There are many traditions Penn State fans are able to observe and participate in during the course of a typical home gameday or during the season. Other traditions, though, are reserved for the team. One of the annual events the family members of the coaches and staff are able to participate in with the squad members is the traditional Christmas Eve party at the bowl site. Among the activities are dinner, the singing of carols and the highlight of the evening, a visit by Santa Claus. This past December, another squad member added his name to the Santa Claus 'roster,' as freshman Brandon Ware dressed up as jolly ole St. Nick at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Ware delivered presents to the children of the coaches and staff and one-liners to several members of the audience, as his teammates roared their approval. Nittany Lion fans are looking forward to the opportunity to cheer for Ware as he enters his first season on the field. A first-team Class AAAA all-state selection at Harrisburg HS, the talented and hard-working young man should have an opportunity to make an impact for the defensive interior line this fall. He has made significant progress in practice and in the weight room during the past year and will enter preseason looking to nail down a spot in the tackle rotation. Ware is a very good athlete with a considerable amount of potential and promise for this season and the future.
2008 Freshman Season
Redshirt season. Ware was on the travel squad for a couple of away games, but did not participate. He made two solo tackles for the Blue squad in the 2009 Blue-White game.
High School
Ware was a standout lineman for Coach George Chaump at Harrisburg HS. He earned 2007 first-team Class AAAA all-state accolades and was selected to play in the 2008 Big 33 Classic. During his senior season, Ware recorded 15 tackles for loss, including eight sacks, and forced one fumble. As a junior, he made 45 stops, including eight sacks, and recovered a fumble. A football team captain, Ware also was a member of the track and field and wrestling teams.
Personal
Full name is Brandon Armond Ware. His mother is Virginia Ware. He has one younger sister, Giovanni. Ware enjoys reading, playing video games, watching movies, hanging out with friends and playing basketball. He is enrolled in the College of Communications. Born November 25, 1989 in Harrisburg, Pa.