Auburn tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen labels it a “once in a lifetime opportunity,” but defensive end Nosa Eguae optimistically labels it an opportunity the Tigers hope to receive again.
“We’ll probably win another national championship, so I guess we’ll do it again, but you gotta embrace it,” Eguae said. “Not too many people get to go to the White House and meet the President of the United States.”
Auburn coach Gene Chizik and the Auburn team will be honored by President Obama at 2 p.m. at the Rose Garden of the White House. President Obama will make remarks about Auburn’s 2010 national title team and take a photo with the group.
The Auburn party is expected to number 150 with approximately 90 players on hand, including senior Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Cam Newton and defensive end Nick Fairley.
The Tigers were originally slated to visit the White House on April 29, but the trip was postponed due to the deadly tornados that hit the state of Alabama and Southeastern United States on April 27.
Lutzenkirchen was asked what he would say to the President, given the opportunity.
“Oh, man, nah, not too much,” he said. “I’d probably just be awe struck and wouldn’t be able to open my mouth and say anything.”
Both Lutzenkirchen and Eguae were asked about the highest ranking elected official either had met prior to today’s meeting with the President.
Lutzenkirchen said, “I guess coach Chizik or (athletics director) Jay Jacobs.”
Eguae said, “Some sort of a superintendent. Maybe a congressman. Nothing high.”
