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BORN
1949
DIED
2008
James Hayes Obituary
Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday at the UTA practice gym. Burial: Laurel Land Memorial Park, Fort Worth. Visitation: 3 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at UTA practice gym.
Memorials: Movin' Mavs, Campus Recreation, UTA, Box 19268, Arlington 76019.
Coach Hayes was born July 28, 1949, in Fort Worth to Jim and Esther Hayes. He sustained a spinal cord injury on his 18th birthday, a day that changed his life and many other lives too.
Coach attended Tarrant County Junior College, where he was elected student body president. He graduated from UTA in 1974, where he had been president of Handicapped Student Association.
He began the Office for Students with Disabilities at UTA in 1976. where he worked as an adviser and mentor for students with both physical and mental disabilities. During that time he began the Wheelchair Basketball and Tennis Program. He became the fulltime UTA Movin' Mavs coach in 2000, winning seven National Wheelchair Basketball titles in his career.
He also served as coordinator of compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act for UTA. An accomplished wheelchair road racer, Coach Hayes won a gold medal in the 1984 Paralympic Games. He was also an avid fisherman and loved the guitar. Coach Hayes also volunteered countless hours to the National Wheelchair Veteran Games.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jim; and a brother, John Hayes.
Survivors: Mother, Esther Hayes; sisters, Laura Kelsey and fiance Shelby Raney and Mary Miller and husband, Johnny, all of Fort Worth; nine nieces and nephews; and two beloved pet labs, "Paddle Foot" and "Champ." Coach will also be greatly missed by his very special lady friend, Julie Duncan of Lexington, Ky.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Hayes
Angela Reh
May 25, 2009
It was only until recently in February of this year 2009 that I just heard news of Jim's passing. I had relocated several times and just returned back to TX last year in April of 2008. I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news of Jim's passing. I was Jim's Admin. Assistant from 1994 - mid 1996 at UTA at the Office for Students with Disabilities. Though my tenure with Jim was short I truly appreciated Jim and knew him to be a very caring person as he was always willing to listen to the needs of the students. I remember next to his fishing stories his #1 passion was coaching his team - the Movin Mavs. He spoke ofen and loved his massive Chow dog that he had at the time. Jim was a decent person to me during my tenure with him and I hope he knew this in the end. I will truly miss the legendary Jim Hayes. In closing I leave his family with the beautiful ending lyric words from Vince Gil's song entitled " Go Rest High" where it ends with: Go rest high on that mountain, Son your work on earth is done: Go to heaven a'shouting love for the Father and the Son. My thoughts and prayers to your family and all who were a part of your life. God Bless
Darlene Hunter
September 4, 2008
Jim,
I miss you. I miss you being there to support me and listen to me and encourage me. I miss you telling me everything is going to be okay. The ball season has started again, and its not the same without you there on the side lines watching the guys. Is not the same going into the gym and not getting a hug and a smile from you. I miss sitting outside shooting the breeze about what is going on in my life and what is happening in yours. Thank you for being there for me and believing in me when I was down, and putting a smile back on my face. I can never thank you enough for being there as my second dad, helping me train, and just being there. Thank you for everything. Things that I could never express, but you knew. I miss you.
Love you always,
Darlene
William Campbell
June 26, 2008
I didn't know him very well, but I really got vibes of feeling from him.
He was always quick to smile, and had a good sense of humor. I'm sure he'll be missed by everyone that knew him.
Laura Kelsey
June 3, 2008
How does one so strong so indivensible, always there, slip from the arms of all that love him. Bro, I know God was ready for you to come coach his team, and fish with brother John and dad. But I was not ready to give you up. My BRO, My strength, My reason. Love you..Little sis
Nikki Ferrick Mahaffey
June 1, 2008
I knew Jim in high school and couldn't ask for a better friend..many fond memories
Holly James
May 31, 2008
My uncle is and was my hero. I remeber when I was looking at college , and he sold me on UTA. I took advanced classes and excelled with him behnd me.
When I got my first marks I was so proud . I had made all A's and one B. I quickly ran to his office. He looked at then ,shook his head and replied" you could have done better in trig"
I miss you Uncle Jim
Lannie Tucker, Ph. D.
