WASHINGTON, D.C. -- About 300 people crowded the South Lawn today as President Barack Obama welcomed the 2011 BCS Champion Crimson Tide team and coaches to the White House.

In the crowd were Alabama dignitaries including Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, Birmingham Mayor William Bell, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin, members of the Alabama congressional delegation, Capitol Hill staffers and Washington-area alums.

The "Yea Alabama" fight song filled the air to start the ceremony, just before the team exited the south portico doors, led by Interim University of Alabama President Judy Bonner and UA Athletic Director Mal Moore.

"It is my pleasure to welcome the Alabama Crimson Tide back to the White House," Obama said in his remarks.

"I told Coach he's making this a habit," the president said of coach Nick Saban. [

]

The president also made some personal references to the team's commitment to Tuscaloosa after the April 27, 2011, storms, the losses the team suffered and its assistance on Tuscaloosa's road to recovery.

"It was one year ago next week that an F-4 tornado carved a path right through Tuscaloosa," Obama said.

He specifically mentioned Saban's "13 for 30" program that aims to build houses for those who lost their homes in the tornado, and he also mentioned other players and coaches who have helped in Tuscaloosa's recovery.

Obama's remarks extensively noted the team's participation in the tornado recovery and the losses the team personally suffered,

, Ashley Harrison, in the storm. He also noted the team's loss of offensive lineman

a couple of weeks later.

The president applauded the Tide for its perseverance and decisive victory in the title game this January after a long road.

"The Tide not only beat the (LSU) Tigers, they shut them out," Obama said, noting that was the first such game in BCS history.

But the president couldn't resist a dig at the A-Day mishap that shattered

.

"This team didn't just shatter records I hear the championship trophy also took a bit of a spill earlier this week," he said.

"Congratulations on an extraordinary seasons, good luck next season, and, who knows, I may see you next year," he said.

For their part, Saban and the team presented Obama with a No. 14 jersey and helmet. "I'm probably going to need a helmet between now and November," the president said in accepting his gifts.

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Live updates: Crimson Tide congratulated by President Obama in White House ceremony