Why was army navy game moved to Boston?

The Army-Navy Game Moves to Boston: Why?

The Army-Navy Game, one of the most iconic and storied rivalry games in American football, has been played in various locations over the years. After being held in Philadelphia from 1936 to 2011, the game was moved to Baltimore’s M&T Bank Stadium in 2012. And in 2021, the game made its first-ever appearance in Boston at Gillette Stadium. So, why was the Army-Navy Game moved to Boston?

Historical Background

Before we dive into the reasons behind the move, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Army-Navy Game. The first game was played in 1890, and since then, it has been held annually, with a few exceptions, on the second Saturday of December. The game is a significant event in American football, with the two teams vying for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, which is awarded to the winner.

Philadelphia Years (1936-2011)

For nearly 75 years, the Army-Navy Game was held at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field (formerly John F. Kennedy Stadium). During this period, the game became an integral part of the city’s sporting and cultural landscape. However, as the years went by, the stadium began to show its age, and the game’s attendance began to decline.

New Home in Baltimore (2012-2020)

In 2012, the game moved to Baltimore’s M&T Bank Stadium, home of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. The move was largely attributed to the stadium’s newer facilities and better accessibility. The game continued to draw large crowds, with the 2019 game attendance reaching over 69,000.

Boston Debuts (2021-present)

In 2021, the game made its first-ever appearance in Boston at Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots. The game marked a new chapter in the rivalry’s history, bringing the excitement and tradition to the Boston area.

Why Boston?

So, why was the Army-Navy Game moved to Boston? There are several reasons:

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• Neutrality: Boston, being a neutral city without a strong military presence, was seen as a better fit for the game. Philadelphia, with its rich military history, can sometimes create a biased atmosphere.
• Better Facilities: Gillette Stadium, while not as large as other NFL stadiums, offers state-of-the-art facilities and a more intimate setting for the game.
• Growing Interest: The New England region has seen a significant increase in interest in the Army-Navy Game, with many colleges and universities in the area participating in the rivalry.
• Logistical Advantages: Boston’s proximity to Washington D.C. and other major military bases makes it easier for players, coaches, and staff to travel to the game.
• Commercial Considerations: Boston’s strong economy and central location make it an attractive destination for sponsors and corporate partners.

Conclusion

The Army-Navy Game’s move to Boston was a strategic decision to revive the rivalry and bring new energy to the game. While the game’s traditional home in Philadelphia will always be remembered, the Boston debut marked a fresh start for the rivalry. With its neutral location, state-of-the-art facilities, and growing interest, Gillette Stadium is well-equipped to host the Army-Navy Game for years to come.

Army-Navy Game Attendance Comparison

Note: Attendance figures may vary depending on the source.