Feb. 15, 2007
MARIETTA, Ohio — 2007 marks the 10th year that the Marietta College men's basketball team brought national "Dream to Read" week (Jan. 8-12) into local elementary schools. Head Coach Doug Foote introduced the idea and the program to Marietta in 1998, and it has been both a learning and rewarding experience for his players each year.

The Pioneers visited 600 students at Harmar Elementary, Phillips Elementary and Washington Elementary. The players, who split up into groups, were assigned a book to read to each class. They followed it up with a question and answer session where the kids asked questions about college and basketball. The players then signed autographs.

Each student received a special certificate indicating his or her participation in "Dream to Read" week. They also received a family pass for free admission into Saturday's 3 p.m. game against the Baldwin-Wallace Yellow Jackets. The students that attend will be recognized at halftime for their participation in the program.

"The players love it," said Foote. "I think they have a better understanding that as student-athletes they are role models and that these kids do look up to them. It has also taught them a sense of responsibility and the importance of community."

The "Dream to Read" program was originally started by former Trinity (TX) coach Charlie Brock. Its purpose was to assist the literacy movement in America. The program hopes to motivate and encourage children to read for enjoyment as a lifelong practice. Brock presented the idea to the National Association of Basketball Coaches, and then more programs around the nation started to adopt the "Dream to Read" program.

Coach Foote first heard about the program at a convention in San Antonio. He brought the idea back with him to Marietta, and since then, the Pioneers have participated in the program.

"We've been doing this program long enough that the teachers call us and our players look forward to that week each year. We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come."

The elementary students that participated in "Dream to Read" week are invited to Saturday's game against Baldwin-Wallace