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johnmarzka · 6 days

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The Thrill of West Point Football During Game Day at Michie Stadium

Michie Stadium is the iconic home of Army football at the United States Military Academy at West Point. On game days, the stadium comes alive with cadets, alumni, and fans, united in their passion for the sport and the spirit of Army football. The experience of attending a game at Michie Stadium is more than spectatorship - it is a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of the Black Knights.

West Point football history dates back over a century, the first game being played in 1890. From its humble beginnings to its rise as a powerhouse in college football, the program has produced legendary players, iconic moments, and enduring memories. Throughout the years, Michie Stadium has stood as a symbol of the academy’s commitment to excellence, serving as an environment for countless thrilling victories and heart-stopping contests.

On game days cadets, alumni, and fans converge to cheer on the Black Knights at Michie Stadium. Casual attire is generally acceptable for football games, but many fans wear Army-themed clothing or colors to support the team and show their school spirit. The atmosphere is electric, charged with anticipation and excitement as the team takes the field. For cadets game day holds special significance, representing an opportunity to showcase their pride in their academy and their commitment to the team.

The event is memorable for fans due to numerous activities, such as transportation by ferry rides on the Hudson River to and from the stadium. Before kickoff the Army parachute team jumps into Michie Stadium carrying the game ball and flag, adding an exciting and patriotic element to the game day. As the opening kickoff echoes through the stadium, the cadets erupt into cheers and from the stands, fans watch the players demonstrate their skill and determination on the field.

One of the most cherished traditions at Michie Stadium is the West Point March-on, a stirring display of military precision. Before kickoff, cadets in uniform march onto the field in formation, their steps in perfect unison. As the band plays the academy’s fight song, “On, Brave Old Army Team,” the cadets stand at attention.

For cadets, playing football at West Point is more than just a sport - it is a privilege and a responsibility. Each player embodies the values of duty, honor, and country, striving to uphold the proud legacy of Army football both on and off the field. Their dedication and hard work honor the cadet creed and inspire others to strive for excellence in all endeavors.

With cadets, alumni, and fans coming together to celebrate their love of the game, Michie Stadium is a haven of friendship and camaraderie off the field. As friends and family get together to enjoy the companionship and the excitement of game day, tailgates, picnics, and reunions are commonplace. Strangers become friends, and lifelong memories are created.

As the final whistle blows and the game comes to a close, the stadium erupts into cheers and applause, regardless of the outcome. Win or lose, the spirit of Army football endures, a testament to the resilience and drive of the cadets who represent the academy. As the sun sets over Michie Stadium, the memories of game day linger, a reminder of the timeless tradition and enduring legacy of West Point football.

#John Marzka

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johnmarzka · 18 days

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Army Black Knights Football - from Independent to AAC

The Army Black Knights Football team, or Army for short, is the United States Military Academy outfit in college football. The team's colors are black, gold, and gray, and they have been playing since 1890. Army is in the Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Army has played independent football since its inception except between the years of 1998 and 2004 when they were with Conference USA. Things will change for the team in 2024 since Army announced it was joining the American Athletic Conference, becoming the 14th member.

NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision independent institutions (FBS independents), such as the United States Military Academy (Army West Point), run football programs separate from NCAA-affiliated conferences. Army West Point chose to be independent mainly because it did not need the income from television.

Army plays annual games against the Air Force Falcons and Navy Midshipmen, with the three teams competing for the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy. College football teams typically play 12 games per football season. The Black Knights of West Point schedule games with non-service teams to reach this mark.

West Point's six-year run with Conference USA, from 1998 to 2004, was largely unsuccessful. The team recorded 3-33 in its last three years in the league.

With West Point's past conference experience, one would expect them to remain independent. However, the revenue from TV and bowl appearances is making college football playoffs important for teams. Also, scheduling games outside of conferences is increasingly complicated.

The athletic director of the United States Military Academy, Mike Buddie, said Army will be more competitive in AAC than in Conference USA, and that college football dynamics have changed. The AAC entry will see Army in eight conference games, with four at West Point's home, Michie Stadium.

