Alabama’s national championship football team visited the White House on Tuesday. The Crimson Tide came from behind with a 13-0 deficit to beat their rivals Georgia 26-23. It was Coach Nick Saban’s 5th national championship at the famed school, and his sixth overall.
Alabama’s starting quarterback Jalen Hurts shared his emotional response to being at the White House.
“Y’all put your mind to anything in life and y’all can achieve it. Man, at the White House – that’s so crazy.”
This great sport can bring you places that you’d never imagine. Trust in GOD and trust your GRIND! #AllGlory2God 💯 pic.twitter.com/6PNQv6ST34
— Jalen Hurts (@JalenHurts) April 10, 2018
Although Hurts was a huge factor in Alabama’s winning season, Coach Saban surprised many by putting in freshman quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for the second half and the win.
The president praised the team and the winning ways of Alabama football saying, “Each of you here today is here because of your grit your drive your dedication and your incredible teamwork,” Pres. Trump said. “Over the last several decades, America has learned that Alabama football knows how to win and how to keep winning…they just keep winning. It also takes a great coach and a great athletic director.”
Pres Trump, with Alabama coach Nick Saban, walk to ceremony on South Lawn to honor NCAA championship of @AlabamaFTBL. pic.twitter.com/8W5IccTCj4
— Mark Knoller (@markknoller) April 10, 2018
The Crimson Tide visited their spring home today. pic.twitter.com/gPEXy90svJ
— ESPN CollegeFootball (@ESPNCFB) April 10, 2018
President Trump concluded his congratulatory remarks with a celebratory “Roll Tide!”
Just after the president made his remarks, a group of players approached him and then began to pray for the president on the south lawn. One player placed his hand on Trump’s shoulder as the young men huddled around him in prayer.
“Alabama punter JK Scott asked President Trump if team could pray with him.”
The University of Alabama football team was honored at The White House today for winning the national championship. pic.twitter.com/HMwUb7zfwl
— Parker Branton (@ParkerBranton) April 10, 2018
You can watch the entire ceremony here.
In the midst of such controversy between the White House and the game of football, this was a refreshing scene, what do you think?