LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — From a baseball field in Dallas Township to the White House in Washington, D.C., members of the Misericordia University Men's Baseball Team were recognized at the nation's capitol on Monday for winning the NCAA Division III World Series.
"Just like talking to everyone and hanging out with all of our friends on the White House lawn, and then a tour of the White House, you know, all the historical stuff, which was pretty cool," said Joey Peters, Dallas.
"It's something that You can only really dream of when you're coming to a school trying to compete for a spot, win a spot, and, you know, be successful," said Andrew Roxby, sophomore.
The Cougars were one of more than 40 teams representing all NCAA Divisions at the annual White House College Champions Day, hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris
This was her first public appearance since President Joe Biden withdrew from the 2024 race for the white house while also endorsing Harris to take his place.
"In America, tens of millions of people play a sport as a child, and the best of the best grow up to become national champions. Here today, we have seven undefeated teams, eleven repeat champions, and twenty first-time winners," said Vice President Kamala Harris.
"We didn't even realize how big and important it was just because it was the first time she had spoken since Biden had dropped out, and it was really cool to be there for that," said Max Oliver, senior.
While some of the players don't know who they're voting for come November, they can understand why many folks are leaning toward Harris.
"I can see where people would think that that that she is suitable for a job, but it's all personal opinions," said Josh Burger, senior.
For many of the players the chance to represent their area at the White House was something they say they will remember forever.