The games against Air Force and Navy will continue as non-conference games for the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy. Army football has partnered with CBS Sports Network for TV rights, with the contract extending to 2028. The network will exclusively show Army home games, while ESPN, AAC's TV partner, will carry Army away games. As a football-only member of AAC, West Point will have a share of college football earnings from ESPN.

West Point has produced three Heisman Trophy winners: in 1945, 1946, and 1958. The conference entry might see the team having more shots at the Heisman since it will be involved in more games. The Army-Navy football teams' rivalry may get a boon from this move as well. The regular end-of-the-season Commander in Chief's trophy game between the two rivals will continue to be held while the two teams may also meet in the AAC championship. If the two teams finish as first and second in the league, they will play the final against each other. While it is a small chance, fans can hope for it.

In the Black Knights' first season, they will play UAB, East Carolina, Rice, and UTSA at home, then Florida Atlantic, North Texas, Temple, and Tulsa for away games. Army's most recent meeting with any of the teams was with UTSA in 2023, ending at 37-29 in favor of the Black Knights.

#John Marzka

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johnmarzka · 1 month

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The Legacy of West Point Academy's Football Dynasty

The legacy of the United States Military Academy at West Point stems from a rich tapestry of history, resilience, and excellence. Beyond its contributions to the nation's defense, West Point boasts a storied football tradition that intertwines with the academy's profound narrative.

Established in 1802, the academy's strategic location along the Hudson River played a pivotal role in American history during the Revolution. It remained an unyielding fortress, eluding capture even during the treacherous betrayal attempt by General Benedict Arnold.

The visionaries behind West Point sought to create an institution dedicated to warfare science and the development of military leaders. President Thomas Jefferson, despite initial opposition, acknowledged the necessity of such an academy for safeguarding the nation's interests and expanding its territories.

Under the stewardship of Major Sylvanus Thayer, known as the "Father of the Military Academy," West Point underwent significant transformations. Thayer raised academic standards, instilled military discipline, and established civil and military engineering as the foundation of the curriculum.

Throughout the 19th century, West Point graduates played pivotal roles in the country's development, contributing to infrastructure projects like the Panama Canal and assuming leadership positions in various conflicts, including the Civil War.

Post-Civil War, West Point continued its commitment to tradition, discipline, and excellence. Despite the austere atmosphere, the academy slowly integrated African-American cadets, albeit facing challenges like institutional prejudice and "silencing."

World War I showcased the bravery of West Point alumni, notably General John J. Pershing, who commanded the American Expeditionary Force in Europe. The war prompted curriculum modernizations to incorporate advancements in science and technology.

The interwar years saw a cadre of distinguished graduates who would become pivotal leaders in World War II, including Douglas MacArthur, George Patton, and Dwight Eisenhower. West Point alumni led the majority of significant ground and air units in the war.

In 1975, West Point welcomed women into its ranks, marking a pivotal moment in its history. The subsequent years witnessed a surge in diversity among the Corps of Cadets, fostering a more inclusive and representative academy.

Amidst this rich history, West Point's football legacy stands tall. The 1944 Army squad, under coach Earl "Red" Blaik, carved a football dynasty unparalleled in its dominance. Featuring talents like Glenn Davis and Doc Blanchard, the team's extraordinary accomplishments and unbeaten streaks remain unmatched in college football history.

But greatness didn't rest solely in the past. The subsequent seasons, particularly in 1945, saw Army's football ascendancy continue. Led by stalwarts like Blanchard, Davis, and Arnold Tucker, they pursued a new dynasty. The 1945 squad embarked on a journey to match the previous year's feats, culminating in another national championship, validating their claim as one of the greatest teams in college football history.

The narrative of West Point's football triumphs extends beyond the World War II era. Though postseason bowl appearances became a rarity until 1984, when the team triumphed over Michigan State in the Cherry Bowl, it continued solidifying its legacy. Post-war periods saw the Army's Black Knights repeatedly showcasing their mettle in postseason battles, from the Peach Bowl victory over Illinois in 1985 to their resilience against Alabama in the 1988 Sun Bowl.