May 31, 2008
I was on the faculty in the Physical Education Department at UTA from 1973-1990. Jim was always willing to visit my class when we discussed spinal injuries and allowed us to work with his athletes as a practicum setting. During those interactions he displayed his "can do" attitude, sharp wit, and caring nature. I am fortunate that Jim made time to touch the lives of my students. He was a great man who had such a positive impact on so many people; the effects will be felt for years to come. I have fond memories of the times in "the old gym" and working the wheelchair track meets at UTA. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who shared his life.
DeGasperis Family
May 31, 2008
The many years we have been honored and blessed to know Jim and work with him during the PVA Games in many cities, have been wonderful, amazing and incredible years. Jim is an inspiration to many people, both in chairs and not. His amazing spirit and dedication gives so many of us hope and incredible courage to face each day with excitement and enthusiasm. Jim will be missed by the DeGasperis Family. We were all so shocked to hear the news, Jim you will continue to live on in our hearts and minds forever.
God Bless You.
B.F. Sanger
May 30, 2008
I was really shocked to find out that Jim had passed away. Jim and I were friends from when we both lived in Brazos House dormitory. I was part of a little band of friends that often met in Jim's room to sing the blues and enjoy each other's company.
My fondest memory of Jim is when he went fly fishing in the big hole outside the dorm where a utility tunnel was being built. It had rained during the previous day and a crew was there in the wee hours of the morning to pump out the hole. It was also the week of finals and nobody could study or sleep.
Jim had a way of getting his point across in imaginative ways and the world is little poorer without him.
Kelsey Cole
May 30, 2008
I never knew Jim Hayes, but I read the story today and watched the memorial and was deeply touched. Everything that he did was so wonderful. It looks like he has and will continue to touch so many lives. I send my deepest sympathy to his family!
Lynda Freeman
May 30, 2008
Like so many others, I really admired Coach Hayes. His passing is a loss to so many... He was an exceptional man. The fact that he sat in a chair did not diminish his stature in the least. He was one of the tallest people I ever met.
Elsa Corral
May 30, 2008
Jim:
The day you came into the housing office with Willie and Jesus in 1989 changed my life. From then on, you were a wonderful friend and I always had such admiration for you. You were always there when I needed a friend and a good laugh. And boy you loved to make me laugh and blush and not too many people can make me blush. Thank you for letting me travel with the teams, always making me feel like part of the family/team and for sharing your passion for the sport. I learned so much from you and I don't think I ever told you that. I hope you know that now. I will miss you so much. Thank you for the memories.
Love you always.
Elsa
Lucia Dawson Frohling
May 30, 2008
Coach was truly a hero to so many, including me. He always had a smile and a kind word to share. Heaven is blessed to have him and we will miss him so incredibly much!
Barbara Baganz
May 30, 2008
I met Jim in 1983 when I started working in the SCOOP Office (the office for students with disabilities) at TCC. Every spring when we had dis"ability" awareness week, Jim would coach one of our games. We placed a staff person, dean and even the president in a wheelchair and had them compete against people who used a wheelchair everyday. It was a blast. Jim was my hero and my mentor. I just spoke with him a month ago asking for help with an event I am a part of, and he was so sweet, he said "sure, if we are not in the playoffs". That was Jim. He was a great man, and his basketball team came first. You will be missed much coach.
Love,
Barbara Selman Baganz
Brian Welnack
May 29, 2008
News of Jim's passing has reached me in Hong Kong, and I am deeply saddened by the loss of a friend I met 30 years ago. Jim had such a positive impact on so many people's lives, mine included, and the world is a better place with the accomplishments Jim has left in his wake. He was a remarkable man. God bless him.
john hayes
May 29, 2008
Hello Uncle Jimmie,
Really don't know what to say here. I was told one last time not to drop you when I went to carry you one last time. I guess nobody caught the irony that you used to tell me that everytime you would throw yourself off the boat in to my arms. lol. To this day I am still amazed at how you figured out ways to break the rules to keep from being considered handicap or in any way needing anybody's help. I respect you more than I ever said for that. As willing as I was and as quick as I would have jumped had you called, I understood why and respected you for being that way for not. You will always be my hero for more reasons than I will ever put in writing and I know I am not in the minority on that one. I love you.
