nest”, but unfortunately most students seat themselves in small groups throughout the seating area. As a result, there is no cohesive voice coming from the stands. What chants and taunts that students do try and muster up end up disorganized and flat. There does not seem to be a lot of representation from the greater Boston hockey community at Bentley games, as crowds lag greatly behind other area programs. For the most part, Falcon crowds appear to be of the “friends and family”variety. Access 3 While the Bentley University campus is located in Waltham, MA, the Ryan Skating Arena is located in the neighboring town of Watertown, MA, a short ten minute drive from the Bentley campus. The town of Watertown is located six miles outside of Boston on the northern bank of the Charles River. Being this close to Boston, Watertown has several public transportation options. While the Boston subway system, known locally as the “T”, does not serve Watertown directly, Falcon fans looking to use public transportation to get to Ryan Arena will find several MBTA bus lines serving the area around the arena. In fact, Bus 558 has a stop at the corner of Paramount Place, just a short block away from the Ryan Arena. Other busses are available to transport people to and from downtown Boston. Fans driving to the arena (which is not recommended in the narrow, congested streets of most Boston suburbs) will take Interstate 90, also known as the Mass Pike. Exit 17 will deposit you about a mile from the arena. Return on Investment 3 A trip to the Ryan Arena will certainly not break the bank. Free parking is available in the small lot adjacent to the rink. Be sure that you actually park in the Ryan Arena lot, as several other lots near the rink belong to local businesses, and they advertise an aggressive towing policy. Tickets to Bentley games are affordably priced at $7 for adults and $3 for seniors and children. Concessions are reasonably priced, and fans have the option to bring in their own beverages if they choose. Extras 0 The hockey experience at the JAR is as bare bones as you will find anywhere in Division One. Final Thoughts Given the amount of top-notch college and professional hockey available in the greater Boston area, Bentley has a hard time attracting a whole lot of attention for their program. Fans who travel to the Boston area with limited time and resources would be well advised to concentrate their efforts at the other wonderful arenas in the area. Those fans who enjoy traveling to many different arenas will find the Ryan Arena a serviceable, no-frills facility. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 John F. Savage Arena 2801 W Bancroft St Toledo, OH 43606 Toledo Rockets website John F. Savage Arena website Year Opened: 1976 Capacity: 7,300 Rocket Men In November 2008, Toledo University unveiled the work of $30 million in renovations to Savage Arena, as well as the new Sullivan Athletic Complex. What emerged was an arena with a new scoreboard, new playing floor, suites, loge seats, new sound system and lighting, and a glass-enclosed lounge serving dinner for up to 200 spectators during a game. The Sullivan Athletics Complex includes the Varsity T Hall of Fame, the Rocket Shop, as well as a new ticket office. The end result is a beautiful facility which makes for a great day of college basketball. Savage Arena is home to both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the Rocket volleyball team. The venue seats 7,300. Food & Beverage 4 It’s a fairly typical concession array for a college basketball arena with one notable exception. Savage Arena is unlike the vast majority of collegiate venues in that they serve beer. This includes Budweiser, Bud Light, Yuengling, Coors Light, LaBatt Blue, and Mike’s Hard Lemonade ($6 for a 16-ounce cup). Wine is available as well. Outside of that aberration, you’ll find brats ($4.50), hot dogs ($3.50), soft pretzel ($3.25), popcorn ($3.50), chicken tenders ($5.50), grilled chicken ($5.50), and pizza ($4). None of these are exceptionally good or bad, and the prices seem to be on par with other similarly-sized facilities. They occasionally also offer BBQ beef sandwiches ($5.50) on a limited basis. Atmosphere 4 They’ve really done a good job with the renovations at Savage Arena. You enter the building and are greeted with the Varsity T Hall of Fame, with images of the many great athletes that have worn the midnight blue and gold over the years. The basketball team has made only four appearances in the NCAA Tournament, but I take some personal pride in seeing my first cousin, Jimmy Swaney among the Hall of Fame honorees. Swaney guided the Rockets to back-to-back tournament appearances in 1979 and 1980, including their only Sweet Sixteen appearance (1979). You’ll also find a life-size photo of Jimmy and all his afro glory in the concourse. That one concourse wraps around the arena, winding behind the seating area along the sidelines and within view of the court along the baselines. You’ll notice many banners hanging in the arena, with the vast majority being gold and belonging to the women’s basketball team (including the 2011 WNIT Championship). Blue banners hang for the men’s accomplishments. The scoreboard is center-hung with four-sided video, and player stats. It is the perfect size for this arena, and gives fans everything they would need to add to the enjoyment of the game. There’s one other small scoreboard above the Toledo student section on the end nearest the Toledo bench. The student section is bleacher seating, while every other seat offers a chairback with above average leg room, but no cup holder. Loge seats and the front row of courtside do offer cup holders for your drink. One additional unique touch is the Joe Grogan Room, a restaurant/club area that is available for fans with club seats, loge seats, or suite access. The pep band is very good, and should be given more opportunity to play. There is also a nice team shop, Rocky’s Locker, near the athletics hall of fame that is worth your while to visit if you are looking for a souvenir from your visit. Neighborhood 3 As you approach the University of Toledo campus, you’ll find plenty of chain restaurants, and hotels, including the Ramada Toledo Hotel and Conference Center. There are several bars and restaurants that are more unique to the area, but they are more likely places you would drive to rather than walk. Jed’s on Campus offers great wings, along with burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. Fans 3 The student section is interesting in that it is segregated between the two ends of the court. On one end, nearest the opponent bench, the fans stand the entire game and cheer adamantly supporting their Rockets. On the other end, closer to the Toledo bench, the students seem more indifferent, some stand and some sit, and their enthusiasm is based on how the game is going. The remainder of the arena is engaged as you might expect. Even with a lot more luxury seating options, the arena can get loud when the Rockets go on a run or need a defensive stop. Access 4 Parking is a breeze. As you enter campus, you will be given the option to either park on your left in the nearby parking garage, or drive forward toward a lot. Both options are $5, but you will want to choose the parking garage on your left. Primarily this is so you won’t have to be delayed by pedestrians when exiting the lot. In either case, parking and exiting is pretty painless. You can expect to be on your way within five minutes of reaching your car. Inside the arena, the concourse is wide and easy to move around. Bathrooms are large and clean. Return on Investment 4 Tickets are very affordable with seats going for $7 for an adult seat, or $3.50 for a child. This is a great place to take the family for an athletic event. There is a pesky $1.50 “web fee” for each seat when ordering tickets online that I find mildly annoying, but the overall price is hard to argue with. When you add in parking and concessions, a family of four can easily see a game for around $50. Extras 3 One extra point for the floor being named Bob Nichols Court. Nichols coached the Rockets for 22 years, including the golden era of Toledo basketball in the 70’s and early 80’s. He passed away in 2013, and the tribute of naming the floor after him is well deserved. Another extra point for the cool rocket design that is part of the main seating area, adding a great aesthetic component to the arena before the game. One final extra point for the competitiveness of MAC basketball. There always seems to be great balance in this conference, and it produces great games. Final Thoughts I have personally attended a game at nearly every basketball arena in the MAC, and Savage Arena is one of my favorites. The renovations really turned out well and have produced an excellent home for the Toledo Rockets and their supporters.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Olympia Ice Center 125 Capital Dr, West Springfield, MA American International College hockey website Olympia Ice Center website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 2,200 AIC at the OIC American International College is a small liberal arts college of with an enrollment of just over 2100 located in Springfield, MA. AIC’s sports teams are known as the Yellow Jackets and compete in NCAA Division II, with the exception of the men’s ice hockey team, which competes at the sport’s highest level. The Yellow Jackets are members of the Atlantic Hockey Conference, which features teams throughout the northeast, and play their home games at the Olympia Ice Center, located in West Springfield, MA. The Olympia Ice Center houses three NHL-sized rinks, and hosts several local high school teams as well as American International, local youth hockey, and senior leagues. Over 100 high school games are played at the rink each year, as well as the Massachusetts State Interscholastic playoffs. Food and Beverage 3 The Olympia Ice Center boasts a single snack bar in the main lobby. The snack bar boasts a decent menu, featuring items such as pizza slices ($2.95), nachos ($3.00), hot dogs ($2.25), and chicken tenders ($3.95). Since the OIC hosts games at all hours of the day and night, breakfast items such as bagels with cream cheese ($2.00), donuts ($1.15), and breakfast sandwiches ($3.95) are offered. Fans looking for snack items will be pleased to find pretzels ($2.00), French fries ($2.50), curly fries ($2.75), fried dough ($2.95), and assorted sizes of popcorn ($1.50/$2.00/$2.50). A wide variety of Pepsi products ($2.00), coffee ($1.90), tea ($1.65) and hot chocolate ($2.00) are also sold here. It’s an impressive menu, quality is decent, and lines move quickly. One thing that the Olympia Ice Center offers that sets it apart from other arenas of its size is the Top Shelf Lounge, located upstairs off the main lobby. The top shelf is a full service bar and a great place for weary parents and hockey fans to hide from the action taking place below. The Top Shelf overlooks one of the three rinks at the AIC. Unfortunately, it does not overlook the main rink, which is where the Yellow Jackets play. There is, however, access at the top of the grandstand of the main rink directly into the Top Shelf Lounge. Atmosphere 1 The Olympia Ice Center and the American International Yellow Jackets offer a no-frills, no-distraction game day experience. There are no in-game promotions or extraneous game day activities going on here. In fact, the only “extras” you will hear at an AIC game is PA announcements of game events (scoring plays and penalties), and music played during play stoppages. The sound system is excellent, and it is a shame that it is not utilized more often. The main arena at the Olympia Ice Arena is surprisingly spacious, with seating located on both sides of the arena. On the near side are several sections raised about eight feet over the ice surface featuring individual seating. The far side of the rink features concrete bleachers with plastic benches for seating that run for the entirety of the hockey rink. Given that the arena can sit over 2,000 for hockey games, and crowds generally hover in the range of 200-300, the OIC can seem very empty and quiet. As is the case with many other small schools that play their home games off campus, AIC offers busses to get students to their games. Unfortunately, few students seem to take advantage of this offer. Neighborhood 3 Nearby Riverdale St. is the main drag in West Springfield, and contains numerous chain restaurants. Within walking distance of the OIC are several restaurants, most notably Five Guys Burgers for those traveling with the family, and Hooters for those not traveling with the family. Fans looking to sample more local cuisine will have to search among the chains, but there are options to be found. Downtown Springfield is a short ten minute drive up Interstate 91 across the Connecticut River. Unfortunately, options for dining do not improve dramatically on the river’s eastern bank. A short drive from the Olympia Ice Arena is the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, a must see attraction for any sports fan. Located directly across the street from the Olympia Ice Arena is the Comfort Inn and Suites. Fans travelling from out of town can’t get any closer to the action than a stay here. However, with the amount of youth tournament hockey being held at the OIC regularly, the guess here is that you will be fighting for elbow room with swarms of traveling youth hockey players at most local hotels. Fans 1 Crowds at the Olympia Ice Center can best be described as “friends and family”. Announced attendance averages in the 200-300 range, with capacity of the arena set at 2200. The result is that the crowd often appears even smaller than it actually is. Despite the presence of busses to shuttle students to the arena from the downtown Springfield campus, turnout from the student body is minimal at best. Given AIC’s centralized location within the Atlantic Hockey Conference, it is not unusual to see visiting fans turn out in numbers rivaling the home fans. Access 4 Olympia Ice Center is located six miles from the American International College campus. Getting to the OIC is easy, as it is located just off of Interstate 91. Fans arriving to Springfield from the east or west will take Interstate 90 to I-91, and fans traveling from the north or south will follow I-91 to exit 13. The Olympia Ice Arena is located less than a mile off of the exit. The city of Springfield dubs itself as “the crossroads of New England”, and they may just be right. Located at the intersections of interstates 91 and 90, Springfield is only a 90 minutes’ drive west of Boston, a half mile north of Hartford, and 90 minutes east of Albany. New York City is a mere 2 and one half hour drive away. Bradley International Airport is located only 18 miles away across the Connecticut state line and is served by all major airlines. The headquarters of Peter Pan Buses is nearby, as well as Springfield’s Amtrak station. West Springfield is located a short five minute drive from downtown Springfield. Despite the ease in arriving in Springfield by alternate methods of transportation, the OIC is not served by any of these methods, and travel by car is pretty much the only way to get here. The interior of the OIC is modern and bright. Those fans needing accessible seating will find many options along the boards of the main arena and will have no problems getting around the facility. Bathrooms are plentiful, large, and clean. There are no lines, even during intermission. Return on Investment 4 A night at an American International hockey game is an affordable option to the many professional sporting events in the area. Parking is free in the large lot surrounding the OIC, and tickets are only $5 for adults, and $3 for seniors and students. Factor in inexpensive snacks at the concession stand, and it is possible to enjoy a night of competition at college hockey’s top level for under ten dollars. Extras 1 An extra point is awarded for the extras to be found throughout the Olympia Ice Center. There is a video arcade located just off the main lobby, which turned out to be a favorite location not only for the youth hockey players present, but of the college students as well. An extra favored by the adults in the crowd is the Top Shelf Lounge overlooking the second rink. If it overlooked the main rink it would be a prime vantage point to be sure. Final Thoughts The Olympia Ice Center is an impressive facility that hosts teams from throughout Massachusetts and beyond. With its three NHL sized rinks, it is not unusual to see several games going on simultaneously. This makes for a busy and festive atmosphere at the Center. Unfortunately, the AIC Yellow Jackets have not been able to capitalize fully on the hockey momentum going on here. Fans looking for the creature comforts and in-game entertainment offered elsewhere will not find that kind of atmosphere present here. Fans looking to watch college hockey played at its top level at an inexpensive price will undoubtedly enjoy their time at the Olympia Ice Center. