Notre Dame/Navy to play in Ireland

http://und.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111005aac.html

Notre Dame And Navy Extend Series 10 More Years

Irish and Midshipmen will meet at least until 2016, with the 2012 meeting set to be in Dublin, Ireland.

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."