The ANEFO was well-represented at Fenway Park on Saturday, November 15, 2025 in one of the most dramatic small college football games in the history of Secretaries’ Cup between the United States Coast Guard Academy versus United States Merchant Marine Academy. This game is referred to as the “small college Army/Navy game.”
Five of the seven college officials that officiated the football game are not only college football officials, but they are also members for the ANEFO. They are: Craig McDonnell (referee); Matt Peterson (head linesman); Dennis Torres (line judge); Matt Hooton (side judge) and Scott Ciccone (back judge).
In one of the most historic, iconic venues in the country, the United States Merchant Marine Academy football team defeated arch-rival the United States Coast Guard Academy football team by the slimmest of margins. The final score was: Merchant Marine – 39, Coast Guard – 38. The honorary captains at the coin toss were Kristi Noem, US Secretary of Homeland Security and Sean Duffy, US Secretary of Transportation.
There were over 10,200 fans in attendance at Fenway Park. The victory improved the Merchant Marine Mariners’ record to 7-2 (5-2 NEWMAC), while the Coast Guard Bears end the season 7-3 (6-2 NEWMAC).
Congratulations to Craig, Matt P., Dennis, Matt H. and Scott!
