Is the Naval Academy part of the NCAA?

I'm a high school athlete considering the Naval Academy and wondering about its participation in college sports. Is it a member of the NCAA, and how strong are their sports programs generally?

Yes, the United States Naval Academy is indeed part of the NCAA and participates in Division I sports. As a member of the Patriot League, the Midshipmen compete in a variety of sports including football, basketball, soccer, and more.

In terms of strength, it really depends on the sport in question. For instance, the Naval Academy Football team has a strong reputation and has performed well in the past. Other teams such as lacrosse and wrestling have also seen significant successes. Keep in mind, though, that as a service academy, the Naval Academy has unique commitments and requirements that can sometimes affect athletic performance and scheduling.

As an athlete considering the Naval Academy, remember that the school prioritizes military training and academic rigor, so balancing these responsibilities with sports can be challenging, but definitely not impossible. Many students find this unique environment to be very rewarding and a great preparation for future leadership roles.

You can view the sports program details and team accomplishments on the Naval Academy's official athletics website to get a better idea of the teams you might be interested in joining.