April 23, 2025
Waxahachie, TX – This season, the Nelson University men's and women's basketball programs took teamwork to a whole new level off the court and into the hearts of local third graders.
In a unique partnership with Life School Red Oak, Nelson student-athletes became pen pals with a class of energetic and curious 3rd grade students. Through handwritten letters, drawings, and words of encouragement, the Lions built genuine connections with their young Mustang counterparts, sparking joy and mentorship that went far beyond the game.
As the letters flew back and forth throughout the year, anticipation built for one unforgettable day: Pen Pal Gameday. The Life School students arrived on campus wide-eyed and full of excitement, not just to watch a college basketball game, but to finally meet their Nelson pen pals face-to-face at center court.
The smiles said it all. Laughter, hugs, and shared moments captured the spirit of the partnership and an intersection of mentorship, community, and unforgettable fun.
"Our players gained just as much from this experience as the kids did," said Head Women's Basketball Coach Mike Sons. "It reminded us all of the impact we can have when we invest in the people around us."
Head Men's Basketball Coach Delton Deal added, "This was about more than basketball. It was about building relationships and using our platform to uplift and inspire. The energy these kids brought lit up our whole gym."
The Pen Pal Project was a slam dunk for community engagement, and the Nelson University Lions are already looking forward to continuing the tradition next season.Â
#WhereLionsFindTheirRoar | #TheRightWayToPlay
Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.
Â
