Legislature recognizes flawless team record

LANSING - The sounds of legislators singing 'The Victors!' filled the state Capitol as state lawmakers congratulated the 1997 National Championship Michigan football team.

Fourteen players, including co-captains Jon Jansen and Eric Mayes, made the trip to Lansing to receive congratulatory remarks, speak with legislators and accept a resolution in recognition of Michigan's perfect season.

The team visited both the state Senate and the House, encountering a number legislators who donned maize and blue in honor of the Wolverines' National Championship. The University Men's Glee Club and the cheerleading team contributed cheers and songs to the spirited affair.

"It was very, very exciting to introduce the University of Michigan National Champion Wolverines," said Rep. Liz Brater (D-Ann Arbor). "It was one of the greatest thrills of my life. It was an honor to have them share their victory with us."

The two co-captains proudly displayed the Big Ten and National Championship Associated Press trophies for the legislators who cheered for the players as Brater called out their names.

Some of the players stood in awe, visiting the Capitol for the first time ever, while others could barely hold back their wide smiles in reaction to the standing ovation.

"It's a blessing, a tremendous blessing," said Brent Washington, a junior defensive back. "It gives us an opportunity to be recognized for the achievements we've accomplished. Being in the Senate, seeing the senators - that's a tremendous blessing."

Mayes said he found a paradox in the celebration. "It's a great irony to be honored and recognized in the state capital, the home of the Michigan State Spartans, by the Senate and the House in Lansing," Mayes said.

Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr, who posed for pictures with legislators and fans after the ceremonies, said yesterday was one of the more memorable days of the season and subsequent celebrations.

"We've had a lot of great things happen to us this year," Carr said. "Certainly being honored by the state Legislature is one of the greatest honors, especially for many of the players who are from the state of Michigan."

While the celebration was designed to pay tribute to the team for winning the National Championship, Carr and a number of legislators emphasized the importance of education both for the players and the state.

"I want you to know that as a football coach and a citizen, I understand the value of education," Carr told the legislators.

Many legislators, including Rep. George Mans (D-Trenton), attempted to convey to the players how critical education is to one's future.

"I just told them I hope they enjoyed the football experience and that they prepare themselves for after college," said Mans, who played on the football team in the early '60s and coached in 1967. "It was great to see the Michigan Wolverines, the Glee Club and the cheerleaders."

After talking with state lawmakers, Wide Receiver Terrence Quinn said the legislators opened up his mind to new ideas and careers.

"They gave me another option of what I could do with my future - running for a seat in the house," Quinn said. "Even though I want to be an attorney, I've never thought of policy. Who knows, maybe I'll be down there shaking hands with the next National Champion Michigan football team."

Rep. Eileen DeHart (D-Westland) brought along her baby to experience history in the making. She said the players' accomplishments both on and off the football field have increased state pride.

"What they've done for our state is probably more than what this state legislature can do," DeHart said. "They've brought national attention to the state and tremendous respect."

02-13-98