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Bill Kitner Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Great Southern Bank Arena 685 S John Q. Hammons Pkwy. Springfield, MO 65897 Missouri State Bears website Great Southern Bank Arena website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 11,000 More Than the Bear Necessities As you approach the arena from any side but the front, it is not a very impressive venue. From the front, it looks promising, but your jaw will not drop. Get inside and you find that appearances may be deceiving. By any measure this arena rocks. But first things first, JQH stands for John Q. Hammons, who is a businessman that made his fortune developing hotels and he is a Missouri State alumnus who has a passion for sports, specifically Missouri State. There is Hammons Field, a 32 million dollar field for Missouri State and the minor league Springfield Cardinals. It is probably one of the nicest college baseball fields being used right now. The old basketball arena was named for Hammons and the JQH Arena is on John Q. Hammons Parkway. There are a few other things in Springfield named Hammons. Heck, I ended up having such a good time at the game that I named the laptop that I was using at JQH Arena the JQH Laptop Computer. Note: The arena name changed from JQH Arena to Great Southern Bank Arena in April 2022, Food & Beverage 4 They have all the basics that you would expect at a basketball game plus real hand-scooped ice cream, Mexican food, pulled-pork BBQ, a gourmet hot dog stand and a gourmet burger stand. Prices are just a little high, but nothing like the crazy NBA prices. Here is something you can do for fun; buy a cup of ice cream for $4 and tell them to cram as much ice cream in it as possible. They piled mine up about seven inches high with cookies and cream ice cream and it was filling, not to mention delicious. The hot dogs are $4 that has a nice blend of spices with a very soft bread/bun. A Large popcorn is $4, barely warm, but salty with a slight hint of butter taste. The venerable nachos have good crisp chips and slightly spicy cheese. Pepsi products are sold and a 32 oz, soft drink is $4 Atmosphere 4 Fans enter into the concourse that circles the court between the upper and lower sections. It is wide and full of things to do. Concessions are sold on all sides of the concourse and there are plenty of flat-screen TV monitors so fans do not miss any action. There is a hall of fame and it does a nice job of telling the story Missouri State athletics. A quick fun fact that I learned from the hall of fame: Since Missouri State started playing basketball the program has only had 15 losing seasons. In the seating bowl where the action happens, there is seating that covers three sides, horseshoe style with a lower section and upper section that has angled side seats. The fourth side at the open end of the horseshoe is bleacher seating for students, which goes up 30 rows from the floor. The fans in both the lower and upper seating sections enter through portals from the concourse and either go down to their seats in the lower level or up to their seats in the upper sections on both sides. Both the lower and upper sections are sloped enough so that the last rows are not that far back from the court. There are corporate boxes on any of the three sides of the horseshoe situated between the upper and lower sections and they are comfortable. At the closed end of the horseshoe on the same level as the boxes are the Prime Overtime Club for high rollers, with seating that provides views of the court, plus food and drink. Rather than enclosing it in the glass, it was left open, giving the high rollers a real game experience when they are in the Prime Overtime Club. The scoreboard is a center-hung, four-sided board, with a clear, large video display, player stats, time, score, fouls, and TOL. There is also around message board under the main video boards and message display panels above. I attended the final game of the 2010-11 season which featured Wichita State trying to defeat Missouri State for the number one seed in the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament. This 11,000-seat arena which opened in 2008 set a new attendance record with 11,077 fans making noise from tip-off until 30 minutes after the Bears beat the Shockers to the delight of the home fans. When the game ended, confetti dropped from the ceiling and that rated high on my “cool meter.” Have you ever seen a “white out” where all the fans where white? Well, today it was a “maroon out” with almost all the fans wearing maroon as ESPN2 captured the action. It was impressive and I do not think that on this Saturday there was a better college atmosphere anywhere in the country. Part of the wonderful experience is due to the staff, from ticket takers to policemen to ushers to concession workers; they treat you like they are glad you are there. You will not find this at every venue. Neighborhood 4 This arena is right on campus and located near several restaurants and bars. All have an appropriate sports theme. Within sight of the arena is Harlow’s, and also Boomer’s. Both have plenty of TVs and reasonably priced food. About a half mile away was a charming little sports bar called Ebbets Field. It was at one point an old house that is now a sports bar with everything you would expect in a sports bar. It reminds me a little of “Bobby Plump’s Last Shot” in Indianapolis. If you are a college basketball fan and you do not know who Bobby Plump is, then you better do a quick Google so you do not embarrass yourself. There are plenty of other hangouts close by should you choose to investigate a little. Fans 4 The fans, and the students on their feet almost the whole game, as well as the pep band, combine to provide a great college experience. There were probably 2,500 students in attendance. There were over 11,000 fans, but MSU averages a little over 7,300 fans per game, so not every game is this rocking. There will be nights early in the season where there are only 5,600 fans in attendance, but the arena is so nice that you will always have a nice experience no matter how many fans are in the house. Access 3 There are several lots near the arena but I didn’t see any general parking close by. There was a parking garage about two blocks away with free parking and there was plenty of street parking starting about three blocks away. So you won’t have to pay anything to park unless you are dying to part with some money, but you will probably have to walk several blocks, and who couldn’t use a little exercise? Return on Investment 4 Tickets run $20, $15 and $10 each and there were tickets for sale outside the arena for less than face value. So you can get two people (paying face value for tickets) in for between $20-$40, then get a huge hot dog, large Pepsi and a large popcorn for $12 and it is a $32-$52 dollar day. Not a steal, but not a huge rip-off either. More importantly, well worth the overall price. Extras 5 This arena is one of the best arenas built in the last 30 years. It makes my top 10 college basketball arenas in the country. Any college hoops fan on an arena tour needs to include the JQH Arena. You will enjoy a true college hoops experience in a top venue and you will be watching great MVC basketball. You will get a great seat with a cup holder, the scoreboard will give you all the relevant information you need, the food you purchase will be good and after the game, you can walk to a sports bar to catch another game or two. The game experience at Missouri State has everything I look for. Final Thoughts JQH Arena is a true college hoops experience in a top venue with everything a fan could want for in a sporting arena. The game experience is something that is much more than the “bear” necessities.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 ANZ Stadium Edwin Flack Ave Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127 Australia Sydney Thunder website ANZ Stadium website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 82,500 Thunder Sticks ANZ Stadium was opened in 1999 as Stadium Australia and was built to serve as the main stadium for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. The capacity was originally 110,000 however after renovations following the Games the stadium now seats a maximum of 82,500 people (oval configuration). Located at Sydney Olympic Park, ANZ Stadium is arguably the premier sporting venue in NSW particularly when it comes to the various football codes, hosting events such as the NRL Grand Final, NRL State of Origin, FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, and rugby union test matches. The venue also features retractable seating allowing the playing surface to be configured as either rectangular or an oval. While the Sydney Cricket Ground remains the stadium of choice for major cricket games in the harbour city, ANZ Stadium has played host to a Twenty20 International. In addition to representative sporting events, ANZ also sees numerous tenants play regular or semi-regular games including Greater Western Sydney Giants (AFL), Sydney Swans (AFL), Canterbury Bulldogs (NRL), South Sydney Rabbitohs (NRL), Wests Tigers (NRL) and the NSW Waratahs (Super Rugby). The Sydney Thunder was formed in 2011 as one of two Sydney based teams for the new Big Bash League (BBL), Australia’s domestic Twenty20 cricket competition. This league is played over a six week period during the height of summer to maximise exposure to families enjoying the traditional holiday period. The Thunder represents Western Sydney and regional areas of NSW. They have yet to experience much on-field success and have generally been overshadowed by their more glamorous cross-town rivals, the Sydney Sixers. In fact, at the time of the match attended for this review, the Thunder had lost their past 16 games. Twenty20 cricket has taken off in recent years and is a shortened version of the game designed to maximise excitement and entertainment. While many traditionalists have found T20 difficult to accept, it is clear that it is attractive to a whole new market who finds a dynamic three hour game much more interesting than the rigours of a five day test match. Domestic cricket in Australia has traditionally been state-based, however the BBL was restructured around cities to conform to the international norm. All eight BBL teams are therefore brand new identities. The league is still experimenting with how to maximise the performance of its product. The 2012-13 season saw a downturn in crowd attendance with many critics blaming scheduling, however this looks to have been reversed for the 2013-14 season. Food & Beverage 3 ANZ Stadium is well equipped to deal with large crowds, meaning an abundance of food and beverage outlets, although not all are open during Thunder games. The offerings are fairly standard for a venue of this nature, and are quite pricey. Hot food includes burgers ($8.70), pies ($5.20), sausage rolls ($4.80), hot dogs ($5.80) and hot chips ($5.70). Also available are assorted sandwiches ($7), baguette sandwiches ($10), Caesar salad ($12.50) and fruit salad ($8.90). Soft drinks (600ml) are provided by Coca-Cola ($5.20) and bottled water is $4.60. Crisps and other small confectionery items such as ice creams and chocolates can also be purchased. Several combos are on offer and include a sausage roll, pie, hot dog or burger, with hot chips and a drink for between $14 and $17.50. There is also a sushi / water combo for $14. Alcohol is served at several bars with fairly standard options including beer (Toohey’s New $7 or Light $6.50) and wine $7.20. Note that a disposable carry tray is an additional $1. While the bars do a steady trade, many patrons seem to shun the food on offer at the stadium, instead opting to bring their own snacks or meals from the many takeaway options located nearby. The easy conclusion to draw is that while the variety is reasonable for a venue of this size, it is expensive. Atmosphere 3 ANZ is a great venue for sport, no doubt about it. Many amazing moments have occurred here during a relatively short period of time. However, there really is no escaping the fact that this stadium is much better suited to football these days. The pitch faces across the oval to allow for more seats to be situated at either end which makes sense, but is a bit awkward. Also, because so many different sports and teams use the venue, there is little that can be done to create much of an atmosphere that is specific to the Thunder. There is a mascot and cheerleaders, but in such a large stadium the crowd can’t really connect with them. The atmosphere is also not very intimate as crowds average around 10,000. Most of the seating is limited to lower bowl in an attempt to combat this, but it still feels like a cricket game is being played in a large football stadium. Neighborhood 4 ANZ Stadium is the centrepiece of Sydney Olympic Park. Many of the venues used during the Sydney 2000 Olympics are on site including Allphones Arena and the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre – both legitimate venues and attractions in their own right. Over 5,000 events are held within the precinct each year. There are also numerous hotels, bars, and restaurants within the park. My recommendation is certainly to take advantage of this prior to the game, particularly in relation to food. As well as fast food there are options covering Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Italian, and modern Australian cuisine. Personally I like to enjoy a great steak at Ribs and Rumps (8 Dawn Fraser Ave). It is worth mentioning that Sydney Olympic Park is big and you need to be prepared to walk a bit to find your preferred restaurant as well as from the parking station if you choose to drive. Fans 3 The Thunder fans are really committed to their team. They’re engaged in the game and decked out in Thunder-green merchandise. However, crowds only average 10,000 per game which is the lowest of any BBL team. Lack of on-field success is obviously a factor here, but parent body Cricket NSW must be concerned regardless. Western Sydney should be an ideal location for a BBL franchise with a large population including many people with Indian and Sri Lankan heritage who are normally heavily attracted to cricket. There is no doubting the difficulty in establishing a brand new sporting identity from the ground up, however the Thunder have yet to hit the mark in attracting fans. Access 4 While SOP hosts many events, not many seem to coincide with Thunder games. However, this is worth checking when deciding to attend a game. If there aren’t any clashes, parking and getting around the precinct is quite easy. Casual parking is $4 an hour or $20 per day. The P1 parking station is probably your best bet. Public transport is also easily accessible with the train station only a short walk away. Given the size of the venue compared to the size of crowd, moving around the stadium is easy and bathrooms are plentiful. While ushers will check tickets before entering any reserved seating areas, once past this point you can probably choose your seat without too many hassles. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices are reasonable. Reserved seating is $30 for adults with reductions for juniors and concessions, along with family deals. I recommend this option because you are seated at either end of the pitch; in my opinion the best place from which to watch cricket. General admission is very reasonably priced at $20 for adults and $5 for children 15 or under. The Thunder has also created a section called “The Beach” which has been built on one side of the stadium adjacent to the playing surface. This is the most expensive place to sit with adults paying $40 for a seat here. Despite the novelty, given the location, I don’t think this would be worth it. Overall, the return on investment is average. Hopefully the Thunder can attract more fans and create a better atmosphere which would make for a more exciting event. Extras 3 The Thunder receives three extra points. The first is because they play trial games in the lead up to the BBL at suburban grounds in their catchment areas including Blacktown, Western Sydney, and Wollongong in regional NSW. The second extra point is for the practice nets located outside the stadium on the side near P1 – get here early and see the players warming up. The third extra point is for the Thunder attracting Mike Hussey to their team for the 2013-2014 season. Hussey is one of Australia’s best cricketers of recent times and although he has now retired from international cricket, still has incredible ability. He has been largely responsible for keeping the Thunder competitive recently. Final Thoughts The Thunder does a lot of things right. They are very active on social media and connect well with their fans across their catchment area. Their fans are committed and have bought into the Thunder identity. ANZ Stadium is also a great sporting stadium, however whether it will truly be accepted as a cricket venue remains to be seen. Hopefully the Thunder can start to win and attract more people to games which will certainly help.

