Experience Az Fall 2014 Super Sports Guide

Fall-Winter 2014-2015

A I D

0 2

E M

©

G I B Z A

YOUR GUIDE TO

SUPER SPORTS EVENTS

5 1

SPONSORED BY

E M

A I D

©

G I B Z A

0 2

5 1

Š

A I WESTGATE D E M G I B Z A

5 1

0 2

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 1

Š

2

A I PAYSON D E M G I B Z A

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

0 2

5 1

Š

A I PAYSON D E M G I B Z A

5 1

0 2

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 3

A I D

0 2

E M

Š

G I B Z A

Adopt a wild horse or burro Florence Wild Horse & Burro Training & Holding Adoption Facility Open every Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

1305 E. Butte Ave., Florence, Ariz.

To schedule an appointment to adopt a wild or trained horse or burro from the facility, contact Roger Oyler at (602) 417-9421 or email r2oyler@blm.gov.

TM

U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management

4

To learn more about the facility and BLM adoptions on-line go to: http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/prog/whb.html

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

5 1

5 1

Celebrating Arizona’s Indigenous People

0 2

Presented by the Arizona American Indian Tourism Association Scottsdale Center on the Performing Arts

A I JANUARY 29-31, 2015 D E M G E I B Z A ©

SCOTTSDALE CIVIC CENTER PARK • SCOTTSDALE, AZ. xperience a unique showcase of the diverse native american tribes of Arizona, as presented by the communities themselves.

Explore many of the 21 tribes that are indigenous to Arizona. This will be a unique experience that will heighten all your senses!

For more information visit:

arizonaindiantourism.org OR Like us on Facebook

Arizona Indian Festival

OPEN DAILY 10A.M. - 6P.M.

Walk through Authentic Traditional Villages Speak and interact with tribal elders Hear story-telling of ancient legends Observe colorful social dances Taste authentic Native American foods

Indulge yourself at the Arts & Crafts Market Native American Artisans of all genres

Explore Tribal Economic Development Interact, learn and understand tourism and business innovation in Indian Country

Experience Entertainment Hear and dance to traditional contemporary Native American music Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 5

SUPER SPORTS

GUIDE table of contents

10 Super Bowl XLIX 14 Pro Bowl 20 Phoenix Open 22 Fiesta Bowl 26 Cactus League Spring Training 30 Cactus Bowl 32 Camp World 500 weekend 34 Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon 36 UFC Fight Night 38

A I D

AZ Ultimate Playground

.........................................................................................

E M

.........................................................................................

G I B Z A

........................................................................................

........................................................................................

........................................................................................

©

........................................................................................

........................................................................................

........................................................................................

........................................................................................

........................................................................................

6

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

0 2

5 1

SCOTTSDALE’S ORIGINAL ROCK & ROLL SALOON

©

DIGITY DOG A I D E SALON M G I B Z A

5 1

0 2

10409 NORTH SCOTTSDALE RD • SCOTTSDALE, AZ SOUTH EAST CORNER OF SCOTTSDALE RD AND SHEA BLVD WWW.DIRTYDOGGSALOON.COM

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 7

Arizona is paradise for sports lovers

H

ere is one of the first things I noticed after moving from New York to Arizona: When it’s January in New York, you’re running in snow. When it’s January in Arizona, you’re running in RUN FOR IT: Experience AZ Editor shorts. And getting sunin Chief Michael Gossie competes in burned on the golf course. the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona It didn’t take long for my Marathon, which runs from Phoenix friends and family members through Scottsdale to Tempe. to realize the same things.

Each year, my list of visitors grows and their visits get even longer. Why wouldn’t they?

As a lifelong athlete, I have surrounded myself with people who enjoy the same things I enjoy. That might be why I once had more than 100 people at a carbo loading party at my house before the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon & Half Marathon. Many of them were friends from New York who came to Arizona to compete in the race.

But even if you don’t have any interest in being in the middle of the competition, there is more than enough going on in Arizona to keep even the most hard-core sports fans in the stands entertained.

Consider what Arizona has coming in the next few months: • The Vizio Fiesta Bowl and Cactus Bowl will bring four of the finest college football teams to Arizona to compete.

• The P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon & Half Marathon will boast a field of more than 30,000 runners who will speed through the streets of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe.

• The Phoenix Open — called “The Greatest Show on Grass” and the largest professional golf tournament on the PGA Tour — will bring its madness and masses to Scottsdale.

• Hundreds of thousands of NASCAR fans will descend on Phoenix International Raceway for a weekend of highspeed action.

• The biggest sporting event in the world, the Super Bowl, comes to Arizona for the second time in seven years. With it comes the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl Central for fans.

That’s why we expanded this issue of Experience AZ to include a guide to all the can’t-miss mega sporting events that Arizona will host in the coming months. Once you get your fill of fun, don’t forget to come back next year when Arizona will host the 2016 College Football Championship Game.

Game on.

A I D

0 2

E M

©

G I B Z A

Michael Gossie Editor in Chief michael.gossie@azbigmedia.com On the Cover: Savannah Joy at Chase Fields PHOTO BY SHAVON ROSE, AZ BIG MEDIA

Experience AZ on the Go:azBIGmedia.com 8

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

5 1

A I D

5 1

0 2

E M

Š

G I B Z A

castlesNcoasters.com | 602.997.7575

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 9

Numbers game

super bowl xlix: fun facts • Arizona enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine every year and has an average temperature of 71 degrees Fahrenheit in February.

(Hike!)

• The state of Arizona is home to more than 40 National Historic Landmarks.

(Grand Canyon, anyone?)

• Arizona is hosting the Super Bowl for the third time in 19 years.

Super Bowl XXX was played at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe on January 28, 1996. The Pittsburgh Steelers lost to the Dallas Cowboys, 27-17.

• According to Forbes Magazine, the Super Bowl is the top event brand and generated an estimated $500 million in revenue last season from broadcasting, tickets, the halftime show, concessions and licensing.

10

• Phoenix has changed dramatically since hosting Super Bowl XLII in 2008. $4 billion has been infused into new downtown development including: 250,000 square feet of new retail, a completed Phoenix Convention Center, 20 miles of light rail, 1,500 new hotel rooms and more than 30 new restaurants.

• Greater Phoenix is the 6th youngest metropolitan region in the country, with a median age of 35.

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

• Since Arizona last hosted the game, Super Bowl XLII, in 2008, Cerreta Candy in Glendale has produced more than 8.8 million pounds of chocolates and candy. (Sweeeet!)

E M

• Phoenix is the 6th largest city in the United States. The Greater Phoenix area is home to more recreational open space – nearly 190,000 acres – than any other major metropolis in the United States. South Mountain, which is located in Phoenix is the largest municipal park in America.

5 1

0 2

• Arizona has more than 400 golf courses, as well as more than 300 arts and entertainment venues.

A I D

• Currently the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee has 47,000 social media followers, and anticipates having more than 70,000 by game day, outpacing previous local Super Bowl host community efforts. Over 25 million tweets were sent during Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014.

G I B Z A

• More than 5,000 media members representing 30 countries are expected to travel to Arizona to cover Super Bowl XLIX. More than eight million stories were posted for Super Bowl • XLVIII the week of the event.

©

• Local First Arizona, the largest local business coalition in North America, is 2,700 businesses strong and aims to give Super Bowl fans a very local Arizona experience.

(Get the lowdown at localfirstaz.com.)

