Why is the army navy game in foxboro?

The Army-Navy Game: A Tradition in Foxborough

The Army-Navy Game is one of the most iconic and revered events in American sports, with a rich history dating back to 1890. This annual college football rivalry pits the United States Military Academy (Army) against the United States Naval Academy (Navy) in a battle of pride, patriotism, and gridiron glory. But why is the Army-Navy Game held in Foxborough, Massachusetts? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this unique venue choice and delve into the history of this beloved event.

Why Foxborough?

In 2011, the Army-Navy Game was moved from its traditional venue at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. This decision was made after a series of renovations and expansions to the stadium, which offered a more modern and comfortable experience for fans, players, and officials.

History of the Game

The Army-Navy Game has a long and storied history, dating back to 1890 when the two academies first faced off on November 29th. The game was initially played in West Point, New York, and was won by Navy with a score of 24-0. Since then, the game has been played annually, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II.

Rivalry and Tradition

The Army-Navy Game is more than just a football game; it’s a symbol of the storied rivalry between the two service academies. The game is played with emotional intensity, with both teams giving their all in a bid to claim the coveted Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. The rivalry is fueled by the historical and cultural differences between the two academies, with Army representing the Army and Navy representing the Navy.

The Move to Foxborough

In 2011, the Army-Navy Game was moved to Foxborough, Massachusetts, in an effort to create a more neutral and modern venue. Gillette Stadium, which is home to the New England Patriots, offered state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, including a seating capacity of over 65,000, luxurious suites, and state-of-the-art video boards.

Advantages of Foxborough

So, why is the Army-Navy Game held in Foxborough? Here are some of the advantages of this venue:

• Central Location: Foxborough is located approximately halfway between West Point, New York, and Annapolis, Maryland, making it a more central and accessible location for fans from both sides of the rivalry.
• Modern Facilities: Gillette Stadium offers modern and comfortable facilities, including luxurious suites, concession stands, and restrooms.
• Large Seating Capacity: The stadium has a seating capacity of over 65,000, allowing for a more electric atmosphere and a greater sense of excitement and energy.
• Proximity to Major Airports: Foxborough is located near Logan International Airport in Boston, making it easy for fans and teams to travel to the game.

Comparison to Previous Venues

So, how does Foxborough compare to previous venues for the Army-Navy Game? Here’s a table comparing the two:

Conclusion

The Army-Navy Game in Foxborough is a unique and exciting event that combines the rich history and tradition of the two service academies with the modern amenities and energy of a top-notch sports venue. With its central location, modern facilities, and large seating capacity, Gillette Stadium is the perfect home for this iconic event. Whether you’re a fan of Army or Navy, the Army-Navy Game in Foxborough is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Table: Army-Navy Game Attendance

Note: The attendance figures are based on official data from the Army-Navy Game and may vary slightly depending on the source.