Navy Midshipmen Football

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Navy Midshipmen football team located?

The Navy Midshipmen football team is located in Annapolis, Maryland. As the official football team of the United States Naval Academy, the Midshipmen play their home games at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, a historic venue situated just outside the academy's campus. Annapolis is not only the capital city of Maryland but also a vibrant hub for naval tradition and history, providing a unique atmosphere for college football. The academy itself sits on the banks of the Severn River, offering picturesque views and a strong sense of patriotism. Navy Midshipmen football games attract fans from across the country, especially alumni and military families, adding to the spirited environment on game days. The team's location in Annapolis also allows Midshipmen to balance rigorous academic and military training with Division I athletics, making it one of the most unique programs in college football. If you're planning to attend a Navy football game, Annapolis offers plenty of historical sites, waterfront activities, and a true college town experience.

Do Navy football players get paid?

Navy football players do not get paid in the traditional sense like professional athletes or players at some other colleges following recent NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) policy changes. As students at the United States Naval Academy, Navy Midshipmen football players are technically active-duty members of the U.S. Navy. Instead of salaries, they receive a comprehensive education, room and board, medical care, and a monthly stipend to cover personal expenses. Upon graduation, these athletes are required to serve as officers in the Navy or Marine Corps, which is a significant commitment and part of their compensation for attending the academy. While NIL deals have changed the landscape for many college athletes, service academy students, including Navy football players, face unique restrictions due to federal policies and military obligations. This means their primary compensation is the elite training, leadership experience, and guaranteed career opportunities that come with being a Midshipman, rather than monetary payment for playing football.

Do any marines play on the Navy football team?

Yes, some members of the Navy football team may go on to become Marines after graduation, but while attending the United States Naval Academy and playing on the Navy Midshipmen football team, they are all classified as Midshipmen, not Marines. The U.S. Naval Academy commissions officers into both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marine Corps upon graduation. Approximately 25% of each graduating class chooses to become Marine Corps officers. However, during their time at the academy

Is Navy a D1 school for football?

Yes, Navy is a Division I (D1) school for football. The Navy Midshipmen football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), which represents the highest level of college football in the United States. Navy is a member of the American Athletic Conference (AAC), facing off against other top-tier collegiate programs each season. The team is known for its storied rivalries, most notably the annual Army-Navy Game, which is one of college football's oldest and most celebrated matchups. Being a D1 program, Navy offers its athletes the opportunity to compete at the highest collegiate level while also fulfilling the rigorous academic and military requirements of the U.S. Naval Academy. The combination of athletic excellence and military discipline makes Navy football a unique and respected program within the NCAA. Fans can expect elite competition, spirited traditions, and a strong national following every season.

What are midshipmen in the navy?

Midshipmen in the Navy are students at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, training to become commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. The term "Midshipman"