It’s almost time to hit the road to Fenton and the AB Soccer Complex for tonight’s Class 3 Final Four. Since it’s been awhile for the large school crowd, I thought I’d offer a few tips on food, coffee and parking.
First and foremost, give yourself plenty of time. There’s a couple of reasons for this. These events go by fast and you’re going to want to enjoy it. Why try and rush. Experience it all.
The other reason is because parking and other resources are in short supply in Fenton. It took me 30 minutes to get out of the parking lot last weekend at the Class 1 & 2 games and the crowds then are small compared to what we can expect this evening. This is a great experience as all of St Louis comes out to see the best soccer available this season.
For that reason, I’d suggest you plan on attending the first game between SLUH and Mehlville. Do some scouting, see some quality players including one who has already represented the US (#20 for SLUH, Tommy Meyer) and get a parking spot that may actually be in the complex. This game will draw the largest crowd of the two so I’m planning on getting there before 5:30 pm. And if you want a commemorative t-shirt, do it early. They ran out last year except for the smallest. And pack as if you are headed for the North fields at Lake Country. Based in a valley along a river, it can get quite a bit colder then the general forecast might indicate.
Directions: From Springfield, you are looking for exit 274B, Mraz Lane. You’ll go under the overpass and be able to pull onto the outer road. Follow it down to the end where it will bend to the right and end at Rudder Road. Turn left and follow it around to where it ends at Yarnell Road. Turn left and go under I-44 and follow the road around to the Soccer Complex.
Parking is $2 so bring singles. If you see cars parked along the road on Rudder, that means the lot is already full. I’d pull a U-turn and find a good spot on the side of the road that you’ll be able to get out of quickly then afterwards. I’ve never seen anyone ticketed and the walk isn’t too bad. You have to go all the way to the parking lot entrance (no back way in) but at least they’ve moved the ticket booths closer to that end now and you’ll be in the complex.
The closest source of espresso and coffee I found, besides the fast food joints including the formerly closest-to-Springfield Krispy Kreme, is along Rudder Road after you get off I-44. There’s a coffee shack, hours appear to be morning only however. I’d also recommend the Mexican Restaurant that shares a parking lot with the coffee shack, La Plaza. The food is fresh and tasty and the margarita’s earned a B (Maria’s Traditionals are A’s).
If you have more time, my suggestion would be to go a little farther East on I-44. The first exit after I-270 is Lindbergh. Exit 277B, turn left and there are several national chains including Chili’s and Texas Road House. Alternately, head North 1.25 miles to downtown Kirkwood. Before the Amtrak station is Kaldi’s (with free wireless and my espresso of choice in Missouri) as well as a Ben & Jerry’s and Bar Louie (a Chicago import). A block north of the RR tracks is Duffy’s Pizza and Amici’s Italian Restaurant, both places I’ve enjoyed several times. Alternately, turn left on Jefferson, go 1/2 a block and Mike Duffy’s Bar & Grill offers a great menu as well.
There you have it. Have a great time and Go Chiefs!
UPDATE – while your in town, consider tuning into ESPN AM1380 Saturday afternoon. According to the STLsoccer.net website, The ESPN Soccer Saturday Report, sponsored by St.Louis Soccer United, will be broadcast around 4pm after the football game. The big news is Taylor Twellman, Brad Davis, and Jeff Cooper will be on this week’s show.
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