Virginia Tech officially introduced James Franklin as its new head coach, marking the end of a hiring process that included one of the most meaningful conversations in Franklin’s career.
Franklin revealed he sought permission from Frank Beamer before accepting the position. The conversation mirrored another pivotal moment in his life.
“I have asked for the blessings of two people. Soaya Ala, my father in law, I called him and asked for his blessing to marry his daughter, Fumi. And then the night before signing a contract, I called Coach Beamer and asked him for his blessing of taking over his program.”
The logistics proved challenging at first.
“I was a little concerned because I called him three times and he did not answer the phone. So I called his wife and she said, ‘I am sorry, Coach, we did not have your number.'”
Eventually, the call connected. Beamer gave his blessing. For Franklin, that approval carried significant weight.
“I was able to get Coach Beamer’s blessing and that means a ton to me. I am someone that values the history, the traditions, the legends, and obviously nobody is more important to Virginia Tech football than Frank Beamer and his family.”
Franklin emphasized respect and continuity throughout his introductory press conference. His composure faltered only when discussing his predecessor.
Brent Pry’s name brought visible emotion.
“I would like to acknowledge Brent Pry. I always say I am not going to get emotional, but then I get emotional.”
The connection runs deeper than professional courtesy. Franklin and Pry share East Stroudsburg University roots that shaped both careers.
“Brent’s dad was my offensive coordinator in college. Brent’s first year coaching was my senior year at the Harvard of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, East Stroudsburg University.”
Their relationship continued through multiple stops. Pry served as Franklin’s defensive coordinator at Vanderbilt for three seasons and at Penn State for seven years.
“Brent and his family were with me at Vanderbilt all three years. And then for our first seven years at Penn State…I know this place is better today because of Brent.”
Franklin’s acknowledgment reflected genuine respect for Pry’s contributions to Virginia Tech.
“I just wanted to show the respect to him. I know how much coaches pour their hearts and souls into this job.”
The new coach spent considerable time honoring Virginia Tech’s football legacy. He mentioned Michael Vick, Bruce Smith, Antonio Freeman, Corey Moore, Cam Chancellor, Tyrod Taylor, the Fuller family, and the Edmunds family by name.
These weren’t casual references. Franklin demonstrated his understanding of Virginia Tech’s football tradition and the players who built it.
“I am someone that values the history, the traditions, the legends. And we are going to pour everything we have into this place…This is still a players game…and it is still a game where people matter.”
Franklin made clear he’s not planning wholesale changes to Virginia Tech’s program identity. Instead, he emphasized building upon the foundation established by previous coaches.
His approach reflects someone who understands inheriting a program like Virginia Tech requires earning the respect of its community, not just accepting a contract.
The introduction highlighted Franklin’s connection to the region and his respect for the program’s past. His emotional response to discussing Pry and his careful approach to honoring Beamer suggest he grasps the responsibility that comes with leading Hokies football.
