Sam (#18) and Emmanuel (#81) Acho visit Ms. Wetherington’s fifth grade class at Merriman Park Elementary

Ruth Wetherington’s fifth grade class at Merriman Park Elementary had visitors last week – Sam and Emmanuel Acho. The Acho brothers are standouts on the University of Texas football team, but they came to talk to the kids about their experiences on mission trips to Nigeria. Both their mother and father came to America from Nigeria.

Sign up for our newsletter!

* indicates required

“These guys are great role models and leaders in the community,” said Ms. Wetherington after their visit. “They believe in the importance of education and community service, and they encouraged the students to make the most of their opportunities and work their hardest.”

Sam is a senior at UT and plays defensive end for the Longhorns. He’s been chosen twice for the Academic All Big 12 and was named a first team Academic All-American by ESPN Magazine. Emmanuel plays linebacker and was also selected for the Academic All Big 12 team. Both boys graduated from St. Mark’s in Dallas.

“It was such a fun experience, and the kids loved getting to meet real college football players,” said Ms. Wetherington. College football players encouraging young people to help others, make sacrifices and give back to their community. Win-win.