Texas All-Stars make visits to Shriner's Hospital, Reliant Stadium on eve of gameday

The Texas All-Stars visited Shriner's Hospital in
Houston, TX to visit patients and got a better
understanding of what services the hospital offers.
Photo by Ronald Oswalt/ SportsMarketingExperts.com

SUGARLAND, TEXAS  (December 10, 2011) Long before the Texas All-Stars participating in today's SportsMarketingExperts.com Bowl hit the field and received their last bit of instruction before tomorrow's big game, the day had already begun a high note after two special visits.

The student-athletes visited Shriner's Hospital in Houston, TX to kick off Friday morning.

Armed with plastic footballs and cups to autograph for children along the visit, it's safe to say they left with much more.

"We have it really lucky compared to some people. We run and we exercise and lift weights and use our legs and arms and things that other people don't have, and we really take it for granted," Watson added.

"Some people can't go out and do the things we do. I realize how lucky we are with this god-given ability."

Among the highlights of the visit for the student-athletes, gathered here from throughout the state, was a presentation at the gait lab, where high-tech motion analysis equipment is used for children with walking disorders due to cerebral palsy.

After their visit at the Hospital , next up was a tour of Reliant Stadium, touring visiting locker rooms, walking the sidelines and getting a bird's eye view of the stadium from the Reliant press boxes among other stops.

For several of the game participants, it was their first time at a NFL stadium, and getting to see it from several angles , and behind-the-scenes, was a unique opportunity.

The North and South Texas All-Star teams will clash at 8 p.m this evening at Fort Bend Christian Stadium in Sugarland. After practicing for three straight days, they will be ready to hit the field for what could be the last time for several of the participants.

"We're getting after it," St. Pius X defensive tackle Andrew Gonzales said. "I have one more chance to put it on."

"It's really just an exciting time for these guys to play one more time," Fort Bend Christian coach Bruce Lane said. "That's kinda the theme for the week, to play one more time and end up as champions,.

For the latest on the game, including live audio and chat throughout the game tomorrow, visit www.smebowl.com.