About FTCC Trojan Field at J P Riddle Stadium
FTCC Trojan Field at J.P. Riddle Stadium is an outdoor baseball venue in southeast Fayetteville, North Carolina. Opened in 1987 , it was originally built as a temporary minor-league park but has become a permanent fixture. The venue is home to the Fayetteville Tech (FTCC) Trojans men’s baseball team and sits on a 15-acre complex gifted to the college in 2019 . The stadium seats about 4,000 fans and retains a classic 1980s ballpark feel: a covered metal grandstand with powder-blue seats wraps around from first base to third base, and higher bleacher seating sits on a concrete concourse . A prominent LED scoreboard over the right-centerfield wall keeps fans informed, and the bright yellow dugouts display the Trojans logo. Notably, the playing field has no advertising around its perimeter, focusing attention on the game itself . Over the years this field has hosted many teams—first the minor-league Fayetteville Generals (later the Cape Fear Crocs) for 14 seasons and then the summer-collegiate Fayetteville SwampDogs (2001–2018) until the club moved to a new stadium. Today the college maintains the facility, preserving its retro charm and making it a central part of local sports history.
Events and Programming
The stadium is busiest in spring baseball season. FTCC’s Trojans (NJCAA Region 10) play a full schedule of home games here from February through April, often attracting local family crowds. In addition, the venue hosts occasional youth and community baseball events – for example, high school state championship games (NCHSAA 1A & 3A finals) were played here in 2021 when weather interrupted play . On special weekends the complex throws “Youth Day” events where children can run on the field, meet the team mascot, and win prizes . There are also summer collegiate and showcase games: for instance, the national Committed Baseball Showcase is scheduled for June 25, 2025 at JP Riddle, bringing top high school talent to the field. In 2025 the stadium is expanding into a music venue too – the New Country Music Fest (featuring rising country artists and vendors) is slated for October 25, 2025 . (Previous years have seen only occasional small concerts or community gatherings.) FTCC added softball to its program in spring 2019, and a brand-new NCAA-regulation softball field was constructed adjacent to Trojan Field in 2022–23 . Together these fields host men’s and women’s college games, camps, and local tournaments. In short, Trojan Field’s event schedule centers on collegiate and community baseball, with a handful of special events (festivals, concerts, youth days) sprinkled in.
Tickets and Booking
Admission policies at Trojan Field are straightforward. For FTCC baseball or softball games, tickets are typically available through the college’s athletics department or at the gate – in many cases spectators enter for free or for a small charge. On big community nights (like alumni or youth days) the college may offer promotions or block seating for students and families. Special ticketed events (such as concerts and festivals) sell advance tickets in tiers (general admission, VIP, etc.) via official event announcements. For example, the upcoming New Country Music Fest 2025 at Riddle Field has ticket packages and VIP passes made available through event promotions. In general, it’s wise to purchase tickets early for popular concerts, but for Trojans baseball the demand is usually moderate and seats can often be bought on game day. Check the FTCC Athletics website or social media for announcements about game schedules and ticketing, or inquire at the Riddle Stadium box office (located at the stadium entrance) for availability.
Seating and Layout
Trojan Field’s seating layout is simple and fan-friendly. The main covered grandstand behind home plate and along the baselines has individual metal seats in lower rows and bench-back bleachers above . These seats span from first to third base and are topped by a pitched metal roof and press box , which provides shade and cover from rain. Additional seating is available above on the concrete concourse as simple bleachers for overflow crowds. The outfield is grass, so there are no seats beyond the fence except space for a bullpen. Best seats for watching play are often in the shaded grandstand near home plate: from there you have a clear view of both infield and outfield. (A fun fact: “Seat #1” in the covered section, right behind home plate, is dedicated to recalling fallen veterans – a POW/MIA tribute .) If you want full sun, any seat up front exposed to sky is open, but be prepared for heat on sunny days. Sightlines are generally good – the only sightline issue noted by some fans is that a couple of front-row seats right behind each dugout have obstructed views when players stand in the dugout. For the best comfort, many visitors recommend sitting a few rows back under the roof, or even on the concourse to stretch out. In short, Trojan Field offers intimate views of the game, and die-hard fans often stake out the covered mid-level seats along the baselines for shade and the best angles.
