What are the Naval Academy's track and field traditions like?

I'm really interested in joining the Naval Academy's track and field team, but I also want to know about the traditions they have. Are there any unique or special traditions that athletes participate in outside of competitions?

The Naval Academy, indeed, has a rich tradition of camaraderie and unique practices not just within their track and field teams, but across all sports teams. These traditions provide for a bonding experience and a sense of belonging among the athletes.

One of the pervasive traditions across all sports teams is singing the Blue and Gold and Navy Blue and Gold after every game or match. Regardless of the outcome of the competition, the entire team will gather, often with fans and supporters, to sing these alma mater songs. It's a display of unity and shared pride.

There is also a tradition that takes place at the end of each academic and sports year: the Color Parade. In this event, all of the Academy's companies compete for the honor of carrying the colors in the next year's parades. In recent years, the winning company has been awarded the privilege of flying their color's flag over Bancroft Hall for the following academic year.

As for track and field-specific traditions, these might be more anecdotal and vary from year to year as they largely depend on the individual team culture. The 'Senior Speeches' before the conference championship meets are especially significant. Typically, senior members of the team take a moment to speak about what being a part of the team means to them. It's a sentimental tradition that can serve as a motivation during the important events.

Lastly, volunteering and service projects are not necessarily a tradition, but they're a significant part of athletic teams' outside activities at the Academy. These can range from community clean-up events to assisting in youth sports clinics, and are highly encouraged as they tie in with the Naval Academy's values of leadership and service.

Please reach out directly to the Naval Academy or maybe even contact current or former team members to get a more detailed, personal perspective on the traditions within the track and field team.