Twitter and other social media sites have escalated this entire situation much more quickly than it would have been ten years ago. Throughout my research it seems things are developing so quickly that this entire situation will be resolved in a matter of days. When everyone is weighing in on the matter the tradgedy of it becomes overwhelming. There were three themes that I picked up on when sifting through the abundance of information. The absolute heartbreak and what seems genuine sorrow of Paterno for not doing more when the situation first came to light. The other two being that the NCAA will suffer more poor press, and that for some fans, and sadly enough they're probably right, this is merely a minor disturbance in the PSU football dynasty.
The fact that Paterno didn't say more as well as the other officials is truly disturbing. I have no doubt that these men are suffering mentally more than I can imagine because they chose to ignore the matter, but it doesn't excuse what they did. The crucible of power and success in big time college football is more than many can handle, and it seems to always lead to poor choices. These men probably chose to act in a way that would preserve the integrity and status of their program by keeping the matter behind closed doors. They also may have been deceived into thinking they knew their friend well enough that he wouldn't do the things he's accused of doing. Not only this but the NCAA will once again look bad as they have done nothing to put the heat on PSU to have Paterno to step down immediately. A string of child molestation cases is something they choose not to get involved with, but the selling of a signed jersey or team memorabilia is deserving of their utmost attention. It just once again gives the NCAA a poor image.
Social media I think will be useful to those of us looking to start a sport management career. Sure, there are opinions across the board, many of them somewhat ridiculous but it will give us an idea of what the general public opinion is on hot button issues. As in the Penn State situation most seem to want Paterno to step down, some want him to finish, and a few are already worried about the next coach. It's somewhat mind blowing to see that people defend Paterno's actions because of his football success, or are talking about who the next coach might be as if this is merely a scandal that will be looked back upon as a minor nuiscance. The scary part is that it probably will be forgotten within a couple months, until it happens again.
There is no doubt without Twitter most of these opinions would not be seen on such a widespread level, and I'm not sure that punishment for those involved would be near as swift or just. Penn State will no doubt see public opinion swelling against them and I would be surprised if Paterno wasn't asked to step down immediately, not after the season. I believe that in this way social media is a monster that can be used in a positive way, but those in control still need to make a logical decision based on facts that most outsiders don't have. Decisions made on emotions, which many tweets are fueled by, are usually never good ones. These are things I would be wise to remember once I have a management position.
Kyle Hughes KIN 577
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