Nov. 10, 2005
The longest intersectional college
football rivalry in the country will continue for an additional 10
years, based on a contract extension announced today by the
University of Notre Dame and the United States Naval Academy.
Notre Dame and Navy, who meet Saturday in Notre Dame Stadium
for the record 79th consecutive year, have agreed to play each year
from 2007 through 2016 (the 2006 game is already under contract).
The Irish and Mids will meet at Notre Dame Stadium in 2007,
2009, 2011, 2013 and 2015. The two teams will play in Baltimore in
2006 - and the teams will play in Dublin, Ireland, on Sept. 1, 2012
-- with the 2008, 2010, 2014 and 2016 home games for Navy at sites
yet to be determined.
"There's a tremendous story to tell when you talk about the
relationship between Notre Dame and the Naval Academy, both on and
off the football field," says Notre Dame athletics director Kevin
White.
"There's been great history and tradition involved in this
rivalry over the years, and I know many people agreed with Charlie
Weis this week when he talked about how revered the relationship with
Navy has been from the Notre Dame standpoint. These are games that
all of us will look forward to in the seasons to come."
"This extension is important for both schools for a number of
reasons. I am pleased we have been able to continue the series which
is a highlight for our student-athletes and fans every fall," says
Naval Academy director of athletics Chet Gladchuk.
"Whether we visit South Bend, or the game is played on the East
Coast, it is of great interest to our collective national audience of
Irish fans, Naval Academy alumni, and the Navy family at large. Two
institutions with similar values rekindling a lengthy and
well-respected relationship make this game special."
