The Perfect Amphitheater

There couldn't be a better setup for a Fan Fest than the promenade between Oriole Park and M&T Bank Stadium.  The sycamores edging the walkway created shade for tailgating and (what else?)  pickup lacrosse games on the grass. 

(Do people carry portable goals around in their trunks or something?  They materilize out of nowhere, like picnic tables.  Kids with sticks are right behind them.)

Along the the flag-lined route were festival tents with lacrosse challenges and other activities .  Fans of all ages are having a blast.

One thing I noticed is that the lax support is not confined to the two teams in the championship.  Lacrosse t-shirts from colleges and programs all around are proudly displayed.  A lot of Navy, a few Syracuse, and some youth players from Yorktown who seemed to have established a campsite on Lot H.  Very evident they are here to see the top level of competition and not necessarily the teams.

What is really cool is the main stage, which is situated right under the overpass.  Not only is it shaded and roughly in the middle, but the structural supports and the deck create a perfect acoustics for percussion.  (The overhead traffic adds a nice touch, too.)

About an hour before face-off, the 23 man drum line of the Marching Ravens took the stage for a show that drew everyone into the action.  If it was possible to energize the crowd any more, the drum line delivered.  Then they reassembled in front of the stage and led the parade into the stadium.

Here's a picture of what the promenade looked like even before the band began.

Terry told me the Terp women champs are going to be recognized on the field today.  Their game, and the crowd in Towson, was the talk of the US Lacrosse tent this afternoon.

It's been a great weekend for lacrosse in Baltimore. Why hold a championship anywhere else?