The Commander-in-Chiefs Trophy is awarded to the winner of the three-way rivalry between Army, Navy, and Air Force. While Army and Navy typically play on a neutral site, the Army-Air Force matchup alternates between West Point and Colorado Springs, so if you want to see this matchup be sure to attend the game at Michie Stadium on the first Saturday of November. Army lags in the all-time
The Army-Rutgers rivalry started in 1891 and is Army’s second-oldest rival after Navy. Rutgers has a 22-18 all-time lead, but the Black Knights lessen Rutgers lead the next time these two rivals meet.
Black Knights Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
The Army campus in West Point, New York is absolutely gorgeous and provides a great place to tailgate. The tailgates here are mainly located in the parking lots located throughout West Point. At the tailgates, you’ll find a lot of food and drinks as people here put out a large spread before cheering on the Black Knights.
One noticeable thing about an Army tailgate is that the fact Army is a military service academy, which means there is an even stronger communal feel than at other college football tailgates. It isn’t uncommon to even see people giving away tickets to fellow Army fans for a beer or even for free. Army fans also are very welcoming to opposition fans as they’ll often offer them to join their tailgates. If you’re looking for a fun and friendly tailgate, look no further than an Army tailgate at West Point.
The Cadet Review takes place on “The Plain” three hours before kickoff. During the Cadet, Review cadets march on parade in traditional military uniforms. The spectacle is an excellent way to show off Army’s proud tradition and to honor these brave men and women.
The Black Knight Walk takes place two hours before kickoff as the team is led by the band and spirit squad through Black Knights Alley. Here you’ll get the chance to see the players up close and give them some last minute inspiration. Be sure to check out the Black Knight Walk if you want a chance to meet your heroes in person.
Black Knights Alley offers a variety of pregame festivities including food, drinks, autograph sessions, live music, and tailgate games. The alley runs between Michie Stadium and the reservoir along Mills Road. Black Knight Alley opens three hours before kickoff, so get here early to make the most out of it.
Black Knight AlleyBlack Knights Alley offers a variety of pregame festivities including food, drinks, autograph sessions, live music, and tailgate games. The alley runs between Michie Stadium and the reservoir along Mills Road. Black Knight Alley opens three hours before kickoff, so get here early to make the most out of it.
Premium Tailgate LotsThe Premium Tailgate Lots located around West Point provide a perfect place to set up a tailgate with prices ranging from $15 to $20 depending on if you buy a parking pass ahead of time. Whether you’re tailgating at South Dock, Ike Terrace, Trophy Point, Daly Field, or Trophy Point, you’ll have a great time tailgating before a Black Knights game.
Black Knights Stadium Guide
In Game
Michie Stadium has received many plaudits for being one of the most beautiful stadiums in all of college football. The stadium has been ranked among the top ten of many lists ranking the best stadiums in the country including those of Sports Illustrated and ESPN football analyst Mel Kiper, Jr. The stadium’s view overlooking the Hudson River along with the historic Army campus provides one of the best views in college football. The beauty of the stadium and Army’s incredible home record of 326-156-7 make Michie Stadium one of the most historic stadiums in college football.
The 12th Man at Army is made up of cadets whose loud and passionate cheers make Michie Stadium a difficult place for opponents to play. In addition to being supremely loud, the cadets also provide great support for the team by standing throughout the game. The 12th man is so ingrained in the Army game day that the leader of the Army pep band paints his face with the number 12. The cadets provide a great 12th man that rivals that of many larger schools.
The Kenna Hall of Army Sports recognizes Army players, coaches, and administrators who have made great contributions to the athletics department over the years. The induction to the Hall coincides with an Army football game, so if you want to be here for the extra special weekend make sure to come during the induction.
Before every game Army players will touch the Marshall Plaque as they take the field. Engraved on the plaque is General George C. Marshall’s famous quote “I want an officer for a secret and dangerous mission. I want a West Point Football player!” One unique thing about this tradition is that it takes place not only at home but also on the road.
The game ball at West Point is delivered by a cadet who jumps out of a helicopter and lands on the field before kickoff. The unique deliver a game of the game ball is a must-see for college football fans everywhere, so arrive early and take it in.
The Army football uniforms are adorned with the Divisional Patch of one of the ten Army Divisions, which rotates every game. This tradition is a great way to pay tribute to the men and women serving in the US Army around the world. Along with this tradition, the commanding general of the Division being honored writes a letter to the football team before the game.
The cadets stand throughout the game only taking a break during halftime or to do celebratory pushups when the team scores. After every Army touchdown, a cannon is fired, and the cheer team and cadets drop down and do pushups, one for every point scored. Mascots at a lot of schools do pushups when their team scores, however, Army is one of the few places where the fans get in on the tradition
Following the game the Black Knights and the opposition get together on the field and sing each other's alma maters. The winning team sings second, which has led to the Army football slogan “sing second.”
The Army team’s the pride and dream Of every heart in gray. The Army line you’ll ever find A terror in the fray. And when the team is fighting For the Black and Gray and Gold, We’re always near with song and cheer And this is the tale we’re told:
*The Army team Rah! Rah! Rah! Boom!
Chorus: On, brave old Army team! On to the fray. Fight on to victory For that’s the fearless Army way.
(Whistle chorus)
(Repeat chorus)
The Alma Mater
Sung after every game along with the opposing team’s alma mater
Hail, Alma Mater, dear! To us be ever near, Help us thy motto bear, thru’ all the years. Let Duty be well performed, Honor be e’er untarn’d, Country be ever armed, West Point, by thee! Guide us, thine own, aright, Teach us by day, by night, To keep thine honor bright, For thee to fight. When we depart from thee, Serving on land or sea, May we still loyal be, West Point, to thee! And when our work is done, Our course on earth is run, May it be said, “Well done. Be thou at peace.” E’er may that line of gray Increase from day to day; Live, serve, and die, we pray, West Point, for thee!
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