Washington, D.C. – The national champion North Dakota State University Bison football team is soaking it all in during their visit to the nation’s capital at the invitation of President Trump.
The Bison, who won their 10th FCS championship in program history by beating Montana State in this year’s title game, arrived early in Washington D.C. to start a jam-packed day that ends with a White House meeting with Trump.
Players and coaches took a short sightseeing tour, which included stops at the Lincoln Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery.
The team also took part in a ceremony on Capitol Hill, where North Dakota’s congressional delegation was on hand to welcome and congratulate the squad.
Photo above: NDSU coaches and players pose for a photo with members of North Dakota’s congressional delegation at the Capitol Building
“This season was extremely special,” quarterback Cam Miller said during a luncheon on the Hill. “We’re very thankful for this opportunity.”
Video above: NDSU quarterback Cam Miller addresses a Capitol Hill luncheon in honor of the Bison
During the title game, NDSU jumped out to a 21-3 halftime lead. But despite Montana State’s second half comeback, the Bison held off the Bobcats to claim a 35-32 victory.
It’s the school’s 10th FCS national championship in program history.
“To finish strong like you did and never get rattled, you came so far,” said Senator John Hoeven, who helped arrange the meeting with President Trump.
Along with the luncheon, the team had a chance to take a tour of the Capitol Building with lawmakers.
Video above: Sports Director James McCarty chats with players Marcus Gulley and Cole Payton
“It’s been unbelievable,” said quarterback Cole Payton. “Just to put NDSU on the map is good for our brand and our community.”
The Bison also took a team photo on the steps of the Capitol Building before heading to the White House.
“Just to see it in person is kind of surreal,” said Bison linebacker Marcus Gulley. “I’m just glad I can be here and build those lifelong relationships and get to cherish this memory as well.”
The football program has been here before, visiting with Trump after their FCS championship win in 2019.
