The Texas D-1 Ambassadors are dedicated to the academic, athletic and social developments to Texas athletes who not only have the talent, but have a burning desire to further their education through college basketball.

I would like to take a moment to welcome all my friends and fellow coaches that have supported the Texas D-1 Ambassadors program over the last eight seasons. Nearing the end of the 2008 high school season we continue to see crops of our kids receive college scholarships, with several of our 2009 class already giving verbal commitments as well. Over 80 former Ambassadors players are now playing college basketball or football and are furthering their education, or have committed to do so in the coming year.

As is the case with many of successful executives today, athletics gave us some of our earliest opportunities to receive positive feedback from peers and community members. It has been my pleasure to pass on some of the blessings and lessons I have received from the game of baseball to Texas kids through our basketball program. Marrying athletics and academics is the mission for the kids in our program. We as local coaches spend our time developing these kids to assist them in building character, give them a focal point to strive for academic achievement, and ultimately want to see these kids succeed in the game of life. Through the game of basketball we all strive to see these kids prepared to compete in high school, and for the more talented, to showcase them nationally in order that they may one day play at the collegiate level and further their education.

It seems like only yesterday when as 6th graders I took a group of kids, including my son Chip to run around the countryside playing basketball. Now everyone of them has gone on to be productive youngsters. Chip is currently playing for the University of South Alabama and legendary Coach Ronnie Arrow. It was an experience of a lifetime to see my son in the NCAA Tournament this spring.

I look forward to your support in the upcoming 2008-2009 season and beyond.
Thank you for joining us.