Mark A. Christian
May 29, 2008
Like Jacquielynn Floyd so eloquently explained in her article for the Dallas Morning News, I too was "a geek kid journalist working in Arlington at The Shorthorn" who had the opportunity to interview and speak with Jim Hayes. That first 2-hour interview with Jim was spent discussing his passion for his team and his players, but for me it left a lasting impression of a man who deeply cared for the people he coached and came in contact with.
My sympathies and thoughts go out to his family, his team and the UTA family. I will always persevere through difficult times by what I have learned from men like Jim Hayes.
Norman Suggs
May 29, 2008
I had gone to Tarrant County with Jim. I had not learned of his death until just a short time ago. Although we had not seen each other since 1969, I am saddened to see and hear of his passing. My deepest sympathies to all of his family and friends. There are so few like him in one lifetime.
Gil Garcia Jr.
May 29, 2008
thanks for the memories and all the help being a good basketball player and putting school first.so i can play basketball
and track and field you will be missed
Robert Pellette
May 29, 2008
Just watching coach interact with his players and teach them while in the heat of battle made me a better coach and a better man. God bless and keep you Jim.
Ben
May 29, 2008
As true a Maverick as there ever was.
Elaine Howell
May 29, 2008
I met Jim in 1974 when I was going to scholl at UTA. I can remember the first wheelchair basketball game at the gym when they played "regular" people and it was fun and exciting to watch. I was always proud of the fact that I knew such a wonderful man. My family and I send our deepest sympathy to his family.
Mike Hayenga
May 29, 2008
Jim Hayes was a man who helped others in any way he could. UTA will miss one of it's leaders. He was a champion for all students.
Michael Hayenga
Mr & Mrs Jonathan Nisbett Jr.
May 29, 2008
We knew of Jimmy Hayes through our friends, the Movin'Mavs, at UTA. They always talked about their Coach and played around with him. They respected him and loved him very much! Our sympathy goes out to all the Movin Mavs. We are here for support and love. We love you!
Jim Kitchens
May 28, 2008
I only knew Jim Hayes briefly in my childhood, but it was an honor to play against the Hot Shots team he coached in the junior league when I was a teen.
My wife, mother, and family send our deepest sympathies.
Trey Yelverton
May 28, 2008
I just learned of Jim's passing and am deeply saddened. I didn't know him very well, but admired his leadership and accomplishments from afar. He was an inspirational man that UTA was very blessed to have as part of its family.
Kenneth Cope
May 28, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
William Garland Hutson
May 28, 2008
Jim and I served on the Student Government at TCJC together, Jim as President and I as VP. We also pledged together. Jim was a pleasure to know and I admired him greatly for his courage and positive attitude
My heartfelt sympathy goes out the the Hayes family. I know he will be greatly missed.
Troy Jones
May 28, 2008
Jim you will be greatly missed you were such a great person and a great basketball coach I will miss him soo much . love you Troy D. Jones
Elizabeth Bizego
May 28, 2008
Laura, my deepest sympathies to you and your family. I am here for you, please call if you need anything at all. Jim is indeed free and whole again in God's wonderful kingdom. Your pain and sadness He will bring you through. Know that your brother's love does not cease but has transformed itself and he will live on in your heart always. I love you and look forward to your smile again. Liz
Judy Welch
May 28, 2008
In 1980 Jim Hayes turned our desparation into pure joy and hope for the future. Our 8 yr old son was diagnosed with a bone disease that took him out of all main stream sports as a little boy. We met Jim and he introduced us to wheelchair basketball. He took our son and gave him the desire, hope and inspiration that has taken him all over the world as a wheelchair athlete. Our prayers to all of the family of JIM HAYES. Thank you for sharing him with the wheelchair world. He was and will always be remembered as an inspiration to all who knew him. Thank you Jim Hayes!
Our love,
James & Judy Welch
parents of Stephen Welch
Diana Bernshausen
May 28, 2008
James Hayes will continue to be an inspiration for all in so many ways. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Carla Carmichael
May 28, 2008
It was a pleasure working with Jim as a fellow official at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games . I looked forward to working with him on the slalom couses every year , it was always the highlight of the games. He always challanged our veterans especially the novices . After conquering the slalom couse many veterans were able to look at obstacles in a different light . He will be missed by the NVWG Official family May your memories bring you comfort.
