Nov. 4, 2003

WACO, Texas - Daniel Sepulveda and Bryan Bays, members of the Baylor football team, visited Dean-Highland Elementary School Tuesday. The visit was part of the school's Red Ribbon week.

Red Ribbon week is a campaign designed to alert children about the dangers of drug use.

Sepulveda, who is an all-America and Ray Guy Award candidate, spoke to the children about staying poison-free, which means avoiding all drugs, including alcohol, nicotine, and illegal drugs.

"You have to stay away from all drugs, including cigarettes and alcohol," Sepulveda said, "because it poisons your body."

Both athletes shared personal stories about how drugs and alcohol have affected people they know.

"It is really scary to see someone you know and love suffer from drugs," Bays said.

The third graders asked Sepulveda and Bays questions, and then insisted on showing them some of their passing and catching skills.

Before leaving, the athletes signed autographs and took pictures with the children.

"I play running back," said one little boy, "and my number is 34."

"Hey, that's close to my number," said Sepulveda. "My number is 37."