It is hard to fathom that it is now 15 years old. Is it really even possible? Seems like just yesterday that the ribbon was being cut to open this grand ballpark, and in the process establishing the standard for how to build one the right way, both cost effectively, and cosmetically.
Perhaps it is the meticulously manicured grass or the pristine cleanliness of this gem that makes it seem so age defiant, as it truly looks the same to me as it did back on that special day when it opened its doors to our community and allowed us to come in and experience the joy that can only be derived from the game of baseball in a setting that is as comfortable as the recliner in your living room.
In a day and age when professional sports franchises are clamoring for more money and more tax breaks than ever before, this Mona Lisa of ballparks continues to distinguish itself as both self sufficient and profitable in a manner that leaves every other sports organization in town shaking their heads in envy.
Welcome ladies and gentlemen to Victory Field, home of your Indianapolis Indians and arguably the best ballpark in America in terms of the all mighty value for your dollar.
At a time when National Football League and National Basketball Association ticket prices (Don’t even get me started on concessions) are totally out of control and keeping the working class on the outside looking in, Indians baseball at Victory Field is an even greater bargain than ever before.
Every night is a fan-friendly endeavor at this venue, where you can bring your family and go home without being bankrupt in the process.
From the ever popular Monday Dollar Menu (That’s right, numerous concession items for just one dollar) to various discounted ticket offers, (Two for one Tuesdays) to free firework shows after every Friday night game, Victory Field is indeed the obvious choice for entertainment in downtown Indianapolis in the summer. You can even bring a blanket and sit under the stars in the outfield lawn section if you prefer, and munch on your own snacks. (Can you imagine trying that at a Pacers or Colts game?)
Free souvenirs your thing? No problem, as they have you covered with numerous freebies throughout the season on Souvenir Sunday with your paid admission, and for the record, you can still get into a game for a most reasonable price. The Indians also go out of their way to accommodate groups who wish to attend giving them great deals on tickets and special recognition during the games.
With an emphasis on education in our community, they typically welcome thousands of students each year to experience a game and mix studying with baseball in a manner that inspires children to learn in a positive, fun way, regardless of their interest level in the game of baseball.
Grab your family and take them out to a game soon and relive the enthusiasm and enjoyment of the spring and summer seasons that can only come from a trip to a ballpark, and in this case, the best ballpark.
Happy 15th birthday Victory Field, and thanks for being a great friend to us all over the years.
Notes: To learn more about the numerous promotions and specials you can take advantage of this season at Victory Field, call (317) 269-3545 or log on to www.Indyindians.com. Tickets are available at the Victory Field box office or at Ticketmaster.com.
The ever-popular Knot Hole Kids Club is again back this year for children 14 and under, who can attend all 72 home games for just $14. Members receive a T-Shirt and get an opportunity to run the bases after select Sunday games.
Danny Bridges, who wishes our other local sports franchises would emulate the successful formula of the Indianapolis Indians, can be reached at (317) 578-1780 or at Bridgeshd@aol.com.
