Response to the Penn State situation

i’ve been asked so many times this week what my opinion is about Joe Paterno being released, I thought I’d post a response with my thoughts.  I’ve always been a big fan of Joe Paterno, and the success and longevity he’s had.

First, my heart goes out to the victims of this alledged crime. If it’s true, a number of young men have been deeply injured. I pray for them that they will find healing through this.

Regarding Joe Pa’s firing, let me state: I totally and completely agree that he had to be released.  By all means Joe was a great coach and a huge positive factor in the development of young men who played football for him. The love & respect displayed for him by former players this week is a testimony to his impact on their lives.

However, he had a much greater responsibility to respond in a stronger way than he did.  Upon hearing from an assistant that one of his coaches was seen showering with a young boy, his response was to report it to the athletic director, and leave it at that.  Worse yet, the perpetrator was allowed continued access to the football program and was endorsed in running football clinics for young boys. Apparently, this afforded more opportunities for boys to be abused.  This is unconscionable.

When someone is entrusted with leadership, they’re responsible to lead at a higher level.  Joe Paterno failed to protect young men.  If i was told that one of my staff was showering with young boys, I would do much more than tell my board.  I would confront him, place him on immediate leave, and call the police. If an investigation proves he’s innocent, then great, he’s reinstated.  However, you cannot take such accusations so lightly.

The Bible says that to whom much is given, much is required. In this case, with the position of coach and all the authority he had, Joe Paterno failed to live up to his responsibility.  His release was the right decision and I fully support it.