Photos Courtesy of Wikipedia Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Bragg Memorial Stadium 1500 Wahnish Way Tallahassee, FL 32310 Florida A&M Rattlers website Bragg Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1957 Capacity: 25,500 Something to Bragg About The home of Florida A&M football has come a long way since the first days of the Rattler program. Originally playing in a cow pasture, the football squad moved their games to a grass field before Bragg Memorial Stadium was built in 1957. Named in honor of Jubie Bragg, one of the first athletic directors for the school, and his son Eugene Bragg, an All-American and coach for the Rattlers, the stadium has undergone many renovations over time to provide a suitable home for Florida A&M football. The capacity of the stadium expanded from its original 13,200 to 25,500 in the 1980s when the Florida Legislature earmarked funds to update and repair the facility that had been condemned by state engineers. While the crowds have not quite reached that level in recent years, the pride of those who support Rattler football at Bragg Memorial Stadium cannot be denied. Food & Beverage 3 When going to any sporting event, one can expect to buy fairly average food for an above average price. The same holds true for games at Bragg Memorial Stadium. The usual game day fare of hot dogs, hamburgers, soda, peanuts, a variety of candy and other snacks are available for fans. Fans swinging by the concession stands will notice that the workers are often quite friendly and the lines move quickly, allowing patrons to hit the concession stand and not miss much of the action. Atmosphere 3 With a capacity of 25,500, the Rattlers often play home games in front of a crowd half of that size. Historically, this atmosphere has proven to provide one of the most difficult places for opposing teams to play in HBCU football. Rattler fans have a great amount of pride about their team, and they do not mind showing it all game long. Also adding to the atmosphere of the game has been the return of the Florida A&M band. A few years ago, a hazing incident led to the suspension of the Marching 100, but the band made its return at the start of the 2013 season. Highly acclaimed for their abilities, the band adds to the environment of the game. Neighborhood 3 The Florida capital of Tallahassee offers many different things to the fans who attend a game within its confines, but one thing that it does not offer is an area dedicated to the sports in its city. Fans wanting to spend the night before or after the game near the stadium can choose from a variety of hotels from within one or two miles of Bragg Memorial Stadium. This includes the Governors Inn, which allows residents to take a bit of a break from the usual type of chain hotels. Fans looking for a bar in the area should swing by Tomahawks for the pre-game or post-game trip. While Tallahassee may not be a dream destination for a sporting weekend, the city is only about 40 miles from the beaches of Bald Point State Park to the south and only two hours from Panama City which would allow fans an opportunity to make a beach weekend out of a home game. Fans 3 Florida A&M has many diehard fans that support the Rattlers no matter the sport. These fans will show up at the game wearing green and orange, and they will be ready to support their team from before the kick until well after the game. The return of the Marching 100 has only added to the excitement of the fans. However, the only disappointment has come in the number of fans attending games. Many times, the Rattlers are playing in front of a half-full stadium. This detracts from the overall experience, but the fans in attendance keep the game lively. Access 3 Travel to Tallahassee will prove to be easy for most fans coming to the game. In order to get to Bragg Memorial Stadium, fans will be able to take Interstate 10 or U.S. Highways to Tallahassee. Fans travelling from the east will turn off at exit 209 and follow US 90 to the stadium, and those travelling from the west will turn off at exit 192 and follow US 90 to the stadium. One thing that has proven to be a hassle in 2013 has been the cost and convenience of parking. Fans who purchased season parking passes in 2012 saw the cost of their parking double in 2013 to continue parking near the stadium. Fans without parking passes can expect to walk about a mile or so to the stadium to avoid fairly high parking prices. Return on Investment 4 How one feels about their investment in tickets and travel to a Florida A&M football game will largely depend on the expectations they have for a college football game. If the expectations are for 50,000 or more screaming fans with top notch talent on the field, the game will seem like a waste of time and money. However, if one is interested in seeing a game in front of fans that have great pride in their team and watching players that have talent, that fan would walk away feeling good about the investment that was made. For the 2013 season, season tickets could be purchased for $85. Individual tickets for games cost $30 for reserved seats and $25 for general admission. A family four-pack could be had for $60, and youth tickets can be purchased for $10. In all, being able to get your family in and out of a football game, including parking, and concessions, for about $100 makes for a pretty good deal. Extras 2 The administration that oversees game days at Bragg Memorial Stadium has proven willing to put the good of the fans over the dollar on occasion. For the Rattlers’ game against Samford in September, fans were allowed to bring an unopened drink into the game and misting stations were set up around the stadium as were complimentary cups of ice. The Marching 100 adds to the game day atmosphere unlike many bands can. Having this group back has been a tremendous boost for the fans, and hopefully the tragedy surrounding their hazing incident can teach a lesson for many.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Freitas Ice Forum 509 Stadium Road Storrs, CT UConn men's hockey website Freitas Ice Forum website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 2,000 Freitas Ice Forum The Mark E. Freitas Ice Forum, named after Husky hockey player, benefactor, and class of 1981 alumnus Mark Freitas, opened in 1998 to replace the outdoor UConn Ice Arena and coincided with UConn hockey’s elevation to Division One status. Food & Beverage 2 There is a snack bar located in the lobby, which is staffed by a local non-profit group raising funds for their charity. It’s not an uncommon practice in arenas and stadiums across the country, but I was surprised to see it in such a small venue as the Freitas Forum. There are two registers present to serve the entire crowd, and these two are plenty on most nights. Short lines do form during intermission, but there is plenty of time to get your food and return to your seat before the next period begins. The menu here is basic, consisting of hot dogs ($4), nachos ($4/$6.50), pretzels ($4), peanuts ($4), popcorn ($3.50/$5.50), and assorted snacks. Coca-Cola products are featured ($3.50/$4.50/$6.00), with bottled water ($4) also available. Since the arena is often a very chilly place to be, coffee and hot chocolate are also offered ($3). Alcoholic beverages are not sold at the Freitas Forum, per NCAA regulations. As you might expect for an operation of this size, the quality of the food items is not the greatest. Atmosphere 2 Upon entering the Freitas Forum, it appears to be the type of standard local rink you would find in any town or city. The walls are aluminum, as are the bleachers. Credit should be given to the game day operations staff at UConn for taking what could be a boring, plain backdrop and attempting to infuse some life into the game day experience. You will find your typical hard-rock music during play stoppages, some giveaways and promotions during intermissions, and a great deal of staff around for a venue of this size. Too much intrusion from the PA announcer or DJ would certainly feel out of place in such a small venue as the Freitas Forum, so kudos to the staff here for striking a nice balance. Neighborhood 3 The tiny town of Storrs, Connecticut is dominated by the university. Storrs’ population of 10,000 is overshadowed by UConn’s undergraduate enrollment of 16,000, with an additional 5,000 enrolled in graduate programs. The university is located over a sprawling 4,000 acres, and is largely self-contained, which is a necessity given Storrs’ rural location. Fans looking to stay in Storrs will find their choices limited. Most fans who come to the area will do so as a day trip, moving on after the game to the larger cities of Hartford, 45 minutes away or Boston, located 90 minutes from the UConn campus. The twin casinos of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun are located a short 45 minute drive from Storrs. Fans 2 Fans at UConn, as in much of the rest of New England, know their hockey and are into the action throughout the game. Rules need not be explained, and heaven help the referee who isn’t calling the game well. The stands were full of families, alumni, and good old hockey folk. It says a lot about the support a team has when an arena can be half filled for a Saturday afternoon game during the winter semester break. There were not many students to be found on this afternoon, but again, that is entirely due to the fact that classes were not in session. Access 2 The University of Connecticut is located in rural Storrs, Connecticut, a village in the town of Mansfield. The campus is a 45 minute drive from Hartford, the capital and largest city in the state. Fans wishing to drive to the UConn campus will be well served in knowing that no highway serves Storrs directly, and a drive through the scenic eastern Connecticut countryside is necessary no matter what direction one is coming from. The closest interstate is route 84, which runs in a north-south direction connecting Hartford with the Massachusetts Turnpike. From I-84, fans will have to navigate local highways to the UConn campus. For fans traveling by train or bus to UConn, be aware that there are no stations in the town of Storrs. However, the Union Station Shuttle transports round trip from the Storrs campus to Union Station in Hartford. The closest airport to the UConn campus is Bradley International Airport just north of Hartford. Shuttles are available to the airport from the university. The Freitas Forum is located on the southwest edge of the University of Connecticut campus in eastern Connecticut. Adjacent to the hockey rink are several other athletic fields and buildings, as well as the impressive Shenkman training center and Gampel Pavilion, the largest on-campus basketball arena in New England. For fans requiring special seating once at the Freitas Forum, access to much of the rink is not available to you. The seating areas are only accessible by climbing a set of stairs to reach the seats. However, fans requiring special seating will be pleased to know that the handicapped seating is located directly on the glass at the end of rink. There are one set of bathrooms located in the main lobby. The restrooms are surprisingly large for a venue of this size. There were no lines to be found, even during intermission. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to a UConn hockey game are very inexpensive for collegiate hockey at this level, with reserved seats going for a mere $8. Reserved tickets will get you a seat on the larger side of the arena, where there are nine rows of metal bleachers. The last row of the bleachers has seatbacks, while the other rows consist of only benches. The remainder of the arena consists of general admission seating, which cost $7. There are six rows of bleachers on the far end of the arena, also consisting of metal benches without seatbacks, with the exception again being the last row, which has seatbacks. There are five rows of bleachers on either end of the rink. Seniors can attend a UConn game for $4, and tickets will cost students a mere $3. Parking is free in the spacious lot adjacent to the Freitas Forum. The lot is large enough that there is no backup after the game, and fans can be on their way home quickly. The prices at UConn rank them as one of the most affordable options in all of college hockey. Extras 1 The Freitas Forum does not contain a lot of the bells and whistles one would find in many athletic venues these days. There are a few trophy cases scattered around the spacious lobby that showcase mementos from UConn hockey’s short history. Final Thoughts At UConn, hoops are king (and queen), and football is gaining quickly in popularity. Hockey, in many regards, seems to be nothing more than an afterthought. The Huskies have only been playing at the Division One level since 1998, and have not enjoyed a winning season since 2000. The hockey program does not offer scholarships, and it is difficult to maintain a winning program with such a restriction. Granted, the basketball teams cast an enormous shadow over the rest of the athletic program, but the hockey team cannot escape this large shadow with the restrictions currently in place. The Freitas Forum, while perfectly serviceable, does not match up with the top-notch facilities enjoyed by many other athletic programs at the university. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Androscoggin Bank Colisee 190 Birch St Lewiston, ME 04240 Androscoggin Bank Colisee website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 4,000 Temporary Home for the Pirates The Androscoggin Bank Colisee, formerly known as the Central Maine Youth Center, is perhaps best known as the site of one of sport’s most iconic photographs, that of Muhammad Ali (at the time known as Cassius Clay) standing over Sonny Liston, taunting Liston after knocking him down during their heavyweight championship boxing match on May 25, 1965. Although the Colisee is located in the small city of Lewiston, it has hosted its share of notable teams and events. The Maine Nordiques of the long-defunct North American Hockey League called the Colisee home from 1973 to 1977, and the Lewiston Maineiacs of the Quebec Major Junior League played here from 2003-2011. In addition, the Colisee has hosted the NCAA Division III Frozen Four and annually hosts the Maine High School State Championships. The Boston Celtics would regularly play exhibition games here during the 1960’s. As mentioned before, the Heavyweight Championship of the world was decided here in 1965. The Portland Pirates came to the Colisee as an interim tenant while their home rink, the Cumberland County Civic Center, was renovated following the 2013 American Hockey League playoffs. Renovations were to be so extensive as to make the rink unavailable until well into the 2013-2014 season. Originally, the Pirates were to begin the season with a road-heavy schedule, playing their first 13 home games in Lewiston. However, a contact dispute between the Pirates’ ownership and the CCCC board of trustees over concession revenues forced the team to look for a temporary home for the remainder of the 2013-2014 season. In stepped the Colisee, providing the Pirates with a consistent home in the Portland area for the entire season. As of this writing of this review in December, no resolution to the contract dispute has been reached, leaving the future of the Pirates very much in doubt. Food & Beverage 3 For an arena of its size, the Colisee has more variety in its concessions than one might expect. Still, the menu does not vary too far from standard arena fare. Recent renovations included the addition of the new Tim Horton Food Court, where the hungry hockey fan can purchase hot dogs ($3), chicken