the human factor

Last night at supper we discussed the NCAA ruling on Penn State. Bobby was shocked at the $60 million dollar fine and was wondering whether it was actually worth it for the school to continue to have a football program. The reversal of wins, other than removing Paterno from the record books as the winningest coach, doesn't really do much. I mean, who wants to tell their kids "Hey, the team I played football on beat Penn State" 20 years after the fact, even though they really didn't. It's a lot like the US girls gymnastic team being awarded gold medals years after the Olympics because proof finally surfaced that China used an underage child on their team.  Winning gold 4-5 years after the event just doesn't quite seem the same as winning gold during an awards ceremony.

Don't get me wrong, I think Penn State should be punished, but revoking wins has always seemed a little stupid to me.

Other than the many victims, the one person who I feel the most sympathy for is Paterno's widow. She's grieving. She's lost her soulmate. And now? The media and everyone around is bashing his name. Yes, I think the man did wrong by not reporting and firing Sandusky and covering up sin. But can you imagine losing your best friend, only to have his name trounced every time you turn on the television? Can't you imagine the salt in an already hurting wound?

There are no winners in situations like this. Her pain and grief, like the victims, will diminish some with time, but will always be there. Unlike the victims, the precious memories she had have been tarnished somewhat and won't totally bring comfort now.  Growing up in a football state I've witnessed all my life what happens when things are made to be so important that life is skewed out of proportion. This situation is a tragic reminder that anything, whether football or any other hobby, can become a controlling force if we don't keep it in its proper perspective.