Joe Paterno Announces Retirement Amid Sex Abuse Scandal

By Newsroom America Staff at 9 Nov 2011

The Head Coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, Joe Paterno,has announced he is retiring at the end of the season as an allegation of child sex abuse is investigated against a former assistant.

Mr Paterno said in a statement he was "absolutely devastated" by the developments in the case of former defensive coordinator, Jerry Sandusky, who is accused of molesting eight boys over 15 years.

"I am absolutely devastated by the developments in this case. I grieve for the children and their families, and I pray for their comfort and relief.

"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 have the same goal today.

"That's why I have decided to announce my retirement effective at the end of this season. At this moment the Board of Trustees should not spend a single minute discussing my status. They have far more important matters to address. I want to make this as easy for them as I possibly can," he said in a statement.

Mr Paterno said with the benefit of hindsight, he wishes he had done more.

"My goals now are to keep my commitments to my players and staff and finish the season with dignity and determination. And then I will spend the rest of my life doing everything I can to help this University," he said.