Even in later years, like the stirring 1996 Independence Bowl clash against Auburn, the Army's indomitable spirit persisted. Despite facing formidable odds, their tenacity and never-say-die attitude illuminated the field, leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of fans and foes alike.

#John Marzka

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johnmarzka · 1 month

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An Overview of the Army Black Knights Football Team

The Army Black Knights football team (formerly the Army Cadets) has made its presence felt in college football as a representative of the United States Military Academy West Point. With a long history and a commitment to excellence, the Black Knights have established themselves as a significant force on the football field.

West Point's sports program is aligned with the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. The program is specifically crafted to instill these values within an athletic context. Competitive sports offer unique opportunities that are challenging to replicate in classrooms, other extracurricular activities, or military field training.

The Army Black Knights’ football history began when cadets at West Point accepted the Navy’s challenge to play a football game in the late 1800s. Despite losing their inaugural matchup, they sought retribution the following season, sparking a rivalry that continues to this day. The Army-Navy Game, played annually since 1930, stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious rivalries in NCAA history.

In the last year of World War II and the two years immediately after, Army football achieved remarkable success, securing three consecutive national championships and producing two Heisman Trophy winners, Doc Blanchard (1945) and Glenn Davis (1946). Pete Dawkins would go on to secure a third Heisman Trophy playing for Army in 1958.

Michie Stadium serves as the home of the Army Black Knights football team. This stadium offers views of the Hudson River, and also showcases the architectural majesty of the neo-Gothic splendor of West Point. Michie Stadium has a seating capacity of more than 38,000 spectators, and has been recognized as one of the top sports venues of the 20th century. Over the years, Michie Stadium has undergone several turf upgrades. This includes the FieldTurf in 2008 that replaced earlier AstroPlay and AstroTurf surfaces.

The Army Black Knights football team has enduring rivalries steeped in tradition and competition, notably the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, a tri-clash among the Navy, Air Force, and Army. These service academies have battled annually for the trophy since 1972. The Air Force leads with 21 victories, followed by the Navy with 16 and the Army with nine, including four shared victories.

In particular, the Army-Air Force rivalry is intense, with the Air Force holding a 37-18-1 lead through 2021. In 2020, the Army-Air Force game became the longest uninterrupted intersectional rivalry in college football due to the cancellation of the Navy-Notre Dame game.

The Army's rivalry with the Navy, exemplified by the Army-Navy Game, dates back to Army’s first football game in 1890. Played annually since 1930, this rivalry is one of the oldest in NCAA history.

The Army-Notre Dame rivalry is also worth noting, with sporadic meetings since their early 20th-century heyday. The two football teams most recently played against each other in 2016, with Notre Dame leading the series 39-8-4.

The Army Black Knights football team stands out for their strong commitment to discipline and teamwork, reflecting the core values of the United States Military Academy. This dedication goes beyond the field, creating a close-knit and resilient team that tackles challenges together. The focus on discipline not only helps individual players grow, but also shapes a team known for its coordinated and methodical approach to the game.

#John Marzka

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johnmarzka · 2 months

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West Point Football Contributes to Military Readiness

The West Point football program plays a significant role in shaping leaders and enhancing military readiness. Serving in the US Army demands facing numerous challenges that test individuals as soldiers and leaders. Beyond the rigorous military training, specialized equipment, and organizational skills, attributes gained from personal experiences prove invaluable. Engaging in competitive sports, such as football, offers a unique avenue for cultivating these attributes without the restrictions of professional retribution.

One of the critical attributes cultivated through West Point football is leadership. The demanding nature of the sport requires players to step into leadership roles on and off the field. Captains and team leaders guide their teammates, make strategic decisions, and foster a culture of accountability. The leadership experiences on the football field translate seamlessly into the military environment, where effective leadership is paramount. The ability to inspire and lead a team becomes a tangible asset in the complex and challenging scenarios military personnel experience.

The strategic thinking ingrained in West Point football players becomes a valuable asset in military leadership. On the football field, players execute physical plays, make split-second decisions, analyze opponents' strategies, and adapt in real-time. The cognitive skills are directly transferable to the complexities of military operations.

