Football players from the United States Naval Academy add to the tradition of the annual Army-Navy game by showcasing a unique football helmet.
By Patrick Comia
If you are watching today’s 116th edition of the Army-Navy, you might be noticing something out of the ordinary on the Naval Academy’s helmets.
It is certainly not foreign to college football to unveil different versions of their uniforms. The University of Oregon seems like they sport a new football uniform every game, Boise State follows suit to match their unconventional blue-turf football field.
Traditional schools like Notre Dame and Ohio State have broken their own rules, and sported updated versions of their uniforms to keep up with the times.
With the game between the military academies of West Point and Annapolis, this is no exception. But what adds to the uniqueness and aura of their uniforms is the meaning behind certain facets on their uniform.
Just like their military uniforms, earned badges and ribbons are proudly displayed on their chest, signifying their many accomplishments in their careers.
But for the Navy players, they’ve gone one step further and added a unique feature to their football helmets that just spells motivation and lends inspiration to their fellow teammates.
This year, the Naval Academy has gone above and beyond by paying tribute to the U.S. Naval Fleet by having each of the different ships presently in use, painted on their helmets.
Here are all the hand painted helmet options for Navy football players today #ArmyNavy pic.twitter.com/cLWt5DqBkw
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) December 12, 2015
Each player position has a different ship represented, which are detailed on NAVYSPORTS.com:
• Linebacker: Cruiser– Provides anti-air defense and packs the biggest punch of Naval surface ships representative of the linebackers on the Navy football team.
• Defensive Back: Destroyer– Known for significant fire power, speed, and anti-missile defense as are Navy’s defensive backs.
• Wide Receiver: Submarine– Predominantly utilized as blockers, wide receivers play a key role in driving the Navy rush attack, taking on a stealth-like persona as they blend into the rhythm of the offense but bring significant fire power when called upon, just like a Naval submarine.
• Lineman: Amphibious Assault Ships– Just as a lineman’s job is the create a hole for a running back or linebacker, these ships are utilized to establish the “beach head” that enables the invading force to gain access and ultimately accomplish their objective.
• Quarterback: Aircraft Carrier– The QB of the Naval Fleet, the aircraft carrier is the ultimate decision maker; the “quick strike” weapon of the Naval fleet.
• Running Back: Littoral Combat Ship– Like running backs, these fast and nimble ships can navigate through both crowded shallow and deep waters.
• Kicker/Special Teams: Minesweeper– Much like the specific task of the Navy special teams, this small ship has a unique mission of identifying and eliminating mines.
