The first Navy football game took place in 1879. Since that time, the familiar blue and gold football uniforms have helped created one of the most familiar traditions in the history of college athletics. However, these Navy football players aren't just scoring on the gridiron, they are also some of the finest acadamians in the country, too. This unique combination of athletics and academics ensures that only the best of the best will graduate from the United States Naval Academy and become the Navy's finest. All of the students at the Naval Academy will choose one of 43 different majors that focus on 19 fields of study. In order to compete in one of the many athletic programs, midshipmen must meet the stringent NCAA eligibility requirements, including those requirements that deal with academic progress. If the eligibility requirements are not met, there could be sanctions against the entire team, including fines and penalties. The familiar blue and gold colors of Navy ath