MIKE Sports Comic Books

FREE Series Iconic Sports Venues

Copyright 2015 | 2nd Edition 2017 By Jim Sweeney – The MIKE Maker Iconic Sports Venues spotlights my favorite places in America to attend a game, regardless of the sport.

Steeped in tradition and offering unique contributions to sports history, these iconic venues probably figure prominently on every sports fan’s bucket list - not just mine.

Upon entering their storied gates or walking through their hallowed hallways, sports fans immediately drink in the festive atmosphere and savor the fond memories housed within the famous arenas and stadiums chronicled in this book.

That’s because my prized picks have hosted many of the most important American sporting events in the past century.

The storied may be regarded as America’s most famous stadium, and few will argue. This National Historic Landmark can be found in a gorgeous Southern California setting with the majestic San Gabriel Mountains hovering in the distance.

The Rose Bowl has also served as stage for Super Bowls, college football championships, Olympic Games, World Cup matches and even a hugely popular monthly flea market.

My next pick acts as a double treat. Two successful college football programs call the ominously sounding Death Valley home.

These venues are where rabid football fans cheer on their school’s nationally ranked teams in what can best be described as hostile, or deadly, conditions for the opposition.

Moving indoors, college basketball junkies beam whenever witnessing action inside these two hallowed halls of hoops.

Duke’s Cameron Indoor Stadium and the University of Pennsylvania’s Palestra unquestionably rank as the two best old-school venues for watching top level NCAA basketball games.

The Windy City gifts avid sports fans with two beloved sports institutions. Chicago sports fans not only pay homage to our country’s fallen servicemen in the city’s spectacular lakeside location of Soldier Field. They also adore - and rightfully so - the friendly confines and ivy covered outfield walls of Wrigley Field.

Boston boasts two of our nation’s most venerable venues. During their long and colorful histories, and the Old Garden have each furnished the Hub City’s sports teams with excitement, and most importantly, plenty of championships.

Rounding out this FREE sports comic book, America’s biggest metropolitan area gives us the multi-billion dollar , a state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly ballpark built directly across the street from its historic predecessor. Further south in Manhattan, located right in the heart of the Big Apple, sits Madison Square Garden. This locale is deservedly called the “world’s greatest arena.” The recently renovated venue is actually the fourth MSG in history.

Lastly, in the bonus chapter, we visit the mecca of playground basketball – New York City’s acclaimed Rucker Park.

Iconic in its own unique way, Rucker Park closes out this book like a thundering slam dunk with pulsating music and panache, qualities that have made the urban venue so sublime!

Enjoy Iconic Sports Venues and feel free to share it with friends.

MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports! Why read this book?

Favorite #10: Death Valley

Favorite #9: Cameron Indoor

Favorite #8: Rose Bowl

Favorite #7: Soldier Field

Favorite #6: The Palestra

Favorite #5: Wrigley Field

Favorite #4:

Favorite #3: Fenway Park

Favorite #2: Yankee Stadium

Favorite #1: Madison Square Garden

Bonus Chapter on NYC’s Rucker Park

Thank You & Affiliate Disclosure More FREE Books

Podcast: MIKE on Sports!

Meet the MIKE Makers

Acknowledgements As highlighted on the cover, this book is fun, informative and witty.

The light hearted stories in each chapter are told by me - a Trademarked cartoon character named MIKE – aka Mike Raffone.

You’ll smile and wish you were actually sitting in these places while learning something new about the greatest sports venues in America.

Plus, the unique sports comics that accompany each chapter cleverly capture the essence of the beloved ballpark or venerable venue highlighted in this book.

As an added bonus, you’ll always find FREE stuff in each of my sports comic books. See the back of this book for details.

In addition to a bonus chapter on NYC’s famous urban outdoor sports setting, I offer a few FREE sports comic books for safe downloading. Check out my author profile on Amazon.com, follow me on Twitter, fan me on Facebook and subscribe to my podcast – MIKE on Sports!

MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Resting peacefully at #10 in Iconic Sports Venues is the name of one of college football’s most daunting places for visiting teams to play.

Two prominent universities lay claim to the mortal title. And both schools routinely spar over who owns the genuine birthright to its respective stadium’s deathly name.

Aptly named Death Valley, the first is Clemson University’s football stadium. It’s ironically situated between a cemetery on a hill and a plain with a valley beyond.

Clemson claims its stadium is the genuine Death Valley of college football because it can clearly identify the genesis of its deadly sounding name.

In 1948, former Presbyterian College coach Lonnie McMillian bemoaned the fact that his teams rarely scored and never won when playing in Clemson’s Death Valley. McMillian’s comments held true for most other NCAA teams. Clemson’s Death Valley boasts a remarkable home field advantage for the Tigers.

It’s here that the Clemson football team has won an impressive 71% of its home games. It’s also where the boisterous 81,500 seat stadium reaches a deafening decibel level of 133db.

Death Valley is also famous for Howard’s Rock. Named after legendary Clemson coach Frank Howard, this actual rock originated from Death Valley Park in California. It serves as a landmark in the stadium.

Since 1967, Clemson players and coaches have traditionally touched the rock before each game amid fireworks and a raucous crowd.

Opposing teams have often become intimidated while witnessing this amazing spectacle, acknowledged as one of the richest in college sports. The lore and legend of Death Valley causes would-be rivals to succumb to the Tigers on their notoriously scary home field.

About 1,000 miles southwest of Clemson, SC stands the football home of the LSU Tigers. Coincidentally, Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, LA is also known as Death Valley.