nuggets ($5), hamburgers ($3.50), pizza slices ($3.50), as well as various sides and snacks. Pepsi products are featured here, with 16 ounce bottles selling for $2. For fans seeking adult beverages can find pony-sized cans of Miller Lite ($4), Sam Adams ($5), and Labatt Blue ($7) at the pizza stand. Other stands sell Dippin’ Dots and pretzels for fans looking for snacks. There is a small souvenir stand near the entrance to the arena, selling a nice variety of Pirates gear. Atmosphere 3 The Colisee does not offer anything out of the ordinary as far as game presentation goes. The typical arena rock music blares from the speakers during play stoppages, and there is an emcee roaming the arena giving away items to fans and chatting with players during intermissions. The Pirates hold 50/50 and jersey raffles during each game. The mascot, Salty Pete, is available throughout the game for photo ops with young fans. For the most part, fans here are quiet and respectful. It is possible to hear the players barking out instructions to each other throughout the game, as it is very quiet in the Colisee during game play. Unfortunately, the game atmosphere at the Colisee lacks much of the passion and edge that was present at the CCCC. An interesting aspect of the Colisee’s physical layout is the fact that the locker rooms are quite small, especially by today’s standards. This requires the visiting team to spill out past the constraints of the locker room into the hallway under the stands for their exercise bikes, glove racks, skate sharpeners, and other equipment. Fans walking in this area are likely to run into several members of the visiting squad going through their pre-game routines. While this is a charming, old-school type of quirk, it can only be viewed as a nuisance for the players. The Pirates are a team in limbo for the 2013-2014 season. As a result, the front office is in the unenviable position of trying to market the team to what is potentially a lame-duck market while trying not to alienate their traditional fan base. While attending a Pirates game at the Colisee, it is clearly evident that all references to the city of Portland have been removed from uniforms, team gear, literature, and in-game announcements. Neighborhood 2 Lewiston is the second largest city in Maine, located 45 minutes northwest of Portland. Its twin city, Auburn is located across the Androscoggin River, and the two cities are usually linked together as a single entity. The combined population of Lewiston/Auburn is roughly 60,000, making it one of the smaller cities in the American Hockey League. The Colisee is located on the outskirts of the downtown area of Lewiston, a former industrial city on the Androscoggin River. Like many similar cities in the northeast, the downtown area suffered from neglect once the economy faded and businesses closed. The area around the arena is mostly residential, with businesses concentrated along the riverfront. Fans looking for dining options or lodging in the immediate vicinity of the Colisee will be disappointed, as there is nothing to be found right next to the arena. With Bates College located less than a mile away, the lack of any eateries was fairly surprising. Fans willing to take a short drive to the riverfront in Lewiston or across the river into Auburn will be rewarded by several dining options. In particular, the area around the Auburn mall features several national chain restaurants and hotel chains for the out of town hockey fan. Most fans will opt to stay in Portland, where the options are much more plentiful. Fans 2 It is a difficult task to assess and grade Pirates fans at this point. Even though the Pirates have committed to play the entire 2013-2014 season in Lewiston, their immediate future is still very much in limbo. Lewiston is located only a 45 minute drive from the Pirates’ fan base in Portland, yet very few of the fans make the drive north on I-95 on a regular basis. Likewise, fans in Lewiston have been slow to embrace the Pirates, as they are most likely only a temporary stop for the team. The Pirates have averaged only 2500 fans per game through the first three months of the season, ranking the team only 29th out of the 30 AHL teams. The Pirates had a relatively small season ticket holder base while playing in Portland, and less than half of these season ticket holders have renewed their plans for the year in Lewiston. Access 2 Interstate 95 runs through Lewiston, connecting travelers to Bangor, located two hours to the north, Portland, 45 minutes to the south, and points beyond. The city of Boston is only a two hour drive from Lewiston. The Oak Street Bus Station offers routes to Bangor and Boston, at which point travelers can connect to other destinations. Although there is a small airport in Auburn, most travelers will choose to fly out of the nearby Portland International Jetport. The Colisee is located at the edge of the downtown district, and the traveling hockey fan will need to wind through the city streets for approximately a mile before coming to the arena. There are three small lots adjacent to the Colisee for events, and they are more than adequate for a typical Pirate crowd. In addition, there is on-street parking available in the immediate vicinity of the arena, and many locals choose this parking option. The Box Office is located in an enclosed area at the entrance to the arena. Once inside, fans climb a narrow stairway to enter the newly renovated concourse/food court area. This area contains the majority of the food stands, a small pro shop, and a skate shop. Fans can access the seating area by passing through two vomitories, one on either side of the rink. There is a walkway in the front of the seating bowl that runs around the entire rink. Seats in the first couple of rows can offer obstructed views due to fans passing directly in front of these seats. Luckily, Maine fans know their hockey etiquette and rarely move about during play. Seats consist of individual wooden seats, except for the four corner sections, which consist of metal bleachers without seat backs. The last two rows of the seating bowl are plastic benches which have been crammed into a small space in an attempt to increase capacity. Fans should avoid these seats whenever possible. Bathrooms are located underneath the seating bowl, accessible by narrow hallways which run parallel on both sides of the rink. There are a men’s and women’s room on each side of the arena. The bathrooms are cramped, but adequate for the size of the crowds at the Colisee. Fans requiring handicapped seating will be pleasantly surprised by their seating location at the Colisee. Due the the age and layout of the arena, handicapped seating is located directly on the glass! Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Pirates games cost $12 for adults, and $10 for children and seniors. Purchasing your ticket on game day will add an extra $2 to your price. Parking in the lots adjacent to the arena costs $3, although on-street parking is plentiful and free right next to the Colisee. Many locals choose this option rather than spend the extra cash. With inexpensive concessions, affordable ticket prices, and cheap parking, going to a Pirates game will not break the bank. Extras 2 For fans interested in the history of the Colisee, there is a reproduction of newspaper articles from the Heavyweight Championship fight held here in 1965. Included in this exhibit is the photograph of Muhammad Ali towering over a fallen Sonny Liston after knocking him out in the first round of their bout. It is one of the most iconic sports photographs of all time, and it is amazing to think the fight took place in an arena so far off the beaten path. This exhibit is worth a look for any sports fan. A second extra point is awarded for the old-timey feel of a game at the Colisee. It’s not often that fans can get as close to the players during their pregame routines as is possible here. With hockey players being the friendly and accommodating people they are, it is entirely possible for fans to get up close and personal and have conversations with their favorite players before they take the ice. Final Thoughts What’s next for the Pirates? In its current configuration, the Colisee does not measure up as a venue for this level of hockey, and cannot be considered to be a long-term home for the Pirates. As of this writing, there are several rumored potential future homes for Portland’s hockey team: The Pirates and the Cumberland County Civic Center work out a lease agreeable to both parties, and the Pirates move back into downtown Portland next season. Enter into a partnership with the Maine Red Claws of the NBA’s Developmental League on the long-awaited Thompson Point Project, allowing the Pirates to move back within Portland City Limits. The Pirates break ground on a new arena in suburban Saco, adjacent to their current practice facilities. The Androscoggin Bank Colisee undergoes extensive renovations which allow the Pirates to remain in Lewiston. The Pirates team with interests in neighboring Biddeford to build a casino/arena complex. All of these potential sites are located within Portland’s established territory, so Pirate fans need not fear that the Pirates will be moving out of Maine anytime soon. Still, you never know… Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Eric Taylor, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Roy Stewart Stadium 1401 North State Route 121 Murray, KY 42071 Murray State Racers website Roy Stewart Stadium website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 16,800 The Track Roy Stewart Stadium, built in 1973 and named for the former long-time football coach and athletics director, is affectionately known as “The Track” to long-time fans and alumni. The Track holds a respectable 16,800 people. The largest crowd to see a game since 2000 is 11,276 on October 28, 2000 versus Tennessee Tech. The largest crowd to see a game at The Track is 16,600 on Halloween versus Eastern Kentucky in 1981 (Frank Beamer was Murray’s head coach). A couple of high-profile coaches have paced the sidelines of Roy Stewart Stadium before becoming the household names we know today. Houston Nutt was head coach at Murray State from 1993 through the 1996 season before leaving for Boise State for one year and heading to Arkansas in 1998. Frank Beamer began coaching the Racers in 1981 and left Murray State after the 1986 season to take over at his alma mater, Virginia Tech. In other words, Frank Beamer’s last job before taking over at Tech was Murray State. Sure, that was 26 years ago, but you see me working over here. The playing surface was AstroTurf from 1996 through the 2006 season. FieldTurf was installed in 2007, and continues to be the artificial grass of choice for the Racers. 2007 also brought a new surface for the track that surrounds the field, new play clocks, and new goal posts. The first year of football at Murray State was 1924 and the first game was played on September 15th of that year, with the Races eking out a 27-25 win over Western Carolina. The Racers have won eight OVC titles to go along with five NCAA playoff appearances. Food & Beverage 3 Concession prices are very affordable. Don’t expect to pay any less for concessions at The Track than you would at your local high school game. On the other hand, don’t expect to find a selection any greater than a high school game. I still say the low cost outweighs the lack of snacking options: Soda: $2.50 (Regular), $3 (Large) Hot Cocoa/Coffee: $2 Water/Gatorade: $2 Chips: $1 Candy: $1.50 Popcorn: $2 Nachos: $3 Racer Dog: $3 Hamburger: $4 Atmosphere 4 Considering the skyline from your seats consists of breathtaking views of Cracker Barrel, Goody’s, Home Depot, Qdoba, Subway, Radio Shack, Big Lots, among other great American franchises, the atmosphere still has the charm of a small college football town. Racer One, the official horse of Murray State football, running around the track after each Racers touchdown is unique and adds a great amount of pageantry to the afternoon. Another plus — some may call it a minus — is there is no replay board and/or Jumbotron anywhere in sight. Some may say it would resemble a high school atmosphere. In my opinion, it resembles what college football was 15 years ago, at even the highest level. There was no need for huge high-tech ribbon boards, high-def screens the size of a city block. The only thing needed for a great college atmosphere was a cloudless blue sky, colorful leaves falling on crunchy grass, and an air temperature that is neither too cold nor too hot. Speaking of beautiful leaves, I give yet another nod to Murray State for the path of trees along the back of one end zone that provides an autumn backdrop that assures you that the pageantry of college football is served well in Murray, Kentucky. Neighborhood 3 You won’t be deciding on where to eat with much excitement, but you won’t be relegated to just fast food, either. The Cracker Barrel across the street is probably not the worst place in the world to eat, but if you’re in the mood for something unique, you will have to drive about 40 miles to Paducah. If you are looking for the standard fare of chain restaurants, you are within walking distance to most. Qdoba, Captain D’s, Subway and Burger King are also available for a quick bite before or after the game. Murray State’s campus is safe, welcoming, and a nice place to take in a college football game. Again, you won’t be blown away by any hipster coffee shops or a strip brimming with nightlife, but you will find a college campus full of proud students and alumni who are ready to welcome you to a college football Saturday at The Track. Fans 3 The Track is far from a sold-out house, but the fans that come out to watch a game are there to actually watch the game, not to be seen. Nothing stands out as far as gameday traditions — not counting the horse, but this is about the fans and I don’t believe I’m allowed to count the horse — or mass amounts of tailgating, but the fans in attendance don’t let the surrounding empty seats keep them from cheering for their Racers. Access 5 The Track is right in the heart of Murray, Kentucky. Driving in the from the east, the stadium comes into view to the right at about the exact same time Kroger and Burger King become visible on your left. There’s a good chance you could watch the Racers in action on the field from one of the Hinkle Chair rocking chairs on the front porch of Cracker Barrel, as the only set of seats stands behind the north sideline. Return on Investment 4 If buying from Ticketmaster, the most expensive ticket is $25.50, with the cheapest ticket being $12.50. If you are traveling to see your team play at Murray, or if you are in the area and looking for a game to attend on a fall Saturday, you can do so without spending an arm and a leg. This isn’t an SEC Saturday atmosphere, but it does football Saturdays justice. Extras 4 I think the lack of extras give Murray State a few bonus points. Some people want the creature comforts of a modern stadium like the Jerry Dome in Dallas, while some people are Wrigley Field/Fenway Park types. Both types of stadiums are great in their own way, so long as you know what you’re getting into before you arrive at your venue of choice. It’s no different if you are visiting The Track on a given autumn Saturday. Final Thoughts If you are looking for the theme park shopping mall feel of a Cowboys Stadium, a Murray State game will leave you very disappointed at the end of the day. On the other hand, if you go to Murray, Kentucky expecting a campus and stadium overflowing with a throwback charm that has recently faded from the college game, you will be very pleased with your visit.

