Gotham FC celebrated their 2023 NWSL Championship at the White House

It has almost been a year since NJ/NY Gotham FC won their first NWSL Championship. The incredible run the Bats went on in the playoffs was truly a Cinderella story. They were not supposed to win the whole thing after barely making the playoffs. Yet, the sixth-place side won after finishing the previous year in last place, and the rest is history.

While somewhat delayed, Gotham FC was honored to finally celebrate the win at the nation's capital. President Joe Biden and the White House invited the team to celebrate their 2023 win like other teams have throughout the years. This is the first time an NWSL champion has been invited to the White House, which is a little shocking. Hopefully, this will change things, and future champions will be invited each year. It must be noted though the team did go to the White House after the WPS Championship win in 2009. Again, this is still the first NWSL team to be invited.

Gotham FC celebrated the 2023 Championship at the White House

The 2024 playoff-bound Gotham FC had a good portion of last year's team with them, including a few players who are no longer with the team. They included but were not limited to Kristen Edmonds, Mandy Haught, and Taylor Smith. The new Club Ambassador Ali Krieger was of course with the Bats. She and the president walked up to the stage together.

To celebrate, President Biden made remarks about the team and women's sports. He talked about Gotham FC's accomplishments and how they faced adversity. The Bats did not give up though, and that is why they were able to lift the trophy in 2023.

He also had to mention the attendance record from the 2023 NWSL Championship. He quoted what everyone around women's sports has been saying this year, saying, "I think it's fair to say everyone- everyone watches women's sports." That got loud cheers from everyone in the room.

Krieger, as last year's captain and as the ambassador, spoke as well. She utilized her time to not only recognize her teammates but also focus on the importance of the growth of women's soccer and sports.

Then, the team even gave the president his own jersey. Additionally, the trophy was on display during the celebration.

The Gotham ladies, coaching staff, and front office also had the opportunity to tour some of the rooms in the White House. Iconic photos were taken as the Bats had a chance to look at history and some fantastic paintings.

This invite was extremely important to the NWSL and women's sports. While national teams and WNBA teams have been to the White House before, this highlights the growth of the women's side of the beautiful game and the NWSL. The event can also inspire young girls they too can play professional soccer. Or maybe one day, as the president said, they can be the president of the United States.

There is no question Gotham FC will remember this day for the rest of their lives.