Where is the Army Navy Game?
The Army-Navy Game is an annual American college football game played between the United States Military Academy (Army) and the United States Naval Academy (Navy) teams. The game is one of the most storied and iconic rivalries in college football, with a rich history dating back to 1890. In this article, we’ll explore the history, significance, and current whereabouts of the Army-Navy Game.
History of the Army-Navy Game
The first Army-Navy Game was played on November 29, 1890, at West Point, New York. The game was initiated by Lieutenant Colonel John M. Schofield, who was the Superintendant of the United States Military Academy at the time. The game was intended to foster a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship between the two institutions, as well as to provide a platform for their football teams to compete.
Where is the Game Played?
The Army-Navy Game is currently played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The game has been held at various locations throughout its history, including West Point, Navy’s campus in Annapolis, Maryland, and other stadiums in the East Coast. However, Lincoln Financial Field, also known as "The Linc," has been the home of the game since 2011.
Why is the Game Held in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia was chosen as the new home of the Army-Navy Game due to its central location and rich sports history. The city has a strong connection to the military, with the Pennsylvania National Guard and the 104th Infantry Division, among others, having significant ties to the area. Additionally, Philadelphia has hosted numerous major sporting events, including the NFL’s Pro Bowl and the NCAA’s Men’s Basketball Tournament.
The Game’s Significance
The Army-Navy Game is more than just a football game. It is a symbol of the enduring rivalry and bond between the two institutions. The game is played to honor the traditions and values of the military academies, as well as to promote unity and camaraderie among the players, coaches, and fans. The game is also considered a premier event in college football, with many considering it the second-most important game of the year, behind only the Rose Bowl.
Interesting Facts and Statistics
Here are some interesting facts and statistics about the Army-Navy Game:
- Most wins: Navy leads the all-time series with 61 victories, while Army has 49 wins.
- Longest winning streaks: Navy holds the longest winning streak with 14 games (2002-2015), while Army’s longest streak was 7 games (1914-1920).
- Highest attendance: The highest attendance recorded at an Army-Navy Game was 103,194 at Philadelphia’s Veterans Stadium in 1996.
- Notable players: Many notable players have competed in the Army-Navy Game, including Heisman Trophy winners like Roger Staubach (Navy) and Doc Blanchard (Army).
How to Attend the Game
If you’re interested in attending the Army-Navy Game, here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Tickets: Tickets for the game are available through the Army and Navy athletic departments, as well as through ticket brokers.
- Travel: The game is held in Philadelphia, with many transportation options available, including public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services.
- Accommodations: Philadelphia has many hotels and lodgings available, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious suites.
- Activities: In addition to the game, Philadelphia offers many attractions and activities, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Conclusion
The Army-Navy Game is a storied and iconic event in college football, with a rich history and significance that extends beyond the game itself. The game is played to honor the traditions and values of the military academies, as well as to promote unity and camaraderie among the players, coaches, and fans. Whether you’re an alumnus of the two institutions or simply a football fan, the Army-Navy Game is an event you won’t want to miss.
Army-Navy Game Schedule and Results
Here is the schedule and results of recent Army-Navy Games:
| Year | Date | Location | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | December 14 | Lincoln Financial Field | Navy | 31-20 |
| 2018 | December 8 | Lincoln Financial Field | Army | 31-23 |
| 2017 | December 9 | M&T Bank Stadium | Navy | 14-13 |
| 2016 | December 10 | Lincoln Financial Field | Army | 21-17 |
| 2015 | December 12 | Lincoln Financial Field | Navy | 21-17 |
Army-Navy Game Broadcast Information
The Army-Navy Game is broadcast nationally on CBS, with coverage starting at 12:00 PM ET on the first Saturday in December. The game is also streamed live on the CBS Sports app and CBS Sports website.
Army-Navy Game Traditions
The Army-Navy Game is steeped in tradition, with many customs and rituals observed during the game. Here are a few notable traditions:
- The Coin Toss: Before the game, the head coaches of both teams meet at midfield to conduct a coin toss to determine which team kicks off and which team receives the ball to start the game.
- The National Anthem: The national anthem is sung before the game, often by a member of the US Naval Academy Glee Club or the US Army Chorus.
- The Military Flyover: A flyover by the US military is a common feature of the game, with aircraft from the Air Force, Navy, and Army flying over the stadium before the game.
- The Game Ball Presentation: Before the game, the game ball is presented to the head coaches, who are then given the opportunity to speak to the teams.
