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WASHINGTON, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama celebrated the 2013 Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks at the White House Monday, saluting his hometown team. The Blackhawks won their second NHL championship in two years in June, defeating the Boston Bruins six games to secure the fifth title in team history.
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Chicago resident Obama noted that achievement while hosting the squad in the East Room with a strong element of local pride.
"Now, since I took office, we've hosted a lot of championship teams -- from Boston and New York; Pittsburgh and Miami," he said. "But since I've been president, only one team has brought a world championship to my hometown of Chicago. And now the Blackhawks have done it twice."
Admitting that their two overtime contests and come-from-behind victory in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals made him "a little tense," Obama said the achievement was a great one for the team and the city.
He also humorously urged Chicago's other pro sports teams to emulate the feat.
"To the Bulls, Bears, Cubs, White Sox -- I am term-limited, so you guys have got to get moving. I need to see you here soon. Championships belong in Chicago."
Obama also spoke with Red Sox Manager John Farrell to congratulate him and the Boston Red Sox on their eighth World Championship, the White House said in a statement.
"The president noted the great job that Farrell did in his first year managing the team, remarked on the incredible pitching performance by Koji Uehara and extended his congratulations to David Ortiz on being named the World Series MVP. The president said he looks forward to welcoming the Red Sox to the White House to congratulate them in person."
