Where is the Military Bowl?
The Military Bowl, also known as the San Diego County Credit Union Holiday Bowl, is an annual college football bowl game held in San Diego, California. The bowl game features teams from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and has been a popular event on the college football calendar since its inception in 1947.
Location and Venue
The Military Bowl is played at Petco Park, the home stadium of the San Diego Padres, a professional baseball team that competes in Major League Baseball (MLB). The stadium is located in downtown San Diego, adjacent to the San Diego Harbor. The venue has undergone several expansions and renovations, including the addition of seating areas specifically designed for college football.
History and Origins
The Military Bowl has a rich history, dating back to 1947 when it was founded as the Holiday Festival Football Classic. The game was created to showcase college football teams from across the United States and provide a unique opportunity for students to enjoy a festive and fun event. Over the years, the bowl game has undergone several name changes, with the current Military Bowl name reflecting the increased emphasis on recognizing and honoring the military contributions of service members and veterans.
Game Format
The Military Bowl typically takes place on December 28th or December 29th, and features a matchup between two college football teams that have concluded their regular season schedules. The game is played using NCAA football rules, with 12-minute quarters and a 30-minute halftime break. The team that wins the game earns $550,000 in scholarship funds, which is donated to their respective university.
Recent History
The Military Bowl has seen its share of exciting matches and comebacks over the years. In 2020, the Pittsburgh Panthers rallied from a 14-point deficit to defeat the Texas Tech Red Raiders 24-21 in overtime. In 2019, the Florida State Seminoles held off a late comeback attempt by the Arizona State Sun Devils to win 20-14.
Notable Games and Players
The Military Bowl has hosted some legendary players and teams over the years. In 1986, the Arizona State Sun Devils and Clemson Tigers battled in a thriller, with Arizona State eventually emerging victorious 37-7. In 1993, the USC Trojans defeated the Michigan Wolverines 41-21 in a game that featured Heisman Trophy winner Charles Woodson.
Military Appreciation
As the name suggests, the Military Bowl is dedicated to recognizing and honoring the contributions of military personnel and veterans. The bowl game has become an integral part of San Diego’s annual Christmas festivities, with thousands of fans attending the event each year. Military veterans and active-duty personnel are honored at the game, with ceremonies and recognition provided during the halftime break and pre-game activities.
Ticket Information and Logistics
Tickets for the Military Bowl can be purchased online or at the Petco Park box office. Prices vary depending on seat location and demand, but general admission tickets typically start at around $30. Parking is available in nearby garages and lots, with pre-paid parking packages also available for fans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Military Bowl is an exciting and popular college football event that has become an integral part of San Diego’s annual Christmas celebrations. Held at Petco Park, the bowl game features teams from the NCAA Division I FBS and is a great opportunity to see top-level college football while recognizing and honoring military personnel and veterans.
