In his eight years in office, President George W. Bush has only greeted one NCAA national champion program at the White House four times: the University of Minnesota Duluth women's hockey team.

The Bulldogs made their fourth trip in eight years to visit the president, who reminded the audience of about 120 on the South Lawn of the White House Tuesday that he had met them before.

“The University of Minnesota Duluth earned their fourth championship in the past eight years,” Bush said in his speech. “It's good to see you again.

“One of the things I tell people is, is that if you work hard and become a repeat champion, I look forward to welcoming you back to the White House. However, this time it's not going to work. My eligibility has run out.”

Three other Bulldog squads have met Bush, now in his last year as president, during previous trips to the nation's capital in 2003, 2002 and 2001. UMD shutout Wisconsin 4-0 to win the NCAA women's hockey title March 22 in the Women's Frozen Four at the DECC.

Prior to Tuesday's ceremony, the Bulldogs toured the White House and even ran into University of Tennessee head women's basketball coach Pat Summit while walking around. Summit and UMD head coach Shannon Miller had some kind words for each other, and were both aware of each others accomplishments to date.

“It was very exciting to have the chance to chat with her,” Miller said.

A few UMD players were able to shake hands with the 43rd president as they posed for a team photo. Senior captain Karine Demeule presented Bush with a No. 43 maroon away jersey.

“It was fun,” said Demeule, the lone Bulldog senior on the 2007-08 squad. “We were lucky to be there.”

Demeule was one of 20 captains from other NCAA Division I champions to be on stage behind the president during his speech.

“It's a huge honor to be asked to go to the White House by the president,” said a beaming Miller. “Every time you win, it is a different team and a different year. It makes you hungry for more.”