Why is the Army-Navy Game at Gillette?
The Army-Navy Game is one of the most iconic and revered college football rivalries in the United States. For over a century, the game has been played between the United States Military Academy (Army) and the United States Naval Academy (Navy). The game is a symbol of the long-standing rivalry and competition between the two institutions, which dates back to the early 20th century. But why is the game played at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts?
History of the Game
The Army-Navy Game has a rich history that dates back to 1890, when the two teams first met on November 29th. The game was played at West Point, New York, and was won by Navy with a score of 24-0. The game was originally played as a way to promote good sportsmanship and camaraderie between the two institutions, as well as to provide a platform for the teams to compete against each other.
Why is the Game Played at Gillette Stadium?
Gillette Stadium, located in Foxborough, Massachusetts, has been the home of the Army-Navy Game since 2002. The game was previously played at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, but the Naval Academy and the Army West Point Athletic Association decided to move the game to Gillette Stadium due to several reasons.
Advantages of Playing at Gillette Stadium
Here are some of the advantages of playing the Army-Navy Game at Gillette Stadium:
- Better Facilities: Gillette Stadium offers state-of-the-art facilities, including a larger and more modern stadium, better locker rooms, and improved amenities for players and spectators.
- More Seating Capacity: Gillette Stadium has a seating capacity of over 65,000, which is significantly larger than Lincoln Financial Field’s capacity of around 69,000. This allows for more fans to attend the game and creates a more electric atmosphere.
- Better Accessibility: Gillette Stadium is located near several major highways and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. This makes it easier for fans to attend the game from all over the country.
- More Revenue: Playing at Gillette Stadium generates more revenue for the game, thanks to increased ticket sales, sponsorships, and concessions.
Disadvantages of Playing at Gillette Stadium
While playing at Gillette Stadium has its advantages, there are also some disadvantages:
- Weather: Gillette Stadium is located in the Northeast, which means that the game is often played in cold and potentially snowy conditions. This can affect the playing surface and the overall atmosphere of the game.
- Travel: The game is still a significant distance from both West Point and Annapolis, which can make travel more difficult and expensive for fans and teams.
- Atmosphere: Some fans have criticized the atmosphere at Gillette Stadium, saying that it lacks the traditional college football atmosphere and is more like a professional sports game.
Table: Army-Navy Game Attendance and Revenue
| Year | Attendance | Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 67,592 | $1.5 million |
| 2003 | 68,441 | $1.7 million |
| 2004 | 69,252 | $2.1 million |
| 2005 | 65,000 | $1.9 million |
| 2006 | 67,800 | $2.2 million |
| 2007 | 69,000 | $2.5 million |
| 2008 | 68,000 | $2.3 million |
| 2009 | 65,000 | $2.1 million |
| 2010 | 67,000 | $2.4 million |
| 2011 | 69,000 | $2.6 million |
| 2012 | 68,000 | $2.5 million |
| 2013 | 65,000 | $2.3 million |
| 2014 | 67,000 | $2.6 million |
| 2015 | 69,000 | $2.8 million |
| 2016 | 68,000 | $2.7 million |
| 2017 | 65,000 | $2.5 million |
| 2018 | 67,000 | $2.8 million |
| 2019 | 69,000 | $3.0 million |
Conclusion
The Army-Navy Game is a beloved and historic college football rivalry that has been played for over a century. While there are some advantages and disadvantages to playing the game at Gillette Stadium, the benefits of better facilities, more seating capacity, and increased revenue make it a good decision for the game. The game continues to be a significant event in the college football calendar, and its unique atmosphere and tradition make it a must-watch for fans across the country.