West Point football also provides a structured and safe environment for individuals to enhance their fitness levels. Football contributes to improved fitness safely and competitively. Maintaining optimal physical fitness is fundamental for military readiness. The sport demands strength, agility, and endurance, crucial to military fitness. The controlled and supervised training sessions in football contribute to the overall well-being of the players, ensuring they become physically prepared for the demands of their military duties. The improved fitness enhances individual performance and positively influences the collective readiness of military units.

West Point football alum exemplifies the importance of teamwork and cohesion. Coordinating offensive and defensive strategies requires seamless communication and collaboration among team members. These teamwork skills directly translate to the military setting, where cohesive units are essential for mission success. Research has consistently linked team cohesion to better overall performance. Soldiers honing their teamwork skills on the football field become better equipped to work towards a common objective, understanding the importance of coordination and trust in high-pressure situations.

Being in the military requires self-control in a charged environment. Competitive sports, especially ones as intense as football, expose individuals to charged environments requiring high self-control. In the military, maintaining composure under pressure is a critical skill. Playing football cultivates the ability to make clear and rational decisions amidst chaos. Whether facing a challenging opponent or dealing with the ebbs and flows of a game, players learn to exercise self-control. This mental discipline proves invaluable in military scenarios where split-second decisions can have profound consequences.

Moreover, West Point football provides a controlled yet challenging environment for players to develop bravery and character. Facing fear and adversity head-on is an integral part of military service. Confronting fear routinely on the field prepares individuals to navigate fearful situations with courage and determination. The resilience fostered through competitive sports translates into a mental toughness that is invaluable in the military. Soldiers who have faced adversity on the football field can confront challenges with a determined spirit, contributing to the overall readiness of the armed forces.

#John Marzka

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johnmarzka · 2 months

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Army-Navy Football Commemorate Operation Iraqi Freedom

A November 2023 press release from Army-Navy Game announced the collaboration between Army-Navy and sporting apparel company Nike to create the 2023 Army West Point football uniforms. This uniform is commemorative because it is a narrative of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) at its opening phase.

In 2023, the Armed Forces marked the 20th anniversary of the initial phase of OIF and the participation of the 3rd Infantry Division in it. This engagement was the most extended, quickest armored advance since the Second World War. According to the US Army, this division was successful because it adhered to the Army's offensive strategy of using tempo, audacity, concentration, and surprise.

On March 21, 2003, the 3rd Infantry Division engaged in an exercise known as Thunder Run. The 3rd Infantry Division defeated Iraqi forces while traveling through Nasiriyah, Samawah, Najaf, and the Karbala Gap.

Once past the Karbala Gap, the division took over the Baghdad International Airport, thus isolating the capital from south and west. The division kept this pressure on by deploying an armored thrust along Highway 8 and into Central Baghdad and then moving southwest before heading back to the airport. By April 5, 2003, the Army had exhibited its prowess, strength, and maneuverability in Baghdad.

The second Thunder Run happened two days later. On April 7, 2003, the 2nd Brigade Combat Team continued the Army's attack on Central Baghdad. This time, the soldiers conquered the country's critical infrastructures, breaking the Iraqi government's resolve.

Designers depict Thunder Run 1 and 2 on the West Point footballer uniforms. For instance, the jersey contains downward arrows on the front and back, similar to the armored unit markings of the 3rd Infantry Division when engaged in OIF. In battle, the markings serve the purpose of battle tracking and to identify friendly units. In addition to these markings, markings are also on the front right of the uniform pants, representing the thermal pattern on 3rd Infantry Division Unit vehicles. Again, these thermal panels on vehicle markings help units distinguish between friendly and unfriendly vehicles with limited visibility.

Furthermore, the uniform's font is taken from the front and back of United States Army vehicles. The sequence of numbers and letters helps the Army differentiate units, minimizing confusion in battle. Even the uniform's color is a part of the OIF narrative. The tan color of the uniform represents the desert where OIF took place, complementing the camouflage patterns and vehicle paint designs.

The helmet's "Rocky the Bulldog" is on both sides. Walt Disney created the image in 1965, and Disney gave the 3rd Infantry Division the design. "Rocky" depicted in the image relates to the "Dogface Soldier," the 3rd Infantry Division song still sung today.

