COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a moment of pride and pageantry, the Ohio State Buckeyes were honored at the Ohio Statehouse today by Governor Mike DeWine, as well as members of both the Ohio Senate and the Ohio House of Representatives. The event marked a ceremonial celebration of the program’s recent achievements and longstanding legacy, affirming the profound impact Ohio State athletics continue to have on the state’s identity, spirit, and tradition.
From the moment the team stepped onto Capitol grounds, it was clear this was more than just a routine appearance. Fans, lawmakers, and members of the community gathered in support, lining the steps of the Statehouse and cheering for the Buckeyes as they made their way into the historic building. Dressed in suits and team colors, the Buckeyes were greeted with a standing ovation in the rotunda as the celebration commenced.
Governor DeWine opened the proceedings by reflecting on the importance of the Buckeyes to Ohio’s cultural fabric. “This team represents everything we hope to see in our young people: discipline, teamwork, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” said DeWine. “They bring pride to our state and inspire not only fans but future leaders, students, and athletes across Ohio.”
The ceremony included the formal presentation of resolutions from both legislative chambers. Senator Matt Huffman, President of the Ohio Senate, presented the team with an official Senate commendation, highlighting the Buckeyes’ most recent season accomplishments and acknowledging the work of the coaching staff, trainers, and support personnel behind the scenes. Similarly, Speaker of the House Jason Stephens shared remarks from the House floor, emphasizing how Ohio State athletics serve as a unifying force in a state as large and diverse as Ohio.
“Whether you’re from Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, or right here in Columbus, there’s one thing that brings us all together—our Buckeyes,” said Stephens. “Their excellence on the field reflects the values and determination of the people of Ohio.”
Also present were university officials, including Ohio State University President Dr. Walter “Ted” Carter Jr., who thanked lawmakers and the governor for their recognition and support of student-athletes. “This is not just about wins and championships,” said Carter. “It’s about academic excellence, community engagement, and preparing these young men and women for life beyond the arena.”
Head Coach Ryan Day, widely respected for his leadership and program-building, expressed gratitude on behalf of the team. “We are deeply honored by this recognition,” Day said. “We strive to uphold the tradition of Ohio State football and to do so in a way that makes this state proud. It’s humbling to know that our efforts are seen, valued, and appreciated at the highest levels.”
Following the formal proceedings, the team took a guided tour of the Statehouse, learning about the building’s storied history and its role in shaping Ohio’s political landscape. Players mingled with lawmakers, posed for photos, and signed autographs for young fans in attendance. The sense of camaraderie and mutual respect between the Buckeyes and state leaders was palpable throughout the day.
While football often dominates the headlines, today’s recognition also highlighted the broader success of Ohio State athletics across multiple sports. Members of the men’s and women’s basketball teams, wrestling, track and field, and Olympic sports were acknowledged for their contributions to the Buckeye legacy. The university has long been a symbol of competitive excellence in the Big Ten and beyond, with its athletes consistently earning All-American honors and competing on national and international stages.
Representative Dontavius Jarrells, whose district includes parts of Columbus, took time to recognize the growing role of student-athletes as leaders in civic and social spaces. “We’ve seen many of these athletes step up beyond their sports to advocate for mental health, education access, and social justice,” Jarrells said. “They are not just role models on the field—they are changemakers in our communities.”
Indeed, many of the Buckeye athletes have been involved in initiatives ranging from literacy campaigns in Columbus public schools to community service projects across the state. Their visibility and platform continue to serve as a force for positive change, and today’s event amplified that message.
As part of the event’s conclusion, Governor DeWine invited several players to the podium to share brief reflections. One senior linebacker spoke about the significance of being recognized by state leaders: “It means a lot to know our work is bigger than just Saturdays in the fall. We carry the name ‘Ohio’ on our backs, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
Another standout student-athlete from the women’s basketball team reflected on the legacy of those who came before her. “We stand on the shoulders of giants—athletes who paved the way and helped build this tradition. It’s our duty to leave it better than we found it.”
As the ceremony wrapped up and the team departed the Statehouse, the moment felt less like a farewell and more like a renewal of purpose. With eyes toward the future, both lawmakers and athletes left with a shared sense of optimism. Whether competing on the national stage or serving in local communities, the Buckeyes continue to be a source of inspiration, unity, and pride for all of Ohio.
For fans and families who made the trip to Columbus for the day, the message was clear: the Buckeyes are more than just a team. They are a living, breathing emblem of what it means to be an Ohioan.
And today, that spirit was celebrated not in a stadium, but in the heart of the state itself—the Ohio Statehouse.