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| The Naval Academy's Goat Ranks Above All |
NAVY: BILL THE GOAT
While most teams hope they never have a 'goat' on the team, Bill the Goat has been a welcomed
member of the Navy football program since the 19th century. Bill, long a target of Army
kidnappers, first filled more of a reserve mascot role in the animal's early years of serving. But
with service deserving of a good conduct medal, he was called to full-time active duty status.
The goat's special treatment received at the annual Army-Navy game often challenges the VIP
status that admirals and other dignitaries are granted. Instead of riding a 'goat' wagon, bill is
often escorted in limousines, luxury vans and fancy floats to the stadium. When Bill is introduced
to the crowd he receives great fanfare, that ranks just behind the cheers showered upon the
Midshipmen players.
Two Navy players elected by the team care for the mascot on the sidelines. This role typically
goes to players that are unable to play due to injury. The direction that Bill stands has a special
significance at Navy games. Tradition mandates that the goat keepers keep the goat pointed
towards their opponents end zone at all times so that the Navy quarterback will know where to
lead his team.
While most teams hope they never have a 'goat' on the team, Bill the Goat has been a welcomed
member of the Navy football program since the 19th century. Bill, long a target of Army
kidnappers, first filled more of a reserve mascot role in the animal's early years of serving. But
with service deserving of a good conduct medal, he was called to full-time active duty status.
The goat's special treatment received at the annual Army-Navy game often challenges the VIP
status that admirals and other dignitaries are granted. Instead of riding a 'goat' wagon, bill is
often escorted in limousines, luxury vans and fancy floats to the stadium. When Bill is introduced
to the crowd he receives great fanfare, that ranks just behind the cheers showered upon the
Midshipmen players.
Two Navy players elected by the team care for the mascot on the sidelines. This role typically
goes to players that are unable to play due to injury. The direction that Bill stands has a special
significance at Navy games. Tradition mandates that the goat keepers keep the goat pointed
towards their opponents end zone at all times so that the Navy quarterback will know where to
lead his team.
Mascots, Nicknames & More |