April 7, 2011

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford women's tennis players spent time at Vestavia Central Elementary School this week. Emily Mallory, Madelie Janse Van Rensburg, Andrie Meiring, Lindsey Mallory and Taylor Morgan all visited the school to read to classes as part of the Bulldog Buddies Reading Program.

The athletes took time to read to the children, answer questions and sign autographs.

"Darnall's Dream Team from Vestavia Central really enjoyed Taylor and Andrie visiting our classroom," Ms. Darnall said. "The students loved discussing our story, "Leonardo's Horse" with them and hearing about Samford. It's nice to have such positive, female role models visit the classroom."

A student from Ms. Jaggard's class added, "I thought it was nice that they were taking the time out of their school day to read to us! It was great!"

Samford student-athletes spend time throughout the year visiting schools and giving back to the community.

"It was such a great experience to be able to go and spend time with the kids by reading to them," Taylor Morgan said. "I think it's so important as Samford athletes to be involved in the community we are a part of."

The tennis team concludes its regular season this weekend. The Bulldogs will take on Davidson Saturday and finish with Senior Day on Sunday against Appalachian State.