We stayed at a near by hotel, the Hampton Inn. The walk to and from was about 15 minutes, even on a chilly evening it was a nice quick walk and easy to find our way to the actual stadium being that Starfire is a sporting complex. When walking up it was a bit confusing as to where to enter from, but we just fallowed the crowd. There was only two tents for merch but selections where limited. USA rugby merch was available in one tent but was mostly Adidas gear no cantebury . No sizes above XL . No shirts only sweaters and away white jerseys. It may seem most likely the bulk of the gear went to Vegas. Seawolves also where limited, not much size selections if you had kids younger then 5/6 years old. But none the less was able to walk away with a small Seawolves ball for the baby and shirts which my kids will grow into of Seawolves, and a USA rugby sweater which I was in dire need of needing a new rugby sweatshirt.
Starfire stadium it self was pretty good. Great view of the whole field, seating was okay. If your a big fellow like me do not sit in the chair back seating, if you do I highly recommend sitting in front row or bleacher seating. The gentleman next to me and I could barely move and had to rotate which side we where leaning towards.
Two big thumbs way up for the PA announcer. Well educated on what was happening on the field and made it way easy for people who are not fully aware of the rules of rugby to fallow. Clear on all penalty calls , didn't have to leave over every time and explain to my dad what happened.
Surprisingly there was limited to no booing any of the kickers and even though there was much drinking in the stands the crowd was pretty well behaved. My suggestion for those in charge though is maybe get one or two vendors to walk around selling a few drinks and basic foods would be pretty awesome.
I propose a family funzone for all SeaWolves matches for those who have children or wish to bring there child. Oregon State University just added something like this recently for there football games and upon visiting what they have done I believe the Seawolves would benefit greatly. From OSU- "Benny's Lodge, located on the concourse, with three sections, including games for kids ranging from toddlers, to ages 4-8 and 9-12. There will also be kid friendly and healthy menu options as well an area to check in strollers and "baby break rooms." Benny Beaver will make regular appearances to the area pregame and during the game, as well." What was in place was a bounce house, corn holes, coloring station with pictures of beavers (can easily be changed to whales or rugby. Football tossing games, again change to rugby. Rucky can hang out there pre game and during the game.
My last input is for Starfire to be a Autism Acceptance facility and to partner with Kulturcity to provide those with sensory overload and enjoyable time when attending any event at the facility. What does that entail you may ask, simple. A sensory bag for those who need it that includes a wrist band or some form of identification so staff can identify anyone who has sensory overload issues, noise canceling headphones and a map of the facilities such as closest restroom, exit and entrance or security desk. A game day program of events happening such as if there is pregame or post game fireworks, when the anthems will be played expected times for kick offs and game ending. Also training staff members/volunteers how to assist in anyone in need and comfort those who maybe having a difficult time. These may all seem useless and waste of man power, but if you can provide a enjoyable experience not just for the person with sensory issues but the family or friend attending the match with them you have now made them a fan for life and a very happy person. Shouldn't that be what we need to strive for.
Overall my experience for a test matches at Starfire was good and I would give a A grade. Minor stuff here and there for improvement but this is only year two of the complex hosting rugby events and more amenities and gameday experience I am sure will be added and changed.
On my bucket list is still to visit infinity park , but next to Ray Sheeran field at SFGG , Starfire is my favorite place to watch rugby matches and will be attending more down the road.
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