• Forbes Magazine recently cited the Super Bowl as among the biggest worldwide events for private jet travel. An estimated 5,300 business and private jets will touch down in the Valley of the Sun the week of Super Bowl XLIX. • The day after the Super Bowl, Feb. 2, will be Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s busiest day of the year. The airport will see a 60 percent increase in passengers that day.

• 100,000 visitors are expected to descend upon the Valley of the Sun for the Super Bowl alone.

Trivia time • ESPN sportscaster Chris Berman recently elevated Arizona’s street cred by declaring, “Arizona is where the Super Bowl should be held a lot.” (Fist bump, Chris.)

• More than 700,000 footballs are produced annually for official NFL use. Seventy-two of them are used for the Super Bowl.

• According to a survey conducted by Harris Interactive Poll, some Americans would miss these life events to attend a Super Bowl game featuring their favorite NFL team: » Wedding of close friend/family member – 20 percent » Funeral of a loved one – 19 percent » Birth of their child – 15 percent • The Super Bowl is the most watched TV show in the U.S. and has more than 160 million viewers in 180 countries.

• The day of Super Bowl is the second highest day of food consumption in the U.S., second only to Thanksgiving.

5 1

0 Culture2club A I D

• More than 110 languages and dialects are spoken in the metropolitan Phoenix region.

• Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix was just named among the “10 Best: City Art Districts Around the USA,” by USA Today.

• Arizona has the second largest Native American population in the entire U.S. Twenty-two different federally recognized tribes call Arizona home.

• Hispanics account for about 30 percent of the population in Arizona, with a statewide Hispanic population exceeding two million individuals, according to the 2014 Datos: The State of Arizona’s Hispanic Market report.

• Scottsdale is emerging as a culinary destination with more than 600 restaurants, many locally owned and operated. With young chefs boasting raw talent and bold ideas and a top-rated Le Cordon Bleu culinary school, Scottsdale was named “No. 2 Foodie City” in the U.S. by Livability. com in 2014. (Get in my belly!)

• Must-see attractions in Scottsdale include the organic architecture at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West and the Native American culture at the Heard Museum.

• The largest arts education and entertainment complex in the Southwest is the Mesa Arts Center – winner of the International Venue Excellence Award.

• For the first time in Super Bowl history, social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter are being hosted in Spanish as well as English.

(Call me, tweet me, if you wanna reach me! @ azsuperbowl) For tweets in español follow @ azsuperbowl_es.

E M

©

G I B Z A

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 11

Super Bowl Central

1 N. CENTRAL BUILDING

©

AUTOGRAPH STAGE

ACTIVITY

WASHINGTON ST.

WINE GARDEN

JEFFERSON ST.

5 1

0 2

ST. MARY’S BASILICA

MEDIA CENTER WEST BUILDING CONFERENCE CENTER

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

NFL HONORS

NFL EXPERIENCE PHOENIX CONVENTION CENTER NORTH BUILDING

SYMPHONY HALL

MARKETPLACE ONE

XLIX

BUDLIGHT HOTEL HOTEL PALOMAR

3RD ST.

2ND ST.

HYATT REGENCY

STAGE

SPONSOR AREA

VIP BROADCAST AREA

BANK OF AMERICA

COLLIER CENTER

ACTIVITY ZONE

RENAISSANCE SQUARE

ACTIVITY ZONE

ADAMS ST.

HEADQUARTERS

G I B Z A RENAISSANCE HOTEL

A I D

HERBERGER THEATER

E M

MONROE ST.

ACTIVITY ZONE

CHASE TOWER

ACTIVITY ZONE

HOTEL SAN CARLOS

1ST ST.

VAN BUREN ST.

CENTRAL AVE.

Downtown Phoenix

FRIDAY NIGHT PARTY PHOENIX CONVENTION CENTER SOUTH BUILDING

LUHRS CENTER

4TH ST.

MADISON ST.

US AIRWAYS CENTER 12

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

CHASE FIELDS

Big Game Big Steak Prime Time

5 1

0 2

DONOVAN’S A I D E STEAK M

©

G I B Z A

Donovan’s welcomes sports fans to Arizona Donovan’s offers 100% Prime USDA beef, fresh market seafood, an award-winning wine list and an unforgettable dining experience for your family, friends and associates.

From intimate occasions to groups of up to 120, Donovan’s is the place to celebrate.

Complimentary valet parking Complimentary transportation for up to 14 guests (based on availability)

3101 East Camelback ◆ 602-955-3666 Dinner served Monday-Saturday 5 p.m., Martini Hour 4 p.m.

donovanssteakhouse.com Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 13

THE

when:

SUPER Bowl

where:

Sunday, February 1, 2015

University of Phoenix Stadium 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, Ariz. 85305

XLIX

information: azsuperbowl.com

tickets:

If you don’t already heave tickets to the Super Bowl, your only likely channel to purchase Phoenix Super Bowl tickets will be through a ticket broker, like ticketsnow.com, stubhub.com, ticketliquidator.com or other ticket exchanges and services. Be careful about buying tickets from unauthorized ticket sellers.

playing surface:

G I B Z A

©

Typical weather for this time of year would indicate that it will probably be in the 60s at game time. If it is colder, you might need a light jacket for outdoor tailgate parties and other local outdoor activities. When you are in the stadium, you’ll be in climate-controlled comfort even if it is a bit chilly outside.

stadium:

University of Phoenix Stadium is a state-of-the-art facility in Glendale. It is the home of the Arizona Cardinals and was the first stadium in North America to feature a retractable roof and a roll-out grass field. The stadium has a capacity of 73,000. Besides the Super Bowl, the stadium is also the location for the Fiesta Bowl.

14

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

0 2

previous Super Bowls in Arizona:

Super Bowl XXX (Super Bowl 30) in 1996 was played at ASU’s Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe. The Dallas Cowboys beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, 27-17. In 2008, Arizona hosted Super Bowl XLII (Super Bowl 42) in Glendale at University of Phoenix Stadium. The New York Giants defeated the previously undefeated New England Patriots, 17-14.

E M

Natural grass (Tifway 419 Bermuda hybrid planted in early May 2006 using stolons in an 11” bed of USGA sand mix with inclusions.)

weather:

A I D

5 1

Super Bowl Central:

Fans can enjoy more than a week of football festivities from the Pro Bowl, on Sunday, Jan. 25, through the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 1. A new feature since Arizona last hosted a Super Bowl in 2008 is Super Bowl Central, a 12-block pedestrianfriendly fan campus in downtown Phoenix that will serve as the hub of Super Bowl activity for fans, sponsors, media and the NFL. Super Bowl Central will feature football-themed, interactive and experiential activities, a nightly fireworks show, an autograph stage, concert stage, local food trucks, beer and wine gardens, television network broadcast stages and giant Super Bowl Roman numerals for display. (There will be a plethora of selfie backdrops. Extend that arm and say cheese!).

Super Bowl Central activities will cover 5th Street to First Avenue and Jefferson Street to Monroe Street in downtown Phoenix. Other features include: • The NFL Experience is a separate festive football-oriented daytime event with kids’ football clinics, interactive football games and autograph sessions. It will take place at the Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.

• NFL House, a VIP hospitality headquarters, will be located at CityScape, 1 E. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.

• NFL Media Center will be located at the Phoenix Convention Center.

• NFL Headquarters will be at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix, 122 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.

{

Special EVENTS Taste of the NFL:

The Taste of the NFL’s annual strolling wine and food event features a chef from each NFL city serving their signature dish alongside a current or alumni NFL player.

