I have NEVER paid to play, beside national OP's. That money you spend to pay to a field can be spent on gas and munchies to get you out to some great games held by local folks on this board. If you really want to experience the fun that this hobby brings me let go of the distance thing and come out to games at AO's like MT.Ord, Four Peaks, SASCO etc. There are a ton of games, on any given weekend that are only a relatively short drive away. If you don't have the means find someone that does. There's plenty of us. Heck I'll even volunteer to take some, if you're of age (18). Only rule I abide by. Don't let the drive be the obstacle to what his hobby is really about. If you can't afford the drive you probably can"t afford the hobby.