FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- Members of the Fairfield University athletic staff spoke to fifth graders at Mill Hill Elementary School in conjunction with St. Vincent's Medical Center. The group spoke to the students about the importance of going to school and maintaining healthy habits.

The presentation came about through a partnership with St. Vincent's, which presented Mill Hill fifth graders with tickets to Fairfield University's final men's basketball home game against Marist College in late February.

Pat Murphy, who serves as the University's Senior Associate Director of Athletics, joined assistant women's basketball coaches Gail Strumpf-Cheney and Sabra Wrice as they spoke to the students about the role academics play in the becoming a successful student-athlete and why it's so important to go to school, exercise regularly, and eat healthy.

"We were extremely excited to visit the fifth graders at Mill Hill Elementary School," Murphy said. "The audience was attentive and open to learning about Fairfield University but also the importance of nutrition, dedication, and the role that academics play in becoming a successful student-athlete. I want to thank St. Vincent's Medical Center for collaborating with both Fairfield University and Learfield Sports for making this possible."

The day also included a free throw contests among the fifth graders as well as a foam antler giveaway. The students were also treated to a surprise visit from Lucas the Stag.

"On behalf of the fifth grade faculty and students at Mill Hill School, I would like to give a big thank you to Fairfield University athletics and St. Vincent's Hospital for making this visit possible," Physical Education Teacher Matthew Cino said. "The students enjoyed discussing health, wellness, and doing well in school with the Fairfield University athletics staff. The kids are still buzzing about Lucas the Stag and how he came to visit our school."