Location: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260 When: Jan. 31 at 7 p.m.

Tickets: Starting at $700 Information: tasteofthenfl.com

Fan Fest Scottsdale:

Fan Fest Scottsdale is the place where football meets food, fashion and fun. In addition to ESPN broadcasting live daily, the week-long fan celebration includes celebrity chef cooking demos, daily fashion shows, an interactive gaming area, team VIP lounges, fan rallies and more.

Location: Scottsdale Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 When: Jan. 26–Feb. 1; Monday-Friday 4 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

Tickets: Free Information: FanFestScottsdale.com

©

Enjoy epic entertainment by top recording artists and entertainers spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic dance music and more. Top musicians, comedians and entertainers will perform in a custom performance venue created specifically for this super weekend event.

Location: Scottsdale Mall Amphitheater, 7380 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 When: Jan. 29–31; Thursday 5 p.m.–10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday 6:30 p.m.–12 a.m.

Tickets: Start at $220 per day (includes 2 drink tickets) Information: 1standTenKickOff.com

A I D

5 1

0 2

15th Annual NFL Players’ Wives Fashion Show:

More than 45 wives will walk the runway in spring fashions. Famous NFL football players are expected to attend and participate in the finale by escorting their wives down the runway.

Location: Hospitality Tent, Fan Fest Scottsdale at Scottsdale Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Dates: Jan. 30 Time: TBD Tickets: TBD Information: OfftheFieldPWA.org

E M

G I B Z A Lombardi:

1st & Ten Kickoff Concert and Party:

It’s 1965, the Green Bay Packers are having a stellar season, and they’re on their way to the championship. In this vhighly critically acclaimed drama, you’ll meet the man whose name graces the Vince Lombardi Super Bowl Trophy.

Location: Desert Stages Theatre, 4720 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 When: Jan. 23–Mar. 15; Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m.

Tickets: $25 Information: DesertStages.org

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 15

Super

Bowl quarterback Former basketball executive helps Arizona score with big game

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

E IGME arly in the planning process for the 2015 Super Bowl, Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee CEO Jay Parry was giving a presentation to Greater Phoenix Leadership and she referred to some of national perceptions of Arizona as “misperceptions.”

“An individual walked up to me after the presentation and said, ‘You did a great job, but just one point of clarification,’” Parry recounts. “‘Those are not misperceptions, those are reality.’ That was a good point.

Some of those things are real, but there are so many positives about Arizona that offset the negatives.”

Parry, who was an executive with both the Phoenix Suns and WNBA champion Mercury before taking her role with Super Bowl committee, says that when the eyes of the world turn to Arizona for the Super Bowl on Feb. 1, it will be the perfect time to showcase the progressive and innovative nature of Arizona. Az Business caught up with Parry near the future home of Super Bowl Central to talk strategy before the big game.

©

B Z A

Why do you think this Super Bowl is generating so much more buzz locally than when Arizona last hosted the game in 2008?

We’ve really worked to build that buzz. We got the bid in 2011 and started working on all the community events and buildup in 2012. We know that to make this a big success for Arizona and have the positive impact that we want, it takes getting the whole community involved

JAY PARRY: “There is so much positive excitement about Arizona hosting the Super Bowl,” said the CEO of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee. “Channeling all that interest and excitement and figuring out a way to put it to the best use to make the event amazing has been a challenge.”

PHOTO BY SHAVON ROSE, AZ BIG MEDIA

16

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

A I D

0 2

5 1

It has to be a Cornelis Hollander....

5 1

0 2

©

A I CORNELIS D E M HOLLANDER G I B Z A

C O R N E L I S

H O L L A N D E R

INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED AWARD WINNING DESIGNER

www. CornelisHollander.com 4151 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale AZ 85251 480-423-5000 800-677-6821 PROUDLY MADE IN THE U.S.A. CUSTOM DESIGNS AVAILABLE Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 17

and excited. We have a volunteer board of directors of 20 Arizona leaders and they’ve been instrumental in creating meetings and introductions to corporate leaders here. Trying to make all those stakeholders a part of the process has been our goal and it’s gotten everyone excited about the event.

How does being CEO of the Super Bowl Host Committee differ from running a professional sports team?

There are a lot of similarities. But what I’ve learned is that there is nothing as big as the Super Bowl. It goes way beyond football. I

$30 million:

1 million:

©

90,000

6,000

400

12 18

How has the Valley’s ability to host a Super Bowl changed since we last hosted the game in 2008?

Getting a Super Bowl is such a competitive process. For us to be selected to host again after seven short years is a testament to Arizona. The investment in the infrastructure in downtown Phoenix — from the light rail to the remodeled Convention Center to the extra restaurants that have been added to CityScape to the 3,000 hotel rooms in downtown Phoenix — is really what’s different for 2015. When we hosted the NFL in 2013, we walked through downtown Phoenix and ended up at the Hotel Palomar Phoenix on the pool deck. We looked out over Phoenix and the head of events turned to me and said, “This is a completely different place than it was in 2008.” That was a major win for us because they realized how much was done, and not just in Phoenix, but in Mesa and Tempe and Scottsdale and all the neighboring communities.

By the numbers $500 million:

attended the Super Bowl when Arizona hosted it in 1996 and in 2008, but when I got off the plane for the Super Bowl in 2013 in New Orleans, I said to myself, “This is so much bigger than I remember it being.” What I’ve realized is that there is a different dynamic from year to year. While some of the things stay the same, each host community brings its own stamp of personality to the event. Arizona’s hospitality industry is tailor made to host mega events and Arizona has become such an expert at it that we have a nice platform to work from. It just gets bigger and bigger.

The estimated economic impact on Arizona from Super Bowl XLIX.

A I D

5 1

0 2

How will your efforts to make the 2015 Super Bowl a regional experience impact the visitor?

E M

The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee’s fundraising goal.

G I B Z A Number of people expected to visit Super Bowl Central, a new addition to Arizona’s Super Bowl activities.

Number of visitors that will come to Arizona to be part of Super Bowl XLIX.

The number of media personnel from across the globe who are expected to cover Super Bowl XLIX.

The number of Arizona small businesses that have been accepted into the Business Connect Program.

The number of city blocks in downtown Phoenix that will become Super Bowl Central.

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

We want to make sure the entire Valley and the state gets to show its unique personality. Each of our communities is unique.

From a visitor’s standpoint, the big difference will be Super Bowl Central, which will be located in downtown Phoenix.

What the NFL learned from Indianapolis three years ago was the idea of a fan campus, where it’s the epicenter of activity. It has a lot of merit for visitors and they really enjoyed that, so the NFL built on that and we adopted that idea and created Super Bowl Central, which will be the biggest thing that Arizona has ever seen with its 12-block campus. Fans can migrate there and experience free family-friendly fun for the week leading up to the game, and then also have spokes throughout the Valley where they can enjoy other activities.

How do you hope business leaders and economic development leaders take advantage of Arizona’s role as host of the 2015 Super Bowl?

There is a lot of intention around capturing and growing that economic impact. We have a couple programs that the host committee leads. One is our CEO Forum, where we invite CEOs from outside of Arizona to come to Arizona for the weekend of the Super Bowl. We’ve created a three-day curriculum for them to meet local CEOs, learn why we are a pro-business environment and give the reason to relocate their business or expand their business in Arizona.

What accomplishment as CEO of the Super Bowl Host Committee gives you the most pride?

