Oct. 26, 2001

Baylor football players Greg Cicero and Bobby Darnell took time off the field Thursday to read to second graders at Robinson Elementary School in Robinson, Texas (near Waco). Baylor athletes volunteer their time to read to children through the Bears N' Books program.

Robinson Elementary principal Jeanie Johnson feels the program is a great concept to bring into the classroom.

"The kids are always thrilled. They need role models, especially athletes," Johnson said.

The children and teachers are not the only ones to reap rewards from the Bears N' Books program.

"It is important to realize our responsibility to our community," Darnell, a wide receiver for the Bears, said. "It is a nice break away from my busy schedule to go and have fun with the children."

While Texas Tech is on the mind of these football players, so is the importance of their leadership in the Waco community.

"I love children," quarterback Greg Cicero said. "I would have loved someone in my position to come and spend time with me when I was in elementary school."

For more on how the Bears are involved in the community, click here.