Governor Gianforte, President Trump Celebrate National Champion Montana State Bobcat Football Team at The White House

Governor's Office

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Governor Greg Gianforte today joined President Donald J. Trump, Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, as well as Congressman Troy Downing at the White House to recognize the Montana State University (MSU) Bobcat football team for their national championship victory.

"It was great to join President Trump at the White House to congratulate the national championship Bobcat football team for their hard work, discipline, and a commitment to excellence," Gov. Gianforte said. "Coach Viegen and the team continue to represent Montana well on the national stage, it's a great day to be a Bobcat!"

Gov. Gianforte (right) and Coach Brent Vigen (left) with the MSU Bobcat football team at the White House

In January, the Bobcats concluded a historic 14-2 season by winning the 2025-2026 NCAA Football Championship Subdivision Championship with a 35-34 overtime victory over Illinois State in Nashville. The win represents the team's first national championship title since 1984.

"There's no better way to celebrate the Bobcat's historic season than by a historic visit to the White House," said Senator Steve Daines. "What a day to be a Bobcat! Every player on this team has worked incredibly hard and it's great to see their efforts paid off. As always, I'm proud to be an MSU alum. GO CATS!"

In January, the governor hosted the Bobcats football team at the Montana State Capitol to declare January 20, 2026, as Bobcat Day in Montana.

After the visit with President Trump, MSU President Brock Tessman added, "This was a tremendous honor for our entire university and for the state of Montana. Forty-one years was a long time to wait, and our players, coaches and staff earned every bit of this moment through their hard work and determination all season long. We're grateful for the opportunity to be recognized on a national stage once again."

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