Merchant Marine Faces Coast Guard in Battle for Secretaries’ Cup

Kings Point, New York — The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is gearing up for its biggest game of the year against the United States Coast Guard Academy on Saturday at Fenway Park. With a record of 6-2, USMMA will compete against their rival, who holds a 7-2 record, in a matchup that promises intense rivalry and pride on the line with the coveted Secretaries’ Cup at stake.

“I think it’s the DIII Army-Navy game,” said Mariners senior linebacker Deryk Leverage. “This game is, to us, the highest on our list,” he added about facing the Bears, who celebrate the Coast Guard’s 235th anniversary. Historically, the Merchant Marine leads the series 37-16, but they have suffered losses in the last two encounters.

Leverage expressed the weight of the rivalry, noting, “After a loss, it definitely sucks…especially if we have Coast Guard guys on our ship, they’ll definitely be bringing it up every now and then.” Mariners head coach Jameson Croall shared that the rivalry is not widely recognized beyond the immediate area, as many people are unaware of Kings Point. “There are people who grew up on Long Island that don’t even know [Kings Point] is here,” Croall remarked.

The rivalry took a memorable turn early in Croall’s coaching stint when the Coast Guard brought a bear costume to prank the Merchant Marine. “One of our midshipmen, who wasn’t a football player, stole it out of their truck,” recalled Croall, adding that the incident brought a new level of awareness to the rivalry.

The game’s exposure has significantly increased, largely due to its ESPN broadcast, allowing both academies to gain visibility. “We don’t want to screw that up with some shenanigans,” Croall joked, as he emphasized the importance of showcasing their academy.

This matchup also holds significance for the players as it marks the potential end of their season. Junior linebacker Aidan Graham discussed the challenges of preparing for a game while anticipating assignments that can send players across the globe. “We had players last time go out the night of the Coast Guard game — guys flying out to Japan that night,” he noted.

USMMA players face unique challenges maintaining their fitness during their at-sea assignments. “Sometimes we luck out with a ‘Gold’s Gym’ on board, but other times, it’s just a bench and no weights,” Leverage explained. Graham described his makeshift training routine, highlighting the determination needed to stay in shape while at sea.

“It’s a lot nicer going out on a ship when we win,” Leverage stated, as the anticipation builds for the showdown. With both teams striving for victory, the Secretaries’ Cup will likely secure a place in the memories of those involved.