Where is Army-Navy Played?
The Army-Navy Game is one of the most iconic and storied rivalries in American sports, with a history dating back to 1890. The game pits the United States Military Academy (Army) against the United States Naval Academy (Navy) in a showdown of military might and football prowess. But where exactly is this epic battle of wits and strength played?
The Game’s History
Before we dive into the location of the game, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Army-Navy Game. The first game was played in 1890 at West Point, New York, with Army emerging victorious 24-0. The game has been played annually since then, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II. The game has been broadcast on television since 1957 and has become a beloved holiday tradition for many Americans.
Where is the Game Played?
The Army-Navy Game is typically played on the first Saturday in December at a neutral site. Since 1988, the game has been played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The stadium, also known as "The Linc," has a seating capacity of over 69,000 and has hosted numerous high-profile events, including NFL games and concerts.
Why Philadelphia?
So, why Philadelphia? The answer lies in history and tradition. The city has a long-standing connection to the military academies, dating back to the Revolutionary War. Philadelphia is also home to many naval shipyards and military installations, making it a natural choice for the game.
Alternative Venues
While Lincoln Financial Field has been the home of the Army-Navy Game since 1988, there have been a few exceptions. In 1987, the game was played at John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, and in 1946, it was played at Philadelphia Municipal Stadium. The game has also been played at other locations, including Galen Center in Los Angeles, California, and Tiger Stadium in Detroit, Michigan.
Table: Army-Navy Game Venues
| Year | Venue | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1890-1935 | West Point | West Point, NY |
| 1936-1945 | Philadelphia Municipal Stadium | Philadelphia, PA |
| 1946 | Philadelphia Municipal Stadium | Philadelphia, PA |
| 1947-1987 | John F. Kennedy Stadium | Philadelphia, PA |
| 1988-present | Lincoln Financial Field | Philadelphia, PA |
The Game’s Impact
The Army-Navy Game is more than just a football game – it’s a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and patriotism. The game brings together thousands of service members, alumni, and fans from both academies, creating a unique and electric atmosphere. The game has also been a launchpad for many successful football careers, with numerous NFL players and coaches having played in the game.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Army-Navy Game is played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with a rich history dating back to 1890. The game has been played at various locations over the years, but Philadelphia has been the home of the game since 1988. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Black Knights or the Midshipmen, the Army-Navy Game is an event not to be missed.
Additional Facts:
- The Army-Navy Game is one of the most-watched college football games in the country, with over 7 million viewers tuning in annually.
- The game has been played in front of the President of the United States on several occasions.
- The Army-Navy Game is the oldest and most storied rivalry in college football, with 123 games played to date.
- The game has been played on the following dates: December 2-6, with 2022 being the first game played on December 10.
