Nittany Lions stop by Children’s Hospital to spend time with patients

Penn State head football coach James Franklin poses for a photo with Liam Heverly, 3, and his mother, Stephanie Perry, at Penn State Health Children's Hospital.

The Penn State Nittany Lion football team took a break from speed drills and weight training on June 19 to visit Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. For the sixth consecutive year, dozens of players, staff and Head Coach James Franklin made the trip from State College to spend time with young patients.

The team’s arrival was met with cheers and excitement from hospital staff and event attendees.

“This has turned into a really wonderful event for our program, and I hope for the hospital,” Franklin said.

Some players visited with patients in their rooms, while others met with patients and families in the Treehouse Café for games, crafts and a photo booth.

“Football isn’t what’s on our minds right now,” said Franklin. “It’s more about coming and making a difference in people’s lives and being able to connect and put some smiles on faces.”

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