Paterno retirement statement

"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.  This is a tragedy. It is one of the great sorrows of my life. With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I 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."

-- Joe Paterno