BOONVILLE, Mo. - The Central Methodist University baseball team visited with the 5th grade students at David Barton Elementary earlier this month to discuss the core values shared by the school district and the NAIA.

"Our students were very receptive to their message of integrity, respect, responsibility, and sportsmanship," stated Assistant Principal Laurie Painter. "I can tell that Central Methodist has instilled these values in their student-athletes and they are truly a shining example of servant leaders."

Students were also able to team up with the CMU athletes for a game of whiffle ball before the day was over while showing the students how to be encouraging and work as a team.

"I want to thank the administration, faculty, and staff at David Barton for welcoming our student-athletes into their classrooms for this special day," stated head coach Nate Breland. "We look forward to continuing to build a relationship with Boonville Public Schools moving forward. This was a win/win opportunity for both groups."

The program will look to return to David Barton in March for a visit with the 3rd and 4th grade students.