Getting There and Parking
Trojan Field is located at 2823 Legion Road in southeast Fayetteville (just south of downtown). The easiest access is via Morganton Road (US-401/Bragg Boulevard): from I-295/Bragg you can follow US-401/Morganton north and turn onto Legion Road. The stadium sits just off this route on the campus land. GPS navigation using the stadium’s address will guide you right to its parking areas. Public transit to Legion Road is limited; the Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) operates buses on major corridors, but you’ll likely need a car or rideshare for direct access. Plenty of parking is available on site – in fact, the venue’s large lots can handle double the typical crowd . Parking is usually free for attendees, and attendants will direct you to open lots on the JR Stadium property. If those fill up (rare for college games), nearby street parking on Legion Road and adjacent campus lots can serve overflow. Rideshare drop-off is also common: ask your driver to let you out at the stadium entrance on Legion Road, then walk in. In summary, driving and parking are generally hassle-free as long as you arrive before the game’s first pitch; the stadium’s ample lots and legible signage make navigation straightforward.
Inside the Venue
Once inside J.P. Riddle Stadium, fans step onto a wide concrete concourse that rings the seating area. Tickets are checked at the entrance gate; as with most sports venues, plan for a brief security check of bags, but there are no extreme measures like full-body scanners. The concourse leads to the covered seating bowl. Beneath the stands (in the concrete building), you’ll find restrooms and a small indoor cafeteria-style lobby with concession stands. Signs direct you to “Ladies” and “Gentlemen” bathrooms – Trojans fans report there are plenty of facilities and they are kept clean during games. Concessions offer typical ballpark fare: hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, snacks and soft drinks. In fact, the stadium even serves specialty items like the “Junkyard Dog” (two long hot dogs piled with chili, cheese, bacon and fries) as a local quirk, plus its Pepsi fountain allowing $1.50 refills . Beer is sold on site (usually a selection of domestic or regional brews) via an age-verified wristband system – you show ID once per event to get a wristband, then can buy drinks at any stand. During games the PA announcer provides play-by-play and music through speakers, but there’s no elaborate sound show; it’s a friendly low-key atmosphere. If you need team gear, a kiosk or table by the concourse often has Trojan cotton shirts and caps. There’s no coat check or locker area for fans, so keep personal items with you. Finally, the stadium’s cell reception is fair for Fayetteville – you can usually use mobile tickets or follow stats on your phone – but WiFi is not offered. Overall, inside Trojan Field you’ll find a welcoming, no-frills ballpark ambiance: metal seats (so bring a cushion on cool days ), clear sightlines, and the smell of stadium dogs and popcorn in the air.
Nearby Amenities
Because Trojan Field sits on a college campus just off Legion Road, there are several conveniences within a short drive. Along Morganton Road/Bragg Boulevard (a mile east) you’ll find fast food and casual eateries: options like pizza, barbecue, Mexican, and diner-style restaurants await hungry fans before or after the game. For families arriving early, many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus. If you prefer bars, a few sports pubs and breweries are clustered around the Skibo Road/Morganton Road area (5–10 minutes north) where locals gather. For out-of-town guests, several hotels lie within a 10–15 minute drive: major chains (Holiday Inn, Marriott, DoubleTree, etc.) near downtown Fayetteville or by the airport are convenient lodging. People coming from Fort Liberty (Bragg) often find the drive around 15 minutes. On event days it’s a good idea to eat at least an hour before first pitch; Morganton Road traffic can get busy. After night games, transportation options include Uber/Lyft (though service can slow late at night) or staying in local hotels. In short, you’re not far from dining and rest stop options – Fayetteville’s city services and restaurants are plentiful within a short drive of the stadium.
What Makes This Venue Special
Trojan Field at J.P. Riddle Stadium stands out as one of Fayetteville’s landmark sports sites. Architecturally, it’s a “retro beast” of a ballpark – the steel roof and blue benches hearken back to the 1980s minor-league era . The design is simple but functional: the roof over home plate protects fans from sun and rain, which is a big plus in North Carolina heat . Fans and players alike appreciate the “pure” baseball feel: even in this era of digital signage, the field around you is mostly green grass and ivy (with only the modern LED scoreboard visible) . Culturally, the stadium carries local lore. It’s named for J.P. Riddle, who built it in the 1980s; his family still visits the facility and congratulates the college on improvements . Seat #1’s POW/MIA dedication gives a patriotic touch unique among ballparks . Historically, memorable players like Gabe Kapler and Juan Encarnación have passed through here on their way to the majors, adding pride to its legacy. More recently, it’s significant as FTCC’s first true home field and an anchor for community sports – college alumni come back to cheer here, and local high school stars dream of playing in its lights. Musicians have caught wind of its charm too: producing a country music festival on this field shows how the venue can shift to a concert stage, giving audiences panoramic views of both stage and night sky. In short, fans and athletes love Trojan Field for its vintage character, friendly atmosphere, and the way it connects Fayetteville’s military town heritage (many fans have ties to Fort Bragg) with new generations of athletes. It’s a stadium that “feels Fayetteville” – affordable, family-friendly, and steeped in sporting tradition .
