Navy

BILL THE GOAT

While most teams hope they never have a 'goat' on the team, Bill the Goat has been a welcomed member of the Navy football program since the 19th century. Bill, long a target of Army kidnappers, first filled more of a reserve mascot role in the animal's early years of serving. But with service deserving of a good conduct medal, he was called to full-time active duty status.

The goat's special treatment received at the annual Army-Navy game often challenges the VIP status that admirals and other dignitaries are granted. Instead of riding a 'goat' wagon, bill is often escorted in limousines, luxury vans and fancy floats to the stadium. When Bill is introduced to the crowd he receives great fanfare, that ranks just behind the cheers showered upon the Midshipmen players.

Two Navy players elected by the team care for the mascot on the sidelines. This role typically goes to players that are unable to play due to injury. The direction that Bill stands has a special significance at Navy games. Tradition mandates that the goat keepers keep the goat pointed towards their opponents end zone at all times so that the Navy quarterback will know where to lead his team.