SMU Football team visits Children's Medical Center

DALLAS (SMU) - The SMU football team spent time Wednesday afternoon having fun with patients at Children's Medical Center in Dallas. 

The players and coaches were welcomed by the hospital staff and then broke up into groups by positions to visit patients in their rooms, as well as playrooms on the different floors.

The student-athletes played video games and board games with the patients, made crafts, signed autographs, and shared many smiles and hugs. Players and coaches took photos with the patients, who were more than excited to spend time with their much larger visitors.

"This was a great opportunity to reach out to the community that supports us," explained SMU Head Football Coach Chad Morris. "Memories were made that won't soon be forgotten, and I think it is an experience that will help our players grow as men."

Members of the SMU football program also got to meet Van, a 20-month old golden retriever who serves as an emotional support dog at the hospital. Van is one of two such dogs at the facility. 

The visit was the first community service event under head coach Chad Morris, who was hired in December. The program is expected to make numerous visits into the community. 

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