WELCOMES TEAM TO WASHINGTON, D.C. AT A RECEPTION HELD AT SEWALL-BELMONT HOUSE

Washington, Mar 19, 2007 - I am very proud of this opportunity to honor the University of Florida Gators for winning the football national title last year, the second time they have won that title," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). "With your 41-14 victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Gators became the first Division I school to hold the national championships in men's basketball and football at the same time."

Stearns joined in welcoming the Gators to Washington, D.C. today at a reception held at the Sewall-Belmont House, which provided a place of hospitality for the team and Gators fans. Stearns congratulated the team on their championship season and then presented the team with a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of their achievement.

Added Stearns, "The Florida Gators are excellent representatives of both the university and the great State of Florida in their tenacity, spirit, and desire to succeed. I take great pride in representing the University of Florida and congratulate Coach Urban Meyer and the entire university on this great accomplishment." Stearns also joined the team later in the day at the White House as President Bush honored the team.