However, the birth of LSU’s Death Valley stadium remains a mystery to most fans. There exists no clear cut agreement on when and where LSU’s Death Valley moniker was originally coined.

Some fans attribute LSU’s Death Valley name to the local Baton Rouge dialect’s pronunciation of Deaf Valley, which, ironically, is a gas station situated next to the actual football stadium where LSU plays.

Fans near the gas station not only acknowledge that it’s impossible to hear when games are played in the monstrous stadium located next to the Deaf Valley service station. But, they also reinforce that few visiting teams ever win at LSU.

When Louisianans describe this experience to others outside the state, they always sound as if they are saying Death Valley instead of Deaf Valley. Their unique dialect transforms the “f” into a “th” sound as they do when saying breath as “breaf”.

Tiger Stadium, or LSU’s Death Valley, is just as impossibly tough a place to play as Memorial Stadium in Clemson, SC.

LSU’s 95,542 seat stadium was named the scariest place to play in college football by ESPN in 2007, and the NCAA called it the loudest college football stadium in 2013.

Whether you believe LSU’s theory about the origination of its Death Valley or hold true to the media facts supported by Clemson’s claim, let’s agree on these two unwavering details.

One - both college stadiums are incredibly loud.

Two - based on both schools’ impressive home winning records, they’re metaphoric graveyards for opposing college football teams who come to visit either Death Valley. If you’re interested in authentic college football sports merchandise and collectibles, click on the Fanatics logo above.

Thanks in advance if you opt to purchase a product from Fanatics because we earn a small commission on each sale.

MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

The student section at Duke University’s Cameron Indoor Stadium has every right to go crazy. These college kids get to cheer on top national recruiting classes each year as well as the most successful head coach in college basketball history.

The energetic and creative students, cleverly named Cameron Crazies, have helped provide a huge home-court advantage for the Duke Blue Devils during the school’s games in Durham, NC.

It’s no surprise these rabid fans are one of the primary reasons that Cameron Indoor Stadium finds a home at #9 in Iconic Sports Venues.

Since joining the program in 1980, Coach Mike Krzyzewski has developed the Duke Basketball program into one of the nation’s elite. Coach K has led the Blue Devils to five NCAA Titles in 1991, 1992, 2001, 2010 and 2015, while coaching scores of future NBA players.

Coach K attributes the Duke Basketball program’s success not only to the five star recruits who have played for him. But, Coach K also credits the noisy Cameron Crazies who’ve rooted for his squad at Cameron Indoor Stadium. That’s because they have made it a nearly impossible place for opposing teams to play and win.

Before students enter Cameron Indoor Stadium, they gather in the makeshift city of Krzyzewski-ville outside of the arena. There, clever chants are made up before the games begin inside the stadium.

During the late fall and winter many Cameron Crazies brave the harsh weather. They pitch tents to secure tickets to sold-out games against in-state ACC rivals such as University of North Carolina, Wake Forest and NC State.

Covered in blue body paint or dressed in funny outfits, Cameron Crazies fill the lower bowl of the stadium. With their creative chants, intimidating tactics and constant jumping, the students create an awesome atmosphere for the Blue Devils basketball team just inches away from the hardwood and the visiting team.

Whether you’re a Duke Blue Devil fan or you’re not the least bit crazy, it’s not too difficult to draw the conclusion that these Cameron Crazies are the best fans in college basketball.

These college kids make Cameron Indoor Stadium an easy choice at #9 for Iconic Sports Venues. If you’re interested in authentic college basketball sports merchandise, click on the Fanatics logo above.

Thanks in advance if you opt to purchase a product from Fanatics because we earn a small commission on each sale.

MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

At #8 in Iconic Sports Venues, the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA has hosted many of America’s top sports events over the past century.

Because of the Rose Bowl’s rich and diverse history, Sports Illustrated ranked it number one in its 2007 poll of best college stadiums.

It’s no surprise that many others in sports media have attributed the enviable moniker “America’s Most Famous Stadium” to California’s Rose Bowl. Sorry, Jerry Jones and Robert Kraft!

Constructed in 1922 for only $272,198, the original horse shoe shaped stadium was designed by Myron Hunt to mirror the Yale Bowl in New Haven, CT. It officially became known as the Rose Bowl in 1923.

Now owned by the City of Pasadena, the Rose Bowl has earned its status as a National Historic Landmark.

This venerable venue has successfully transformed over the years. Its first collegiate game featured Cal defeating USC on October 8, 1922. An evolutionary stadium, it has since played host for many of our nation’s most publicized athletic events.

The stadium’s capacity has mushroomed from its original 57,000 seats and now accommodates seats for up to 92,542 fans.

1980 Super Bowl XIV between the Pittsburgh Steelers and original Los Angeles Rams saw the stadium break a single game attendance record. In one of the NFL’s greatest championship games ever, the storied stadium swelled to 103,985 spectators.

The stadium’s greatest attendance record was set way back in 1973 when 106,869 spectators watched USC defeat Ohio State University in that year’s Rose Bowl Game.

Besides hosting five Super Bowls on its pristine natural grass surface, the Rose Bowl has served as home for the UCLA Bruins since 1982.

More than a sports stadium, the Rose Bowl welcomes visitors to one of our nation’s top outdoor flea markets during the second Sunday of every month.

The Rose Bowl’s iconic status has been solidified over the years. The 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympic Games boasted activities at this beloved stadium.

The 1994 Men’s World Cup, the Women’s World Cup in 1999, various CONCACAF Cups and other major international soccer exhibition games have all been held here.

