April 15, 2025

Ferris State football players saluted by lawmakers, Gov. Whitmer for bringing national championship home to Michigan

Ferris State football team honored by Gov. Whitmer and lawmakers — Ferris State football team members were recognized for their 2024 NCAA Division II National Championship during activities on Tuesday, April 15 in Lansing. The team was joined by Ferris State President Bill Pink, Athletics Director Steve Brockelbank, Senior Associate Athletic Director / Internal Operations and Senior Woman Administrator Sara Higley and others.

LANSING, Mich. —

All of Michigan was proud of the Ferris State University football team’s national championship, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer told student-athletes on Tuesday, while also providing career advice and even encouraging some to think about running for office.

Student-athletes visited the State Capitol, appearing on the floor of the House of Representatives and Senate as guests of State Rep. Tom Kunse and State Sen. Roger Hauck.

Students presented the lawmakers with football jerseys and accepted special proclamations saluting them for the NCAA DII crown, which the team earned with a convincing victory over Valdosta State University in December – Ferris State’s third championship in four years.

“Congratulations! It’s really awesome what you guys achieved,” Whitmer told players. “It’s a source of pride for everyone in Michigan – even if they weren’t lucky enough to go to Ferris State. We’re all really proud of your leadership and teamwork. Those things will be a part of your life for the rest of your lives. I’m glad to know how you all bonded and pulled it off together.”

Players talked about bonding they did with teammates, their focus on success – and the challenge of playing in the chilly Michigan weather.

“I want you guys to tell me about the experience.” she said. “Tell me about the team! What do I need to know? What was the story of the season? Was there a moment, or a challenge that you’ll think about in 20 years when you are recalling your experience?”

Whitmer spoke to student-athletes about their studies and career plans, sharing her own journey and offering advice. She said she wanted to “plant the seed” to consider a career in public service.

Whitmer said she was a Communications major at Michigan State University, then returned to MSU for a law degree.

“When I was growing up, there were no women sportscasters. And I loved sports. So, I said I was going to be one of the first women sportscasters,” she said.

Whitmer said she worked for the MSU football team during her freshman and sophomore years.

“Then I did an internship here at the Capitol and fell in love with public service and it all kind of changed for me,” she said. “Half the battle is figuring out what you don’t want to do and what you do want to do -- and try different things out.”

Players said they enjoyed the time with the lawmakers and the behind-the-scenes look at the State Capitol. Hudsonville resident Mason Dykstra told Whitmer about his plans to become a teacher and had a chance to snap a photo with the governor.

“I thought it was great to see how everything worked, to see that they are normal people, too,” he said of his time with the lawmakers.

Ahlston Ware, a Business Administration major from Orlando, said he was impressed that the governor asked questions about the students and their future plans.

“It seemed like she really cared about us,” he said.