Oct. 4, 2004

WACO, Texas - The Baylor men's basketball team visited Dean Highland Elementary Wednesday. Turner Phipps, Tommy Swanson and Assistant Coach Matthew Driscoll spoke to a group of 85 fourth and fifth grade students about teamwork and staying in school.

Coach Driscoll said, `The best thing you can be a part of is a team. It could be Boy Scouts, a sports team, church group or even a math club."

Driscoll emphasized that the children cooperate with all types of people and get along with each other. He told the children to listen to their teachers and respect what they had to say.

Turner Phipps, a sophomore from Lubbock, asked the children what they want to do when they grow up.

He said, "You can't play sports all your life. That's why you need to stay in school and get an education. It all comes down to working hard."

Tommy Swanson, a junior from North Crowley, fascinated the children with his dunking and shooting ability. He pointed out that the children need to set their goals early in life and continue to work to achieve each goal.

As Coach Driscoll and the athletes left, the children gave them high-fives and asked them many questions about playing basketball for Baylor.

For more information about Baylor Athletics community relations, contact Liesl Rodenhaver at 710-3073.