I was present for the Notre Dame victory over Navy in 2005. Many times since that game I have told the story about how much I enjoyed the game not for the result, but because of the true sportsmanship, respect and class shown by the Notre Dame team and fans and the Navy team and fans, highlighted by the teams both paying their mutual respects to each other and their fans after the game.
I often remarked when telling this story, however, that I didn't know how Notre Dame fans would react if Navy were to win the game. Now I know the answer to that question. By my estimation, 90 percent of the fans at Saturday's game with Navy remained after the final play, standing at attention and listening to the Navy Hymn. And then the applause broke out - clapping for the Navy cadets and team, congratulating them on their class and their historical victory in a truly entertaining game. This moment crystallized for me again why I am so proud to be a Domer, a member of this Notre Dame family. Thank you, Notre Dame.
John MaxwellClass of 1991Nov. 4