Photos by Rick Gillespie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Eccles Coliseum 99 S 1100 West Cedar City, UT 84720 Southern Utah Thunderbirds website Eccles Coliseum website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 8,500 Mountains, Thunder, and Football At an elevation of 5,600 feet and nestled in the heart of Utah’s Color Country, you would be hard-pressed to find a football stadium with a more picturesque setting than Eccles Coliseum on the campus of Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah. The facility has been home to Thunderbird football since 1967. The 8,500 seat stadium was renovated in 1997 and has since undergone several upgrades, the most recent coming in 2012 when the grass field was replaced with Hellas Matrix turf. Located on the extreme western edge of the campus and adjacent to Interstate 15, the Grecian-themed stadium is also home to SUU’s track & field teams and includes the Harris Center, the practice facility for the school’s nationally ranked gymnastics team. The stadium is also used for many community events, the largest of which is the opening ceremonies for the Utah Summer Games. It also plays host to the Special Olympics and many high school track & field meets. The Olympic Torch passed through the stadium on its way to Salt Lake City for the 2002 Winter Olympics. A large memorial to the event sits at the south end of the stadium. 2002 Winter Olympics Memorial, Photo by Rick Gillespie, Stadium Journey The Thunderbirds have enjoyed relative success over the years, but have been much more successful since head coach Ed Lamb joined the program in 2008. They won the Great West Conference championship in 2010 and have done well against conference teams since joining the Big Sky Conference in 2012. They earned their first FCS playoff berth in 2013, losing in the first round. If you want to see the Thunderbirds win at home your odds are decent as SUU has gone 18-11 on its home field since 2008 (through 2013). With a student body of around 7,000 and situated in a city of 25,000 people, the size of the stadium is proportionate to its audience. It’s a good place to catch some good college football action and what it lacks in size and variety, it makes up for in affordability. Food & Beverage 3 The offerings at the concessions stands are average. They offer the standard fare you would expect – hot dogs, hamburgers, etc., but also offer things like Polish sausages, pulled pork sandwiches, and barbequed chicken legs. Everything is priced between $3.75-$4.75. They also have popcorn and nachos for about $3. They serve Coke products from the fountain and have bottled water and hot chocolate available (this came in handy as the game I attended took place during a snow storm). They offer a drink called “Thor’s Nectar,” named after the team’s mascot Thor, which is essentially a mixture of sprite and fruit punch. As this is a highly conservative area, there is no alcohol allowed or served in the stadium. Attendees may not bring outside food or drink into the venue. There is a concession stand just inside the northwest entrance that is built in as part of the stadium. There are also concession booths near the two southern entrances that are each basically a pair of 10′ x 10′ portable canopies. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere is one of the best I’ve been to for several reasons. At the beginning of the football season the weather in most places is unbearably hot, but with late summer temperatures in the mid 80’s the first half of the season in Cedar City is optimal outdoor weather. Add the scenic red mountains that sit to the east and the view of the historic and beautiful campus in the foreground, and finding a nicer place to watch a game is hard to do. Late-season games can be subject to inclement weather as snow typically begins to fall between the end of October and the middle of November. There are no covered seats within the general admission area. The two south entrances are wheelchair accessible while the west and north entrances require the climbing of stairs. Handicapped seating is available around the main concourse of the stadium as well as in section E (the furthest north section on the west side of the field.) The home side of the field is divided into two sections. The top half has chair back seating while the bottom half consists of metal bleachers. The south end of the home side has cement bleachers that extend beyond the end of the grandstands to the south end zone. The student section is located in the middle section of the lower bleachers and is usually the most crowded part of the stadium. The visitors side is made up of eight rows of bleachers with handicapped seating at the top which is accessible from the main concourse. Because of the smaller size of the venue, fans can get a good view of the field from any seat. A large scoreboard behind the north end zone provides game coverage as well as replays so you can see the action no matter where you are. There are suites available but the prices and availability are not listed on the SUU website or at the ticket window. There is usually a pep band at each game except during bad weather. They assume the usual responsibilities but do not perform a halftime show. That privilege falls upon the SUU Waukeenyans, a troop of dancing girls who perform various routines. Halftime activities include eating contests and fan spotlights where the PR staff single out a pair of fans and put them on the scoreboard before giving them a prize. There are also cheerleaders at each game performing stunts and shooting T-shirts into the crowd. When I attended in late November the cold weather seemed to hamper their ability to get the crowd going. The Thunderbirds’ mascot Thor is also present but doesn’t do much and is rarely visible. The public address announcer is upbeat and does a good job of helping to give the crowd something to cheer about. Neighborhood 3 The stadium sits two block from the area of town known as “Hamburger Alley,” a busy street with many fast food chain restaurants. There is an IHOP and a Denny’s within walking distance, but if you want to eat at a nice restaurant you’re going to have to drive. A couple of miles to the south is the Providence Center where many chain eateries (Applebee’s, Chili’s, etc.) draw large crowds on weekends. About a mile to the east is historic Main Street which boasts several more dining options, many of which are unique to Cedar City. Should you choose to walk, the neighborhoods are clean and safe and will show you the small-town charm that exists here. When you’re not at the game there’s plenty to see and do in Cedar City and the surrounding areas. This is a huge performing arts community that has several theatres and festivals including the Utah Shakespeare Festival and the Neil Simon Festival. If you enjoy Shakespeare or other types of plays, you won’t have a problem finding something to do after the game. If the bar is more your style, sadly your options are limited. Most of the chain restaurants have bars in them but there are only two “bars” in Cedar City. Mike’s Tavern is a small bar not far from campus. It’s pretty low-key and not too crowded so it’s easy to stop in for a drink or grab a burger. If you’re looking for more of a party, Toadz is just a few blocks away. It’s a popular weekend hot spot that features a sports bar and a restaurant offering everything from burgers to chicken to fish tacos. Fans 4 The fans here are loyal, but not overbearing so visitors will always feel welcome. They are fairly knowledgeable of the rules of the game and will not hesitate to call out the refs if they disagree. As long as the team is doing well they stay pretty animated. Thunderbird Fans, Photo by Rick Gillespie, Stadium Journey Access 5 The stadium is easily accessible from Interstate 15 and is about two miles from the Cedar City Airport. There are parking lots on the east, west, and south sides of the venue and parking is free. The east and south lots enter onto the visitors side of the field. Restrooms are handicap accessible and are located near the southwest entrance and are kept nice and clean. There is no security check at the gate, but there are law enforcement personnel both on the field and throughout the concourse so attendees should feel safe. The games are broadcast on SUU’s radio station KSUU 91.1 FM. If you have online capabilities you can keep track of live game statistics at www.suu.statbroadcast.com. Return on Investment 4 Tickets range from $7 – $18 which makes going to a game pretty affordable. To be honest, the $7 seats have just as good a view of the field as the $18 seats and are much closer to the action. The only difference is the $18 seats have backs and armrests. Groups of 15 or more can get a group discount. Overall I would say the price of admission and food is worth the experience, but I would have a hard time paying much more. Extras 4 Gameday programs are available. Being a member of the local media I got mine for free, but with the quality of the publication and value added with discount coupons to local businesses I wouldn’t hesitate to buy one. Booths near the two south entrances also sell SUU apparel. The prices are what you would expect from a college retailer. Locals may want to consider signing their children up in the Thunderbird Kids Club. The cost is $15 for the first child and $10 for each additional child. This will allow them to attend all home games for half price. I’ll add something here that may pertain to the neighborhood but encompasses a larger area. Cedar City is located within a few hours of five national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands and Great Basin. If you’ve got a day or two to spend in the area these parks are a great way to spend your time. For just $25 you can get into all the parks for up to seven days and enjoy the natural beauty for which Utah is famous.

Photos by Lloyd Rothwell, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 WIN Entertainment Centre Cnr Crown St & Harbour St Wollongong, NSW 2500 Australia Illawarra Hawks website WIN Entertainment Centre website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 6,000 Basketball in the Gong The WIN Entertainment Centre (WEC) is located in the heart of Wollongong. It was opened in 1998 and has a capacity of approximately 6,000 for basketball. The Centre hosts numerous events and concerts in addition to basketball and sits in a picturesque location directly across from Wollongong’s City Beach. With WIN Stadium next door, the area is a focus for sport and entertainment. Recently there has been a push to revamp the WEC into a major convention centre. Wollongong, known colloquially as The Gong, is a coastal city just south of Sydney and the major centre of the Illawarra region. The Illawarra is a narrow strip of land with the coast on one side and an escarpment on the other, creating an attractive geographical setting. The area has a strong working class background in coal mining, steel, manufacturing, and stevedoring. However Wollongong is slowing moving towards a more service based economy, led by the University of Wollongong and a growing culture of innovation, particularly in IT. The Hawks entered Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) in 1979 and are the last remaining foundation club. Previously known as the Illawarra Hawks, the club has experienced moderate success over the years with a championship in 2001. The club is owned by the local community and has experienced several tough financial periods throughout its history. The Hawks are currently the only local team in a top-level national professional sporting league and as such traditionally receive strong local support. Food & Beverage 3 There are several food stands available around the WEC. Hot food items include nachos ($8.80), pulled beef roll ($8.70), chicken wings ($8.30), and hot chips. Sandwiches ($6.80) along with chips and chocolates are also available. Popcorn and ice cream stands are also located inside the arena. Drinks can be purchased from the bar with Pure Blonde ($7.30), Carlton ($6.80), Victoria Bitter ($6.50), wine by the glass ($4.10), Strongbow ($8.20), Smirnoff ($11.40), Jim Beam ($11.40) and Canadian Club ($11.40) among the options available. Soft drinks (Coke products), water, and coffee are also on offer. Be aware that while not all food stands are in operation, those that are sufficiently service the level of crowds that the Hawks currently attract. The food and beverage options are adequate, but if you are after something more substantial I suggest visiting one of the many local restaurants before or after the game. Atmosphere 3 The Hawks have a proud history in the Illawarra. They set the scene well with activities set up around the entrance to the arena. It is a pleasant place to be with a buzz around the area and the beach across the road. Hawks games are generally family friendly with many children in attendance. The Hawks have retired five numbers and these are displayed, along with their Championship banner. There are video boards at either end of the arena that display scores and statistics. Throughout the game the crowd is kept engaged in the contest by enthusiastic announcers, the Hawks Cheer Girls and Junior Cheer Squad, and contests involving fans. The Hawks have two mascots; Moe Hawk and Tomma Hawk. I recommend getting to the game early to watch the warm up and walk around the arena before taking your seat. Both teams are introduced prior to tip off and enter with a “bang.” The Hawks also have a tradition whereby the crowd is encouraged to stand and clap until the away team scores a basket. All seats in the house are offering clear views with good opportunity to move around and take advantage of different viewpoints. The crowd does get quite rowdy at times, and are especially parochial. The WEC is an enjoyable and vibrant place to see a basketball game, especially when the Hawks are winning and they are drawing big crowds. However, during the 2013 season the Hawks are drawing just over 2,000 per game, which hurts the overall atmosphere somewhat. Neighborhood 5 Despite its working class origins, the CBD of Wollongong is undergoing a transformation with a growing trend towards small boutique bars, cafes and outdoor entertaining. Nearby Crown Street Mall is being renovated to make the major shopping centre in Wollongong a more vibrant and modern space. Options for dining and entertainment are plentiful. Corrimal St is home to many restaurants, cafes and pubs. Some of the newer hip destinations include Dagwood, and His Boy Elroy. The North Wollongong Hotel (the “North Gong”), a short drive away, is always a popular choice of pub for locals. The WEC complex itself also includes the Illawarra Brewery; a modern space with dining and bars offering a choice of nine handcrafted beers brewed on site. In addition, two new restaurants have opened beneath the new grandstand in the adjacent WIN Stadium; Chargoal (Mediterranean) and Char Char Bar & Grill (Modern Australian and South African). A couple of my personal local favourites include Gigi’s Restaurant and Bar (Italian), Ghedias (Indian), and Cold Rock Ice Creamery (desserts). For those travelling from out of town, Wollongong is a great destination. Two major hotels are located close by; the Chifley, and the Novotel at North Beach. The “Blue Mile,” which stretches from Flagstaff Hill to North Beach, highlights the stunning coastline. The area has numerous surf beaches as well as the sheltered Belmore Basin for those looking to enjoy the water. While the two major hotels in the area are the Chifley and the Novotel Northbeach, there are also numerous motels, rental apartments, and caravan parks offering accommodation. Fans 4 While Hawks fans are devoted and support their team well, there has been a decline in attendance in recent times. Although long-serving stalwarts Glen Saville and Mat Campbell have recently retired, fans still connect well with favourite players such as Larry Davidson and Tyson Demos. Wollongong is proud of the Hawks and the crowd is generally quite vocal in support of their town and team. This is especially the case when they play arch rival, the Sydney Kings. Additionally, many attendees sport Hawks merchandise. The crowd is generally well natured, and are loud. The fans know the players and follow the game intently. The Hawks would be hoping to improve their on-court performance to attract more of the locals back to their games. Access 4 The WEC is relatively easy to access given its central Wollongong location. Parking is adequate. Free parking in the CBD area fills very quickly although I’d suggest trying the Burelli St car park as you might get lucky. There are several paid parking options close by. The Stewart St car park charges $5 for events and is only a short walk away. Driving or walking is probably your best option although Wollongong Train Station is about a 15 minute walk away. The Illawarra is accessed via several major roads. If you are heading south from the M1 (F6) freeway, then it connects the region with Sydney. From Western Sydney the M7 links with the Hume Hwy (M31) and Appin Rd or Picton Rd. While in most cases the drive is quite easy, an accident or holiday traffic can cause massive delays. If you are driving from Sydney, allow some extra time just in case, and choose your game carefully. Once inside the venue it’s quite easy to move around both the exterior and interior of the arena. Restrooms are easy to locate, relatively large, and clean. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for adults range from $25 to $95, with discount opportunities for children, students, pensioners, and families. Pricing is reasonable and is comparable with other NBL venues. It’s great to be at floor level, but even if price is an issue, then the cheaper seats still provide a good view and allow you to experience the vibe of a Hawks game. Extras 3 The Hawks are very active in the local community and work hard to engage and energise the area, for which they deserve recognition. There is a well-stocked team store within the Centre with numerous items available for purchase. An extra point is also awarded for the stunning views around the area – particularly if you are travelling from outside the region in order to attend a game. It’s worth taking the time to stop at one of the lookouts above the escarpment which affords magnificent views of the Pacific coastline – pull over at Bulli Tops before you ascend down the Pass or Mt Ousley. Final Thoughts A Hawks game at WIN Entertainment Centre is always fun. They’re a community club and their game day experience reflects that passion that locals have for their club.

