When you think “Winnipeg sports,” baseball is probably not the first thing that comes to mind, but Winnipeg has more to offer sports fans than just the Blue Bombers and the Jets! The Goldeyes are another fan favourite.
I try to catch a Goldeyes game at least once a year. They’re fun, the stadium is beautiful and ticket prices don’t break the bank.
The Winnipeg Goldeyes
In case you aren’t familiar with the Winnipeg Goldeyes, they play in the 12-team American Association. The American Association is an independent league not associated with major league baseball, but the Goldeyes would be a minor-league type team. They play at Shaw Park, nestled between the Exchange District and the Forks a short walk from Portage and Main.
The stadium is cozy and the best seats in the house will generally cost you less than $30, far cheaper than major–league games. They also have group rates for over 25 people, and a baseball game makes for a great outing for clubs and other organizations.
The best thing about Goldeyes games
I really can’t pick just one favourite thing about Goldeyes games, so here are a few instead!
The energy in the stadium is always great, and with a seating capacity just below 7500, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. You never need binoculars to watch the action.
The team appreciates their fans, so they try to incorporate the crowd into events with prizes and games. They also invite youth baseball teams to take the field with the players before games through their Baseball Buddies program. The stadium is kid friendly, and even has a separate playground area for kids who get bored with nine innings of baseball.
I love arena and stadium food, and Shaw Park has some tasty options. You’ll find the usual popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels and slushies along with more interesting fare. There’s a barbecue and smokehouse concession and a craft beer corner. Mr. Perogie serves up tasty reminders that you’re in Winnipeg, and the Clay Oven restaurant attached to the stadium serves delicious Indian food. If the games were longer, I would just eat my way around the stadium!
If you ask me, the Goldeyes have the best mascots in Winnipeg. Goldie has been with the team for years, and Goldette joined the team in 2011. They both like to dance and have fun (Goldie has some rather suggestive moves) and are around all game. They join dancers on top of the dugouts during inning breaks, so there is always something to watch.
Ballpark tips
Bring your appetite, sunscreen, and a hat. The sun starts to feel hot during afternoon games, and you might feel like you’re slowing starting to roast if you don’t come prepared. Thankfully, you’ll have a ready excuse when you want another slushy or beer!
I can’t recommend taking in a Goldeyes game enough, especially if you’ve never been to one. There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of a live baseball game. Tickets are affordable, so you can bring the whole family.
There’s no better way to cheer on the home team than by catching them live in action. For more information or to buy tickets, check out goldeyes.com.