Chicago Bears Great Refuses White House Invitation

Earlier this month, President Obama invited the 1985 Super Champ Chicago Bears to the White House for the visit that did not happen in 1986. President Reagan invited the World Champs to the White House in January of 1986, but the Challenger disaster forced that visit to be cancelled. That was 25 years ago and a lot has changed namely, the death of Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton. Hall of Fame defensive tackle Dan Hampton recently refused the White House invite and cited three reasons for his decision.

1. Wives and children of the players were not invited

True, but most of the children are adults now so, it really doesn't make a lot of sense except in the case of Walter Payton, whose son will represent him. Still kind of a lame excuse for not attending.

2. Hampton is not a fan of Obama

So what!!! Why does it always have to be political for God's sake?? How often does any citizen get invited to the White House and have the opportunity to shake hands with the President of the United States? Sorry, Dan that is just rude and completely inappropriate, grow up dude.

3. "It was 25 years ago. Let it go."

I do somewhat understand this one, but back then Super Bowl winners were rarely invited to the White House. The '85 Bears were only the second team to be invited. Plus, what's wrong with the President giving his adopted hometown of Chicago some love for something that was great for the city?

Bottom line, Dan Hampton is being a jerk and a trouble maker. I personally have never met a President, former or sitting and would welcome the opportunity without any regard to politics....wouldn't you? The way things are going for the Bears, it will be a long time before they get THAT invitation again.