The good and unhealthy of enjoying highschool soccer video games at SoFi Stadium

Sitting in a chair on Thursday evening as followers got here into SoFi Stadium to look at highschool soccer video games between Loyola and Gardena Serra and Leuzinger towards Palos Verdes, you possibly can hear the totally different reactions of first-time guests as they climbed escalators and stairs to achieve their seats.

Many have been in awe.

“This is nice.”

“Wow. This stadium is so different.”

“I can’t believe I paid $80 for a high school game.”

The video games have been put collectively by Playbook Events. Teams have to surrender income they might make from internet hosting their very own video games. Parking prices $10 whereas pupil and grownup tickets vary from $29 to $71. Usual pupil tickets are $10 at house websites.

It’s clear gamers benefit from the once-in-a-lifetime expertise to play in a prestigious NFL stadium that may host the swimming competitors on the 2028 Olympic Games. And first-time guests who’ve by no means been in a position to attend a live performance or NFL sport at SoFi due to price are really impressed with the seating and expertise.

But there’s additionally some points that might improve the expertise. One fan prompt higher instructions on the place to park and how one can pay for parking, since solely bank cards are accepted, and many grandparents should not tech savvy on how one can buy tickets on-line or which entrance to take to seek out the parking zone. Schools want to offer extra particular directions. Organizers are additionally requiring followers to signal a waiver when getting into, resulting in lengthy strains should you don’t arrive early.

The price for followers could be prohibitive, which implies faculties must take that under consideration when agreeing to play a sport at SoFi. The organizers definitely know what they’re doing. Games begin on time and safety is plentiful and useful for first-time guests.

Loyola athletic director Chris O’Donnell stated, “For this kind of experience, for both teams, it’s really great. I’d do this again in a second.”

The subsequent massive sport at SoFi Stadium occurs Thursday at 5 p.m. when unbeaten Los Alamitos performs Huntington Beach Edison.

This is a every day take a look at the optimistic happenings in highschool sports activities. To submit any information, please e-mail eric.sondheimer@latimes.com.