Ohio State Buckeyes Honored by President Trump at White House for National Title

Celebrating a Historic Victory

On April 14, President Donald Trump welcomed the Ohio State University Buckeyes to the White House to celebrate their 2024 College Football National Championship. The ceremony, held on the South Lawn, marked a significant moment for the team, who became the first champions of the 12-team playoff format. Trump highlighted the importance of January 20, noting that the Buckeyes defeated Notre Dame 34-23 in the championship game hours after his inauguration.

A Memorable Ceremony with a Fumble

The event featured speeches from Trump, Vice President JD Vance, an Ohio State graduate, and head coach Ryan Day. A lighthearted moment occurred when Vance attempted to lift the national championship trophy, only for its golden football-shaped top to separate from its base. Running back TreVeyon Henderson quickly caught the top, but the base fell to the ground, prompting gasps from the crowd and players. Despite the mishap, the ceremony continued with enthusiasm, accompanied by the United States Marine Corps Band playing 'We Are the Champions.'

Trump praised the team’s resilience, acknowledging their challenging season, which included losses to Oregon and Michigan. He emphasized their historic achievement as the first 12-team playoff champions, with the trophy displayed alongside a Buckeyes helmet and jersey. The president also expressed his affection for Ohio, referencing his landslide victory in the state during the 2024 presidential election.

Recognizing Key Figures and Rivalries

Trump singled out head coach Ryan Day and players like TreVeyon Henderson, Emeka Egbuka, Jack Sawyer, and Cody Simon for their contributions. He also recognized former Buckeyes coach and current Ohio Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel, who was in attendance. In a playful jab, Trump avoided mentioning Ohio State’s fourth consecutive loss to Michigan, while Vance humorously called out an audience member wearing a Michigan hat, joking about alerting the Secret Service.

Vance shared his pride in the Buckeyes’ accomplishment, mentioning a wager with Senator Ted Cruz, a Texas Longhorns supporter, over the playoff matchup between their teams. The ceremony concluded with Day presenting Trump with a custom Buckeyes jersey featuring his name and the number 47, symbolizing his presidency.

A Proud Moment for Ohio

The White House visit underscored the Buckeyes’ dominance and Ohio’s pride in their achievement. Trump’s remarks highlighted the team’s perseverance through a tough season and their place in college football history. The event was a celebration not only of athletic success but also of the strong connection between the Buckeyes and their supporters across the state.