COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Buckeye football team has been recognized at the Statehouse for its national championship.
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Coach Urban Meyer and his players were honored by state lawmakers during Wednesday sessions of the Ohio House and state Senate.
Governor John Kasich spent nearly 30 minutes with the players, telling them stories about the history of Ohio, asking questions and commenting on the way the team played selflessly and for each other during the championship season.
He told them that the way the team rallied from adversity “lifted the entire state.”
“We can learn a lot as a state from the teamwork that this team has shown over the last year,” House Speaker Cliff Rosenberger (R-Clarksville) said. “Thank you for your example that you have set for the young folks of this state who you are encouraging every day, for the families that you allow to take away a little bit of worry or doubt because of your victory. It is much more than a football game.”
Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) also addressed the team in his office, telling them “you made Ohio proud. Wherever you are from, Ohio will always be your home.”
Ohio State beat Oregon 42-20 in the inaugural national championship game on Jan. 12. The Buckeyes earned the final playoff spot after losing two starting quarterbacks to injuries.
Legislators congratulated the team and praised the players’ athleticism. Team members and Meyer joined Ohio State President Michael Drake to accept resolutions honoring the Buckeyes’ accomplishments.
Meyer said the team showed selflessness and perseverance after losing their starting quarterbacks.
The Statehouse recognition comes after the team’s national championship trophy was displayed in the capitol over the weekend.