The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and the United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) are set to clash in a highly anticipated football rivalry at Fenway Park this Saturday. The match-up, dubbed the “DIII Army-Navy game,” features the 6-2 Mariners against the 7-2 Bears, with both teams vying for the esteemed Secretaries’ Cup and the pride of their respective academies.
The Rivalry: A Deep-Rooted Tradition
This long-standing rivalry, characterized by intense competition, has seen the two teams face off 53 times. The Merchant Marine leads the series with an impressive 37 victories to the Coast Guard’s 16. However, the Mariners have suffered losses in the last two meetings.
- Merchant Marine Wins: 37
- Coast Guard Wins: 16
- Previous Meet Wins: Coast Guard (2)
Significance of the Game
For many players, this game stands out as the highlight of the season. Senior linebacker Deryk Leverage emphasized the emotional weight of the rivalry, stating that the game is the pinnacle of their competition. With the Coast Guard Academy celebrating its 235th anniversary, the stakes are particularly high.
Building Up to the Clash
Head coach Jameson Croall discussed the growing recognition of the rivalry. Many on Long Island are unaware of the Merchant Marine Academy’s presence, a situation that has seen improvement since he took the helm in 2012. The rivalry took a more personal turn when a prank video involving a bear costume sparked further animosity between the programs.
As the game draws near, both teams prepare under the watchful eye of national broadcasts, including ESPN, which elevates the game’s visibility. Croall aims to showcase the academy’s unique position among federal service schools, where graduates can choose their military branches.
Preparation Amid Uncertainty
This game often serves as the final fixture of the season for the Mariners before they embark on their assignments at sea. Junior linebacker Aidan Graham pointed out the added challenge of remaining focused when players anticipate their deployment to various locations, including overseas assignments that may come right after the game.
Fitness remains a priority for the players, who must adapt their training routines to accommodate life at sea. Facilities can range from well-equipped gyms on larger vessels to minimal exercise space, compelling players to innovate in their training methods.
Looking Ahead
As the Mariners prepare for battle on the gridiron, the anticipation for the secretive outing at Fenway Park grows. With the promise of a better morale on board if they secure a win against the Coast Guard, players and coaches alike are determined to bring home the coveted Secretaries’ Cup.
