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By Adam— April 15, 2025
When Ohio State’s championship-winning team arrived at the White House this week to be honored for their unforgettable season, they expected applause, handshakes, and maybe a few heartfelt speeches. What they didn’t expect was to be upstaged — by a fan in a Michigan hat.
During Monday's ceremony on the South Lawn, attended by players, coaches, and dignitaries, including Vice President JD Vance, cameras caught an unexpected attendee standing among the crowd, proudly sporting a bright maize-and-blue Michigan Wolverines cap.
Who Was the Mystery Fan?
He wasn’t a player. He wasn’t a coach. But the fan quickly became the most talked-about figure of the afternoon. Identified by Outkick as Mark Gull, a resident of Alexandria, Virginia, the man is reportedly a lifelong Michigan supporter — and he wasn’t going to let Ohio State have their moment without a bit of friendly trolling.
As Vice President Vance addressed the crowd, he took a brief pause to acknowledge Gull’s choice of headwear with a grin.
“You know, I respect the bravery of wearing that hat here today,” Vance quipped. “Bold move — but I’m not sure you’re making it out of here with it still on.”
Laughter rippled through the audience, including the Ohio State team, who took the moment in stride.
The Ultimate Rivalry, on the Ultimate Stage
The Ohio State–Michigan rivalry is one of the most storied in college sports — and it clearly doesn’t stop at the 50-yard line. Even on the White House lawn, in a moment meant to honor one side, the other managed to show up.
Social media quickly exploded with memes and reactions.
“This is Big Ten energy at its finest,” one post read.
“Legendary,” wrote another. “Dude’s got guts.”
Trolling or Tradition?
To many fans, Mark Gull is more than just a prankster — he's a reminder of what college sports are all about: passion, pride, and a little bit of petty fun.
While some Ohio State fans found the moment irritating, most seemed to laugh it off. After all, you can win championships, visit presidents, and still get photobombed by your biggest rival.
And for Michigan fans? Gull might just be a hero.
The Final Word
Ohio State may have been at the White House to celebrate a title — but thanks to one very visible Michigan hat, they also got a reminder that rivalries never die. Not even in Washington, D.C.
In a moment that will no doubt live on in memes and message boards, the fan known as "Michigan Hat Guy" gave sports fans everywhere something else to talk about.