Central ND News

The North Dakota State University (NDSU) Bison football team visited Washington, D.C., to commemorate their victory in the National Collegiate Athletics Association Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). In January, the team defeated the Montana State Bobcats 35-32 to secure their 10th FCS Championship in 14 years and the 18th championship in the program's history.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced that President Donald Trump would host the team at the White House following their win. Before the White House visit, Senators Cramer and John Hoeven of North Dakota welcomed the team to the U.S. Capitol for lunch and a tour. North Dakota Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak began the lunch event by congratulating the team. Alabama Senator and former Auburn football coach Tommy Tuberville also attended to speak to those present.

Watching the Bison football championship game was like nothing I’ve ever seen, except those nine other times,” remarked Senator Cramer. “It never gets old! Great to celebrate them at the Capitol today!”

“Winning a national championship gets the NDSU football team invited to DC,” continued Cramer. “Being outstanding student athletes and men gets them invited to the White House. Thank you to NDSU for raising American leaders & the honor of hosting them today with President Trump.”

During their White House visit, the team met with President Trump in the East Room. NDSU Head Coach Tim Polasek presented President Trump with a custom “Trump 47” jersey. Among the attendees were North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong, former North Dakota Governor and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, former North Dakota First Lady Kathryn Burgum, and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. President Trump also welcomed team members into the Oval Office, presenting each with a coin and a pen.

In recognition of the Bison's victory and historic achievement, Senators Cramer and Hoeven delivered remarks on the Senate floor and introduced a resolution to congratulate the team.