Visitor Tips and Information
Questions often arise about preparing for an event at Trojan Field. First, dress in layers and bring a seat cushion – the metal seats can be chilly on spring nights or very hot under direct sun . Since it’s an outdoor venue, always check the weather forecast: if rain is expected, pack a poncho (umbrellas may be blocked by the roof) and if it’s sunny, wear sunscreen and a hat. On cool or breezy evenings, a light jacket is wise. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before game time to get settled and avoid last-minute lines. Note that alcohol is only sold inside, so don’t bring outside beer or liquor (and ID will be checked). Bags and purses will be briefly searched; large backpacks or coolers are not allowed in the seating areas. Cameras and smartphones are fine for selfies and capturing the action, but professional photo equipment or video cameras are usually prohibited without permission. Children are welcome, and there is a small play area/picnic spot on the third-base side where kids can stretch their legs during a lull in the game. The facility is ADA-compliant: wheelchair spaces are on the concourse level with level entrances, and there are handicap-accessible restrooms. As with any public venue, follow staff instructions for safety – pay attention to emergency exits and avoid wandering onto the field unless invited. Finally, it’s a hometown crowd, so friendly fan etiquette goes a long way. In summary, bring comfort items (cushion, sunscreen), plan packages early, and you’ll fit right in with the folks enjoying baseball in this historic Fayetteville park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FTCC Trojan Field at J.P. Riddle Stadium used for?
Primarily it serves as the home field for the Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) Trojans baseball team. The stadium also hosts other baseball events such as regional college and debutante games, high school championships (like NCHSAA finals), youth tournaments, and in recent times even some large concerts or festivals. A new FTCC softball field was added on the same site in 2023, so women’s college softball now also has a permanent home here.
What is the seating capacity and configuration?
The stadium holds roughly 4,000 spectators . Seating is arranged with a covered grandstand behind home plate and along each baseline (individual metal seats in front, bench-back seats above), plus open bleacher seating higher on the concourse. The roof covers the upper stands behind home plate, offering shade for fans, while the lower rows and outfield are exposed. There are no seats beyond the outfield fences except standing room. Seat #1 is the front-row center seat behind home plate, which is dedicated to POW/MIA remembrance . The layout gives most attendees a clear view of the field.
Where is Trojan Field located and how do I get there?
The venue is at 2823 Legion Road in Fayetteville, NC, near the intersection of Morganton Road (US-401) and Legion Road. It’s easy to reach by car: from I-295/Bragg Boulevard take US-401/Morganton Rd north, then turn onto Legion Rd toward FTCC. GPS will guide you right to the stadium lots. Public buses (FAST) run nearby along Morganton, but you’ll usually need a short taxi/rideshare from the nearest stop. Rideshare drivers should drop off passengers at the Legion Road stadium entrance. Plan for extra travel time on busy event days, but parking is plentiful once you arrive.
What are the parking options and costs?
There is ample on-site parking in the large lots surrounding the stadium . For most college baseball games or FTCC events, parking is free for attendees. You’ll see parking attendants directing traffic into open lots during bigger events. If those fill up (rare for modest crowds), you may find street parking on Legion Road or adjacent lots on campus, but always check for any posted restrictions. No advance permits or parking fees are typically required; just arrive early for the best spots.
How can I buy tickets to games or events?
For FTCC Trojans baseball or softball games, tickets are usually available at the stadium on game day and often cost very little (sometimes free for FTCC students/staff). Check with the college athletics department or website for schedule updates. For ticketed concerts or festivals at Trojan Field, look for official announcements and authorized sellers. For example, tickets to the New Country Music Fest (Oct 2025) are pre-sold via festival promotions. In all cases, avoid third-party sites – buy only through official FTCC or event outlets. If in doubt, the stadium box office window (at the main ticket booth) can sell last-minute tickets before an event.
What is the best seating area?
