Deion Sanders honors 100-year-old Colorado Buffaloes superfan with ‘Peggy’ apparel line

Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes football team, honored long-time superfan Peggy Coppom on her 100th birthday with a special apparel line. The line, named after Coppom, not only celebrates her love for the team but also includes a promise that some of the proceeds will benefit Coppom and her family.

Sanders spoke emotionally about their connection, emphasizing the bond between them despite their different ages and backgrounds. “This is a wonderful day. It’s amazing that God would find two people from two different walks of life, two different generations and bring them together as he has,” Sanders said at a press conference on Tuesday. “She’s always greeted me with love, compassion, support, stability, and hope.” Sanders, who is in his second season as head coach of the Buffaloes, entered the media room holding Coppom’s hand, with the two sitting together throughout the press conference.

Sanders reflected on how much Coppom means to him and the team, calling her the “epitome of CU Buffs” and the “rock that holds us all together.” He expressed his gratitude for being able to celebrate her milestone birthday with her. On the previous Saturday, the Buffaloes’ fans sang “Happy Birthday” to Coppom during a sold-out game at Folsom Field, where the Buffaloes defeated the Utah Utes 49-24. Video footage of the moment showed Coppom visibly moved by the celebration, shedding tears as the crowd showered her with love.

Coppom, who has been a devoted supporter of the Buffaloes for decades, was deeply touched by the gesture. “I haven’t comprehended it yet,” she said after the game. “I cried. I just thank God for my life and for all the friends, and for everything that’s happened to me. I just wish my twin sister were here.” Coppom’s twin sister, Betty, had passed away in 2020 after a brief illness.

Sanders, too, was emotionally impacted by the moment at Folsom Field. He admitted to having to turn away from the screen during the celebration, not wanting to appear as though he was overcome with emotion by the opposing team. “No, it was Peggy,” he clarified, indicating that it was the moment for Coppom that had moved him so deeply.

Coppom’s relationship with Colorado football goes back many years. Her family first started attending games in 1940, and for the last 58 years, she has held season tickets in the same seat at Folsom Field—section 104, row 41, seat 29. Over the years, she has attended more than 330 games, making her one of the most dedicated and recognizable fans in the stadium.

While Sanders’ focus on honoring Coppom was clear, the coach also addressed rumors about his potential departure from Colorado for NFL or other college coaching opportunities. During the press conference, Sanders quickly shut down any such speculation, especially in the presence of Colorado’s Athletic Director, Rick George. “You’re going to talk to me like that with my A.D. in here? That’s so disrespectful,” Sanders remarked. He added that such rumors surfaced before the team’s success, and he reminded the reporters that the price of success often comes with unwanted attention.

“I’m happy where I am, man. I’m good. I got a kickstand down,” Sanders continued, explaining that he was content and at peace with his current position. His reference to a “kickstand,” a term he used to signify that he’s “resting” and settled, further emphasized his commitment to the Buffaloes.

Sanders’ affirmation of his dedication to Colorado comes at a time when the Buffaloes are having a strong season. With a current record of 8-2, the Buffaloes are looking to extend their winning streak to five games when they face the Kansas Jayhawks on Saturday. The team is tied for first place in the Big 12 standings with the BYU Cougars, who are 9-1.

In conclusion, Deion Sanders’ tribute to Peggy Coppom on her 100th birthday was a heartfelt moment that highlighted the deep bond between the coach and the team’s superfan. The release of a special apparel line in her honor reflects the special place she holds in the hearts of the Colorado football community. Sanders’ emotional tribute, along with the Buffaloes’ strong season, showcases the unity and spirit that defines both the team and its passionate supporters like Coppom.