The Ohio State Board of Trustees honored the Ohio State football team for its national championship on Wednesday morning.
Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, linebacker Sonny Styles and offensive linemen Carson Hinzman and Tegra Tshabola attended the Board of Trustees’ quarterly meeting along with newly promoted offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, co-offensive coordinator Keenan Bailey and co-defensive coordinator Tim Walton on Wednesday as the trustees recognized the Buckeyes for their historic four-game run through the College Football Playoff.
Hartline, who said the Buckeyes had just finished going through a mat drill before Wednesday’s meeting, spoke on behalf of the coaching staff and thanked the board for its support of the football program.
“We couldn’t do this without you guys, so we want to make sure we’re really clear on that,” Hartline said. “I am a Buckeye through and through, and to be here is a true honor ... Year in and year out, your guys’ support is unparalleled. We are not where we are today if it wasn’t for your guys’ support, and to continue on this path, we need your guys’ support.”
The Ohio State football team brought the national championship trophy to Wednesday’s Board of Trustees meeting.
The Board of Trustees continued its support of the football program on Wednesday by formally approving a new seven-year contract for Ohio State coach Ryan Day that will pay him $12.5 million per year, making him the second-highest-paid coach in college football behind only Georgia’s Kirby Smart.
“I’m so pleased that we have Coach Day as the leader of our program and our young men,” Ohio State president Ted Carter said.
Ohio State’s dance team and spirit program, which won national championships of their own just days before the football Buckeyes’ triumph over Notre Dame, were also recognized by the Board of Trustees on Wednesday. Ohio State dance coach Melissa McGhee and mascot coach Ray Sharp were in attendance along with members of their respective teams.
“I don’t think any of us can fully appreciate how much hard work it took for all three of our national championship teams to accomplish the ultimate goal. That hard work is not seen by everybody every day, but we do understand that it takes a lot to get where you attained,” said Board of Trustees chair John Zeiger. “Thank you for representing this university in a very important and incredible way on the largest stage that we have in this country.”
