Pittsburgh Steelers claimed victory in the 2009 Super Bowl in February, thanks to James Harrison, who made the 100-yard interception return for the touchdown that won the game in its final moments. While it’s customary for the winning team to make an honorary victory lap at the White House, Harrison refuses to join his teammates on their trip to Washington.
Harrison believes that the ritual practice is unnecessary and feels President Obama has no genuine desire to meet the Pittsburgh Steelers. In the linebacker’s view, Obama is only interested in meeting with the Super Bowl’s victors, which could’ve been any team.
Harrison told Pittsburgh’s WTAE, “this is how I feel — if you want to see the Pittsburgh Steelers, invite us when we don’t win the Super Bowl. As far as I’m concerned, [Obama] would’ve invited Arizona if they had won.”
Harrison makes painfully a legitimate point, the White House, by tradition, opens its doors to an an array of collegiate and professional championship teams each year. Just last week, the World Series champs visited the White House in addition to the recent appearance by the North Carolina Tar Heels Basketball team. Obama also shot hoops with UConn’s women’s squad, who are, of course, national champs. In 2006, former president Bush hosted a party for the Steelers on behalf of their Super Bowl XL win.
Harrison’s agent, Bill Parise, confirmed the linebacker’s decision to decline the invitation, added that he stands firm on his choice and insists Harrison’s refusal is in no way politically driven, reports Sports Illustrated.com
“No, he won’t. He didn’t go the last time either,” said Parise. “It absolutely is not political. He just doesn’t want to go.”