Going to the Thunder

Last update: June 23, 2009 - 7:16 AM

Location/date attended: National Sports Center, Blaine; June 16

Itemized cost of attending: $5 for one general-admission ticket; $6 for a microbrew draft beer; $6 for a BBQ pork sandwich with chips; $3.50 for a bucket of popcorn; $2 for a soda; plus gas for the 40-mile round trip from Minneapolis.

General reasons why someone should attend: It goes without saying that soccer fans will enjoy the experience the most. But anyone looking to attend a sporting event on a budget certainly will maximize their money here.

Biggest plus: The fan service was outstanding; it seemed apparent the Thunder was very dedicated to keeping the people in the stands satisfied. And the fans themselves were interested in both the outcome of the game and in having a good time.

Biggest drawback: Getting to Blaine can be a bit of a hike -- for this trip, it was 30 minutes in a pouring rain during rush hour. And you might have more fun if you pick a day when the sky isn't pouring.

Did you know? The National Sports Center features more than 50 soccer fields, as well as eight hockey rinks, a golf course and velodrome.

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