Where Does Navy Play Football?
The United States Naval Academy, commonly known as the Naval Academy or Annapolis, is a premier institution for educating and training the country’s future naval leaders. The academy is situated in Annapolis, Maryland, and is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, world-class athletics, and strong sense of camaraderie among its midshipmen.
The Team
The Navy Midshipmen football team, a beloved tradition at the academy, competes at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I level. The team plays in the American Athletic Conference and has a long-standing rivalry with the United States Military Academy (Army) and the United States Air Force Academy (Air Force).
Where Do They Play?
The Navy Midshipmen football team plays their home games at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, located in Annapolis, Maryland. The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 34,000 and is nestled along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. The venue is also known for its iconic 13-story tall, 74-foot wide Jumbotron and its state-of-the-art sound system, which provides an electric atmosphere for games.
Key Facts About the Stadium
• Capacity: 34,000
• Field Size: 130 yards (long) x 65 yards (wide)
• Address: 550 Taylor Road, Annapolis, MD 21411
• Seating Breakdown: 25,000 lower-level seats, 4,000 club seats, and 5,000 upper-level seats
• Field Type: Grass
Conference Championships
The Navy Midshipmen have won four conference championships in their history:
- 1945: The team won the NCAA Championship, defeating Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl, 21-6.
- 1963: The team won the Nittany Lion Cup, defeating Army, 29-21.
- 1969: The team won the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, defeating Air Force, 33-20.
- 2017: The team won the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, defeating Army, 14-13.
Notable Rivals
The Navy Midshipmen have two major rivalries in the football world:
- Army-Navy Game: This is the oldest rivalry in college football, with the two teams having met 122 times since 1890. The game is typically played on the last Saturday in December at a neutral site.
- Air Force: This rivalry is part of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, which is awarded to the team that wins the annual game between Navy, Air Force, and Army.
Getting to the Stadium
The stadium is located approximately 30 minutes from downtown Annapolis and 45 minutes from Washington, D.C. There are several parking options available, including:
• On-site Parking: The stadium offers approximately 3,500 on-site parking spaces, with gates opening two hours before kickoff.
• Off-site Parking: There are several off-site parking lots available, with shuttle buses provided to and from the stadium.
Tailgating
Tailgating is a beloved tradition at Navy games, with many fans setting up their grills, tents, and gear in the parking lot hours before kickoff. Some popular tailgating spots include:
• West Parking Lot: This is one of the largest tailgating areas, with many fans setting up in the northwest corner of the stadium.
• North Parking Lot: This area is known for its proximity to the stadium and has a more laid-back atmosphere.
• South Parking Lot: This area is near the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium’s entrance and is popular among fans who want to be close to the action.
Tickets
Tickets for Navy football games can be purchased through the Navy Athletic Association’s ticket office or online through GoMids.com. Ticket prices vary depending on the game and seating location, but generally range from $20 to $100 per person.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Navy Midshipmen football team plays their home games at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland. With its iconic Jumbotron and electric atmosphere, the stadium is a must-visit for any football fan. From tailgating to cheering on the team, the experience of attending a Navy football game is unmatched.