One sports event catapults the Rose Bowl above and beyond its peers. Each year, it plays host to the “Granddaddy of Them All,” when its field opens to the final and most prestigious college football bowl of the season – The Rose Bowl Game.

Except for a brief hiatus during World War II, this is where the Rose Bowl has pitted BIG 10 and PAC 12 championships teams. In addition, four Bowl Championship Series Title Games (2002, 2006, 2010 and 2014) kicked off in the Rose Bowl and the site figures prominently in the newly organized College Football Playoffs.

Over the past few years, the Rose Bowl has undergone an extensive $180 million renovation. With wider hallways, expanded tunnels, 10 new giant LED panels, 10 new electronic game clocks, 54 luxury suites, 48 luxury boxes, 1,200 club seats and a totally modernized broadcast booth, the famous stadium is poised to continue its long tradition of hosting the top sporting events in America.

Plus, with its stunning location overlooking the San Gabriel Mountains, it’s no surprise that the Rose Bowl ranks #8 in Iconic Sports Venues.

If you’re interested in authentic college or pro football sports merchandise, click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.

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MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Situated between Chicago’s towering skyline and the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, Soldier Field is widely regarded as one of America’s most famous stadiums.

It’s also an easy ride on the L Train from anywhere in the Windy City to visit the #7 selection in my free sports comic Iconic Sports Venues.

Known for its Greco-Roman design and imposing Doric columns, Soldier Field got its start over 90 years ago.

The stadium was envisioned by the South Park Commission, now known as the Chicago Parks District, to serve as a showcase for events and as a playground for the people.

The city organization approved its construction on land acquired from Lake Michigan. Approximately 10,000 giant wood pylons, driven 62.5 feet beneath the landfill and into the bedrock, support the NFL’s oldest football stadium atop which was once water.

Designed in 1919 and opened in 1924 as Municipal Grant Park Stadium, the site officially changed its name to Soldier Field in 1925 in honor of America’s fallen soldiers.

Home to the Chicago Bears since 1971, Soldier Field now claims a capacity of only 66,944, the third smallest in the NFL.

However, Soldier Field flourished long before the revered stadium’s lavish $632 million renovation in 2003. It once hosted staggering crowds for diverse public events. It also boasted its status as a United States National Historic Landmark, a distinction it lost in 2006 following its dramatic modernization.

Over the years, crowds in excess of 100,000 spectators regularly crammed into the stadium. A 1927 college football game between USC and Notre Dame drew a whopping 127,000 spectators, the largest crowd ever to witness an American football game.

Attendance records at this landmark facility were surprisingly shattered by non sporting events.

In 1944, an estimated 150,000 filled the venue as President Franklin Delano Roosevelt buoyed American spirits during WWII. Many years later evangelist Billy Graham inspired similar sized throngs.

Soldier Field’s largest gathering, however, occurred in 1954. That year, the Catholic Church celebrated its Eucharistic Congress as 260,000+ worshippers squeezed into the old stadium.

In keeping with its sports tradition, Soldier Field competes with few contemporaries.

Besides hosting many NFC championship games for the Chicago Bears, Soldier Field has also served as home ice for the 2014 NHL Stadium Series game between the hometown and the visiting Pittsburgh Penguins. A lesser known but highly significant fact, Soldier Field became the birthplace of the Special Olympics in 1960.

On the soccer front, the multi-use facility has even played host for many marquee international soccer matches. The 1994 Men’s World Cup, 1999 Women’s World Cup, CONCACAF Gold Cups in 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2015 are all part of its ongoing sports legacy.

In addition to serving as a great downtown Chicago venue for concerts (the Grateful Dead played its last gig here in 2015), this acclaimed stadium by the lake witnessed the blockbuster 1927 Jack Dempsey vs. Gene Tunney title fight.

Plus, it hosted a sold-out 2011 USA vs. New Zealand rugby match and even once held skiing, toboggan races and ski jumping competitions on the stadium’s same grass surface primarily reserved for football.

The city of Chicago forefathers brilliantly envisioned Soldier Field.

At #7 in Iconic Sports Venues, it has unquestionably prospered as a showcase for events and as a playground for the people. If you’re interested in authentic Chicago Bears sports memorabilia, click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.

Thanks in advance if you opt to purchase a product because we earn a small commission on each sale.

MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Perhaps ’s most revered sports venue, the Palestra is appropriately called the Cathedral of College Basketball.

Recognized as the birthplace of college basketball, this historic arena opened its doors on the University of Pennsylvania campus on January 1, 1927. On that seminal day, Ivy League rivals Penn and Yale tipped off in what would become the first of thousands of games held in this building built for basketball.

Named after an ancient Greek rectangular enclosure, the sparkling new facility was designed to house 8,722 spectators. However, more than 10,000 excited fans crammed into the Palestra to witness Penn beat Yale 26 – 15 on its opening day.

Since then, the Palestra has hosted more NCAA college basketball games than any other arena in the country.

Since 1955, the Palestra has also served as the home court for the round robin of Big 5 basketball games. Though not an league or athletic conference, the Big 5 boasts successful college basketball programs located within a 17 mile radius of center city Philadelphia.

Each year, the Big 5’s Penn, LaSalle, Temple, St. Joe’s and Villanova compete against each other in the city’s iconic Palestra.

No other metropolitan area in the country can make the college basketball claim to have five programs this good, this close to one another and also this willing to schedule games each season.

In 2007, an ESPN Classic documentary chronicled the Palestra’s enduring legacy by featuring the beloved building and its storied basketball tradition.

In 2000, the Palestra enjoyed a welcome renovation and the addition of a Philadelphia college basketball museum.

