The two programs, historical rivals in other sports like football and soccer, have a fierce and nationally-relevant rivalry in lacrosse as well.

[3] The rematch occurred the next year in Annapolis, the second of four consecutive Navy victories to begin the series.

[3] The 1940s were a high point for the rivalry, as Army would capture national championships in the 1944 and 1945 seasons, sharing the '45 title with the Midshipmen.

[1] Another crucial period began in the late '50s, as either Army or Navy won at least a share of the Wingate Memorial Trophy every year from 1958 to 1970.

Both teams entered the 1964 game with identical 8–0 records,[5] with Navy pulling off their first win of four straight victories.

In the final game, Navy prevailed over Army to complete its undefeated season and secure a share of its 17th national title.

Despite being a full member of the Patriot League since 1991, Navy would finally move its lacrosse program to the conference in 2004.

[9] In the 2004 NCAA Championship, Navy would earn the 2 seed and make a run to the title game against the Syracuse Orange.

[10] A Michael Powell game winner capped a 3–1 Syracuse run in the final five minutes to deny the Mids their first NCAA title.