James Franklin Credits Family for Coaching Success at Penn State

James Franklin, head football coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions since 2014, has led the team to three New Year’s Six bowl wins and a Big Ten Championship in 2016. While his coaching achievements are widely celebrated, Franklin credits his family as the “grounding force” behind his success. His wife, Fumi, and daughters, Shola and Addison, have been instrumental in shaping his resilience both on and off the field.

Franklin’s journey to becoming one of college football’s most respected coaches has not been without challenges. Balancing the demands of leading a top-tier program with family life has required sacrifices. His daughters, Shola and Addison, have grown up watching their father navigate the pressures of game days and autograph requests. Despite the demands of his job, Franklin emphasizes that his family keeps him focused on what truly matters.

Born to James Franklin Sr., an Air Force veteran, and Jocelyn Franklin, a single mother from Manchester, England, Franklin learned the values of hard work and determination early in life. These lessons have carried over into his coaching philosophy, which emphasizes adaptability and resilience. His wife, Fumi Franklin, whom he met in 1998 while coaching at Washington State University, has been a steadfast partner throughout his career. The couple married in 2005 and have two daughters, Shola and Addison.

Addison’s diagnosis with Sickle Cell Disease has profoundly impacted the Franklin family. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Franklin lived separately from his family for months to protect Addison’s health. This experience has fueled his advocacy for Sickle Cell Disease awareness. “My family is my fuel,” Franklin has said, highlighting their role in his ability to persevere through challenges.

Franklin’s daughters have also played a significant role in keeping him grounded. Shola, born in 2007, is an avid athlete who enjoys soccer, basketball, and track, while Addison, born in 2008, is tech-savvy and curious about her father’s world of football. Franklin has admitted to struggling with “coach guilt” due to the time his job demands, but his daughters remind him of what truly matters. “To have daughters has made me a better man,” Franklin said.

On the field, Franklin’s coaching philosophy reflects his family-first approach. Known for his ability to “love players hard and coach them hard,” he has earned the respect of his peers and players alike. Under his leadership, Penn State has become a consistent powerhouse in college football, with a record of 101 wins and a Big Ten Championship in 2016.

Franklin’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and love. From his humble beginnings to his rise as one of the most accomplished African American head coaches in college football history, he remains deeply connected to his roots. His family continues to be his source of strength, both personally and professionally, as he leads Penn State through the highs and lows of the sport.