What Time Army-Navy Game? A Detailed Look
One of the most iconic rivalries in college football is the Army-Navy game. For over a century, these two esteemed military academies have clashed on the gridiron, promoting pride, tradition, and service to their respective country and the armed forces. So, what time does the Army-Navy game typically take place?
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Time and Date of the Game
The Army-Navy game is usually played on the last Saturday in December. The exact kickoff time varies from year to year, but it is usually scheduled between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM EST (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM PST). The kickoff time is determined by ESPN, the broadcasting network, to accommodate their television coverage and schedule.
History and Traditions
The first Army-Navy game took place in 1890, with Army winning the game 24-0. Since then, the series has been played an astounding 121 times! The game has always carried immense significance, serving as a symbol of academic, athletic, and patriotic rivalry between the two service academies.
Some significant traditions surrounding the game include:
- The Tradition: After the game, each team gathers at their own alma mater to perform The Fight Song in unison, amidst great pomp and circumstance.
- The Coin Flip: The game’s start begins with a senator’s coin toss in the West Point-Standford University Stadium’s Memorial Garden. This ceremony was inaugurated in 2002, after a tradition was interrupted when a cadet stepped forward and accidentally took the wrong side.
- Pride and Patriotism: The game is infused with patriotism, as members of both teams carry on their shoulders the banners of their respective academy. The event is not limited to the teams only, as thousands of civilians from both sides gathers in the stands and stadiums to show support for their alma mater.
- Service to America: Both Army and Navy embody the spirit of military service, as their main priority is to prepare individuals to serve the United States armed forces. For those who serve, their teams represent more than a college football game – they are ambassadors of the defense establishment.
TV Coverage and Stream Options
For those not present in the stadium or arena, there are still plenty of options to catch the excitement!
- ESPN2 or ESPNU: Traditional broadcasts on these networks from the 2002 onward. In 2021, ESPN announced a seven-year $500 million broadcasting agreement with the Service academies.
- Apple TV+: Live streamed directly from the game venues and produced exclusively for this channel, Apple TV+ has been broadcasting Army-Navy since 2016.
- YouTube TV, Hulu+, FuboTV, etc.: Online streaming options include YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live, FuboTV, and Sling TV, which all typically include ESPN2 and/or ESPN.
To plan ahead:
- December [DATE]: Army-Navy Game takes place on the last Saturday in December
- November [DATE]: Army-Navy Academic and Athletic Awards luncheon, honoring the 119th meeting’s teams
Schedule and Ticketing
To attend the match yourself:
- Time of Day: Kickoff generally starts between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM EST
- Day: Always takes place on the last Saturday of the month
- Where: Typically held in the West Point Stadium at Michie Field or FedExField in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
Tickets and Parking: Insider Tips
- Academy Ticket Lottery: Tickets are allocated for attendees who have served with one of the two Service Academies or are relatives/family members of present/past students. Online entry starts in January
- Public Sale and Limited Availability: General sale ticket packages go live around July, but do sell out quickly.
- Parking and Shuttle Buses: For those lucky enough to score tickets, note that parking will be available in several surrounding lots. Some suggest using public transport options, such as Washington DC’s Metrorail to make travel more streamlined and eco-friendly.
Now you know what time Army-Navy game typically takes place, and you are fully prepared to experience and watch the historic match whenever the opportunity arises!
Would you like to know any further details about the history or traditions surrounding the game, or perhaps more practical advice on attending the game as a spectator? Please leave your comments below!
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