Photo Courtesy of ragincajuns.com Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Cajundome 444 Cajundome Blvd Lafayette, LA 70506 UL-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns website Cajundome website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 12,068 Cajuns Ragin’ in the Dome When your campus is filled with a bunch of ragin’ Cajuns the best place to put them is in a dome for basketball events and that’s just what the University of Louisiana at Lafayette did. The school plays its basketball and volleyball games in the Cajun Dome, which is located about two miles away from the campus. The Cajun Dome was built by the State of Louisiana, funded by the City of Lafayette, and is owned by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. This multi-purpose facility is the place to be for any event including many major concerts in the region. Its capacity can max out at 13,500 and Ragin’ Cajuns aren’t the only fans who fill the place. The Dome is also home to the Louisiana Ice Gators hockey team. Food & Beverage 4 When you have a facility that is known for hosting big events, the smaller events benefit greatly, especially at the concession stands. At the Cajun Dome you can find a large draft beer for $6.50, a jumbo draft beer for $8.50, and for other bottled drinks it costs $4. For the foods there is a W.O.W (World of Wings) wing stand with a variety of foods that range from fries that costs $5 to wings with fries for $8, a pizza stand by the slice that costs $5.50 for each (pepperoni or cheese), and a nacho bar that offers a large nacho for $8 and for a small $5. The best bet would be to just wait until after the game to eat to find a local Cajun restaurant where you can find the best hometown foods, but what it is on offer is solid in the arena as well. Atmosphere 3 The Ragin’ Cajuns fans have to be amongst the best in the Sun Belt Conference. There were fans of all kinds who attended. What really impressed me was this group of five older men who dressed in right and white striped overalls. Usually you see a group of frat boys doing something similar in the student section, but these guys were not quite that exactly. Let’s just say they reminded me of a group of Boss Hogs, from the sitcom The Dukes of Hazzard. As far as the game goes, ULL provides a strong introduction for its athletes, which gives the feeling of an NBA game with the strobe lights and introduction videos on the video board. I was really surprised by the atmosphere, but then I remembered the city of Lafayette and not just the school itself funded the facility. That makes a big difference in terms of paying for the advanced technology in the dome. Neighborhood 2 The area that the Cajun Dome sets in is away from the university. However, across from it is Cajun Field, where the school plays football. There is also a Hilton Garden Inn, for those fans who may want to stay in the area overnight. By having that hotel there, it makes staying accommodations for tourists and fans from far out to come and enjoy the culture the Ragin’ Cajuns have to share. A few blocks down there is a shopping strip and some fast food restaurants. The only negative is that the athletic facilities are set away by themselves, so there isn’t much neighborhood to it. The downtown area is about three to five miles from the athletic areas and is closer to the school’s campus itself. If you get there then you are in for a treat as Lafayette has an impressive downtown district. Fans 3 The Boss Hogs fans are really into supporting their Ragin’ Cajun athletics. The cutest thing I saw was a dad who brought his daughter to the game and while dad would stress over a few bad calls by the referees the daughter would pat him on the back and continue to hold up her Ragin’ Cajun sign. Of course the pep band was there and because you’re in the south you better believe they play the second line music that is popular in the South Louisiana. When the tubas hit the first note, it seem like the fans already were up on their feet dancing. Access 2 The stadium is located on Cajundome Boulevard, but it isn’t as easily accessed. It’s pretty far off of the interstate and trying to find parking to get in the game is a nightmare. Once you get in the stadium things are laid out pretty easily. Much like an NBA Arena actually, except a bit smaller. If you want to get to the upper level there are escalators and I was very pleased with that. Return on Investment 3 To get in the game would cost you about $8 to sit at the third level, which is what I paid. Eventually I moved down closer to an empty seat. For the first and second level seating the prices jump up to $15, which still isn’t too bad for the quality of the atmosphere and arena. Extras 3 The Cajun Dome has its extras. I always give a point for free parking because it isn’t the case everywhere. The second point goes to the escalators inside to go to the upper level. The third goes to the give-a-ways. Upon walking in the game I received two free shirts and a key chain saying I support breast cancer. All that just for showing up, I must say is a huge plus. Final Thoughts ULL did a great job containing the Ragin’ Cajuns and keeping them satisfied in the Cajun Dome. After all I don’t think anyone wants a bunch hot Cajuns after them, especially if they are as spicy as their food.

Photos Courtesy of AlcornSports.com Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Davey Whitney Complex Alcorn State University Lorman, MS 39096 Alcorn State Braves website Davey Whitney Complex website Year Opened: 1975 Capacity: 7,000 Home of the Braves Named after former basketball coach Davey Whitney, the Davey Whitney Complex has hosted Alcorn State basketball since the 1970s. Food & Beverage 3 If you come to a game at Alcorn State hungry, you have made a major mistake (see the neighborhood section below). That said, if you need a snack at the game, you can get the usual fare (popcorn, soda, hot dogs, etc.) at the game for reasonable prices. If you are looking for fancy gourmet, you will likely be disappointed, but there are enough options to keep you happy during the game. Perhaps more importantly, the concessions are at a reasonable enough price that you and the kids can stay full for around $20 to $30. Atmosphere 3 Walking into the Davey Whitney Complex feels a bit like walking into a larger high school basketball game. As far as the atmosphere at the games, it often depends on the crowd. If you catch the game with a hot crowd, it can be loads of fun, but if you catch a blowout with a dead crowd, staying the entire time can feel like a chore. The SWAC has its share of heated rivalry games, so pick the right night (perhaps against Jackson State) and enjoy your trip to Lorman. Neighborhood 4 If you are going to eat at one place in Lorman, make sure you swing by Mr. D’s Old Country Store. The outside might be a little scary, but the inside is amazing. The buffet has southern food at its finest, with fried chicken earning the spotlight. When Alton Brown of the Food Network says it is the best fried chicken in the world, it must be amazing. While it is not within walking distance, you need to make the fifteen-minute drive to dine here. A trip to Lorman, located in Jefferson County, one of the oldest counties in Mississippi, also provides the chance to step back in time a bit, so take advantage of the bed and breakfasts in the area, such as the Rosswood Plantation. Natchez, one of the first cities in Mississippi, is a close trip, as well. If you have time, it is worth a visit for the day or the weekend. If you head to Natchez, make sure to hit up Fat Mama’s Tamales. The tamales are great, and so are the margaritas. Fans 3 While the crowds may not always be large, the fans in attendance do support the Braves on the court. Any time fans can keep their energy level high through two basketball games, they should be commended. As far as seating in the venue, fans are going to have a good seat no matter where they choose. However, the best bet is to sit in the chair backs in the lower portion of the stadium. Most fans will be in this area, and you will have a more comfortable viewing experience than sitting on the bleacher seats. Access 3 Lorman, Mississippi, is somewhere you either intend to visit or get to by complete accident. That said, getting to Lorman is not too difficult of a process, and a trip to Lorman can provide a reason to take a trip on the Natchez Trace. The drive home can be a bit tricky at night due to winding roads, so use caution when traveling after the game. As mentioned above, there are some pretty solid places to visit within an hour of Lorman, so making a weekend trip to the area is well worth it. Return on Investment 3 One of the bonuses of going to a SWAC basketball game is that the women and men almost always play back-to-back games, giving fans two games to attend. For fans of basketball, this provides a chance to get twice the value for the ticket price. While the next NBA star probably will not be on the floor that night, several players who will go on to play professionally in other leagues will be playing. The overall value of the experience is pretty good. Extras 3 If you are looking to experience basketball off the beaten path, a trip to Alcorn State is well worth your time. You may not see big-time basketball, but you will see players who are playing hard trying to maximize the games left in their careers. While ticket prices continue to climb in the hotbeds of basketball, fans can get a near-courtside experience in Lorman, eat all they want, and leave without shelling out over one hundred bucks.

Photos by Jason Karp, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Holt Arena 550 Memorial Dr Pocatello, ID 83209 Idaho State Bengals website Holt Arena website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 8,000 Basketball at Holt Arena While having attended an Idaho State University (ISU) football game and a rodeo in the Holt Arena, I fully expected this trip to Pocatello for an ISU men's basketball game to be equally as forgettable. However, this visit in Jan 2013, actually left me pleasantly surprised and I found myself questioning my past opinions of the arena. With only a very modest sized crowd, the Holt Arena was deafening and intimidating as the Bengals went on to beat Sacramento State 60-59. Opened in 1970, the Holt Arena is a half dome reminiscent of a large airplane hanger. Unassuming from the outside, the multipurpose arena offers several different seating arrangements that allow for different sports, concerts, and entertainment events. Logistically, hosting any event in the middle of a football stadium is crazy. The various courts and stages that are installed make up only a small fraction a football field square footage. Fortunately for Bengal basketball fans, ISU seems to have it down to a fine art. In order to not separate the crowd from the game and eliminate the home court advantage, the court is brought close to the permanent north bleachers and temporary bleachers surround the three sides of the court. Respectable for its size even with temporary bleachers, the arena boasts 8,000 seats during basketball games and a 12,000 (permanent) seating capacity for football games. Many of the dome's features are unavailable during the basketball game such as the video boards, or family friendly play place. Food & Beverage 1 Holt Arena offers just a very small number of food vendors, serving very limited and standard game time treats. During basketball games, the south side of the arena is closed, which further reduces the available options. The concession prices are surprisingly fair considering that there is no alcohol being sold to subsidize the prices. Atmosphere 2 The arena is adorned with trophies, plaques, and sports memorabilia from throughout the school's past, giving the facility a feeling of past sports legacy and special moments. However as the student body is virtually nonexistent, you're instantly struck with confusion wondering which is the home team. Luckily for this game, the hometown fans showed up in the second half. The heavy (ugly) insulated roof helped lend to the incredible noise that the small crowd produced. Neighborhood 3 Settled at the south end of Pocatello, Idaho State University is surrounded by older and well kept single-family homes, which slightly separates the school as the more active part of the town. Having learned from past experiences of trying to find original restaurants around the university, we talked to the other spectators and got two solid recommendations. Portneuff Brewery, a traditional polish brewery, and Butterburr's which is a family diner. As a winter storm was starting to settle in, we opted for Butterburr's, which was closer to our hotel. The large diner was filled to capacity, and the locals were really piling in. The soups are warm and homemade, and the pies hit the right spot. I will definitely be returning again for their Cheddar Broccoli soup. Fans 3 While I remain underwhelmed at the complete lack of a student section from ISU, I am extremely impressed with the amount of local hometown support the team seems to have. Families and local residents don the orange and black to support the Bengals. While the Bengals struggled to get things going during the first half, the fans didn't waiver. The second half was loud, intense, and actually kept my attention. Access 5 From the freeway, to parking, to the seats is less than 10 minutes. One unique feature that I noticed during this trip is Bengal tiger paw prints painted on the roads throughout town, all of which lead you to the Holt Arena. I have never waited in line at the box office, restrooms, or concessions. The small attendance reduces all congestion, and traffic flow before, during, and after the basketball game. Return on Investment 3 Even though the men's basketball games uses just a portion of Holt arena's potential, the $15 ticket I bought, allowed me to attend one of the best college games I have attended in quite some time. While I'm not a Bengals fan, I will absolutely be looking into attending again. Extras 0 Nothing that should be considered extra.

Photos by Taiyuan Banks-Tillman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Golden Lions Stadium 1200 University Dr Pine Bluff, AR 71601 Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions website Golden Lions Stadium website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 16,000 Football is Golden In 2000, the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff opened their new 16,000-seat stadium known as Golden Lion Stadium. The team is a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), and took home the conference football championship in 2012. This may not be major destination for college football fans, but if you do make the trip to central Arkansas, you can expect to find a welcoming atmosphere, filled with southern hospitality. Food & Beverage 2 There are plenty of concession stands, but like many stadiums, there never seems to be enough at halftime. If you’re thinking about getting something to eat in the stadium, consider sneaking out to the concourse a little before halftime to avoid the lines. Better yet, eat before you go, or save your appetite for later. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere is always very welcoming. You really feel the southern hospitality. The school is doing a lot of things to enhance the campus, and if you have the time, it is worthwhile to walk around the campus a bit before the game. UAPB has a very strong alumni presence, and the school takes pride in making sure that new students are afforded opportunities to succeed. In the stadium, the view is amazing no matter where you sit. Most of the seating is bleachers, but there are also stadium seats available if you would like a more comfortable spit to watch the game. Neighborhood 2 The stadium is located near Lake Pine Bluff. For the most part, tailgating may be your best option for food before the game, although you can get fantastic BBQ turkey legs for just $5 from Markie D’s, or other street vendors around the stadium. About a mile and a half to the southeast of the stadium you can find the Tastesetter Eatery, and Colonial Steakhouse. The Tastesetter offers casual dining including a selection of soups, salads, and sandwiches. Colonial Steakhouse is the spot for carnivores, and they have an outstanding prime rib. Fans 3 The Golden Lion fans are welcoming to outsiders, and there is usually a good turnout for games. Access 3 Moving around the stadium is relatively easy. It can get a little congested at halftime as fans head for the concession or restroom, but overall, this is a very accessible facility. Return on Investment 2 Tickets are fairly expensive for this level of football. Bleacher seats go for $25 per game, while chairback seats go for $40. It isn’t a completely outrageous price, but feels just a little high for the overall experience. Extras 2 One extra point for UAPB being the home of defensive great L.C. Greenwood. One final extra point for the friendliness of fans and staff at UAPB.

Photos by Justin Sutton, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium 1000 Alcorn Ave Lorman, MS 39097 Alcorn State Braves website Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 22,500 The Home of Alcorn State Football Located in one of the oldest parts of the Magnolia State, Alcorn State University sits in relative isolation when compared to many of the Division I universities around the country. However, when on campus, one will not feel that isolation, because Spinks-Casem Stadium, the home of the Alcorn State Braves, sits in the middle of the campus. Food & Beverage 2 If a fan is looking for a culinary experience at the stadium, they will walk away disappointed. That said, there are still pretty good deals to be had at an Alcorn State football game. Hot wings are available for six dollars, and turkey legs go for seven dollars. If someone is looking for a bit more, combo meals are available for six dollars. Hamburgers and pizza also come reasonably priced at the concession stand, and other items such as popcorn, nachos, and peanuts are sold, as well. The knock comes on the availability of the items. Perhaps it was because of the size of the crowd or the fact that the season was coming to a close when I visited, but none of the concessions stands had everything listed on the menu. Atmosphere 3 A trip to Spinks-Casem Stadium feels like a visit to a college football venue. With tailgates going on all around the stadium, the atmosphere is set for college football. When fans enter the stadium, they remain excited for the game about to take place. The stadium may not reach full capacity, but the crowd that attends keeps things lively during the contest, and the halftime shows almost always entertain. Neighborhood 2 To be honest, there is not much of a neighborhood to Alcorn State. The university just appears after a drive down Mississippi Highway 552. However, if you need to grab something before the game to eat, park in the general parking area. On the way into that parking area, there are three restaurants: The College Grill, Wingos, and Pattons. Also, this parking entrance is by the campus police station, which houses the only ATM on campus. However, fans who care about a culinary experience will make sure to hit up The Old Country Store on US 61 just about two miles south of the Highway 552 exit. The hours are limited (10am-5pm every day), so plan accordingly. If you do so, some of the best fried chicken in the world will be yours. Fans going to the game might be best served by making Natchez, a town located a little over an hour away, their base of operations for the weekend. Fans 3 Alcorn State fans care about their football team, and they expect to see a quality team on the field. Fans of all ages attend the games. It is not uncommon to see high school students and younger children at the game sitting next to much older fans. All of them stay very engaged in the game while enjoying the company of those around them. While the atmosphere is a bit more subdued than that of an SEC affair, it can still be fun. Access 2 There is no way around the fact that there is not an easy way to get to Alcorn State. Most will either travel north or south on US 61 or take the Natchez Trace (something that I would recommend for those not from the area) to get close to the stadium. Once there, parking can be a bit confusing, but it will be figured out. However, you will be on your own to figure it out, as there is not a large gameday operations staff helping with the situation after taking your money. Caution is advised coming home from night games at Alcorn State as deer love to dart across the highways in the area. Do not pay the $25 for VIP parking. It is not worth $20 more than the general admission parking. Return on Investment 3 Fans hoping to get into an Alcorn State game will look at paying $20 per ticket. Unless one has a rooting interest or a burning desire to see a game at Alcorn State, the price seems a bit too high. However, for a football game $20 is not that expensive of a ticket, so the price does work out to be fair, and if the right game is chosen, there can be NFL-caliber players in the contest. Extras 2 Steve McNair played his college ball at Alcorn State, and surprisingly, there does not appear to be anything celebrating this fact. Fans going to the game have no reason to not have Alcorn State attire. There are Barnes and Noble booths in the stadium, and many vendors set up temporarily along Highway 552 to sell their items.

