James Franklin made an appearance at THON two days in, and he spoke on stage alongside wide receiver and 2016 THON dancer Matt Zanellato, Franklin’s daughter, and the football team’s THON Child.

He started by saying that his daughter collected $100 around their house, and she will donate it to THON’s total. Then, in typical James Franklin fashion, he fired up the crowd.

“I’ve been at schools all over the country, in the Big 12, the SEC, and of course Penn State, and I want you guys to understand something. This is special.”

He ended his short appearance with, “Keep going strong. Keep the energy going, keep making a positive difference in everyone’s lives.”

“Let’s keep going strong, let’s beat pediatric cancer.”

Then he said he wanted to hear a “We Are” chant so loud that everyone fighting pediatric cancer hears what’s going on at THON. See for yourself if they accomplished that:

James Franklin led the loudest We Are chant of the weekend. pic.twitter.com/61gCqJBlrL

— Onward State (@OnwardState) February 21, 2016

About the Author

Doug Leeson

Doug is a sophomore and Onward State's Assistant Managing Editor. Dislikes: popcorn, Rutgers, and a low #TimberCount. Likes: "Frozen," Rec Hall, and you. Contact him via email at dougleeson@onwardstate.com or on Twitter @DougLeeson.

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