We want it to be the best Super Bowl yet. By doing that, it will keep us in that regular rotation for hosting future Super Bowls and mega events, which is a lasting legacy from an economic development standpoint. Introducing the world to Arizona and demonstrating what our brand really is — progressive, youthful, energetic, committed to business — and telling that story on behalf of Arizona and creating a positive brand image would be a fantastic legacy for all of us. AZ

5 1

0 2

A I TGIF D E M G I B Z ATGI FRIDAY’S FRONT ROW

OPEN YEAR ROUND

Excludes major holidays

Event Days: 11am - 1hr after conclusion of game Day Games: Open at 10am • Non Event Days: 11am - 10pm

Come to Chase Field for More Than the Game Experience!

©

SPORTS GRILL

• Friday’s Front Row is not just for baseball games!

• Drink specials all day every day • One block east of US Airways Center • Private area available for any type of group event

• Perfect location for Lunch, Happy Hour, or Dinner before any Valley sporting event.

• Show us your Phoenix event ticket and get 10% off your food bill* • Suns on the road? No problem! We have the games on TV, so you don’t miss a beat!

(602) 462-3506 frontrowphoenix.com *Cannot be combined with any other discount

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 19

when:

NFL

January 25 at 8 p.m.

where:

Pro Bowl

University of Phoenix Stadium 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, Ariz. 85305

tickets: nfl.com/pro-bowl

what:

The Pro Bowl is held every year to showcase the best players in the NFL, as voted by the players, coaches and fans. The 2015 Pro Bowl will be played at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, January 25th, the week before Super Bowl XLIX. From the merger with the rival American Football League (AFL) in 1970 up through 2013, it was officially called the AFC–NFC Pro Bowl, matching the top players in the American Football Conference (AFC) against those in the National Football Conference (NFC). Beginning in 2014, the teams will not be based on the two conferences, and will instead be chosen by two team captains in a televised fantasy draft four days prior to the game. Unlike most other sports leagues, which hold their all-star games roughly midway through their respective regular seasons, the Pro Bowl is played after the end of the NFL regular season. Between the 1970 merger and 2009, it was usually held on the weekend after the Super Bowl. Since 2010, the Pro Bowl has been played one week after the Conference Championship games, one week before the Super Bowl.

A I D

where:

5 1

0 2

The 2015 Pro Bowl will be held on the U.S. mainland for the first time since 2010. It will be only the third time a Pro Bowl and Super Bowl are held in the same location.

E M

©

20

G I B Z A

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

captains:

Two Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receivers – Cris Carter and Michael Irvin – have been selected to serve as alumni captains for the 2015 Pro Bowl. An eight-time Pro Bowl selection and standout wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings and Miami Dolphins, Carter was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. Carter, who ranks fourth in NFL history in receptions (1,101) and touchdown catches (130), recorded eight straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons (19932000). A member of the 2007 Pro Football Hall of Fame class, Irvin was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time Super Bowl champion (XXVII, XXVIII and XXX) during his 12-year career with the Dallas Cowboys. Irvin still ranks as the Cowboys’ all-time leader in receiving yards (11,904). Carter and Irvin were both named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1990s.

Carter’s Pro Bowl memory:

“Being voted to the Pro Bowl was always a tremendous honor for me. Last year, players really seemed to be excited about the new rules and the Pro Bowl Draft format. I’m excited to be a part of it this year.”

Irvin’s Pro Bowl memory:

“Some of my favorite NFL memories were from my Pro Bowl trips. I can’t wait to see which players get the Pro Bowl nod this season. I’m already thinking about how to build my team.”

how it works:

Last season, the Pro Bowl was “unconferenced” for the first time, and several key playing rules were changed. Players were selected without regard to conference in voting by fans, coaches and players and later assigned to Pro Bowl teams via a fantasy football-style draft. Continuing the significantly revised Pro Bowl format that debuted at the 2014 Pro Bowl, Carter and Irvin

{

Rule differences The Pro Bowl has different rules from other NFL games to make the game safer.

• No motion or shifting by the offense • Offense must have a tight end in all formations • Offense may have 1 or 2 receivers on the same side • Intentional grounding is legal • Defense must run a 4–3 at all times, though the Cover 2 is permitted • No press coverage except inside the 5-yard line • No blitz • Not allowed to rush a punt, PAT or FG attempt • No calls can be challenged • Teams trade possessions after each period (except at the start of 3rd period/3 OT, when the team that lost the coin toss gets the choice)

will have final say over Pro Bowl draft decisions. Each legend will be assisted in the draft process by two active player captains and one NFL.com fantasy football champion, who will earn their spot as part of Lenovo’s Fantasy Coach of the Year platform.

The 2015 Pro Bowl Draft will be held on January 20-21 and broadcast in primetime on NFL Network.

G I B Z A

how players are selected:

Currently, players are voted into the Pro Bowl by the coaches, the players themselves, and the fans. Each group’s ballots count for one third of the votes. The fans vote online at the NFL’s official website. There are also replacements that go to the game should any selected player be unable to play due to injuries.

Prior to 1995, only the coaches and the players made Pro Bowl selections. In order to be considered a Pro Bowler for a given year, a player must either have been one of the initial players selected to the team, or a player who accepts an invitation to the Pro Bowl as an alternate; invited alternates who decline to attend are not considered Pro Bowlers. Being a Pro Bowler is considered to be a mark of honor, and players who are accepted into the Pro Bowl are considered to be elite.

©

5 1

0 2 fun fact: A I D

E M

Pro Bowl draft:

• Kickoffs are eliminated (free kicks, too, after a safety) • Teams will start on their own 25-yard line after any score or at the start of each period • 2-minute warning in every period • 35-second play clock (rather than 40 seconds) • Clock won’t stop on sacks outside last 2 minutes of regulation/4th overtime • Clock stops in last 2 minutes of each period when team with ball can’t gain any yardage • 44-player roster per team • Clock starts after incompletions on referee’s signal outside last 2 minutes of 2nd period/2 OT or last 5 minutes of 4th/4 OT

The first “Pro All-Star Game,” featuring the football all-stars of the 1938 season (as well as three players from the Hollywood Stars and Los Angeles Bulldogs, who were not members of the league), was played on January 15, 1939 at Los Angeles’s Wrigley Field.

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 21

when:

Waste Management

Jan. 26-Feb. 2, 2015

Phoenix where:

TPC of Scottsdale 17020 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open

tickets:

5 1

wmphoenixopen.com

seating: The stadium has a capacity of 71,706

parking:

22

0 2

The list of professional golfers who have won in Phoenix reads like the golf Hall of Fame: Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Jimmy Demaret, Billy Casper, Gene Littler, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Miller Barber, Johnny Miller, Ben Crenshaw, and more recently Lee Janzen, Vijay Singh, Phil Mickelson, Tom Lehman, Mark Calcavecchia and Kenny Perry just to name a few. The Phoenix Open began in 1932 but was discontinued after the 1935 tournament. The rebirth of the Phoenix Open came in 1939 when Bob Goldwater, Sr. convinced fellow Thunderbirds to help run the event. The Thunderbirds, a prominent civic organization in Phoenix, were not as enthusiastic about running the event as he was, leaving Goldwater, Sr. to do most of the work in getting a golf open started. The event was played at the Phoenix Country Club in Phoenix, both in its earlier incarnations and after Goldwater resuscitated it. Beginning in 1955, the Arizona Country Club (also in Phoenix) alternated as event host with Phoenix Country Club; this arrangement lasted until Phoenix Country Club took The Arizona Country Club’s turn in 1975 and became the event’s permanent home again. In 1987, the tournament was moved to its current home, the Stadium Course at TPC of Scottsdale. The 4-day attendance of the tournament is usually around 500,000.