Photos by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Kohl Center 601 W Dayton St. Madison, WI 53715 Wisconsin Badgers website Kohl Center website Year Opened: 1998 Capacity: 17,230 Basketball at Kohl Center Since opening in 1998, the Kohl Center has become one of college basketball’s most recognizable arenas. With a capacity over 17,000, it is larger than many professional arenas in the country. It has seen its fair share of memorable moments and Badger fans have created consistently great atmospheres at the Kohl Center. Food & Beverage 3 You’re not going to be disappointed by the selection of food at the Kohl Center, but you’ll by no means be blown away. They have everything they should, hot dogs, pretzels, all the basics. The most diverse item on any menu is going to be the specialty Johnsonville sausage. In walking around before the game, all the concession stands were also quite similar. No matter where you sit, you do not have to go very far to get whatever it is you want. Nothing is too expensive, either. As you might expect everything to eat is reasonably priced. Also, with it being a college building, there is no sale of beer. Coca-Cola is the beverage provider. Fountain drinks go for $3.50-$4.50, along with bottles of water ($4). Hot beverages are available including coffee, hot chocolate, and cappuccino ($3, or $6 in a travel mug). Atmosphere 4 For big games, the Kohl Center gets rocking. I was there when the Badgers were playing a 13-15 Purdue team on a Sunday afternoon, though, and it was quite a tame atmosphere. The last time I was at the Kohl Center was in December of 2011 when the Badgers took on in-state rivals Marquette. Obviously, there were Golden Eagles fans there as well, but the Kohl Center had a big-game feel to it. During my most recent visit in early 2013, a lot of the time it felt like more people were there just to hang out with friends and family. It was Senior Day, so I would have maybe expected a bit of a better atmosphere for the final home game of the season. Still, I know this was a bad day for the Kohl Center, so I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt. Neighborhood 5 Madison is a fantastic college town. While it may be bigger than most other ones, it is all about the Badgers and you’ll be hard-pressed to find somewhere you wouldn’t enjoy before or after a game. The Kohl Center is right on Wisconsin’s campus, making it easy to find somewhere to go before and after each game. Not only are you a couple blocks from the famous State Street (which has places like Gino’s, Hawk’s Bar and Grill, and local favorite Ian’s Pizza), but there are a few Madison favorites that you will have to choose from after a game. Badgerland Bar and Grill and the Nitty Gritty are the two closest places to go to from the Kohl Center, and both will likely be pretty crowded immediately following a game. They are both a five-minute walk from the arena. Whenever I have talked to people I know that go to Wisconsin about the popular bars in Madison, Wando’s always comes up. It may not be the nicest bar, but if you’re looking for an atmosphere after a Badger game I would be shocked if there weren’t a lot of people there. Chasers Bar and Grille on Gorham Street and the Blue Velvet Lounge on Gilman Street are also places that were recommended to me and when I was walking around after the game they both seemed pretty crowded, but not sloppy or anything like that. Fans 4 The student section was not nearly as raucous as I expected until the second half. On defensive possessions, there was pretty much no noise being made in the first half, and it was a bit disappointing. In fact, a group of Purdue students compiled three rows at the very top of the arena, and they were making a similar amount of noise when the Boilermakers were on defense. The crowd knows when to get behind their team, but don’t necessarily do so in a big way. I know against teams that are better than Purdue, the Kohl Center is a lot louder. Still, the fans could have been much more involved in the game in the first half. When the Badgers were down and trying to gain momentum, though, the Kohl Center got loud. They sensed when they needed to be on their feet and when their Badgers needed a little boost. I did ask someone just walking around a couple of questions about where to go for food and for a certain section, and the group of three stopped and helped me. The fans are nice enough where you can sit anywhere in the arena and be able to strike up a conversation about the game with whoever you’re next to. Something else that was underrated for me was the lack of movement during timeouts and the game. Fans are here to watch Badgers basketball and they focus on that. Even during media timeouts, there were not that many fans moving around to go to the bathroom or get food. One thing I did like and took note of at the Kohl Center was the organization of the fans. During some timeouts and songs played by the band and those played by the arena, fans were synchronized in their movements and also looked like they were always on the same page. For me, that’s what it should be like at a college basketball game. Wisconsin is a football school. Two friends of mine who recently graduated told me they would always do anything to go to a football game, but just going to a bar to watch the game on TV was sufficient for them for the men’s basketball team. That showed during my visit. Access 5 You will not have trouble finding parking around the Kohl Center, and you’re unlikely to have to pay more than $15. The lot I parked in was about two blocks from the arena, and I know there were plenty of other places to park within four or five blocks of the arena. Return on Investment 4 For a game against one of the lower teams of the Big Ten (one that is toward the bottom of the Big Ten standings) the cheapest ticket will be between $15 and $20. For bigger games, it may cost double that just to get into the arena. Still, you feel like part of a big family at the Kohl Center so it will be a unique experience and worth it. Extras 3 The Kohl Center really is a nice arena. It is built to keep all of the noise in the building and toward the court, and it is right in the middle of the campus. There may be not much to it as an arena, but the game presentation was good for me, as they had a lot of interaction with students for in-game contests and also focused on the band and cheerleaders. Once again, that’s refreshing for a college game. Through the front entrance, you find the Dale Chihuly glass sculptures, known as the Mendota Wall (representing nearby Lake Mendota). It’s a beautiful piece of art, even if you don’t know about Murano-style glass. Final Thoughts It’s a big arena to just host college basketball and hockey. When you are outside the Kohl Center, you probably think it’s the size of an NBA arena. While the capacity isn’t necessarily as high as a professional arena, the Kohl Center still is a large arena for college athletics. On the right day, it’s a great arena and a wonderful experience for any college basketball fan.

Photos by Brian Jones, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Theodore A. Wright Stadium 3219 College St Savannah, GA 31404 Savannah State Tigers website Ted Wright Stadium website Year Opened: 1967 Capacity: 8,500 The Wright Place For The Tigers Ted A. Wright Stadium has been the home of the Savannah State Tigers since 1967. However, Savannah State made major renovations in 2010-2011, which included improved locker rooms, ticket booths, concession areas and new FieldTurf. While the team has struggled to find wins over the years, Ted Wright Stadium is not a bad place to watch a college football game. It’s not a big stadium, and it looks more like it would be home to a big high school football team in Georgia. However, because of the fan support, which includes a lively student section and loyal alumni, the stadium is a fun place to take in football game in South Georgia. Food & Beverage 3 Because there are only two concession stands in the entire stadium, there isn’t a wide variety of food to choose from. That said, the food is not expensive, and that is never a bad thing. The most you will spend for an item is $5, which is the wings catered by Bojangles’. The stands also include hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and candy, all ranging from $2-$4. Another good thing about the concession stands is the wait is never too long, as there are numerous people working in each stand. Atmosphere 2 Ted Wright Stadium looks like a field for a large high school football team in Georgia. One reason is that there is a track circled around the stadium, which has been around since the stadium was originally built. The other reason is the scoreboard, which does not have a screen to watch any replays or the game itself. When you add the two concession stands, the stadium just doesn’t have that Division I college football feel that it should. Neighborhood 4 Savannah State is located near the center of Savannah, so there is always something to do. With the city of Savannah featuring some of the best restaurants in the country, you will never go hungry. Elizabeth on 37th is a highly recommended place, as well as Sweet Spice. Since Savannah is located off the coast, the beach is another option for visitors. South Beach has been a fan favorite for years because it’s clean and peaceful. If the beach is not for you, there are various museums to visit, as well as churches that have been around since almost the beginning of time. If you go to Savannah, go to River Street. There are numerous shops, bars and restaurants to keep patrons occupied all day. Fans 4 I have to give the fans credit. For as much as the team has struggled in recent years, they are as lively of a crowd as you will find, especially the students. They wear the school colors with pride, they get to the game on time and they even start their own chants. In fact, they even start to do the wave, which is unusual, because the bleachers don’t circle around the stadium. The home bleachers are located on one side, and the away bleachers are located on the opposite side. The one thing that stands out is the endless amounts of tents set up in front of the stadium for tailgating. As many games I’ve been to, I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s clear the fans love their team and will support them no matter what. Access 3 Parking at Ted Wright Stadium is accessible. as it only costs $10 to park on campus. Because the stadium is located near the end of the campus, there are buses to take fans to and from the stadium. Because the stadium is not like a normal college stadium, access from one side of the stadium to the other is not hard. With the stadium not being very big, getting to and from your seat is a breeze, and the concourse is not a maze like other college stadiums. Savannah State is located in one of the bigger cities in Georgia. If you want to drive or fly to watch a game, that is not an issue, since the university is located minutes from the airport, as well as Interstate 16. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for a game won’t cost you an arm and a leg. For a single-game ticket, it will cost around $20-$30, which is not bad, considering the team has not been a hot commodity in several years. The best place to sit is where the students sit, which is right near the middle of the home bleachers. They know how to have a good time, regardless of how the team is playing. Extras 3 Right near the home bleachers is a place where fans can get Savannah State gear. When I was there, fans were stocking up on the shirts and hats, and they were also getting free stuff like water bottles and seat cushions. The marching band is also a fun sight, as they keep it lively all game long. They played songs that ranged from TLC’s “Waterfalls” to Jay-Z “Holy Grail” on the day I visited. WHCJ is the radio station that broadcasts all the games for Savannah State. If fans want to listen to the game while they are in the stands, they have that option. Final Thoughts Ted Wright Stadium isn’t the best college stadium in Georgia, but it’s not a bad stadium either. From the loyal fans to the entertaining band, there is never a dull moment. If the team was in a better position in terms of success, the stadium would be a tremendous place for a game. Regardless, if you are in the Savannah area and want to take in some football on a Saturday afternoon, Ted Wright Stadium is a solid place to do just that.

Photo Courtesy of Stadiumconnection.com Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Rice–Totten Stadium 14000 Hwy 82 W Itta Bena, MS 38941 Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils website Rice–Totten Stadium website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 10,000 The Legacy of Jerry Rice If you are looking for a passionate fan base and a fun environment to watch a football game, Rice-Totten Stadium is definitely a good place to start. Itta Bena, Mississippi is what you may expect from a small southern town, and in many ways it protects a gem in the Delta Devils. With Jerry Rice and Deacon Jones as their most well-known athletic alumni, the Delta Devils bring a proud football tradition to the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Rice-Totten Stadium seats approximately 10,000 fans, and provides a fun small school feel. Food & Beverage 2 There is nothing wrong with the food and beverage choices offered in the stadium. In many ways, it is what you would expect for a small Southwestern Athletic Conference school. You are not going to pay a lot, and in return the variety is not all that great. The few tailgates set up around campus do have some unique food choices, and the fans are definitely friendly. Atmosphere 3 With numerous alumni in the National Football League, the Delta Devils fan base has high expectations for their team. They are passionate and interested in the game. They are also very proud of their team, no matter how it happens to be doing that Saturday. Overall it is an enjoyable venue to watch a football game. It is small enough to give you that personal feel, while still being at a college environment. Neighborhood 3 Itta Bena is a nice small southern town. It is proud of being home to the Delta Devils, and openly shows its pride. But Itta Bena is probably not a place where you are going to go to spend a weekend, as there is little to see besides the University. Greenwood is just about ten miles east on US-82, and there you will find a few hotels and a few chain restaurants. But visits to Memphis, Tennessee (two hours to the north) or Jackson, Mississippi (one hour and forty five minutes to the south) both provide plenty of entertainment if needed. The trip is definitely going to show you what the Mississippi countryside has to offer from either direction. Fans 3 The fans know their football, as they have seen some of the best in college and professional history play at Rice-Totten Stadium. The passion is definitely evident when you arrive and continues until you leave the campus. While not as large as some Southwestern Athletic Conference schools, Mississippi Valley State can definitely hold its own when it comes to loyalty amongst its fan base. Access 2 Once on campus, finding parking is not difficult, nor is finding the stadium. The drive in is a bit of a drain, with few close places to stay. The best bets are either Memphis, TN or Jackson, MS if you are looking to spend time in a larger city, both which leave long drives in on game day. The drive is definitely worth the experience overall. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices run $20-$35 on game days, with a discount for buying them early. The food is affordable, and the fans are passionate. Plus any place that has hosted Jerry Rice has to be worth the trip. On this, the Delta Devils do not disappoint. Extras 1 The Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils and Itta Bena, Mississippi provide a fun and worthwhile journey into the small town south. Any fan of college football, or of greats like Jerry Rice and Deacon Jones definitely need to make the trip to Itta Bena. The fans will welcome you with open arms, and at the end of the drive, you will be glad you went on the journey.

