Joe Paterno Expresses Disappointment, Asks Everyone To Remain Calm

Joe Paterno released a second statement on Wednesday night, hours after he was fired by the Penn State Board of Trustees. The first statement was short, with Paterno saying he would have to get used to not being the head coach at Penn State. But as the gathering in State College grew and showed signs of spinning out of control, Paterno asked the students to be respectful and thanked those who have been a part of his career.

Paterno’s statement, which was broadcast on ESPN, is as follows:

“I am disappointed with the Board of Trustees’ decision, but I have to accept it. A tragedy occurred, and we all have to have patience to let the legal process proceed. I appreciate the outpouring of support but want to emphasize that everyone should remain clam and please respect the university, its property and all that we value. I have been incredibly blessed to spend my entire career working with people I love. I am grateful beyond words to all of the coaches, players and staff who have been a part of this program. And to all of our fans and supporters, my family and I will be forever in your debt.”

He also added the following when speaking to the students outside his home.

“I want to say to all these great students who I love, you guys are great all of you. When I say guys you know I mean, I mean girls, too. Look, get a good night’s sleep. Study. Alright, we’ve still got things to do. I’m out of it maybe. The phone call put me out of it. We’ll go from there, ok? Good luck everybody. Thanks for coming.”

For more on the situation that continues to develop at State College, visit SB Nation’s Penn State blog, which has been on the forefront of the story from the beginning, Black Shoe Diaries, and revisit this storystream for updates.