The New England Patriots will make the Air Force Academy their home for a week following their game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
Instead of traveling back to Massachusetts, the five-time Super Bowl champs will practice at the academy Monday through Friday as they get ready to face the Oakland Raiders in Mexico City on Nov. 19, according to a spokesman at the academy.
Troy Garnhart, the school’s sports information director, said details about the team’s itinerary while in Colorado Springs are being worked out.
“But the hope is there will be an opportunity” for the Patriots to visit with cadets, Garnhart told Air Force Times via email.
Staying in Colorado might also help the team adjust to Mexico’s City elevation, which is at 7,382 feet above sea level. The academy has a similar elevation at 7,258 feet above sea level.
The school and team are also still working out the details of security during the visit.
“The Patriots have their own security that travels with the team, and we have been in touch with them and our [Security Forces] team, so that’s still to be determined at this point,” Garnhart said.
The 6-2 Patriots play the 3-5 Broncos Sunday at 6:30 p.m. Mountain time.
Charlsy is a Reporter and Engagement Manager for Military Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
