Austin, TX – On Tuesday morning, January 31, the gallery of the Texas Senate boomed with the call of “CRU!” as the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Crusader football team was recognized for its National Championship season in the Texas State Capitol building.
After the senate’s roll call, Dr. Dawn Buckingham, Senator for District 24, took the microphone to introduce the players and coaches in attendance and to present a proclamation she had drafted with State Representative Hugh Shine of District 55.
Buckingham listed the program’s accomplishments over the last year, including setting a school and conference record for single-season wins.
“Officially, the team is known as the Crusaders,” Buckingham said. “but Texas die-hard fans know them simply as the… “
“CRU!” the players responded from their position in the second-floor gallery.
“I am delighted to have Coach Fredenburg and the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor 2016 Cru Football Championship team as our special guests today,” Buckingham said, inviting her colleagues to join her in welcoming the team.
The student athletes and coaches stood in the gallery as members of the Senate and visitors in attendance honored them with several seconds of applause before Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick took the microphone.
“That’s quite an accomplishment, National Champions,” Patrick said, before offering his congratulations to the players and Fredenburg.
The team was also honored on the floor of the State House of Representatives, where Shine presented Coach Fredenburg with a special coin to commemorate the occasion.
Afterward, the team was given a chance to meet with Governor Greg Abbott.
“National Champions is what everybody aspired to be, and you did it,” Abbott said. “You brought great acclaim to the State of Texas, and I’m very proud.”
Senior linebacker Matt Cody had never been inside the Capitol before, and he said that the visit represented a special honor.
“You know Belton is close to home. We know we have real fans there that will support us win or lose,” Cody said, “but it was special to be honored by the people we vote to represent us.”
Senior defensive back Baylor Mullins said, “It’s amazing being here in our jerseys and knowing we’re National Champs. It’s the biggest thing I’ve ever done in my athletic career. Seeing the support is something really special.”