The documentary highlighted the concourses surrounding center court of this beautiful brick building, with nearly a century of memories adorning the walls. Banners, trophies and even pictures of mascots captivate die hard college hoops fans.

However, it’s the Palestra’s Hall of Fame that totally enraptures visitors. The glass enclosed photos and awards cases recognize Big 5 coaches and players as well as the city’s greatest high school player ever – Wilt Chamberlain from center city’s Overbrook High which is located just a short cab ride from the gym.

Worthy coaches such as Penn’s Chuck Daly, LaSalle’s Tom Gola, St. Joe’s Dr. Jack Ramsey, Temple’s John Chaney and 1985 NCAA National Championship coach Rollie Massimino of Villanova are also recognized in the Palestra Hall of Fame.

The unique chumminess of the Philadelphia college basketball coaching fraternity has long been admired.

Traditionally, Big 5 coaches eagerly share game film on opponents whose schools are located outside Philadelphia. Ironically, or even admirably, this Big 5 coaching cabal would never offer coaching tips or game film on any of the Big 5 rival schools.

“Easy” Ed Pickney of Villanova, Jerome Allen of Penn, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant of LaSalle, Norman Black of St. Joe’s and Bill “The Owl Without a Vowel” Mlkvy of Temple are some of the best Big 5 players that laced ‘em up at the Palestra.

In addition to Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant and Eugene Banks are other high school prodigies who never played college basketball at the Palestra. However, they were known to run up and down the pristine hardwood court during high school all-star and playoff games.

The Palestra lives up to its billing as one of the best places to watch a college basketball game.

And, the plaque that greets Palestra visitors once they enter its hallowed basketball halls reinforces the aura of the place.

It reads: “To win the game is great. To play the game is greater. But to love the game is the greatest of all.”

I doubt few would argue.

That’s why the Palestra ranks #6 in Iconic Sports Icons.

If you’re interested in authentic college basketball sports merchandise, click on the Fanatics logo above. Thanks in advance if you opt to purchase a product because we earn a small commission on each sale.

MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

My #5 pick for Iconic Sports Venues ranks among the most legendary locations in all of sports.

Known as The Friendly Confines, Wrigley Field serves as a must-see destination for American baseball pilgrimages. That’s why watching a game here tops every baseball fan’s bucket list.

With its famous retro red and white sign that greets visitors before entering the stadium, an always boisterous bleachers section and the impeccably maintained ivy on its outfield walls, The Friendly Confines woos Chicagoans and visitors alike to its glorious grounds.

Just as importantly, Wrigley Field’s infectious atmosphere has softened Chicago Cubs fans’ frustrations over the historically losing ways of the franchise that calls it home. Housed in a safe residential neighborhood bustling with businesses, bars and restaurants in the distant shadows of Chicago's towering skyline, Wrigley Field is mentioned in the same breath as Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium as iconic sports venues.

Opened in 1914, Wrigley Field was originally named Weeghman Park after its owner. Its capacity at the time was 14,000.

Though best known as a beloved baseball ballpark, Wrigley was home for 49 years for the NFL Chicago Bears from 1921 to 1970.

The Friendly Confines also hosted the popular NHL Winter Classic in 2009 between its hometown Blackhawks and the defending 2008 Stanley Cup Champion Red Wings.

The city of Chicago as well as the entire sports world adores Wrigley Field. Celebrating more than 100 years as one of our American pastime’s most revered baseball landmarks, Wrigley also played host to Major League Baseball All-Star Games in 1947, 1962 and 1991.

Sitting in the famed bleachers, noshing on a grilled brat and admiring the ivy planted on a Major League Baseball field comprise the ultimate “triple crown” for baseball loving fans.

Even though the Cubbies haven’t won a World Series title since 1905, Wrigley remains an obligatory destination for Chicagoans.

Overflowing with baseball history, Wrigley lore is legendary.

On October 1, 1932 Babe Ruth purportedly pointed to the outfield stands and called a home run shot.

On October 1, 1969 the Cubs fell to the New York Mets 6-5. It was their 18th loss in a month and knocked them out of contention for a division title. History chronicles it as one of the most significant collapses in professional sports.

On August 8, 1988 lights finally got turned on for a night game at the Friendly Confines. On October 14, 2003 with the Cubs leading 3-0 and five outs from their first World Series in 58 years, spectator Steve Bartman interfered with a probable catch by Cubs OF Moises Alou near the wall in foul territory in deep left field. The team subsequently fell apart for the rest of the game, allowing the Florida Marlins to score eight unanswered runs and eliminate the Cubs from winning the pennant.

Baseball history will continue to be made at Wrigley Field, especially under the direction of Manager Joe Maddon. He guided the Cubs to their best finish in years during his first campaign as skipper in 2015.

Despite a disappointing exit from the 2015 post season playoffs, the Cubs and their adoring, faithful fans will unfortunately have to “wait til next year” as the team’s self-deprecating jingle goes.

However, the pain, once again, of the franchise’s failure to win a World Series is only mitigated by the fact that The Friendly Confines, or Wrigley Field, is the wonderful, iconic place the team calls home.

If you’re interested in authentic Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field sports memorabilia, click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.

Thanks in advance if you opt to purchase a product from Sports Memorabilia because we earn a small commission on each sale. MIKE - thee ultimate talking head on sports!

The original Boston Garden easily earns the #4 spot in my FREE sports comic book Iconic Sports Venues.

Though the arena was demolished in 1998, its lore lives on and remains a beloved part of Boston sports history.

In addition to playing host to several Stanley Cup Finals and multiple NBA Championships, the old Boston Garden may best be remembered for the incredible sports atmosphere it evoked.