E M

There us free public parking with shuttle access to the tournament gates.

• From the west, public parking is at Loop 101 and Hayden Road. We recommend that eastbound Loop 101 drivers exit at Hayden, and drive south into the parking lot.

• From the east, parking is at WestWorld. We recommend that drivers exit Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., drive north to Bell Road, turn east to 94th street, and south into the parking lot entrance.

The free shuttles will operate Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

©

A I D

history:

G I B Z A seating:

TPC of Scottsdale’s Stadium Course has a capacity of 30,000, making it one of the world’s greatest golf stadiums. The par 3 16th hole on the Stadium Course is the only fully enclosed hole on the PGA Tour. The grandstands that surround the 16th are home to one of the most enthusiastic crowds on the PGA Tour. A shot that lands on the green will result in cheers from the crowd, while a shot that misses the green will result in boos.

Tiger Woods scored an ace (hole in one) on this hole during the 1997 Phoenix Open, sending the crowd in attendance into a frenzy.

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

records:

The lowest 4-day score (72 holes) for the tournament was by Mark Calcavecchia in 2001 with a total score of 256 (28 under par), which has since been matched by Phil Mickelson in 2013.

In the second round, he scored a 60, which equalled the lowest score at the Phoenix Open (by Grant Waite in 1996) and subsequently matched by Phil Mickelson in 2005 and 2013.

Calcavecchia had 32 birdies in the tournament, which was also an all-time record.

about the course:

The Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale has hosted some of contemporary golf’s greatest moments since opening in 1986.

The course was designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf

{

Last 10 champions Here are the winners of the last 10 Waste Management Phoenix Opens:

2014: Kevin Stadler, United States

2009: Kenny Perry, United States

2013: Phil Mickelson, United States

2008: J. B. Holmes, United States

2012: Kyle Stanley, United States

2007: Aaron Baddeley, Australia

2011: Mark Wilson, United States

2006: J. B. Holmes, United States

2010: Hunter Mahan, United States

2005: Phil Mickelson, United States

0 2

schedule of events:

specifically to serve as the stage for the tournament – what’s now become the largest spectator golf event in the world. During the 51 weeks of the year when fans are not watching the sport’s top names make history, they can test their own skills on the same pristine fairways — maintained to PGA Tour-quality standards year-round — as their favorite professionals. The course is most famous for it’s par-3, 16th hole that transforms into “The Coliseum” during the Waste Management Phoenix Open and provides fans with one of the most exciting settings in professional sports. Throughout the rest of the course, players will find an ideally balanced layout that blends challenge and playability while appealing to all levels of ability.

A I D

E M

©

5 1

G I B Z A

Monday, January 26: Practice Rounds for PGA Tour pros only; Kyocera Pro-Am, 9:30 a.m., TPC Stadium Course; and Military Career Event, 1 p.m.

Tuesday, January 27: Practice Rounds for PGA Tour pros only; R.S. Hoyt Jr. Family Foundation Dream Day Activities, 10 a.m. — motivational speeches by PGA Tour professionals, trick shot show and junior golf clinic presented by PING. Wednesday, January 28: Annexus Pro-Am, TPC Stadium Course, 8:30 a.m.; Phoenix Suns Shot at Glory, 3:30 p.m., TPC Scottsdale 16th hole; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens, 3:30 p.m., Capital Cities takes the stage at approximately 8 p.m.

Thursday, January 29: Waste Management Phoenix Open 1st round, 7:30 a.m.; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens at 3:30 p.m. and Darius Rucker takes the stage at approximately 8 p.m.

Friday, January 30: Waste Management Phoenix Open 2nd round; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens at 3:30 p.m. and Kid Rock takes the stage at approximately 8 p.m.

Saturday, January 31: Waste Management Phoenix Open 3rd round; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens at 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 1: Waste Management Phoenix Open final round.

Monday, February 2: Post Open Pro-Am, TPC Stadium Course, 9 a.m.

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 23

when:

Waste Management

Jan. 26-Feb. 2, 2015

Phoenix where:

TPC of Scottsdale 17020 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open

A I D

Spectator tips Arrive early to reserve a spot, especially if you plan on watching the tournament “Parade Style.” On Thursday and Friday, groups are simultaneously started on the first and tenth holes. Most people watch the action on the back nine holes which may give you the opportunity to get a better view of the players on the front nine.

G I B Z A

There are basically two ways to watch a golf tournament.

“Parade Style” is where you pick a spot and watch the field pass by or “Cross-Country Style” is where you follow a particular player or group around the course.

©

must-have-items:

Sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes and binoculars.

autographs:

Players are more receptive to requests for autographs after they have completed their round, so don’t interrupt them before or during their round. A good place to catch them is at the practice area, as most players will return there after they play their round.

celebrity sightings:

Wednesday of Waste Management Phoenix Open week features the celebrity event. Wednesday, many celebrities and others take part in the annual Annexus Pro-Am, which begins with at 8:30 a.m.

daily pairings:

Pick up a daily pairing sheet to find out when the players tee off and the order of the groups. Pairing sheets include a course

24

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

0 2

E M

arrive early:

have a plan:

5 1

map, and are available near the entrances and at selected other locations on the tournament grounds. The pros usually play in threesomes on Thursday and Friday and twosomes on the weekends. Check the scoreboards to find out who the leaders are, and where they are on course. One way to tell the players from a distance is to look for their caddies, who wear colorcoded vests (green, white or yellow), which will be indicated on the daily pairing sheet.

food and drinks:

Concession stands are located throughout the tournament grounds. For lunch or dinner, visit the Fry’s or Coca-Cola Food Courts. Souvenirs are located at the TPC Merchandise Tents, near the 1st tee and the main entrance.

weather check:

Check the weather forecast before you visit the Waste Management Phoenix Open and dress appropriately. Expect cool mornings and sunny afternoons, so dressing in layers is the best idea.

inclement weather policy:

Spectators will be alerted to weather that tournament officials identify as potentially dangerous. Weather warnings will be broadcast on the electronic leader boards that are located throughout the golf course. Spectators should take appropriate precautions upon observing any weather warnings and avoid hilltops/high places, golf carts, isolated trees and wire fences.

A prolonged blast on an air horn, repeated once, will indicate that tournament play has been suspended, all attendees should seek safe shelter immediately. Two short blast of an air horn, repeated once, will indicate play has resumed.

5 1

0 2

A I PHOENIXEDOPEN M TIX G I B Z A ©

Thanks to you, we’re on the road to hit the 100 million dollar mark in charitable giving after

this year’s Waste Management Phoenix Open. Thank you Arizona golf fans. The Thunderbirds and Thunderbirds Charities couldn’t have done it without you.

JANUARY 26 – FEBRUARY 1ST, 2015 | TPC SCOTTSDALE | WMPHOENIXOPEN.COM

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 25

when:

VIZIO

December 31, 2014 at 2 p.m.

Fiesta where: Bowl

University of Phoenix Stadium 1 Cardinals Drive Glendale, Az 85305

tickets: fiestabowl.org

seating:

The stadium has a capacity of 73,000. The stadium has permanent seating for 63,000, but expands to hold approximately 73,000 for events such as the Fiesta Bowl. A total of 88 luxury suites on two levels, club seating for 7,000 with access to private club lounge areas, lower bowl seating for 29,000 and upper deck seating for approximately 26,000 accommodate patrons. All seats are individual chairs with arm rests and cup holders.

