ST. PAUL, Minn. - The Concordia University volleyball team cashed in on a promise made by Governor Tim Pawlenty for repeating as NCAA Division II National Champions, enjoying a meet-and-greet, lunch and tour of the governor's mansion Thursday afternoon. The volleyball team earned the chance to meet Governor Pawlenty at the State Capitol after winning their first national title in 2007, where Pawlenty said he would host the team at his residence if they won again in 2008.
"It's great to have you (CU volleyball) here today," said Pawlenty to the team as they entered the residence. "When I promised you lunch last year, I didn't really think you would be able repeat! So if you win again next year, we'll have to do something really great."
After being welcomed to the Pawlenty's part-time home, the Golden Bear volleyball players and staff enjoyed a formal lunch with the Governor, talking about their season, school work, and even discussing how Pawlenty's own daughters have taken up volleyball as their sport of choice. Several current Concordia athletes previously played junior olympics for the same clubs for which Pawlenty's daughters currently play.
Pawlenty gathered his dog at the conclusion of the meal and headed out to a conference call and press conference, but the experience for the Golden Bears continued. They were given a tour of the mansion, which was built in 1910, and the adjacent grounds and gardens.
The Concordia University volleyball team went 37-1 en route to a 2008 repeat as National Champions. They dropped their first game of the season to Cal State San Bernardino before ripping off 37 consecutive wins and a title rematch victory over Cal State San Bernardino. The Golden Bears went 20-0 for their sixth straight NSIC title and won their fourth Central Region championship in six years. They had the opportunity to win the national championship on their home court, hosting the final three rounds of the NCAA Tournament at the Gangelhoff Center in St. Paul.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS FROM THE LUNCH AT THE MANSION; follow the Volleyball, 2008 Season collection.
