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My arrival at the University of Rochester as a chemistry graduate student in the fall of 2021 was a whirlwind. Between juggling classes and identifying potential advisors, I was also trying to find my place in the greater Rochester community. In those first few weeks, it was overwhelming to connect with new people while exploring my new city. So, I was grateful when a few professors in my department organized a recruitment event and gifted us tickets to the Rochester Red Wings, the local minor league baseball team.

I had never considered myself much of a baseball fan, but I was eager to bond with my fellow graduate students outside of the classroom. It was a beautiful fall evening. As the sun set over the baseball diamond, we sipped on Western New York ciders and enjoyed some stadium food. None of us really knew the rules of baseball, but we cheered whenever the Red Wings made it across the home plate. That first game showed me how sports can bring together people from all over the world, offering a shared experience and something to root for together.

In my opinion, this is where minor league teams really shine. They provide an opportunity to embrace a new team and its traditions, even if you already have a favorite. For example, growing up in Ohio, I spent countless hours in ice rinks watching my brother play hockey and participating in figure skating competitions. My dad would occasionally take us to professional hockey games as a special treat. When I moved to Rochester, I missed that connection to my home. So, when my dad visited me in Rochester for the first time, we decided to check out the Rochester Americans (the "Amerks"), the local minor league hockey team. The purpose of minor league teams is to train players for the big leagues, but they have their own unique charm. The game we went to got so rowdy, the players were chippy and the people in the stands were loving it! My dad and I left that first Amerks game as new fans.

Whether you are looking to enjoy a totally new sport or keep up with the seed team of your hometown heroes, Rochester has fantastic arenas that you should explore! During my time in Rochester, I’ve picked up some tips and tricks for attending your first minor league game.

Hockey: Rochester Amerks

Season: October – April

Location: Blue Cross Arena, Downtown Rochester

Tips: This is my personal favorite sport! There’s nothing like watching the puck zip around the ice. The energy at a hockey game is infectious, and yes, you might even see a fistfight break out—don’t worry, it’s part of the culture, even if it’s technically against the rules. If you go, dress warmly. I usually take my coat off but keep my hat on because I’m always jumping around, cheering. Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game happy hour, and don’t forget to bring cash for parking. The walk from the garage to the arena is longer than the Red Wings’ stadium, but maybe it just feels that way because it’s winter! My classic ice rink snack is a hot cocoa and some popcorn, but if you want to embrace the cold you can grab an ice cream cone and a beer.

You don’t need to be a sports expert to enjoy any of Rochester’s incredible minor league teams. The energy at both Red Wings and Amerks games is electric, and there’s nothing like leaving a game after a win. Even after a tough loss, there’s something uplifting about walking away from a game, knowing you shared in the highs and lows with fellow fans, and that there's always the next one to look forward to. The University of Rochester draws students from all over the world, and even if you’re not familiar with these sports, they’re a great way to engage with the city and build connections. Attending these games has helped me explore Downtown Rochester, and in turn, my confidence has grown. I’ve even started participating in local 5Ks and half-marathons, many of which start or end at Innovation Field and Blue Cross Arena. These experiences have made me feel more connected to the city and more willing to step out of my comfort zone.

Baseball: Rochester Redwings

Season: March – September

Location: Innovation Field, Downtown Rochester

Tips: Baseball is known as America’s pastime, and Innovation Field is the perfect place to spend a late summer evening. Tickets are affordable and usually available on game day, so you don’t need to plan far in advance. Bring friends—there’s plenty of room! There’s parking near the stadium, but make sure you bring cash. Give yourself ample time to get through the hustle and bustle of gameday, it can get crowded! Though seating is assigned, don’t be surprised if someone’s in your seat—you can grab a nearby spot or ask an usher for help. I recommend grabbing upper-bowl seats with a couple of friends. The stadium food is classic: soft pretzels, nachos, hot dogs, and pizza. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a fireworks show after the game!

So, whether it’s sports or something else, I encourage you to get out, explore Rochester, and find new ways to challenge yourself—you never know what you might discover!