The old brick building provided a huge home court advantage. The venue created an energized and cramped atmosphere that housed raucous spectators rooting from boisterous balconies with some fans craning necks around obstructed views.

In addition, the arena’s lack of air conditioning further contributed to the home court edge and legendary mystique of the arena. Melting ice and dense fog during spring hockey games and exhausted, wilted players during NBA Playoff Games combined for perhaps the most unique and antiquated venue in sports.

Initially designed for boxing in the late 1920’s by fight promoter Ted Rickard, the old Boston Garden was originally called the Boston Madison Square Garden. Named after New York’s famed Madison Square Garden, it cost $10 million to construct. The arena was the third in what Rickard hoped would become a chain of seven Madison Square Gardens located in major cities around the US.

Like its New York City namesake, Boston’s Madison Square Garden was developed as a then state-of-the-art, multi-use entertainment complex constructed over the city’s vibrant rail transportation hub.

The Boston Madison Square Garden stood above Boston’s northern bound train terminal, also known as , which serviced the city’s Amtrak and Massachusetts Transportation Authority’s needs for destinations as far away as Maine.

Few would have imagined how popular the arena would eventually become. The original Boston Madison Square Garden lived through several name changes and played host to concerts, prize fights, ice shows, professional and collegiate hockey and basketball games and even the circus.

Elvis, the Beatles, the Jackson 5, Pink Floyd and the Grateful Dead are just a few of the popular acts which performed in New England’s premier sports and entertainment arena.

Today, the new Boston sports arena built over the old Boston Garden elicits sentimental memories of its predecessor.

Over the past 16 years, the new facility has been called the Shawmut Center, the Fleet Center and the TD Bank North Garden. But, to satisfy diehard Boston sports fans whose hearts still yearn for the “old Garden,” the current name is simply dubbed the TD Garden. The original Garden’s first ever event pitted prize fighters Dick Finnegan and Andre Routis on its November 17, 1928 card. The fight drew a great opening night crowd which raved about their proximity to the actual ring.

Rickard bragged that there would be no bad seats in his house because the Boston Madison Square Garden “was built to see the sweat on boxers’ brows.”

Ironically, the fight’s attendance paled in comparison to the first hockey game ever played in the new arena only a few days later.

An exciting 1 – 0 Montreal Canadiens victory over the shoe horned more than 17,000 spectators into the old Garden. The game unwittingly set a precedent that the Boston Garden would not only play host to premier boxing bouts. Hockey would also be right at home in this sparkling new showplace.

More than hockey found its way into this historic venue. Following its name change in 1936 to simply The Boston Garden, it became home to both the Boston Bruins and eventually the Boston Celtics.

In 1952 the arena unveiled its famed parquet wood floor. This uniquely identifiable playing surface differentiated the Boston Garden from all the other NBA arenas.

Plus, while sitting so close to the gorgeous floor, Celtics fans provided a huge home court advantage for the team over the years.

On their way to winning the 1985 – 86 NBA Championship, the Celtics finished 40 – 1 at home during the regular season and won every game in post season play.

The old Boston Garden will never be replicated in today’s professional sports world where bigger bucks, higher standards and safety regulations prevail. Power outages would no longer be tolerated, dead spots on the parquet floor would have to be fixed and fog during hockey games would have to be eliminated.

Finally, the 9’ shorter and 2’ narrower hockey rink would be disqualified per NHL standards for professional play.

Despite its well documented drawbacks, the old Boston Garden will never be forgotten. The incredible sports environment contributed to five of six Boston Bruins Stanley Cup banners and a staggering 16 of 17 Boston Celtics NBA Championship banners.

Fortunately today in the gleaming new TD Garden, the same NHL and NBA championship banners hang as proudly as they did for years from the creaking rafters of the old Boston Garden.

That’s why this historic and storied venue in the Hub City easily finds its place as my #4 favorite Iconic Sports Venue.

If you are interested in authentic Boston Celtics sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above. And, if you are interested in authentic Boston Bruins sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.

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MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Built in 1912, Fenway Park is more than just Major League Baseball’s oldest and most revered stadium. The historic structure, which was rebuilt in 1934 and has been continuously upgraded and improved over the years, is likely America’s most cherished sports venue.

Regardless of age, sport or team affiliation, most fans will agree that Fenway Park is a sports gem that deserves its #3 ranking in Iconic Sports Venues.

John I. Taylor, owner of the in the early 1900’s, never imagined the icon Fenway would become when he commissioned architect James McLaughlin to design it in 1910.

At over 100 years old, much of Fenway Park still resembles what it looked like when its gates first opened on April 20, 1912.

Memorializing its importance in American culture and sports history, the National Registry of Historic Places added the structure to its enviable list in 2009. John I. Taylor wanted Fenway to become a professional sports facility with a neighborhood feel. Not only did McLaughlin capture Taylor’s wishes in the park’s design, but visitors helped cultivate that neighborly Fenway feel for generations of future fans to enjoy.

Today, Fenway Park is widely accepted as a baseball shrine. It’s primarily known as home to eight-time World Series champions the Boston Red Sox.

Despite its baseball lore, Fenway has played host to much more than just baseball. Fans have also embraced diverse offerings of sports entertainment ranging from professional boxing (Cinderella Man Jimmy Braddock fought here) to the National Football League (the Boston Patriots once called Fenway home).

In addition to hosting college football, hockey and baseball games, Fenway Park once transformed its outfield into an outdoor rink for the 2010 NHL Winter Classic. In 2012, it morphed into a soccer pitch for a sell-out crowd who watched English Premier League stalwart Liverpool defeat Italian Serie A power AS Roma.

