Alright folks, buckle up because I just got back from the 2025 Surprise Arizona College Baseball Tournament, and holy cow, it was a blast! Wanted to share exactly how I tackled it this year, learned some stuff the hard way, so maybe you skip the headaches. Started off kinda clueless, but ended up figuring out some best ways to actually enjoy these games without stressing out.
The Before Stuff – Getting Ready
First thing, I realized I needed tickets early. Like, way early. I kinda dawdled last year and nearly missed out on the good seats. This time? I jumped on the official tournament website the second tickets popped up. Picked a Friday game and a Saturday doubleheader – figured I’d get my fill. Pro tip: Weekday games are usually way less crowded and cheaper, if your schedule bends that way. Snagged some awesome seats down the third base line.
Next up? Figuring out how the heck to get there without losing my mind. Driving is easy, but parking? That’s where it gets ugly. I remembered last year circling like a vulture forever. So this time, I planned. Checked the map for the stadium parking lots near Surprise Stadium. Got there an hour before the first pitch on Friday. Totally worth it – snagged a spot reasonably close and avoided that mad rush later. Packed a cooler bag too (checked the rules first!). Threw in waters, some Gatorades, and snacks – saved a fortune avoiding stadium prices.
Game Time – Living It Up
That Arizona sun ain’t playing around, even in March. Got burned real bad one year – dumb mistake. This time? Sunblock became my religion. Slathered it on thick before leaving home, and packed a small bottle for re-applying later. Sunglasses? Essential. Hat? Lifesaver. Wore comfy walking shoes too – you do more strolling than you think.
Inside the gate, atmosphere was electric. Smell of hot dogs everywhere, crack of the bat… classic. We walked around a bit first, checked out the vibe. Found the team merchandise booths near the main concourse – got a sweet tournament t-shirt for myself. Went straight for the food vendors after that. Line was shorter on the far side concession stand, scored a decently priced burger and some nachos way quicker than near home plate.
Got to our seats early to soak it all in. Watched the teams warm up, real cool seeing that focus up close. Remembered to bring a small portable phone charger – thank goodness! Phone battery gets wrecked taking pics and vids. Tried to stay off it during most of the game though. Focused on the plays, the crowd energy, the crazy student sections cheering their lungs out. That’s the good stuff. Grabbed a cold lemonade refill mid-game to beat the heat.
The Wrap Up – Lessons Learned
By the end of the Saturday doubleheader, we were wiped but happy. Leaving the stadium, that parking lot traffic is always a bear. Instead of fighting it right away, we chilled for maybe 30-45 minutes after the final out. Hung out near the exit gates, talked about the amazing plays we saw, watched the teams pack up. Way less frustrating waiting a bit for the crowds to thin than sitting bumper-to-bumper.
Looking back, here’s what made it genuinely awesome instead of just okay:
- Plan Ahead (Seriously): Tickets & parking strategy make or break your mood.
- Sun Boss: Sunblock, hat, water, water, water. Don’t be a crispy tourist.
- Pack Smart: Cooler with drinks/snacks saves cash & hassle. Charger is golden.
- Explore & Time Smart: Walk around, find the quieter spots for food/merch. Chill after the game.
- Be Present: Put the phone down as much as possible. Feel the game.
That tournament delivers incredible baseball. Doing these simple things just peeled away all the annoying bits and let the fun shine through. Ended up having an absolute blast both days, no meltdowns this time! Already marking my calendar for 2026.