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Princeton University Athletics
Princeton Women's Lacrosse Team Honored By President Bush
November 17, 2003 | Women's Lacrosse
Nov. 17, 2003
Washington, D.C. - The Princeton women's lacrosse team celebrated its 2003 national championship Monday in Washington, D.C., taking part in the Champions' Day ceremonies with President George W. Bush at the White House and in a private reception at the Capitol Building with Senators Bill Frist (R-Tennessee) '74 and Paul Sarbanes (D-Maryland) '54.
Princeton was honored at the White House for the second straight year after also winning the 2002 championship.
"This is a wonderful day for us," said Princeton coach Chris Sailer. "To be able to represent our University and our country in our nation's capital is something none of us will ever forget."
Princeton left campus at 8 a.m. and arrived at the Lincoln Memorial slightly before noon. After spending approximately a half-hour on The Mall, a time that included a tour of the Korean War memorial, Princeton took the short bus ride over to the White House. President Bush hosted eight NCAA championship teams from last spring: Princeton (women's lacrosse), Virginia (men's lacrosse), Illinois (men's tennis), Florida (women's tennis), Rice (baseball), UCLA (softball), Clemson (men's golf) and Southern Cal (women's golf). In addition, St. John's (Minn.) football coach John Gagliardi, who recently became college football's leader in career wins, was also honored.
Each participating team had its picture taken with the President, and then all eight teams had the opportunity to present the President with a gift from their respective programs. Sarah Small, one of last season's capains, gave Mr. Bush a Princeton championship t-shirt.
"Princeton is the only team here this year who was here last year," the President said when accepting the gift. "I asked the team if they were going to be here next year as well, and one of them said 'Are you?' "
After the ceremony in the White House, the Princeton group was treated to a private tour of the Capitol building. The day concluded with a reception in the Abraham Lincoln room of the Capitol that was hosted by the two Senators, both of whom have served as University trustees.
"We're honored to have you here," Senator Frist said. "You have done so much for Princeton University and for the sport of lacrosse."
Princeton defeated Virginia 8-7 on Theresa Sherry's overtime goal last May to win the NCAA title, the second straight for the Tigers and the third overall.