Natural grass (Tifway 419 Bermuda hybrid planted in early May 2006 using stolons in an 11” bed of USGA sand mix with inclusions.)

lighting:

700 Musco pre-aimed sports lights providing over 1 million watts of lighting.

©

0 2

The stadium us 233 feet high from the playing surface to top of roof, or approximately 19 stories high. With its retractable field and roof, University of Phoenix Stadium is unlike any other in North America. The exterior design of the stadium was provided by renowned architect Peter Eisenman, along with HOK Sport. The basic form of the design takes its cue from a barrel cactus and offers alternating vertical slots with smooth panels. University of Phoenix Stadium was constructed with a retractable roof containing two large panels that retract to uncover the entire playing field. It also features a roll-out field consisting of a 152,000 square-foot concrete stadium floor with an embedded utility grid. The natural grass field remains in a retractable, 12-million pound tray outside the stadium until game day for maximum sun exposure and nourishment.

The tray takes approximately 45 minutes to move inside the stadium and rests in a tray atop tracks as it rolls out on a steel wheel set powered by small electric motors.

E M

G I B Z A

playing surface:

A I D

stadium:

5 1

game history:

Former Arizona State University President G. Homer Durham pitched the concept of a Phoenix-area football bowl game in 1968. The Fiesta Bowl was established in 1971. Now, more than 40 years later, the Fiesta Bowl has hosted seven national championship games and has become an integral part of college football’s postseason. “It is very apparent to me why the Fiesta Bowl continues to be the most sought-after bowl game in college football,” said Boise State head football coach Chris Petersen, who has led his team to a pair of Fiesta Bowl victories. “Its first-rate reputation is well deserved.”

economic impact:

The Fiesta Bowl’s impact on Arizona lasts all year long and is felt well beyond the gridiron. In the 2010-11 bowl season, the Fiesta Bowl, Cactus Bowl and Tostitos BCS National Championship Game created $354 million in economic impact, according to a study by ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business.

The study estimated that the Fiesta Bowl organization has produced $1 billion in economic impact in a five-year span.

26

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

{

Stadium by the numbers 14,000: Number of parking 310: Fixed locations for fans

spaces on site, with more than 12,000 additional spaces within one mile.

2,300: Arizona homes that

could be cooled by the stadium’s air conditioning on a game day.

1,250:

to purchase food and beverages.

50: Restrooms 18: Escalators 10: Elevators

Number of tress planted around the stadium.

0 2 fun fact: A I D

Fiesta Bowl Fan Fest:

Dec. 31, 2014 from 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on the Great Lawn at the University of Phoenix Stadium. Tens of thousands of fans will gather for the pre-game party. Here, college football fans of all ages can like this ultimate tailgate that celebrates the great traditions of college football before the game begins.

Activities such as pep rallies, performances by the university marching bands and cheerleaders, Jumbotrons to watch team highlights, interactive games, and food and beverage booths all help fans prepare for the big game.

E M

Š

G I B Z A

5 1

The 2011 BCS National Championship had 78,603 fans in attendance, which was the largest crowd in the history of University of Phoenix Stadium.

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 27

0 2

5 1

Š

28

A I OUTLETS AT D E M ANTHEM G I B Z A

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

5 1

0 2

©

A I COMMERCE D E M MORTGAGE G I B Z A

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 29

what:

Surrounded by the scenic landscape of the Sonoran Desert, the Valley provides the excitement of the Old West within a thriving metropolitan area brimming with cultural and outdoor activity. Enjoy Cactus League games in Glendale, Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise and Tempe.

Cactus League

Spring

when:

training

February through April 2015

tickets:

cactusleague.com

A I D

5 1

0 2

Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear (west of Phoenix)

Spring training facilities

is the current spring training home of the Cleveland Indians and the Cincinnati Reds. It is part of a $108 million baseball complex. Outside the main entrance, the concourse features a 60 foot 6 inch fiberglass statue titled “The Ziz” created by artist Donald Lipski.

Location: 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear, AZ 85338

E M

Camelback Ranch in Glendale is the spring training

home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox. It is owned and operated by Glendale, Arizona. The stadium holds 13,000 people. It has 10,000-plus seats, plus 3,000 bermed grass seating. There are eight full suites, four mini-suites, one press box, one suite-level party deck and a series of outfield terraces that create party areas.

Location: 10712 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85037

G I B Z A

Cubs Park in Mesa is the spring training home of the

Chicago Cubs. It opened in 2014 and is owned and operated by the Chicago Cubs. With a capacity of 15,000, Cubs Park becomes the largest spring training stadium by capacity in Major League Baseball, surpassing Camelback Ranch in Glendale (coincidentally, spring training home of the Cubs’ incity rival the Chicago White Sox) by 2,000 seats.

Location: 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa, AZ 85201

©

Hohokam Stadium, also known as Dwight W.

Patterson Field and formerly Hohokam Park, is a baseball park in Mesa that will be the spring training home of Major League Baseball’s Oakland Athletics beginning in 2015. The stadium was named for the Hohokam people who occupied the region from approximately AD 1 to the mid-1400s. From 1979 to 2013, the Chicago Cubs held their spring training at Hohokam Stadium.

Location: 1235 N. Center St., Mesa, Arizona 85201

Maryvale Baseball Park is the spring training

home of the Milwaukee Brewers and their minor league affiliates. The baseball park located is owned and operated by the city’s Parks and Recreation department. The stadium holds 7,000 people. It is also the home stadium of the Arizona League Brewers rookie league minor league baseball team of the Arizona League.

Location: 3600 N. 51st Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85031

Peoria Sports Complex in Peoria, a suburb of Phoenix, is the spring training home stadium of both the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners. The facility is near Peoria’s main shopping district on Bell Road. It consists of the main baseball stadium (Peoria Stadium) and twelve practice fields. It is also one of five facilities to host Arizona Fall League games.

Location: 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria, AZ 85382

30

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

{

HISTORY Spring training for baseball season under the warm Arizona sun has been a tradition for devoted fans since 1947, when just two teams, the Cleveland Indians and the New York Giants, came here to prepare for the rigors of the long regular season. Today, 15 teams train in the Phoenix metropolitan area in the greatest concentration of

Salt River Fields at Talking Stick is the spring

training facility home for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies. The stadium complex is located in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community near Scottsdale. The complex represents the first MLB park to be built on Native American Indian land. There are 7,000 fixed seats in the grandstand and 4,000 lawn seats for a total estimated seating capacity of 11,000.

Location: 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85258

professional baseball facilities found anywhere in the United States. For visitors, the Cactus League couldn’t be more convenient, with short drive times between ballparks and a full range of hotel, dining and shopping amenities. Truly, the Cactus League is the premier destination for baseball lovers.

A I D

5 1

0 2

Surprise Stadium is the spring training home of the

Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers and the home of the Arizona Fall League’s Surprise Saguaros. It is located at the Surprise Recreation Campus athletic facility. The stadium was designed by HOK Sport, built in 2002 and holds 10,714 people. The stadium was also the home of the Golden Baseball League’s Surprise Fightin’ Falcons, who folded after their only season in 2005.