The uniform also features the call signs and numbers of the brigades that participate in OIF. The troops were Raider (1st Brigade), Spartan (2nd Brigade), and Sledgehammer (3rd Brigade).

The unit's insignia, "Nous Resterons LA," is also emblazoned on the uniform. This emblem dates back to 1918 and the Second Battle of Marne, where the 3rd Infantry Division earned its nickname, the Rock of Marne. During the battle against the German Army, an American officer said to a French one, "Nous resterons la," meaning "We will remain here." Ultimately, the Allied Forces defeated the Germans at Chateu-Thierry, near the Marne River. Today, this symbol depicts a two-legged dragon perched atop a rock, representing the Dogface soldiers' tenacious spirit.

The back of the uniform contains a red, green, black, and white stripe. Green and black are connected to Islam, and red represents the fighting spirit. Finally, white is representative of the people's generosity. The streamer also contains a bronze Campaign Star indicating the infantry's participation in the offensive.

The left shoulder of the uniform depicts the 3rd Infantry Division patch, which consists of three white stripes. These stripes symbolize the three significant operations the unit has participated in since the First World War.

#John Marzka

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johnmarzka · 3 months

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US Military Academy West Point’s Historic Michie Stadium

A centerpiece of the United States Military Academy (USMA) West Point, Michie Stadium opened its doors to the public on October 4, 1924, with a resounding 17-0 victory over St. Louis University. Over the past 99 seasons, the Army has had an exceptional 364-170-7 record playing on its home turf. The Sporting News and Sports Illustrated list the stadium as among the top collegiate fields nationwide.

The Army's rising prominence in national competition was the impetus for building the stadium in a meadow next to Lusk Reservoir, beside historic Fort Putnam. The football program was already 35 years old, launched in 1890 through the efforts of then-student Dennis Mahan Michie (USMA Class of 1893). Michie organized West Point’s first foray into football competition and managed and coached the team.

The original Michie Stadium had a seating capacity of 16,000, with space for 5,000 additional temporary seats. The first major upgrade occurred in the 1930s, with the stadium gaining lighting and a press box. In 1962, the east stands were built, and an upper deck was erected on top of the west stands seven years later. A west upper deck opened in 2003, boosting stadium capacity to its current 38,000.

Also, in 2003, the $7 million Hoffman Press Box was completed, providing media members with state-of-the-art booths for TV and radio broadcasts. The Kimsey Athletic Center was inaugurated that same year beyond the south end zone. This $40 million facility comprises training facilities, coaches offices, locker rooms, equipment, and meeting rooms. It also houses the Kenna Hall of Army Sports, displaying artifacts and photos from West Point’s illustrious athletics history.

Over the years, the playing field has been another major area of change and improvement. In 1977, natural grass was replaced with AstroTurf. This saved on maintenance expenses and allowed extended practice throughout the autumn months, as various squads could now use the facility without ruining the turf. In 1984, SuperTurf was introduced, and in 1992, AstroTurf 8 supplanted that highly engineered material. AstroPlay, installed in 2003, was the first to offer players the appearance and cushioning qualities of natural grass. In 2008, the next-generation FieldTurf was established for the first time.

In 2023, turf technology took another quantum leap by installing FieldTurf Vertex Core. The material has an accommodating 2.5-inch thickness and an innovative 10mm Amorim 400 Shock Pad that cushions falls and reduces wear and tear on the limbs. It’s the same material used by several other teams, including the NFL Carolina Panthers, the University of Alabama, and Oregon State.

Despite these improvements, the stadium is still an aging edifice that reflects the structural limitations of engineering a century ago. The recently launched Michie Stadium Preservation Project (MSPP) represents an effort envisioned as being completely donor-funded. It will encompass a modernization of the east stands section and a full retrofit of stadium operations and systems.

At the same time, it seeks to preserve the stadium’s architectural heritage and ensure that the panoramic views remain intact. The result will be a stadium true to its roots as a transformative element of the USMA West Point while offering the structural soundness and amenities that today’s fans and players require.

#John Marzka

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