AUSTIN, Texas — Less than 24 hours before the Texas Longhorns' home opener, they've already scored with some of their biggest fans.
Several team members took their time to visit children in local hospitals.
"Even in the worse times, there's something good to look forward too," said Jake Melvin, who was hospitalized to have surgery on his appendix.
The UT football team took its time to visit St. David's Children's Hospital, and Melvin, 13, said the team is already ahead of the game.
"For UT football players to come up to the hospital, that's awesome," Melvin said.
Melvin said the excitement of seeing the players helped hide his appendicitis pains.
"I haven't been to a UT football game in a long time, so it's pretty good to see them in person," Melvin explained.
Running back Daniel Young said just like taking the field for the Longhorns, it's a thrill to see the smiles on these children's faces.
"I'd want for them to learn that no matter what they're going through, there's always hope for everything," Young said.
Young said a simple visit to the hospital was a lesson learned. He hopes to take the children's smiles to fuel up the team in winning the home opener game.
"Things only happen to get you stronger," Young said.
"Do what you're capable of doing at your best of ability and the team players around you will step up to your level," Melvin explained.
The only advice Melvin had for the Longhorns players was to play to the best of their abilities.