Location: 15930 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise, AZ 85374

E M

G I B Z A

Scottsdale Stadium is the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants. The stadium was built in 1992 and holds 12,000 people. The stadium underwent a $23.1 million renovation in 2006. In return, the San Francisco Giants agreed to play at the stadium for an additional 20 years, through 2025, with an option to extend the lease to 2035. The stadium also hosts the Fall League’s championship game at the end of November.

Location: 7408 E. Osborn Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251

©

Tempe Diablo Stadium in Tempe is the spring

training home of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and the home field for night games of the Arizona League Tempe Angels. The stadium was built in 1968 and holds 9,558 people.

The stadium underwent an extensive $20 million renovation and was rededicated on Mar. 3, 2006. Tempe Diablo Stadium can be seen from the Maricopa Freeway.

Location: 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 31

when:

January 2, 2015 at 8:15 p.m.

Cactus where: Bowl

Sun Devil Stadium 500 E Veterans Way Tempe, AZ 85287

tickets: fiestabowl.org

seating: The stadium has a capacity of 71,706

playing surface: lighting:

Four banks of quartz-iodide flood lights suspended 200 feet over the playing field

G I B Z A

Arizona State’s Sun Devil Stadium has played host to some of the best football games for more than four decades. It has hosted Arizona State University football games since 1958. It has hosted five Tostitos Fiesta Bowl national championships and it played host to the 1996 Super Bowl. The stadium was the home of the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl for 35 years and the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals for 18 seasons. Beginning in 2006, Sun Devil Stadium became the new home of the Cactus Bowl.

With the south end expansion completed and the press and sky boxes in place, and with an expanded cantilevered upper deck (1977),

©

0 2

Sun Devil Stadium boasts a capacity of 71,706 in addition to suite seating for more than 900 fans.

The expansion of 1988 added almost 1,700 seats to the stadium’s capacity. Also added was the Intercollegiate Athletic Complex at the structure’s south end, which is now named the Nadine and Ed Carson Student Athlete Center. A state-of-the-art scoreboard and four-color video replay board were also added.

During the 1978 expansion, design features enabled the stadium to be modernized without light supports, sound system supports, or construction pillars in the viewing line of the spectators.

The bowl (south) end was connected by the dramatic ICA Complex and the extension of the loge-level seats. Locker rooms also were added in the north end visiting teams. Two new scoreboards were put in place in 1999. The color video replay system, situated in the southeast corner, offers fans instant replays of game action. A complementary matrix board for messages and statistical information sits in the southwest corner.

E M

Natural (hybrid Bermuda grass)

stadium:

A I D

5 1

biggest comeback:

The 2006 game saw the biggest comeback in NCAA Division I FBS postseason history, as Texas Tech came back from a 38–7 third-quarter deficit to defeat Minnesota 44–41 in overtime.

media: The press box and skybox facility, which sits atop the upper deck on the west side, contains two 30-suite levels of skyboxes renovated in 1999 and is topped by the press box and eight additional private suites. The facility also boasts its own television production room. Served by four industrial-sized elevators – one for the media and three for the public – the facility has working space for more than 200 sportswriters, booth space for broadcasters, statistical crews, scoreboard operations and a rooftop camera deck.

game history: Since its inception, the Cactus Bowl has been played in the state of Arizona at three separate venues. For the first ten 32

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

{

the Name game Here are the former names of the Cactus Bowl, which will be played January 2 in Tempe:

» Copper Bowl (1989) » Domino’s Pizza Copper Bowl (1990-1991)

» Weiser Lock Copper Bowl (1992-1995)

A I D

0 2

Tempe will be transformed into one big celebration from University Drive down to 3rd Street. From 6 p.m.-1 a.m., visitors can take part in interactive games and activities, view musical entertainment on local band side stages, and grab dinner or a late night snack from gourmet food trucks on hand.

Take advantage of the beer and champagne gardens, and high energy Video Dance stages at the intersections of 5th and Mill and 6th and Mill. For guests with young children, bring them to the Family Fun Zone, running until 10:30 p.m. For more information, visit millavenue.com.

G I B Z A

E M

If you’re visiting Tempe for the game, ring in 2015 with the Circle K New Year’s Eve Block Party on Mill Avenue. Downtown

©

5 1

(2012-2013)

years, the game was played at Arizona Stadium, on the campus of the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona. In 2000, the bowl’s organizers moved the game to Bank One Ballpark, a baseball-specific stadium, in downtown Phoenix. Finally, in 2006, the game moved to Sun Devil Stadium at Arizona State University in Tempe to replace the Fiesta Bowl which had moved to University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.

block party:

» Copper Bowl (1996) » Insight.com Bowl (1997–2001) » Insight Bowl (2002–2011) » Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 33

when:

Camping World

March 12-15, 2015

where:

500 Weekend

Phoenix International Raceway, 7602 S. Avondale Blvd., Avondale, AZ 85353

tickets:

phoenixraceway.com

events:

Camping World 500, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race; XFINITY Series 200; and Toyota 120.

NASCAR’s first trip to the West Coast each season is at Phoenix International Raceway. The signature event of the weekend in the Camping World 500, a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series stock car race held annually at Phoenix International Raceway. The 500-kilometer, 312-lap event is one of only four NASCAR Cup Series events measured in kilometers rather than miles or laps (joining the fall Phoenix race and both road course events).

the track:

G I B Z A

Phoenix International Raceway, also known as PIR, is a one-mile, low-banked tri-oval race track located in Avondale.

The track opened in 1964 and currently hosts two NASCAR race weekends annually, one of 13 facilities on the NASCAR schedule to host more than one race weekend a year. PIR has also hosted the IndyCar Series, CART, USAC and the Rolex

©

34

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

A I D

0 2

Sports Car Series. The raceway is currently owned and operated

by International Speedway Corporation. The raceway was originally constructed with a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) road course that ran both inside and outside of the main tri-oval. In 1991 the track was re-configured with the current 1.51 miles (2.43 km) interior layout. PIR has an estimated grandstand seating capacity of around 67,000. Lights were installed around the track in 2004 following the addition of a second annual NASCAR race weekend. The track is both the first and last stop in the western United States, as well as the second and secondto-last track on the schedule.

E M

what:

5 1

race history:

As part of the 2005 NASCAR realignment, a second date was awarded to Phoenix with Subway sponsorship. As there was already a race sponsored

by Subway on the schedule (the now Goody’s Headache Relief Shot 500 at Martinsville), the name “Subway Fresh 500” was devised to reduce confusion. Subway later added the word “Fit” to the sponsorship to promote its Fresh Fit combo choices.

With the new 2010 NASCAR start time rule change that starts races only at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.

Eastern Time, track officials were concerned that the new start time (45 minutes earlier than in the past) would put the majority of the race in the day instead of the planned night. At that time of year in Phoenix, sunset takes place at roughly 7 p.m. (because Arizona does not observe daylight saving time, this is the same as Pacific Daylight Time). As a result, the race was stretched to 600 kilometres (370 mi) so that the extra 100 kilometers (63 miles) would take place during the day and most of the race would still take place at night as planned. However, in 2011, the race moved one week after the Daytona 500 in February. The race returned to 312 laps (500 kilometers) and was ran on Sunday in the daytime for the first time. In 2015, Phoenix will move from the second to the fourth race of the season in mid-March.

