Jerry Sandusky Releases Statement on Death of Penn State Coach Joe Paterno

The passing of Joe Paterno has brought forth sympathies and condolences from all corners of the Penn State community and the world of college football, past and present.

Including Jerry Sandusky.

The longtime defensive coordinator of the Nittany Lions football team released a statement on Sunday regarding JoePa's death:

"

This is a sad day! Our family, Dottie and I would like to convey our deepest sympathy to Sue and her family.

Nobody did more for the academic reputation of Penn State than Joe Paterno. He maintained a high standard in a very difficult profession. Joe preached toughness, hard work and clean competition. Most importantly, he had the courage to practice what he preached. Nobody will be able to take away the memories we all shared of a great man, his family, and all the wonderful people who were a part of his life.

"

Sandusky is currently facing 52 counts of child sexual abuse stemming from a scandal that rocked Happy Valley and forced Paterno out of Penn State in November, after 62 years as a coach at the university.

Sandusky played under JoePa and spent 30 years on his coaching staff shortly thereafter.

Paterno had been battling lung cancer since November. His wife Sue summoned friends and family to State College on Sunday to say goodbye and pay their respects to Paterno before the all-time winningest coach in NCAA Division I football history passed away. He was 85.

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