President Bush talks with Chris Watson, holding Blue Jays lacrosse helmet, and other NCAA champion team captains who brought gifts on behalf of their schools. PHOTO BY HIPS / WILL KIRK

The JHU men's lacrosse team, which this year claimed its eighth NCCA title in school history and first since 1987, recently made one last road trip for the season — destination, the nation's capital. On July 12, the Blue Jays, along with 14 other 2005 collegiate championship teams, were honored in a special White House reception presided over by President Bush.

Johns Hopkins players, coaches, trainers and several administration members were first given a tour of the White House and then escorted to the South Lawn for a ceremony during which the president offered remarks to celebrate the accomplishments of each of the teams. On hand to cheer on the Jays were Jerry Schnydman, executive assistant to President William R. Brody; Tom Calder, university athletic director; and Maryland Congressman Elijah Cummings.

Senior Chris Watson, the Blue Jays' captain, joined other team captains behind the podium during Bush's speech and later presented the president, on behalf of the team and the university, with an official Hopkins game jersey (No. 1), lacrosse helmet, a national championship polo shirt and a sweatshirt for first lady Laura Bush.

For the undefeated Blue Jays, who won the NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Championship with a 9-8 win over Duke on Memorial Day, it was their first-ever trip to the White House. Prior to the South Lawn ceremony, the president had gathered with each team for a photo and some casual conversation.

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