Linda Miller
May 27, 2008
To Jim's family--
I knew Jim back in the late 70's. He was such an inspiration along with being a handsome man! While we lost contact with each other, I have always fondly remembered the times we shared. I know that he will be missed by many. My sincere sympathies to his family and close friends.
Chris Velez
May 27, 2008
Jim Hayes was an amazing man. He taught me a lot about life and about people -- and that was just from watching the kind of person he was. He will be missed by all that were blessed to know him.
Cody Atchley
May 27, 2008
Hayes Family I am very sorry for your loss and sorry we never got to meet. Jim and I had been friends for many years, first as I was involved in sports as an athletic trainer and physical therapist and then more recently as an instructor of the Tarrant County College Physical Therapist Assistant program. Jim came every year to speak and teach my future therapists about being a better therapist, about Spinal cord injuries and so so much more. He gave us all such energy and spirit for what therapy was all about and what we could do for the ability of others. He came every year and spent alot of time with my students and never having any problem with doing so. He had such fun with the students and they with him. I do have to say also further that I will miss him as a friend. He brought great energy and life to everywhere he was and was such a super advicate for those with disabilities so to speak; as we say they are those with an ability given a chance. I agree with his sister's entry earlier the first thing as a physical therapist I thought of was Jim you'll be able to walk again up there! and see his chow again! I know he loved that dog.
Kimberly Gambrell-Douglas
May 27, 2008
Laura, I just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family. I know how much your brother meant to you. Know that he is in a better place where there is no more pain or suffering. I know there are countless memories you have of your brother and when your heart starts to feel heavy with sadness think of all the good times spent with him and they shall bring you comfort. I want you to know that I am here for you if and when you need anything.
Sandra Warner
May 27, 2008
I had the privilege of working with Jim for many years in the Physical Education Department (aka, Exercise Sport and Health Studies, Kinesiology) at UTA. I worked in those departments for almost 35 years, many of them with Jim. Jim was a marvelous person, always very pleasant and helpful. Every time I saw him either in the Physical Education Building or any other place on campus, he would greet me with a smile. The world has lost a great man!!! My heart and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time.
(UTA Administrative Assistant, retired)
robert davis
May 27, 2008
coach you showed me how to be a real man when i was on the hot shots basketball team.i will always remember you for the advice you readily gave thanks ill miss you my friend
Mike Burgess
May 27, 2008
Jim,
You blazed a lot of trails and inspired a lot of folks. Thank you for the unselfish help you gave HRA in it's infantcy - it's my lifeline now. Thank you for being a friend and mentor while I attended grad school at UTA. You'll be sorely missed. God bless you and comfort your family in their loss.
Greg Speed
May 27, 2008
Most people just knew Jim as "Coach." I was privileged to race and to play wheelchair basketball under his coaching. He would come out and work with me in my years of wheelchair racing, just the two of us on the track. Why did he invest so many hours in so many people's lives through the years with no compensation? I still don't know why except to say that it was just who he was. He especially deserves a special place in the history of UTA. I think a statue of the legend would be appropriate.
Amanda Young
May 27, 2008
Even thought I knew you a brief time you were always nice and had a kind word. I will miss you calling and seeing how we all are doing.
Ronnie Eaton
May 27, 2008
Jim.........your passion for wheelchair sports was contagious. I saw this first hand as a participant in your weight lifting class in the old PE building, a member of your wheelchair track team and your teammate on the rugby team. This passion and determination crossed over into my everyday life that helped me and many others live independent life styles that seemed out of reach before I first met you in 1978.
You will be sorely missed and I feel so lucky to have talked to you a
couple months ago at the SMU basketball tournament. Thanks for being an influential part of my life and God Bless.
Tom Brown
May 27, 2008
Jim was a true friend of the National Veterans Wheelchair Games. For 23 years Jim designed the slalom event for the Games that challenged veterans and spectators alike. He will be missed by all of his fellow officials, and especially me who considered him my friend who I could alwas count on. Rest in Peace my friend.
Abby LeCroy
May 27, 2008
Coach, you will never know how many lives you have touched. You have taught me more than I could ever put in words. You were truly a "coach" in ever part of your life and I thank you for that. You will surely be missed but your legacy will carry on throughout.
