WEST POINT, NY — While many are feeling the negative effects of the government shutdown, leaders and students at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point are hoping it continues into the new year, saving them from another humiliating and crushing defeat at the Army-Navy football game.

"It's just one of those little blessings that will help make the next round of cutbacks that much easier to handle," said Lt. Gen. Robert Caslen, the West Point superintendent, as he looked out his window where cadets were being released for the weekend instead of remaining behind to practice drill and ceremony for the next Saturday morning football parade.

The team, which is scheduled to play against the U.S. Naval Academy in December, is renowned for their historic 2003 NCAA record, when the Black Knights went 0-13.

"Here at USMA we strive to produce the best football players on the planet," Caslen told reporters, while getting a tattoo of 'Beat Navy' on his forehead. "Our entire school revolves around the team. Mandatory rallies, no seating for cadets in the bleachers, and the banning of alcohol at the games all help ensure that we provide the best possible atmosphere for our players to succeed."