The Georgia Bulldogs football program will not travel to the White House to celebrate its second consecutive national championship, with a spokesperson citing the date offered as the reason. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden invited the team to Washington, D.C., on June 12 for what they are calling “College Athlete Day.” A spokesperson for the University of Georgia said that it was not feasible given the student-athlete calendar and time of year, but they are appreciative of the invitation and look forward to other opportunities for Georgia teams moving forward.
Georgia, which went 15-0 during the 2022 season, snatched an overwhelming 65-7 victory over TCU at the College Football Playoff National Championship in January. The initial invitation was received on May 3; however, Georgia's athletic association stated that due to their repeated national championships and busy schedules, it would be impossible for them to attend.
In response to this situation, Jill Biden floated an alternative idea: inviting Iowa's women's basketball team - who had finished as runner-up last month after losing against LSU in a closely contested final match - instead. Caitlin Reese from Iowa Women's Basketball declined committing immediately but mentioned she would discuss joining LSU when they visit The White House on May 26.
No college football teams have visited The White House since LSU did so back in January 2019 due partly because pandemic precautions put such events on hold. As restrictions ease nationwide following vaccination campaigns' success against COVID-19 transmission rates dropping steadily throughout most states across America – many stakeholders hope these visits can resume normalcy once more soon enough!
"The University of Georgia is grateful for President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden's gracious invitation," said UGA Athletic Director Josh Brooks in a statement released by his office. He further added "Although scheduling conflicts prevent our participation this year, we appreciate their recognition of our student-athletes and look forward to future opportunities for Georgia teams."
It is clear that while the Georgia football team will not be attending this year's College Athlete Day at The White House, they are appreciative of the honor and hope to make it happen in the future. In the meantime, other college sports champions have their chance to shine during these prestigious visits as America continues celebrating its exceptional athletes.