Other unique non-sports related outdoor gatherings and cultural events have taken place at this historic venue.

Fenway served as stage to Aerosmith, Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones, The Police and Paul McCartney concerts.

Fenway also played host to a US Citizenship naturalization ceremony, a war memorial service, various political rallies and even a four day Jehovah’s Witness assembly. Hollywood movie watchers will recognize Fenway as the backdrop for the movie Moneyball.

Without doubt, Fenway Park is most celebrated in baseball circles for its unique characteristics. The park’s design includes an asymmetrical field (consider the odd center field wall formation known as The Triangle), shorter distances to knock the ball out of the park (like Pesky’s Pole in the 302’ right field corner) and the legendary 37’ 2” tall left field wall, Major League Baseball’s most famous landmark.

The Green Monster’s 310’ distance to home plate has tempted right handed hitters since its 1912 construction in the original ballpark.

Over the years, this giant wall has turned routine fly balls into home runs and certain line-drive home runs into doubles. The Green Monster has either frustrated or unfairly rewarded hitters who have attempted to test their hitting skills against this monstrous wall.

Fenway Park’s left field wall wasn’t referred to as the Green Monster until 1947 when it was painted into what’s now known as Fenway green. The painting of the wall may have changed the color of the structure, but it never altered the reputation of this legendary piece of plaster known throughout the sports world. The 23’ net placed on top of the wall to protect store fronts below is now gone. In its place, 274 new cleverly named Green Monster seats have been added. Another classic element of the Green Monster is its old scoreboard which continues to be operated by hand and admired throughout the sports world. During games, three full-time scorers are housed inside the giant wall’s uniquely nostalgic piece of sports history.

Scorers expertly move 13” x 16” metal plates into openings on the scoreboard that record runs, hits, scores, pitcher numbers and American League standings.

Some of the best work performed on the Green Monster over the years has been the work of highly skilled left fielders. These great outfielders have successfully learned to play the unpredictable bounces off the oddly placed giant structure.

Among Fenway’s best were left fielders like Hall of Famers Jim Rice, Ted Williams and Carl Yastrzemski. They would hold long drives off the wall – certain home runs in other American league ballparks – and limit them to simple singles.

At 37’ 2” tall, this fearsome and unpredictable piece of Boston baseball real estate, fondly known as the Green Monster, is widely recognized as one of the best nicknames in all of sports.

It’s only fitting that the iconic wall is housed within an equally iconic stadium - Fenway Park - an easy choice at #3 in Iconic Sports Venues.

If you’re interested in authentic Fenway Park or Boston Red Sox sports memorabilia, click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above. Thanks in advance if you opt to purchase a product from Sports Memorabilia because we earn a small commission on each sale.

MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Overlooking the Harlem River in the South Bronx, a more modern version of its legendary predecessor, Yankee Stadium rests comfortably in the #2 spot in Iconic Sports Venues.

Built in 1923, the “House that Ruth Built” or the “Big Ballpark in ” has literally moved directly across the street from the original structure. Today, the bigger and splashier $1.5B stadium sits proudly on East 161st Street.

The gleaming new structure still evokes awesome memories of the ’ glory years.

Winners of 27 World Series Championships, the Bronx Bombers are the most winning franchise in Major League Baseball history.

Proving that copying is the highest form of flattery, the new Yankee Stadium closely resembles its predecessor which hosted some of the greatest baseball players ever. In addition to the original home run king Babe Ruth, the Bronx Bombers’ franchise boasts 34 players and 9 managers elected into Cooperstown. Baseball legends wearing Yankees’ pinstripes include existing Hall of Fame legends Joe DiMaggio, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, Whitey Ford, Reggie Jackson, Thurman Munson and Ron Guidry as well as certain first ballot Hall of Famer Derek Jeter.

Such was the success of the franchise that the Yankees have honored a total of 17 former players over the decades. Their retired numbers are displayed in the new stadium’s Monument Park in center field.

It’s no surprise why fans also refer to the park as the “Cathedral of Baseball.” Inside the stadium, the Great Wall located between gates 4 and 6 showcases Yankees’ history, tradition and memorabilia.

Another stadium highlight is the Yankee Museum Ball Wall which features signatures of former Yankee greats.

The new sustainable Yankee Stadium debuted in 2009. While adhering to a strict green compliance initiative, it was constructed with 11,000 pieces of Indiana limestone, granite and concrete.

Every aspect of the new stadium follows stringent standards to lower carbon footprints. Energy efficient lighting, water saving restrooms and a focus on recycling all materials utilized in the food stalls set the bar for future environmentally friendly sports venues.

The late , who bought the New York Yankees in 1973 for $8.8 million, is primarily credited with restoring the fortunes of the franchise. He rebuilt it into one of the most admired and valuable teams in all of sports, transforming a teetering franchise into a sports entertainment powerhouse.

Steinbrenner’s vision to erect a new state-of-the-art ballpark has made the Yankees baseball’s most prized franchise. According to Forbes Magazine, the organization’s worth amounts to $3.2B.

The new Yankee Stadium seats 49,642 fans for baseball including 4,300 club seats and 68 luxury suites. Surprisingly, its opening was not immediately embraced. Baseball pundits criticized the park, viewing it as a launching pad for the inordinate amount of home runs belted out of its ordinary 318’ LF, 314’ RF and 408’ CF dimensions.

Sportswriter Peter Gammons called the home run happy park one of the biggest jokes in Major League Baseball. Sportscaster Buster Olney mocked that the park’s design was a veritable wind tunnel.