Judy Stutts
May 27, 2008
I first met Jim while coaching a wheelchair team from Augusta, GA at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games (NVWG) in Arlington, VA. As the years went by, my contacts with him increased and I learned more about him through assisting him with field events when the games were held in San Antonio, and then as Administrative Officer of the NVWG. Jim was known in the NVWG circles as the King of the Slalom course. As head official for this venue, he would dream up dare devil courses that appeared to come from nightmares (actually he said they did) for the Veterans to compete in. He was always available with a warm smile and a kind word. He will be truly missed by all those whose lives he touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
Debbie Highfill
May 27, 2008
Jim,
I met you through your sis, Laura years ago. I will never forget going fishing ALL night with you and Laura!
It was a very interesting fishing trip.
I was amazed by the way you handled that boat, and your determination.
Also I will never forget the game I went to with Laura to watch you and your boys!! I was hooked from then on, it was a GREAT game!
I was glad I could give you one of your best friends "Paddle Foot".
I know he will miss you terribly!
As we all will. Laura, you hang in there, you know your Bro would want you to!!
I am always here for you!
Love you
Debbie
Robert Crosby
May 27, 2008
Simply the best!
Dan Ferreira
May 27, 2008
I will remember the determination in his eye after a loss and the satisfaction in his smile after a win. I learned more from him after I retired and began coaching, as I enjoyed the conversations that I had with him as a peer. Thank you. His legacy will live on through the players he coached and mentored over his career at UTA.
God Bless.
Terry Morawski
May 27, 2008
I had the chance to interview Jim as a reporter for The Shorthorn. He was an inspiration. I'm glad I got the chance to meet him.
Anthony Stark
May 27, 2008
Coach Hayes you will missed greatly by all the people that you affected with your most postive and generous manner.
Helen Eustace
May 27, 2008
Jim your smile and kindness will be missed at UTA. You always had a kind word for everyone. You were a mentor for so many people and you did not know it. You will be missed. I hope your family is comforted with many memories of you. Go Mavs!
Helen Eustace
UT Arlington
Misty Reed
May 27, 2008
Uncle Jimmy,
You are the greatest man I have ever known. You have touched so many lives and yet you remained so grounded. You never let it go to your head. In the face of adversity, you were always so positive. You genuinely cared. I miss you very much.
Love you Always,
Misty Reed
Aimee Yount
May 27, 2008
Laura,
I am so sorry to hear about your brother. I know how close you two were and how proud you are of him. But we all know there are reasons that sometimes we never know why things happen when they do. I hope you know I am always here for you! Love you!
Guy Perry
May 27, 2008
Coach,
On behalf of the PossAbilities Rolling Bears Organization I would like to say thanks for opening up the doors to college for many disabled athletes who may not have been able to afford it. You will be missed, but not forgotten.
Sue March
May 27, 2008
So many lives touched by such an inspirational individual. Every time I saw him there was that look of determination on his face and a twinkle in his eye. Always a champion - he will be missed!
Eddie McGee
May 27, 2008
Coach,
don't know what to say. You will be missed.. All the love i have,
Eddie McGee
Jackie Church
May 26, 2008
Jim was one of the greatest competitors I've known. From drag racing in high school to basketball at UTA. I felt crushed after his diving accident at Benbrook Lake. He wouldn't even see me after it happened, so I visited with his mother while he was shut up in his bedroom. Next thing I know, he's coaching my 8 year old son Jeffrey in wheelchair basketball! He even inspired my husband Tom to become a wheelchair basketball coach. I never told him how happy I was to see him acheive such personal and professional success. My heart and prayers go out to you, Mrs Hayes, at this difficult time. Your son will be greatly missed but also remembered.
Laura Kelsey(baby sis)
May 26, 2008
My Dear Brother. I will miss the ALL NIGHT FISHING TRIPS, and going to the store with you to get puppy food mostly. I will miss that first cup of coffee of a morning shared with my wonderful brother. I will miss helping you mow your yard and playing with the dogs with you. But Brother you are whole today. you are walking. and I know you and Dad and little brother are catching those big fish. My heart is broken , but that is the shelfish part of me, because I know you are free now. Love you more than life bro.
