Navy signs agreement with Charlotte-based Meineke Bowl

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Navy has reached an agreement with the Meineke Car Care Bowl that could put the Midshipmen into the bowl when they're eligible, game officials announced Tuesday.

The deal assures Navy or the No. 3 selection from the Big East Conference will play an Atlantic Coast Conference team in the Meineke Car Care Bowl.

"Having the opportunity to bring Navy to Charlotte is a great position to be in come selection time," bowl executive director Will Webb said in a statement. "This deal affords the Meineke Car Care Bowl several very attractive possibilities for this year's game."

In 2005, the Midshipmen sold 20,000 tickets for the Poinsettia Bowl in San Diego, and officials estimate that Navy helped draw up to 35,000 people to the contest.

Navy brought 18,000 fans to the Emerald Bowl in San Francisco in 2004. A year before that, Navy brought 25,000 fans to the Houston Bowl, leading to a record crowd of 51,068.

The 2006 Meineke Car Care Bowl is scheduled for Dec. 30 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.