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James Franklin Surprises 100-Year-Old Fan With Wholesome Birthday Message

Penn State football head coach James Franklin delivered some wholesome content to a Nittany Lions superfan over the weekend.

Leslie Montz, a 1941 Penn State graduate and big Penn State football fan, celebrated her 100th birthday Friday. Naturally, Franklin surprised Montz with a FaceTime call on her special day.

Montz was shocked to see Franklin’s face on the screen and said she would’ve worn blue and white if she knew he would be calling. Franklin jokingly responded that it’s a surprise and, of course, wished her a happy birthday.

The two talked for a bit and said that they miss each other, which led Franklin to ask how she’s doing.

“Well, I’ve suddenly become old,” Montz responded.

That was met with some disagreement from Franklin, who said he doesn’t quite understand where she’s coming from. Well, let’s just say he is a man of the people.

“I was just going to say the opposite,” Franklin said. “I think you look unbelievable for your 50th birthday. You look great for 50.”

Franklin’s form of flattery was met with laughter from Montz, who said that comment means she has another 50 more years to go. Franklin then made sure to express his appreciation for the life Montz has lived to this point.

“A hundred years,” Franklin said. “What an unbelievable life you’ve lived. The great perspective. I mean, it’s unbelievable.”

Clearly in the joking mood, Montz simply told Franklin to “believe it.”

Before the two ended their surprise call, Franklin made sure to wish her 100 more years of health and happiness.

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About the Author

Gabe Angieri

After a four-year career with Onward State, Gabe is now a college graduate and off to the real world. He shockingly served as the blog’s managing editor during the 2022-23 school year and covered football for much of his Onward State tenure, including trips to the Outback Bowl and Rose Bowl. For any professional inquiries, please email Gabe at [email protected]. You can still see his bad sports takes on Twitter at @gabeangieri.

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