Linh Bowie
May 26, 2008
Jim,
I cannot express enough gratitued to you. I owe much of who I am today to your strenght and encouragement. You had the wisdom to let me leave, and the strength to support that descision even though it meant leaving the Mav's.
Thank you Jim.
Linh Bowie
Paula Runnels Powers
May 26, 2008
Jim helped me through college from my very first semester. When new tires were needed on my chair he was always right there to help. Jim helped me get my first real job from which I learned and grew so much. Jim you no longer need your wheels, you are now walking among the many heros who helped shape this country and the whole world. God bless you.
RONALD STEWART SR.
May 26, 2008
i didn't know jim very well. only from when he worked with my father,john dee stewart aat datatotal.and my sister paula stewart .i know that he made a great impact on there lives as well as anyone who knew him. my sister told me that jim and his mother esther made her wedding dress.and she still has it. i must say it is very beautiful.this world has lost a great man. god rest his soul.
Judy King
May 26, 2008
Mrs. Hayes, I went to school with Jim at TCJC. I was involved with the Student Council and also played cards with Jim. He was a dear friend of mine. You have lost a wonderful son, and the world has lost a great man. May God comfort you and your family at this time of sorrow.
Judy (Geurtz) King
Mark Knoblock '77-'79 Go Mav's
May 26, 2008
What can one say about a man, who strived for the highest goals and opportunities, for himself, friends, fellow athletes and team members he guided over the years as coach of the many students with disabilities; and the many whom he never even knew. I met Jim in 1975 after beginning Jr. College at TCJC where Jim attended and left his mark. I came to UTA in 1977 and observed his drive and inspiration to all around him and under his leadership as coach of the wheelchair athletics program, then the Free Wheelers’, until graduating in the Fall of 1979. We stayed in touch infrequently, but I keep up with program developments and team achievements over the years. His drive to help others never waivered in the 33 years I knew him.
Jim taught self respect first, setting and achieving one’s goals and giving equally to all others and especially your team. Once said, “No one person can achieve more or as much as a team working together.” How true. Jim and 18 of his athletes and UTA alumni have participated in the Paralypmics since 1984. And UTA holds 7 National Wheelchair Basketball titles; no small feat by anyone’s standards.
He will never be replaced for his untiring devotion at UTA. One can only hope this world will be a better place for the efforts of Jim and all those he mentored, inspired and befriended while on this earth. It should be one heck of a season in Heaven when the basketball starts up this fall.
For his family, deepest regrets and best of memories.
Wayne Conti
May 26, 2008
Jim, my respect for you knows no bounds. You had an impact on the lives of everyone you have come in contact with.
This year at the basketball tournament, You took a few minutes to talk to my Grandson, Dylan, he is still pumped up about that.
When I told him of your passing, he said "He was the Greatest Basketball coach, ever!"
I am proud to be able to call you, brother.
You will be missed!
HFF
Russ Howard
May 26, 2008
I attended UTA from 1976-81, and was a member of the wheelchair basketball team, then The FreeWheelers, from 1978-81. Jim also got me into wheelchair track. His disabled student assistance program helped me live on campus. and helped me with other issues. I haven't seen Jim in 25 years, but I know it will be difficult to replace his passion for wheelchair sports.
John Dycus
May 26, 2008
Jim Hayes was my hero. He possessed such a workout ethic and drive for independence and, of course, the perfect two-handed set shot. Long a champion of the in-home assistance agency HRA, he pushed his chair from Austin to Arlington in the agency's early days to raise awareness and funds. Amazing. Our last interaction of any duration occurred one afternoon in the old PE Building. As I was leaving his office, my wheelchair broke, making it impossible to even limp across campus to my van. For an hour Jim scoured his work area for the perfect patch. He found it in the form of a blue UTA wristband ("Finally, a use for one of those things!"). Parts no longer askew, I went on my way. Jim had stayed late to help a friend, and he accomplished the task at hand. It's what heroes do.
Dana Dunn
May 26, 2008
Jim was a special friend and will be greatly missed. He had a profound impact on the lives of many. I'll always remember his smile as he talked about "that special student" he wanted to recruit, and how that student's life would be changed for the better. "Tom" (Jim/"Tom" knows and is smiling), thanks for touching my life.
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