According to Stadium Journey magazine, the Blue Wahoos were rated the “Best Minor League Ballpark Experience†based on the online magazine’s review of more than 100 Minor League Ballparks – which takes into account not only the stadium, but the quality of the food, the fans, affordability, cleanliness, and the “extras†or intangible differences the Wahoos provide.
Blue Wahoos owners Quint & Rishy Studer said the recognition was a testament to the fans, the staff, and the voters, city leaders, and construction team that made the stadium a reality.
“The Blue Wahoos are honored to be recognized by Stadium Journey magazine not only for our stadium, but more importantly for the quality of service and family fun we provide each night,†said Quint Studer. “It’s wonderful to recognize and reward our staff, all the hard work of our city leaders, the support of the voters who approved the project, and everyone who played a role in building this great downtown experience,†Studer continued.
“We are fortunate to have a beautiful setting to play baseball, but this award is about more than just brick and mortar – it’s about the people who make the Blue Wahoos games a great experience. From the fans, to our staff and employees, to the quality of the food we serve, to the businesses and neighborhoods that make downtown so inviting, the Blue Wahoos are truly honored and grateful to be a part of this success,†said Studer.
Pensacola’s bayfront stadium has received several awards and recognitions for its design and beautiful location on Pensacola Bay, but this most recent announcement includes several aspects in the magazine’s FANFARE rating system which rates the entire fan experience. This review includes:
Food & Beverage, Atmosphere, Neighborhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment (affordability), and Extras – including the bay breezes, cleanliness, and the intimacy of the fan setting to the game.
Bruce Baldwin, the President of the Blue Wahoos, who worked with the City’s design and construction team as the new stadium was being constructed, noted the strength of the competition for the recent award.
“The best stadium in the world will sit empty if the food is bad and the service is poor,†said Baldwin. “I’ve been working in baseball for over thirty years, and I can tell you there’s not a lot new under the sun. Everyone can buy new equipment, upgrade their seats, or expand their scoreboard. But having fans, staff, and employees who make your program nationally recognized – that’s what most ball clubs dream of,†said Baldwin.
