The biggest problem with the media parade around the issue, is that the focus was put on Joe Paterno more then on Jerry Sandusky. No one would argue that Joe Pa could have and should have done more. But, instead of the innocent victims and their families being thought of first, people are focused more on the legacy of Paterno. He was a great coach and probably a great man, making it unfortunate this is how he had to retire. Sandusy, the PSU President and Athletic Director are really the ones to blame. They were the ones who truly were wrong, with Joe Paterno and Mike McQueary took a huge fall for doing the bare minimum. Paterno and McQueary did tell who they were suppose to tell, but they stopped there when they could have done more as no ramifications resulted.
College football goes from one scandal to another, with Oklahoma recently being penalized for cheating. But this scandal isnt the typical cheating one, it is much more inhumane. The media has driven this scandal differently because they have twisted it to focus on Joe Paterno's legacy and the game versus Nebraska instead of the real issue of the molested kids. This is another example of the deviance within college athletics, but this time it was not by a student-athlete. Instead it was a coach, those we are taught to look up to and trust from an early age.
Social media is a huge tool in our society. It can have positive and negative influences. Because it is so easy to post, athletes and sports officials have found themselves in hot water over comments they make. But, it is an excellent way for athletes and sports franchises to get closer to the true fans. I personally follow many professional athletes because it allows the fan a rare opportunity to "get to know" the real athlete. Also, it is a great tool to use in marketing, branding, and networking.
J. Melton KIN 577
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