Penn State Fires Joe Paterno

Joe Paterno’s historic career at Penn State has come to an end. Paterno was fired from his position as the head coach of the Nittany Lions today for his involvement in the sexual assault scandal surrounding Jerry Sandusky.

Paterno announced earlier today that he would step down at the end of this year due to the molestation charges pressing against his former defensive coordinator, Jerry Sandusky. But Penn State trustees decided today that Paterno would not be able to finish his 46th season as the head coach of Penn State.

Paterno is not facing legal charges, but fans, critics, and school officials are questioning why Paterno didn’t do more when the allegations were brought to his attention in 2002.

Paterno said earlier today:

“I have come to work every day for the last 61 years with one clear goal in mind. To serve the best interests of this university and the young men who have been entrusted to my care… I grieve for the children and their families, and I pray for their comfort and relief.”

According to the Associated Press, current assistant coach Mike McQueary told Paterno that he had seen Sandusky touching a 10-year-old boy in the showers at Penn State in 2002. Paterno reportedly told athletic director, Tim Curley, and a vice president, Gary Schultz, about the incident. But no further action was taken.

Paterno said in a statement:

“This is a tragedy. It is one of the great sorrows of my life. With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more.”

Penn State has not named a replacement for Paterno.

Joe Paterno was the winningest coach in college football history. He claimed his record 409th win last month.

Do you think Penn State should have allowed Joe Paterno to finish the season?