Photos by Andy Pregler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Schoellkopf Field 513 Campus Rd Ithaca, NY 14853 Cornell Big Red football website Schoellkopf Field website Year Opened: 1915 Capacity: 25,597 Big Red Review of Schoellkopf Field Nestled in the rolling hills of Central New York is Cornell, a school known just as much for its academics as the beautiful plot of land the campus occupies. Tucked away on this historic campus is also a historic football stadium. Schoellkopf Field has been the home of the Big Red since opening in 1915. Now in its 98th season, the field has one of the most unique architectural features of a stadium that you'll find. The eastern stands are a huge sloping arch (aptly named "The Crescent) that from the outside, model a coliseum. The Crescent was added in 1924 as one of the eight main renovations the stadium has undergone. The largest crowd recorded at Schoellkopf Field was 35,300 when the Big Red defeated the Michigan Wolverines in 1951. Since 1970, the largest crowd Schoellkopf Field has seen was 23,000 when Cornell defeated Columbia in 1971. Cornell has five National Championships with the last coming in 1939. The Big Red also has three Ivy League championships with the last coming in 1990. Food & Beverage 3 The food offerings here are comparable to almost any other stadium across the country. The key is knowing what side of the stadium to go to. On the west stands beneath the press box, there are just two concession stands (in reality just one that is divided into two) that features the bare minimum of offerings: peanuts, candy, popcorn, pretzels, sodas, hot coffee, chocolate and teas. Ironically enough, these are the stands where most of the visiting fans and band sit! Under The Crescent is where to satisfy your in-game cravings. There are three large concession areas all with many more offerings. These include burgers, hot dogs, sausage, chili, chili dogs, cheese dogs, chicken fingers, fries and slushies along with the same offerings from the west stands. All of the food is priced fairly between $2-$7 dollars. Since Schoellkopf Field is an in-campus facility, no beer or alcohol is available on campus. Atmosphere 2 When you drive into Ithaca, you can't help but smile at just how beautiful and tranquil the area is. It brings you back to small town USA. This is similar to how I would describe the football game atmosphere. Before the action started, I found one small tailgate in the lot adjacent to the east stands near the band building. The marching band performs for the fans before marching into the stadium. As I wandered the stadium, it felt as if most of the fans for both sides were families of the players or families from the area looking for a way to create new young fans of the game of football. Talking to ushers, you immediately comprehend that they know most of the fans on a first name basis. The bands for Brown (visiting team) and Cornell were both active instead of the usual hard rock/pop music over a sound system. The stadium's scoreboard is located in south end zone and while it doesn't have all of the extra bells and whistles of jumbotrons, it does show a high quality video of the action on the field. And I'll give the cheerleaders for Cornell credit; they are loud and into the game even if the fans they are cheering to are not. Neighborhood 4 The area immediately around the Cornell campus will only keep you in the area longer. It's a built up area intended to cater to the students at the school and thus offers many choices when it comes to food and drink. I made a venture into the College Town area with a friend who goes to the school. It's a few (admittedly crammed) streets full of restaurants, coffee shops and student apartments just a five minute drive/fifteen minute walk from the stadium. If you like Greek/Mediterranean food, Aladdin's has fantastic authentic food at a good price with a nice selection of bottled beers and wines. If that's not your scene, Agava is a Mexican restaurant on the other side of campus that serves upscale Mexican food. If you venture into downtown Ithaca, multiple people have recommended the Ithaca Ale House. It's a place with great pub food and local beers and TV's for all sporting events. Fans 2 As seen in many of the pictures above, there were not great numbers when Cornell took on Brown in Oct, 2013. In fairness, it was the first weekend that Central New York was hit with "football weather," the trademarked cool temperatures with biting winds. Most of the seats taken are in between the thirty yard lines in the center part of The Crescent, which offer the best view of the entire field. However, almost no one was at the lowest section, leading many high schoolers to stand over the railing for a time. The cheerleaders are positioned in front of the band for most of the game as there is no discernible student section to be found. At this game, those who did brave the cold knew their football and were incredibly friendly and familiar with Cornell football. Some of the most unique views and seats are found as you walk the upper-most concourse on that east set of stands; there are folding chairs set up to watch from on top of The Crescent and have a bird's eye view of the action. Access 3 It is not my attempt at creative writing, when I say that Ithaca is nestled in the hills of Central New York. You exit I-81 at Cortland and proceed to take the New York State routes through Cortland and the winding hills and towns between the highway and Ithaca. It the fall, this drive is absolutely gorgeous with the changing leaves which perfectly coincide with football weather. It's best to find your way to Hoy Road as this will lead you to the campus entrance closest to Schoellkopf Field. After you've navigated your way to Cornell's campus, there is plenty of free parking just off the campus. However, on campus parking is cheap and available at lots scattered throughout the school or in the Hoy Garage. If you can nab a metered parking spot in the Garage, both the baseball field and Schoellkopf Field are adjacent to the garage. The garage will bring you to the northwest corner of the stadium, where you can find the visiting team's fan section and bleacher seating. Just walk around the north end zone and you'll be over at the west stands where most of the Cornell faithful will be and where I discovered the small tailgate with the band. Return on Investment 4 With adult admission seating at just $10, Schoellkopf Field offers tremendous value. You can grab great seats for your whole family for under $40 with their children rates, and food won't break the bank either. Factor in the wonderful neighborhood, the scenic drive and sights around the area and the relatively workable prices of food in the area and that weekend trip to Ithaca can be complimented with a quick swing to Schoellkopf to see some D1 football action. Extras 3 When you grab your seat at Schoellkopf Field, you'll notice a brick building in the north end zone modeled after an older style mansion but clearly much newer. This is the Schoellkopf Memorial Football Building where the offices of all of the coaches and staff are found as well as the teams locker rooms. The bottom level is where you'll find the band room and locker rooms and are off limits to the public. However, the top level is where you'll find the offices and a Hall of Fame area, commemorating legends of Cornell football. There is also a dining area for "select fans" with seating available on the terrace for these fans. Final Thoughts There is a special charm to Ithaca, NY and the Cornell campus. While it isn't an area that screams passion for football, Schoellkopf Field is a historic stadium with character that offers a family friendly atmosphere to watch a collegiate football game with all of the extras that make collegiate football different from anything else. Couple this with the friendly staff and fans and there is no reason not to swing by and watch the Big Red play if you're in the area for a weekend.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Amarillo Civic Center 401 S. Buchanan Amarillo, TX 79101 Amarillo Civic Center website Year Opened: 1963 Capacity: 4,912 The Newest Amarillo Hockey Team Editors Note: The Amarillo Bulls were replaced by the Amarillo Wranglers in the 2021–22 season and moved down the block to the Amarillo Ice Ranch. --- The Amarillo Bulls (NAHL – North American Hockey League) play in what’s known as the Budweiser Bull Center (the Coliseum) of the Amarillo Civic Center located in the Texas Panhandle. The Amarillo Civic Center contains a variety of multipurpose areas including a 4,870 fixed seat coliseum (4,912 total capacity) and a separate auditorium with 2,324 seats. Two exhibit halls, two ballrooms, and meeting rooms are designed to meet a wide variety of needs including business meetings, banquets, dances, conventions, and trade shows. The stadium is owned by the city. Other hockey teams that have played at the Civic Center are the Amarillo Gorillas (CHL – 2002 – 2010), and the Amarillo Wranglers (CHL – 1968 – 1971). The Amarillo Venom, champions of the 2013 LSFL (Lone Star Football League) play indoor football at the Civic Center. On the day I visited in Oct 2013, one could attend a gun show, a gem and mineral show, a choir concert, and/or a Christmas craft fair during the day, then see the Amarillo Bulls play hockey in the evening at this venue. There was also a ballet being performed at the same time of the hockey game. It’s a pretty happening Civic Center. The Amarillo Bulls won the Robertson Championship Cup (the oldest junior hockey trophy in the United States) in the 2012-2013 season. The Amarillo Bulls continue to be a winning team in the NAHL in the 2013-2014 season and the fans are supportive and appreciative of their effort. Food & Beverage 3 There are several fixed concession stands as well as unique specialty stands at the Civic Center. Fixed stands include the traditional hamburger, hot dog, polish sausage, Philly sub sandwiches, nachos, Frito pies, and the like ranging from $4 – $7. Unique specialty stands include Mexican burritos and super nachos ($6.25 – $8.50), cupcakes ($3.50), Groovy pop (gourmet popcorn), and a chocolate banana, cotton candy, and caramel apple stand. Pizza on a cardboard plate is also offered. Between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm there are 12 oz pre-game $2 beer specials (Bud, Bud Light, Coors, Coors Light). When the game starts, 16 oz beers (same choices) are $5. Those are the only beer choices I saw so don’t expect to see any local brews here. Coke is the soda of choice with Sprite, Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper and Diet Dr. Pepper available ranging from $2.50 – $3.75. There are minimal lines at the concession stands between periods to get your food/drink options. Atmosphere 4 Temperature inside rink is perfect. No need to bundle up or bring a blanket. A sweat shirt or hockey jersey will be fine. It did get a bit cooler in the third period so a light jacket is also recommended for those who tend to get chilly. Recommended seating – center ice, above the glass, facing the bench is section 108, row Q (handicapped), row P will be fine too. If you like being closer to the ice action, then rows A – F will suit you. The penalty boxes are between the player benches. There are no luxury suites, just one level of seating. The second level is used for broadcasting and cameras. The concourse width is perfect (not too crowded) and one can circle it in its entirety. The arena is bright and colorful with red, green, orange, and blue catwalks above the seating area. There is no center scoreboard which is refreshing. Instead, two panels and screens hang at each end of the ice behind the goals and show the scoring and live game action. There is a four person percussion band/group that provides live music and entertainment throughout the game. It is a very nice touch when visiting a Bulls game. I understood about 15% of what the PA Announcer was stating so this may be an area of improvement. The Amarillo Bulls team saluted the fans after the game by circling the center ice mark and raising their sticks to the fans. Nicely done. Neighborhood 3 The Civic Center is downtown near several government buildings. The downtown area is very walk-able and safe. Adjacent to the Civic Center is a small park called Amarillo Centennial Plaza that displays plaques, bricks, water arrangements, and a globe all which recognize the Amarillo history. It is worth taking a stroll through the park. All of the paths are wheelchair accessible in this plaza. For places to stay the Courtyard Marriott is the closest and it is only ½ mile from the arena. There are several other hotels 1- 2 miles from the arena including a LaQuinta Inn. Most of those are one exit east on I-40. When traversing downtown Amarillo (and other parts of Amarillo, as well), you will notice many painted horse statues. The Painted Horse exhibit is worth visiting. Make it a scavenger hunt when you visit the area with your family. Another tourist spot in Amarillo is the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum. This venue is “a great place to bring Panhandle visitors where they can experience a piece of the West; it’s a place for horse lovers of all ages to learn more about the breed; and it’s a quiet sanctuary in which to appreciate some outstanding artwork.” Restaurants within a ½ mile of the Civic Center include Acapulco Mexican Restaurant & Bar (can sit outside in the sun on a fine fall afternoon), highly recommended Eddie’s Napoli’s (Italian), and the Burger Bar (they offer hand spun shakes). Night clubs in the area are Rain Premier Sushi Bar & Lounge and Wild Cards, both within walking distance of the Civic Center and near the Marriott. Fans 4 No electronic noise makers are allowed in the coliseum. That doesn’t stop the fans. Cowbells, manual air horns, glass banging, and good old shouting and applauding abounded during this Amarillo Bulls 4-0 win against the Corpus Christi Ice Rays. There are your traditional hockey chats against the visiting goal tender as well as expressed anger at the referees for giving a game ejection to one of the Bulls players for instigating a fight. The fans throw rubber balls on the ice after each goal which is something unique. When I attended a game here in 2004 for the Amarillo Gorillas, the fans threw out plastic yellow bananas. It seems to be a tradition here in Amarillo and one well accepted. Fans for the most part, know their hockey etiquette and do not go down to seats while puck is in play. It’s kind of funny that the individuals wearing Amarillo jerseys are not the ones paying much attention to that etiquette (at least at the game I attended). Access 2 Amarillo International Airport is about 10 miles from the Civic Center. The Civic Center is walk-able from other destinations in downtown Amarillo including the Courtyard Marriott. Plenty of parking free of charge is available at the Civic Center. I did not see public transportation options to the arena. There is no bag check upon entering the arena, a nice surprise. Just don’t bring in outside food or beverages. There are wide concourses with just a little congestion between periods where most of the concession area is housed. Bathrooms are plenty. They are small, clean and serve the crowd well. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices range from $12 – $22. I went with the $15 ticket and it was fine. You can move about the arena as you wish to get different perspectives and take photos. There is no parking fee and food is reasonably priced. And, you get a good hockey game and witness some fantastic Amarillo hockey fans in a bright and colorful arena. Check the Amarillo Bulls website for special ticket deals and events. One example includes “The Budweiser Party Zone.” For $300 dollars you get 30 tickets and 30 beverages with exclusive seating at ice level. Get your buddies and their significant others and kids out and enjoy a Bulls game this season. Extras 3 Be sure to get your game day notes and handout available at the customer guest relations desk. This includes game day rosters and other recent noteworthy news in the NAHL. There is a merchandise table with shirts, jerseys, pennants, caps but no lapel pins. There are banners displayed in the arena for the Bulls championships including the 2013 Robertson Championship as well as other teams who have played in the Civic Center, e.g., IFL Dusters. Listen to the Amarillo Bulls on Sports Radio 1440. Other points of note include the four person percussion group (nicely done) and a stuffed piggy that slides across the rink after a Bulls goal with a wee-wee-wee sound in the background. A massage school in Amarillo offered massages during the game I attended. Final Thoughts If you like the minor league/junior league hockey atmosphere and you’re in or traveling through Amarillo, do take the time to visit the Amarillo Bulls. If they’re not in town, I’m sure you’ll find plenty of other things to see at the Amarillo Civic Center.