The 75th Dutchman’s Shoes Game will take place on Saturday, renewing one of the oldest college football rivalries in the United States. Since 1883, the football teams of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and Union College have competed against each other, making this the longest-running football rivalry in New York. The rivalry was formalized in 1950 with the introduction of the Dutchman’s Shoes trophy, awarded to the winner of each year’s game.
Both teams enter this match with impressive records, each holding a 7-2 overall standing. The Garnet Chargers have the upper hand in the Liberty League, boasting a perfect 6-0 record, while the Engineers trail slightly at 5-1 in the conference. A victory for Union would secure them the Liberty League title and a spot in the NCAA Division III playoffs. Conversely, a win for RPI could complicate playoff scenarios, particularly if both RPI and Cortland emerge victorious in their respective games.
RPI head coach Ralph Isernia emphasized the significance of focusing on technique and execution in preparation for this critical matchup. “I think it was a good lesson for us to focus on our technique, focus on the call, focus on doing the play right,” Isernia stated, referring to their recent loss against Ithaca. He believes that concentrating on fundamentals will be crucial for the Engineers as they face their rivals.
On the other side, Union’s head coach Jon Drach highlighted the importance of discipline and toughness for his team. He expressed confidence in his players’ ability to rise to the occasion, stating, “Pressure is a privilege… and our guys don’t feel that. They fall back on their execution.” Drach noted the mutual respect between the two teams, recognizing the commitment required to excel academically and athletically at their institutions.
Last season, RPI triumphed over Union with a score of 24-7, but historically, the Garnet Chargers lead the all-time series 84-33-4. As this year’s game approaches, both teams are eager to add to their legacies in what promises to be an exciting contest.
The 1 p.m. kickoff at Union College is highly anticipated, with both coaches acknowledging the heightened stakes. Drach remarked, “I think you could roll the football in the parking lot right now and be ready to go,” underscoring the enthusiasm surrounding this storied rivalry.
As the game draws near, players and fans alike are preparing for what could be a defining moment in their respective seasons. With the Liberty League title and playoff implications on the line, the Dutchman’s Shoes Game is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