E N I 0 L A 2 N E DR A P u t yo u r

A Š

I PIRED M G I B Z A

5 1

to work

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 35

when:

P.F. Chang’s

January 18, 2015

Rock N Roll

what:

Runners have the option to compete in a full marathon, half marathon, two-person half marathon relay or 10K

Marathon

tickets:

& half marathon

5 1

runrocknroll.competitor.com/arizona

starting lines:

Marathon starts in downtown Phoenix at CityScape; half marathon, two-person relay and 10K all start at University Drive at College Avenue in Tempe.

Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe Beach Park.

G I B Z A

The full marathon course tours through the three host cities of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe. The half marathon and 10K courses are looped courses launching from downtown Tempe.

expo:

For two days — Jan. 16-17 —more than 80 exhibitors will offer free samples, showcase the latest in running gear, sports apparel, health and nutritional information and much more.

Pick up some last-minute race essentials before race day and be sure to visit the Brooks Official Merchandise Store. All runners must visit the expo to pick up their race number, swag bag and T-shirt. The expo will be located at Phoenix Convention Center, North Halls A-E, 100 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.

©

0 2

With local bands playing live on entertainment stages along every mile of the course, Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona will again rock with a city-wide party. The bands will keep the course pulsating as runners rock their way from start to finish.

E M

finish line:

the courses:

A I D

rock on:

gear check:

Before you enter your assigned corral, drop-off your pre-race/ post-race clothing and belongings at the Gear Check. While you run, your gear will be held at Gear Check. Each participant will receive a large, durable gear bag at the Health & Fitness Expo when you pick up your packet that will serve as your gear bag on race day. Gear Check trucks will be arranged alphabetically and by truck number near the start line. Attach your gear tag to your gear bag before you leave it with the Gear Check crew.

After the race, reclaim your checked bag at the designated Gear Check area.

meeting up after the race:

After the race, reunite with family and friends in the Family Reunion area and relish in your post race accomplishment with refreshments and live music at the finish line stage.

With a large number of participants and thousands of excited spectators, it can be difficult to locate friends and family without a plan. It is highly recommended that you designate a meet-up location for friends and family before the race in the Family Reunion area. The Family Reunion area will post tall, clearly-marked signs by Letter (A – Z), so be sure to coordinate and plan to meet at a pre-determined letter.

post-race concert:

The Wallflowers and OK Go will perform at the Finish Line Concert at 2015 P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona. Fronted by co-founder Jakob Dylan, The Wallflowers are now in their 25th year. The Los Angeles-based alternative rock band has taken home several Grammys, released six studio albums and sold more than seven million records. OK Go is an American alternative rock band that is known for its often quirky and elaborate music videos. The band’s video for “Here It Goes Again” won a “Grammy Award for Best Music Video” in 2007.

36

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

5 1

0 2

A I RENAISSANCE D E M PU G I B Z A Š

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 37

when:

UFC

Saturday, Dec. 13

where:

Fight night

US Airways Center 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85004

tickets: ufc.com

the event:

The Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC) will be hosting its first live event in Phoenix. The fight card will be headlined by a pivotal heavyweight clash between former UFC® heavyweight champion Junior Dos Santos and fourth-ranked Stipe Miocic. The event will also feature at least six competitors with Arizona ties.

about the UFC:

G I B Z A

the fights to watch :

©

contender Dos Santos (16-3, fighting out of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil) returns to the Octagon® for the first time since the final fight in his trilogy of bouts with current champion Cain Velasquez. Miocic (12-1, fighting out of Cleveland), with consecutive wins over top contenders Roy Nelson, Gabriel Gonzaga and, most recently, Fabio Maldonado, is one of the hottest names in the division, and he hopes to keep his momentum going by taking the next step toward a shot at the heavyweight title.

38

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com

» In the co-main event, fiery lightweight Nate Diaz (18-9,

fighting out of Stockton, Calif.) makes his highly anticipated return against third-ranked Rafael Dos Anjos (22-7, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). After a near 13-month hiatus, Diaz looks to reestablish himself as a top contender in the 155-pound division. Beating Dos Anjos will be no easy feat, as the Brazilian standout boasts a two-fight win streak that includes a stunning first-round knockout of former lightweight champion Benson Henderson. » Former Strikeforce heavyweight champion Alistair Overeem (37-14, 1 NC, fighting out of Amsterdam, The Netherlands) faces 6’11” contender Stefan Struve (29-6, fighting out of Beverwijk, The Netherlands) in a hard-hitting heavyweight bout. Struve has won four out of his last five, with victories over Miocic, Lavar Johnson, Dave Herman and Pat Barry. » Phoenix native and 2008 Olympic wrestling gold medalist Henry Cejudo will make his UFC debut against Dustin Kimura in a three-round bantamweight bout. Cejudo became an Olympic gold medalist at just 21 years old, the youngest American wrestler to win a gold medal. » Former title challenger and longtime UFC veteran (No. 12) Gabriel Gonzaga (16-8, fighting out of Ludlow, Mass.) taking on surging former NFL player Matt Mitrione (8-3, fighting out of Indianapolis). » Former Arizona State University NCAA Division I wrestler John Moraga (15-3, fighting out of Phoenix) meets fourthranked contender Jussier Formiga (17-3, fighting out of Natal, Brazil.) in the flyweight division. » Phoenix native Joe Riggs (28-9, fighting out of Glendale) returns to the UFC after eight years against veteran Ben Saunders (17-6-2, fighting out of Orlando) in a welterweight bout. » Former WEC® lightweight champion Jamie Varner (2110-1, 2 NC, fighting out of Scottsdale) meets The Ultimate Fighter season 15 contestant Drew Dober (14-6, fighting out of Omaha, Neb.). » In the lightweight division, Joe Ellenberger (15-1, fighting out of Omaha) takes on UFC newcomer Bryan Barberena (9-2, fighting out of Glendale).

E M

The UFC is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe.

UFC programming is broadcast in 129 countries to nearly 800 million TV households worldwide in 28 different languages

» One of the best heavyweights in UFC history, No. 2

A I D

0 2

5 1

Here is the pitch...

5 1

Play Ball is distributed to fans in January and February during various Fan Fest activities in the teams home cities across the country.

A I PLAYBALL D E M (HOUSE) G I B Z A U T ION es B I R T S DI c o pi

0 100,00

©

0 2

Play Ball is the only magazine distributed at the Cactus League Spring Training stadiums, local chambers of commerce and visitors bureaus, as well as being available at Valley hotels, restaurants, retail outlets, AJ’s Fine Food store locations, Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and Mesa Gateway Airport.

Play Ball will be mailed directly to fans interested in visiting Arizona for spring training games, leaving them plenty of time to book accommodations, make dining reservations and plan activities during their visit to Arizona.

Teams and stadiums featured in Play Ball will be: Arizona Diamondbacks, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick Chicago Cubs, Cubs Park Stadium Chicago White Sox, Camelback Ranch Cincinnati Reds, Goodyear Ballpark Cleveland Indians, Goodyear Ballpark Colorado Rockies, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick Kansas City Royals, Surprise Stadium Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Tempe Diablo Stadium LA Dodgers, Camelback Ranch Milwaukee Brewers, Maryvale Baseball Park Oakland A’s, Phoenix Municipal Stadium San Francisco Giants, Scottsdale Stadium San Diego Padres, Peoria Sports Complex Seattle Mariners, Peoria Sports Complex Texas Rangers, Surprise Stadium

Secure your space today,

call 602.424.8843.

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com 39

5 1

Š

40

0 2 A I Camelback Inn D E M G I B Z A

Vote and learn more at azBIGmedia.com