Innovative Navy Football Helmets Based on Player Position
By Debbie Gregory.
Perhaps bolstered by their new Under Armour-designed helmets, featuring the seven classes of ships that make up the Navy’s fleet, the Midshipmen of Navy beat the Army’s Black Knights, 21-17.
Each class of ship was based on the player’s position group. The Naval Academy explained that each position group and their corresponding class of ship had significance.
The Quarterbacks sported the Aircraft Carrier, the QB of the Naval Fleet. The aircraft carrier is the ultimate decision maker; the “quick strike” weapon of the Naval fleet.
The Linebackers wore the Cruiser, which provides anti-air defense and packs the biggest punch of Naval surface ships, representative of the linebackers on the Navy football team.
The Wide Receivers donned the 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.
The Linemen’s helmets carried the 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.
The Running Backs wore the Littoral Combat Ship, the fast and nimble ships that can navigate through both crowded shallow and deep waters.
The Kicker/Special Teams helmets were designated with the Minesweeper. Much like the specific task of the Navy special teams, this small ship has a unique mission of identifying and eliminating mines.
The Midshipmen’s uniforms also featured the historic battle cry “Damn the torpedoes!” on the pants, jerseys and the palms of the players’ gloves. Rear Adm. David G. Farragut is said to have screamed the order in the midst of a Civil War naval battle won by the North.
Players’ cleats, base-layer sleeves and jersey shoulders will be colored battleship gray while the pants and jerseys will be blue and gold.
The Marine Corps was honored in the design with the addition of the eagle, globe and anchor emblem on the jersey pants.
Military Connection salutes and proudly serves veterans and service members in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Guard and Reserve, and their families.