Despite initial criticism about the preponderance of dingers, the HR frenzy abated.

Yankee Stadium soon shone brightly as the jewel it was constructed to be among American ballparks.

As a footnote, Yankee Stadium serves as home to more than baseball’s Evil Empire. The new stadium hosted the 2014 NHL Winter Classic and now serves as the permanent venue for the annual December college football Pinstripe Bowl.

The stadium is also the new home of the city’s Major League Soccer franchise - New York City FC.

Sports fans expect that the long tradition of baseball excellence will continue in the South Bronx. They also anticipate that new sports history will be made in the spectacular stadium.

Without doubt, the awesome atmosphere in which to watch baseball, football, hockey and soccer in a state-of-the-art environmentally friendly ballpark make Yankee Stadium a no brainer at #2 in this new FREE sports comic book Iconic Sports Venues. If you’re interested in authentic Yankee Stadium or New York Yankees sports memorabilia, click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.

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MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Billed as the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden is an easy pick for my top spot in Iconic Sports Venues.

The multi-purpose facility in midtown Manhattan sits strategically above Penn Station, a vibrant transportation hub with rail access to Amtrak, L.I.R.R. and New Jersey Transit.

Few would know that the current Madison Square Garden, which opened on February 11, 1968, is actually the fourth Madison Square Garden in New York City history.

The original Garden, named after former US President James Madison, debuted in 1874 on New York’s eastside. This first venue was roofless and used for hosting boxing matches. It also featured bicycle races held on its banked oval velodrome.

In 1890, a second arena replaced the original structure, this time constructed with a roof. This second Garden served as New York’s only indoor sports and entertainment facility. In 1925, Madison Square Garden’s new owner Tex Rickard constructed a new facility, the third MSG, designed specifically for boxing.

Rickard was a sports entertainment visionary whose intent was to build several Madison Square Gardens across the United States.

However, the 1929 Stock Market Crash thwarted his brilliant and ambitious plans. Only the Boston Madison Square Garden would become a part of Rickard’s zealous expansion plans.

New York’s third Madison Square Garden appeared on 8th Avenue and 49th Street in the city’s Hell’s Kitchen district and thrived until 1968. Then, the Pennsylvania Railroad opted to tear down its above ground complex to make way for what would eventually become the world’s most famous arena.

Today’s Madison Square Garden - the fourth – has flourished as the premier sports and entertainment destination in the world. Madison Square Garden’s continuous use prompted a $200 million upgrade in 1991 and a whopping $1 billion complete renovation between 2011 and 2013.

With state-of-the-art features like an in-house broadcast studio, massive LED video displays, plus wider concourses, better lighting and a bevy of food options, today’s newly renovated Garden is poised to carry on its unparalleled tradition.

The larger sports arena in the Garden is home not only to New York professional sports teams like the NBA Knicks, NHL Rangers, WNBA Liberty and the PLL Titans. It also hosts the Big East Conference’s Red Storm of St. John University.

In addition, the Garden’s smaller Theatre Room hosts the annual NFL and NBA Drafts as well as smaller concerts and other special events.

As chronicled in the released ESPN 30 for 30 documentary When The Garden Was Eden, this midtown Manhattan sports mecca has hosted some of the finest moments in New York sports’ history. A few of the celebrated events include the 1972 and 1994 Stanley Cup Finals, the 1970 and 1973 NBA Finals, Wrestlemania 1985 and two decades of Big East Championship Tournaments. Professional rodeos, tennis tournaments and indoor track and field championships have also been held here.

Las Vegas has recently become the go-to destination for title fights. However, with a boxing legacy spanning four buildings and an 82 year history, Madison Square Garden has laid claim to hosting the best pugilists on the planet. Boxing luminaries Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Bernard Hopkins, Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson and Jack Dempsey all competed for crowns in Madison square Garden. Even the Brown Bomber Joe Louis fought in the Garden on 12 separate occasions.

The March 8, 1971 “Fight of the Century” was perhaps the Garden’s greatest event. It pitted a 31-0 Muhammad Ali against a 26-0 Joe Frazier. Lasting 15 rounds, the bout exceeded every fan’s expectations. After a unanimous decision, Frazier was awarded the Heavyweight Championships Belt, much to Ali’s dismay.

Though probably best known for its incredible sporting events, Madison Square Garden also ranks as the third busiest music venue in the world. A line-up of “who’s who?” musical acts has performed there to include: Elvis, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Led Zeppelin, The Grateful Dead, The Police’s final show and honorary resident Billy Joel.

With more than 320 events per year, the Garden has also hosted the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey Circus and both the Democratic and Republican National Conventions.

More than just a legendary sports venue, Madison Square Garden earns its indisputable title as the world’s most famous arena.

That’s why it gets top billing at #1 in Iconic Sports Venues. If you’re interested in authentic New York Ranger’ sports merchandise and collectibles, click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.

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MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Located across the street from the old New York Polo Grounds and just a stone’s throw from Yankee Stadium is the most famous outdoor basketball court on the planet.

This urban address serves as a slam dunk as the bonus chapter in Iconic Sports Venues.

Constructed in 1946 and long considered the mecca of playground basketball, Rucker Park has been a famous fixture at the intersection of West 155th Street and Frederick Douglass Boulevard.

Sneaker manufacturer And 1 called Rucker the birthplace of street basketball. Few fervent hoops fans would disagree.

Named after respected New York City public school teacher and former playground director Holcombe Rucker, the Rucker Park asphalt courts have hosted the best summer league hoops ever.

