Deion Sanders, while overseeing Colorado’s football program’s resurgence during the 2023 season, also cultivated a heartwarming connection with a 99-year-old fan named Peggy Coppom.
Peggy Coppom, a devoted supporter of the university’s sports teams since the 1940s, crossed paths with Sanders in January, not long after his appointment as head coach. Athletic director Rick George facilitated their meeting, which would set the stage for a remarkable bond. Coppom’s dedication to the Buffaloes became a prominent storyline throughout the season, even landing her on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year Issue.
Sanders spoke fondly of Peggy, emphasizing her unwavering positivity. He remarked, “She don’t have bad days; I don’t have bad days. That’s why we connect. I’ve never seen Peggy with a bad attitude or mad about something. It don’t happen. I love her for that. She’s so consistent.”
Coppom described her first season with Sanders as “unbelievable” and filled with joy. For her, it was a season of healing and renewal after her twin sister, Betty Hoover, passed away in 2020 following a battle with cancer.
Dail, Peggy’s son, shared her sentiments and noted how her infectious energy attracted positive attention. He explained, “She always comments to me that ‘I can’t believe how this has all happened,’ and ‘Why is this happening to me?’ I said, ‘It’s because people like the energy you’re giving off. People like to hear good things for a change in the media.'”
For years, Peggy and Betty had steadfastly occupied the last row of section 104 at Folsom Field, refusing to leave games early even during challenging seasons. However, this year brought about a significant turnaround, with Colorado securing impressive victories early in the season. Although the team struggled in later games and failed to reach a bowl game, Sanders and Coppom’s friendship blossomed.
Their connection extended beyond the football field, with touching moments such as Sanders holding Peggy’s hand during a ceremonial opening kickoff at the spring game and a postgame celebration where she was presented with a game ball.
When Peggy celebrated her 99th birthday on November 19, fellow fans serenaded her with birthday wishes during a Colorado men’s basketball game, and George shared a photo of her behind a birthday cake on social media.
Deion Sanders expressed deep admiration for Peggy, describing her as a pillar of stability, love, hope, consistency, legacy, and endearment. Their extraordinary friendship has added a heartwarming dimension to Colorado’s football season.