FORT WAYNE, Ind. -- This was a celebration like no other, because the 2017 University of Saint Francis football team is the first institution from the state of Indiana to win back-to-back NAIA football championships.

Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry read a proclamation declaring Jan. 16, 2018 'University of Saint Francis Football National Championship Day' in Fort Wayne. Allen County Commissioner Nelson Peters also had a proclamation proclaiming Tuesday 'USF Cougars Back-to-Back National Championship Day.'

"It's my honor to be here with you," USF President Sister Elise Kriss noted. "Winning one is not accomplished by that many wins, but to win two, to do back-to-back is really something to celebrate."

She thanked USF Head Coach Kevin Donley, his coaching staff and all the members of the USF Championship Team. She especially noted the players visiting two different schools in Daytona Beach, Fla., to interact with elementary and high school students.

USF Athletic Director Mike McCaffrey introduced Donley who was welcomed by a standing ovation from the crowd of more than 500 who braved the cold and snow.

"Oh wow, thank you, thank you very much, appreciate it," the back-to-back NAIA Coach of the Year began his remarks said during the ceremony at Hutzell Athletic Center recognizing the Cougars on Tuesday over the lunch hour. "I have been blessed to be involved in a great team sport. There really are no individual awards. We get 'em slapped on our back, but we know this is about team. These young men are an absolute blessing to be around. Their hard work, their dedication.

"We live by a code called CBR," Donley continued. "Character. We constantly build character. It defines who they are. From integrity. To being accountable to responsibility. You have no idea the sacrifice, the hours, learning how to deal with distraction. I couldn't be prouder of a group of young men who have not just done it once, but done it twice. I love you guys."

Donley not only thanked the coaching staff, the players and support staff, he thanked the USF community, the parents, the USF Marching Pride, the USF Cheer Team and the Fort Wayne Community.

"Every one of you had a part in it," Donley said emphatically. "Everybody played a big, big role in this and I can't think you all enough."