Rucker’s first outdoor tournament debuted in 1950. However, it wasn’t until NBA, ABA and NCAA stars traveled to Harlem to compete against New York City’s street ball legends that Rucker Park truly flourished. During its celebrated heyday in the 1960’s, NBA stars Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Tiny Archibald, Wilt Chamberlain, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, Connie Hawkings and Dr. J all laced ‘em up on the Rucker asphalt.

These luminaries weren’t the only basketball stars that plied their craft before packed crowds in the boisterous outdoor bleachers under hot summer night skies.

Fans also flocked to the Rucker to watch urban legends who never played professionally. include Earl “The Goat” Manigault, Richard “Pee Wee” Kirkland and Joe “The Destroyer” Hammond.

However, these three hard court phenoms universally acknowledged a fourth player, Herman “The Helicopter” Knowings, to be the best street ball player of all-time.

For the few who actually witnessed Knowings elevate off the asphalt in New York City’s famed Rucker Park during the 1960s, the origin of his Helicopter nickname became immediately apparent.

Herman Knowings is widely regarded as the best basketball player to NEVER play in the NBA. With a supposed 50” vertical jump, the 6’4” Knowings cultivated his street ball cred on the legendary courts of Rucker Park, shooting at the same hoops where Kevin Durant once dropped 66 points during an unexpected summer league appearance.

The Rucker carries its own, unique appeal. Ad lib announcing, sizzling summer heat and the pulsating, free flow of music permeate this one- of-a-kind outdoor venue.

Moreover, the constant expectation of seeing celebrity fans in the stands adds to an electric atmosphere and iconic street ball status.

Actor Denzel Washington, former President Bill Clinton, NBA owner Mark Cuban, former NBA Commissioner David Stern, singers Alicia Keyes, Beyonce and Rihana as well as current NBA stars Kyrie Irving, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant have all shown up to either play, coach, entertain or simply watch the great games housed in an always festive open air atmosphere.

Sports media giant ESPN has frequently chronicled the lore of this outdoor basketball venue.

If you’re a basketball devotee and round ball is your religion, don’t miss TNT’s terrific documentary On Hallowed Ground.

It will convince you that Rucker Park is an essential entry in my FREE sports comic book Iconic Sports Venues.

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MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports! Thank you for downloading this FREE sports comic book.

Allow me to extend my appreciation to these companies who partner with us and make their products available to our readers.

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If you have clicked on any of the logos above or elsewhere in this book and purchased products from these sports related sites, then thank you. We will earn a small commission from each sale. In addition to the MIKE books available for only 99 cents on Amazon.com, here is a bonus for MIKE sports comic book fans.

FREE sports comic books can be safely downloaded at no charge by clicking on the cover images of books on the following pages.

You will be directed to the www.theemike.com web site where you can safely download PDFs of the FREE books. Click on yellow cover above to safely download FREE MIKE Sports Comic Books from the www.theemike.com web site. Click on purple cover above to safely download FREE MIKE Sports Comic Books from the www.theemike.com web site. Click on purple cover above to safely download FREE MIKE Sports Comic Books from the www.theemike.com web site. MIKE on Sports Podcast

Click on the yellow cover to listen and subscribe to MIKE on Sports!

The podcast is for every American sports fan - especially those who like to laugh or learn something unique about sports. It's loaded with clever quips and fun sports stuff you should know that ESPN and other sports networks fail to report.

MIKE on Sports! offers great sports humor, short sports stories and interesting sports history that never really grab the headlines. Meet the MIKE Makers, Jim and Maura Sweeney, as well as the other contributors to this unique sports property. Jim Sweeney – Author

Born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey, Jim grew up with a passion for sports and fun. Participating in baseball, basketball, swimming, soccer and street hockey as a kid, Jim wound up playing basketball at Boston College where he captained the Eagles from 1977 – 1980 and received the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award as the nation’s top NCAA basketball under six feet tall.

After a 20-year-career in sales, Jim closed the computer agency he founded to pursue a fun career in sports entertainment. Jim developed MIKE as an alter-ego sports personality and has penned dozens of sports comic books under the MIKE name.

Jim also blogs regularly on national sports sites under the MIKE name and has launched the popular podcast - MIKE on Sports!

Now in his fifties and living on the West Coast of Florida, Jim continues to play basketball regularly and always finds time for fun.

Jim serves as the Head of USA for FIMBA – Federation of International Masters Basketball Association.

Sweeney is also a three time World Masters Basketball Champion and a seven time USA Masters Basketball Champion. http://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdsweeney Maura Sweeney – Publisher

A successful podcaster, Huffington Post contributor and speaker, Maura became the driving force in encouraging her husband out of a highly successful business and into the pursuit of his dream – to create MIKE into the sports world’s ultimate talking head.

Maura is MIKE’s co-creator and publisher.

For more on Maura – http://www.maura4u.com Alex Salsberg - Illustrator

Cartoonist Alex Salsberg is the man behind Poke Gravy Studios in Boston. An ardent New England Patriots fan, Alex has created animation and illustration for many clients including Nickelodeon and National Lampoon.

Alex has drawn the cover and most of the artwork in the book. His work can be seen at www.PokeGravy.com. In addition to books, blogs and a popular podcast, MIKE is expected to be seen and heard on television and Jumbotrons.

MIKE is a registered Trademark. MIKE and all the artwork in this book are the property of New Vision Entertainment, LLC.

Special thanks to these MIKE contributors:

Kevin Riley – Animator Greg Stauffer – Studio Production Dave Rittenhouse – Studio Production Amy O’Hara-Cusick – Legal