Many fans consider the shaded grandstand seats (mid-level rows behind home plate or baselines) to be the most comfortable, as they offer a central view and are protected by the roof . Sitting just a few rows off the field provides great sightlines while avoiding the glare of day games. Avoid the very front few rows directly above the dugouts, as views can be partially blocked when players stand in the dugout . If you prefer full sun and close proximity to the action, any front-row seat (home or baseline) is good, just bring sunscreen. Outfield and concourse seating is general admission, so arriving early is smart for a front-row spot up top or behind home plate. For concerts, VIP or floor spots (if offered) will be the best viewing.
What items am I allowed to bring inside?
Standard ballpark rules apply. Small cameras and cell phones are allowed; feel free to take photos for personal use. Outside food or beverages generally are not permitted (except bottled water or snacks for young children). Large coolers, glass bottles, or containers are prohibited. Backpacks or bags will be inspected, so pack light. Chairs or portable stools are not allowed in the seating bowl (seats are fixed metal). You may bring seat cushions or blanket wraps – in fact, a cushion is recommended on cool days . Smoking (including vaping) is usually restricted to designated areas outside or may be banned entirely during events. Strollers and umbrellas are allowed but must be handled carefully. Above all, leave prohibited items (weapons, outside alcohol, bulky bags) at home or in your car.
Are there food and drink vendors?
Yes. The stadium has concession stands selling a full menu of ballpark favorites: hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, popcorn, cotton candy and more. A notable menu item is the “Junkyard Dog” (a double foot-long chili cheese dog with fries) that gained local fame . Cold soft drinks (Pepsi products) and water are available in fountain cups (refill price applies) . Beer and light alcoholic beverages are also sold; once you purchase a beer, you receive a wristband (after age-check) and can get refills or additional servings at any stand . There are no restaurants inside the stadium, but outside food vendors (like food trucks) sometimes appear on festival nights. Don’t forget to try local gems like BBQ or Tex-Mex toppings which some concessions have adopted to spice up the menu!
Is the stadium ADA-compliant?
Yes, Trojan Field is wheelchair accessible. Ramps and level entrances lead into the main concourse. There are designated wheelchair spaces in the seating bowl (usually on the concourse level behind the grandstand). Accessible restrooms are located near the stands. Visitors with disabilities may request assistance at any entrance or from ushers. Sign language interpretation or assisted listening devices are generally not provided for college games, but the PA announcements provide basic information. In summary, the stadium aims to meet ADA standards so fans with mobility impairments can enjoy the games.
Are there any unique traditions or features here?
A few stand out. In the home-section grandstand, Seat #1 (the front-center metal chair) is permanently dedicated to POW/MIA remembrance – a touching tribute that fans notice . The scoreboard proudly displays University (NCAA) trojan colors during FTCC games, and between innings they often play Carolina or Ft. Bragg-themed music. One customer noted the stadium’s “family-friendly vibe”: kids run games during breaks and there’s a small play area on the concourse. The brewery-themed concession (wristband beer service) is a nod to Fayetteville’s craft beer scene. In recent years, the stadium even hosted an annual Pecktoberfest (beer festival) in Segra Stadium, showing how baseball parks in the city embrace community events. Overall, the stadium’s character comes from its old-school baseball feel combined with local traditions of patriotism and family fun .
Can I take photos or videos during the game?
Yes. Personal cameras and smartphones are allowed for photos and personal filming. You’re welcome to capture the atmosphere, the players, and your own group photos – many fans share game shots. Video recording for personal use is generally fine, but check with staff if you have professional gear or plan to livestream (there may be restrictions for media rights). Just be courteous: avoid blocking aisles, and keep cameras off the field. During special events like concerts, rules may differ (some festivals ban unauthorized recording or flash photography), so always check posted rules at the gate for that specific event.
Does weather cancel games or events?
Trojan Field is an open-air stadium, so weather affects play. If rain is heavy, games will be delayed or suspended per NCAA/league rules (as happened during a 2021 high school championship rainout ). Light rain or drizzle might not stop play immediately. There is no roof covering the field itself, so there is no “rain plan” to move games indoors – typically, if the field becomes unplayable, the game is postponed or resumed later. In winter or early spring, cold snaps may occur; occasionally a game might be rescheduled if weather is extreme. Ice and snow are rare in Fayetteville, but lightning in summer storms is a serious concern: concerts and games will pause for lightning warnings. We recommend checking the FTCC athletic Twitter or website for any last-minute weather updates before heading out on a questionable day.
