Aug. 30, 2006
A weekly Q&A with Baylor's student-athletes
September 30, 2006
BEAR FACTS Archive
Shawn Bell
Football
Senior, Quarterback
When did you start playing your sport?
I played flag football starting in third grade, but did not actually play tackle football until seventh grade. However, since day one I've had a football in my hands.
Who has had the greatest impact on your career?
My father. He has been the greatest role model, dad and friend I could ask for. Without his help and support I would be nowhere close to where I am right now.
What is the best part of being a college athlete?
I am living a dream. I am the starting quarterback for a Big 12 school. I also attend a very special university that I would not otherwise be able to pay for.
Favorite sport other than your own?
Golf, when I'm playing well.
What is your nickname on the team and why?
"Big Head" because Coach Hays thinks he is a comedian. Also the squad calls me "Shawn Beezie."
After meeting Coach Morriss, what was your first thought?
He is old school and has a certain swagger about him.
If you could play a different position, what would it be?
Wide receiver
Do you have a pre-game ritual, if so what is it?
Relax! I play better when I am relaxed and loose. I also listen to my iPod and throw the ball around to loosen up a little bit. I have to listen to "My Town" by Montgomery Gentry because I'm a local guy. I also pray on the goal line before kick-off.
What is the most unique item in your locker?
Hair gel. I seem to be the only one with it because everyone is always borrowing it.
What is the funniest moment from Baylor practice?
Something funny happens every day since Coach Hays has gotten here.
Who are your favorite sports heroes?
Michael Jordan, Kurt Warner and Cal Ripken, Jr
What is the highlight of your sports career?
Beating Texas A&M two years ago. Hopefully there will be some better ones after this year.
What is your most embarrassing sports moment?
When I thought I had the first down against Texas Tech on third down and slid short of the marker. Luckily, I got the first down on the next play, but I was so mad at myself.
What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
Believing in myself. Too many times I have listened to my critics and started believing some of the stuff they were saying. Now, I work to prove them wrong.
What opposing schools do you most look forward to competing against ?
Texas A&M
What is one thing Coach Morriss always tells you?
Put a blanket over the scoreboard and play four full quarters.
What is your favorite team road trip?
Anywhere outside of Texas because it's a totally new environment for me.
Who is your biggest fan?
My family. My mom, dad and brother. Also, my Nana, Pop, Gee and my Paw-Paw in heaven. My parents haven't missed a game since I've been at Baylor and all of my family has been an amazing source of support and love.
Why did you choose to attend Baylor?
To stay close to home and get a great education in a Christian environment. I also wanted to turn this football program around and put Baylor back on the map.
What's the most important thing you've learned as a Baylor athlete?
Football is a lot like life. It's a marathon not a sprint. My dad always told me this when I first started here at Baylor and I am finally seeing how God's plan is being revealed to me.
What single thing will you most miss about Baylor when you leave?
My teammates
Who is your all-time favorite Baylor athlete?
Sophia Young
What is one thing you would change about Baylor?
Better parking on campus and packed football games with fans who support the team 100 percent win or lose.
As a role model to young athletes, what advice can you give?
Sports are very important. However, make sure you are a great individual because in the long run, that is what really matters. I would rather be known as a good person rather than a good quarterback.
What are three words that describe you?
VERY, VERY competitive.
What song is stuck in your head right now?
"My Town" by Montgomery Gentry.
What is your favorite T.V. show?
SportsCenter
Name one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you.
I lost my sister when I was in third grade in an accident.
Name one thing you can't go a week without.
Talking to my mom and dad.
What is your dream job?
A Division I head football coach.
What's your most valued possession?
I'm not very materialistic, so probably my dog Izzy.
What song is playing in your MP3 player right now?
"Believe" by Brooks and Dunn.
Best non-athletic talent?
Deer Hunting. I don't count that as being athletic.
Favorite musical artist?
My teammates will make fun of me, but probably Keith Urban.
Biggest superstition?
What I wear during the games, like wristbands, quarterback towel, etc.
Biggest fear?
Failing, because I'm so competitive and want to be so successful.
Biggest pet-peeve?
Someone not washing their hands or shaking someone's hand after washing mine for a meal.
Least favorite food?
Vegetables
Worst movie you've seen?
Artificial Intelligence: AI
Favorite T-Shirt?
Anything with Baylor Football on it.
Best opposing Big 12 fans?
Nebraska by far.
Movies or TV?
Movies
MTV or ESPN?
ESPN
Inflatable Judge or Bruiser?
Judge
Daytime or Nighttime?
Definitely nighttime.
Penland or Memorial?
Penland
Cars or Trucks?
Trucks
compiled by Sara Spain, Athletic Media Relations student assistant
