The title of this article is what President of the United States, Donald Trump, had to say about a once-in-a-lifetime feat. President Trump, just like me and you, just cannot seem to comprehend this incredible accomplishment.
All of what had happened to make this visit possible was nothing short of a miracle. Not only did the Pilots go 59-0 and become the first NAIA team ever to meet the President at the White House, but the LSU Tigers national championship team also made the trip. In Trump’s words, “It’s rare for two teams from one state to be in one room, but these are incredible teams who had amazing seasons.”
This is not to mention Mike Johnson, Bossier native and alum of both schools, being able to be in the position he is in. Shreveport-Bossier is well represented and proud of what has been accomplished. Johnson mentioned how he “played ball on [Pilot Field]” and grew up right by Youree Drive in the “shadow” of the campus. “It’s a great day when we can recognize champions from North and South Louisiana.”
Brad Neffendorf, head coach of the Pilots, spoke of how excited the guys were to get back together one more magical time and do one more celebration. LSU head coach Jay Johnson also spoke of the incredible feat the Pilots pulled, calling it an honor to share the stage with them. Afterwards, Trump received a Pilots jersey with his name and number “47” on the back.
This team has been honored in countless ways since winning it all in Lewiston; none of them or any future celebrations will ever come close to visiting the White House. The standard of LSU-Shreveport athletics was always high. Teams have always competed at the highest level, but this baseball team just somehow raised expectations even more. It is no longer getting to the final stage but being the last team standing on that stage.
Printer-friendly version
