The storied rivalry between the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) Engineers and the Union College Garnet Chargers will reach a milestone this Saturday as they prepare to face off in the 75th Dutchman’s Shoes game. This matchup, which has taken place since 1883, is one of the oldest college football rivalries in the United States. The tradition was formally named in 1950, when the Dutchman’s Shoes trophy was introduced to honor the annual victor.
“When you see it on the schedule, that’s one that you circle every single year,” said RPI head coach Ralph Isernia. The significance of this game is palpable, with both teams sharing a deep respect for each other. “The level of work that these young men put in on a daily basis to put themselves in a position to be great academic students and great football players just really shines in this game,” noted Garnet Chargers head coach Jon Drach.
Last year, the Engineers triumphed over the Chargers with a 24-7 victory. Despite this setback, Union leads the all-time series with a record of 84-33-4. Both teams enter this year’s contest with impressive records of 7-2, making this matchup particularly critical in the context of the Liberty League standings.
Union currently holds a top position with a conference record of 6-0, while RPI stands at 5-1. A victory for the Garnet Chargers on Saturday would secure their status as champions of the Liberty League and guarantee a place in the NCAA Division III playoffs. Conversely, if RPI wins, it could create a scenario where their upcoming game against Ithaca becomes pivotal for playoff positioning.
The stakes are undeniably high. “You can’t ignore that the stakes are raised a little bit,” said Isernia, emphasizing the importance of the game for both teams. For Drach, discipline and mental toughness will be crucial for his squad. “Pressure is a privilege… and our guys don’t feel that. They fall back on their execution,” he explained.
For RPI, the focus is on executing their plays effectively. After a recent loss to Ithaca, Isernia believes the experience will benefit his team moving forward. “I think it was a good lesson for us to focus on our technique and not get out of our own head,” he stated, underscoring the importance of remaining grounded during high-pressure situations.
As the teams prepare for the showdown at Union College, anticipation builds among players and fans alike. “I think you could roll the football in the parking lot right now and be ready to go,” said Drach, reflecting the eagerness both teams feel for this historic encounter.
Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. on Saturday, marking a significant chapter in the long-standing rivalry. With both teams aiming for a conference title and a pathway to the NCAA playoffs, the Dutchman’s Shoes game promises to be a thrilling contest that resonates with fans and athletes alike.
