Another year, another trip to the White House for the LA Galaxy.
The 2014 MLS Cup champions made their third visit to the White House in the last four years on Monday when they were feted by President Barack Obama in the wake of winning their record fifth league title last December.
Obama reserved some special words for the Galaxy, who were flanked at the White House by NHL champs the LA Kings, who – like the Galaxy – are owned by AEG.
“I was just telling these guys backstage the degree to which they represent their sport so well," Obama said. "America is starting to realize what the Beautiful Game is all about and it is wonderful to see not just what's happening at the highest levels of professional sports, but how legions of young people are going to be continuing the traditions here in the United States with soccer for many years to come.”
The Galaxy were without one very important member of the 2014 championship team on Monday, with retired LA legend Landon Donovan unable to make the ceremony while out of the country.
Obama recognized Donovan in his remarks, calling the longtime MLS and USMNT stalwart “one of the greatest soccer players America has ever produced.”
The president also praised LA defender Robbie Rogers, singling out the left back for positively influencing so many around the country.
“I want to recognize what Robbie Rogers of the Galaxy has done for a lot of people by blazing a trail as one of professional sport's openly gay players,” Obama said. “My guess is that as an athlete, Robbie wants to win first and foremost. That's what competition is all about. But Robbie, you've also inspired a lot of folks here and around the world and we're really proud of you.”
