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Maryvale Baseball Stadium (Stephanie Murphy, buzz Weekly)

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Spring Break in March in the state of Illinois is never anything to brag about. The weather is always unpredictable and going outside usually requires a parka. Many people choose to get away, but going to Mexico and Florida usually sounds cliché. So if you’re looking for something new and fun, check out baseball’s Spring Training in Arizona. This spring, I attended my first Spring Training games. If you enjoy baseball – and even if you don’t – Spring Training is definitely worth checking out.

Unlike normal major-league ballparks, which sometimes hold 50,000 fans, the Spring Training ballparks are extremely small in comparison, holding anywhere from 6,000 to 13,000 fans. The smaller, more intimate atmosphere allows people to get more involved. If you arrive early enough, you can get autographs from players simply by standing at the edge of the dugout. A good tip is to see your favorite team while they are playing an away game. There won’t be as many autograph-seeking fans and it will increase your chances of meeting players.

In addition to the intimate feel of these ballparks, the ticket prices are extremely reasonable as well. A ticket for general admission will allow you to sit on the lawn in the outfield (in the warm sun) for under $10 at most ballparks. For normal seats, the prices are at least half those of comparable seats at a major-league park. Even parking is inexpensive and hassle-free.

The atmosphere in the parks is fun and relaxing. Inside the park, there are fans of every persuasion. White Sox and Cubs fans co-exist in harmony among Brewers, Rockies and Angels fans, to name a few. People are just happy to be witnessing baseball in a laid-back setting.

Finally, one of the best parts of the experience is the weather. It is a welcome change of pace from the monotonous, sunless weather that usually plagues Champaign during the early part of the year. Temperatures are often in the 70s and 80s without a cloud in the sky.

For those interested, teams offer all-inclusive packages throughout the spring, and although pricey, give fans great access to the games. If you’re looking to plan on your own, make sure that reservations for flights, hotels and rental cars are made in advance for the cheapest prices. Play ball!