March 9, 2007

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - World famous recording artist and actor Harry Connick, Jr., made a surprise visit to Samford's volleyball practice Friday. In town for a concert at the BJCC, he stopped by to watch the Bulldogs' two-hour workout. Connick, Jr.'s cousin, Sara Sears, is a sophomore on the team.

"I'm just so proud of her (Sara)," said Connick, Jr. "I've never really been able to see her in her element, so I just wanted to come out here to see that today. It's good to be here in Birmingham and Samford has a beautiful campus. It's really nice and I was happy to be here to see it."

Samford was in the midst of a typical early-morning practice Friday when Connick, Jr., arrived to Seibert Hall.

Head coach Michelle Durban and Sears were aware that he would be dropping by, but the rest of the Bulldogs were floored when the celebrity walked in. Following practice, Connick, Jr., remained on the court to sign autographs and take pictures.

"It was great for him to stop by and to take time out of his schedule," said Sears, a native of Fairhope, Ala. "We know that he is really busy and it was good to see him. I haven't been able to see him since Thanksgiving and it will be nice to spend more time with him later on today."

The Samford University volleyball team is holding spring practice in preparation for its fall competition. The Bulldogs will return 11 of their 12 letterwinners from a year ago.