"It's Only Football..."

Joe Paterno, rest in peace.

The full story of the scandal that collapsed his otherwise pristine reputation and legacy on this earth as a football coach and educator (or is it the other way around?) is still being written.

The possibility for further exoneration OR condemnation exists. Time and court proceedings will have the final say on all of that.

His mountain of "good" I believe outweighs the late breaking tsunami of "bad" associated with Sandusky the child predator. I need not go through the box score on all of that.

Joe Paterno BUILT Penn State.
Joe Paterno LOVED Penn State.
Joe Paterno RAN Penn State.
Joe Paterno WAS Penn State.

Things should have stopped after the first two.

Somewhere along the way to JoePa becoming so insanely BIG at that place, more people should have said: "Hey, it's only football."

Somehow, JoePa got big enough that apparently nobody really "had his ear" to serve as a balancing consigliere of sorts. When the AD comes and says after 54 years as coach "hey, how 'bout riding off into the sunset" and the coach tells you to stick it, well then, you no longer have a functional athletic department.

You have a benevolent dictator.

I know JoePa feared death after football, like what happened to Bear Bryant. I know Bobby Bowden felt the same way at Florida State.

But that kind of thinking is nuts. JoePa didn't want to retire, because he felt there was nothing after football but death? Really? Somebody should have had his ear to say: "You're wrong, Joe. There's another glorious, post-football chapter waiting to be written. You are nearly 80! Time to move on."

Pat Forde of Yahoo Sports has a very well constructed piece today about what is left...

Penn State as we know it has died as well. 

In some ways, it needed to. The do-nothing university culture that allowed Sandusky to allegedly operate unimpeded certainly needed to die. The Paterno as emperor machinery, built to sustain an image and perpetuate a career beyond its rational boundaries, needed to die. The university’s disproportionate dependence on football for its identity needed to die. 

But there are some other elements to this obit that are disheartening. 

They’re burying an ideal alongside Paterno, an ideal most big-time football programs don’t even pretend to aspire to anymore. Paterno himself referred to it as “The Grand Experiment” – trying to win big while keeping winning in perspective. Those aspirations usually are mutually exclusive, but JoePa never believed it had to be that way. 

They’re burying the uniqueness of Penn State football, where it was OK to be old-fashioned. They’re burying a place where commitment was unconditional between school and coach. A place that dared to be dull amid the Oregonization of college football. A place where the coach never strong-armed the school for a bigger salary, never hesitated to help the school’s educational mission, never sold out to the corner-cutting methods that felled other big names in the profession. 

Amid the burials of both good and bad, one thing is sure: We will not see anything like the Paterno-Penn State dynamic ever again. It is a relic of a different era.

Penn State, and Penn State football have a chance at beginning a new chapter, certainly in Joe Paterno's mold, with Joe Paterno's values, but stripped of the lunacy of letting one man act as a King. Let's hope they figure it out.

Reminding yourself: "It's only football..." every now and then, would be a good start.

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 "It's Only Football...": The Deeper Impact of the Beautiful Game

Football, known as the "beautiful game," holds a special place in the hearts of millions worldwide. Beyond the stadiums, roaring crowds, and goals scored, football has a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. In this article, we will explore the broader significance of football, its role in shaping communities, fostering unity, and addressing social issues. We will delve into the rich history and cultural significance of the sport and answer frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive understanding of why football is more than just a game.

The Universal Language

Football is often celebrated as a universal language that transcends geographical, cultural, and linguistic boundaries. Regardless of where you are in the world, the sight of a football being kicked on a pitch or street corner can instantly create a connection. This shared love for the sport forms the basis of a global community of football enthusiasts.

The Power of Unity

Football has the unique ability to bring people together. It's a common thread that binds diverse communities, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Fans from different backgrounds, languages, and cultures can come together to support a common cause – their team. In this way, football plays a vital role in bridging gaps and promoting mutual understanding.

The Cultural Significance

Football is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of many societies. From Brazil's samba-infused celebrations to England's tradition of singing in the stands, football rituals reflect the rich tapestry of human culture. The sport's cultural significance is evident in various aspects:

Rituals and Traditions

Football matches are often accompanied by rituals and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Whether it's the pre-game rituals of players or the chants and songs of supporters, these traditions add depth and meaning to the sport.

National Identity

Football often serves as a symbol of national identity. The colors of a nation's flag are proudly displayed by fans in stadiums worldwide. International tournaments like the FIFA World Cup evoke national pride and create a shared sense of belonging.

Art and Expression

Football is not just a game; it's an art form. The graceful movements of players, the strategy behind every pass, and the sheer poetry of a perfectly executed goal inspire fans and artists alike. Football has influenced literature, film, music, and visual arts in profound ways.

Football and Social Change

Beyond its role as a cultural phenomenon, football has the power to drive social change and address critical issues. Many footballers and organizations have used their influence to champion causes such as equality, inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

Tackling Discrimination

Football has been a platform for addressing discrimination in various forms, including racism, sexism, and homophobia. Players, clubs, and governing bodies have launched campaigns and initiatives to combat prejudice and promote diversity and inclusion.

Inspiring Youth

Football has the ability to inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders. Many football academies and programs around the world use the sport as a tool for empowering young people, teaching values such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

Environmental Responsibility

In recent years, football has increasingly embraced environmental responsibility. Clubs and organizations are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, promote sustainability, and raise awareness about environmental issues.

Football and Community Building

Football serves as a powerful force for community building, particularly at the grassroots level. Local clubs and organizations often play a crucial role in strengthening communities and providing a sense of belonging.

Grassroots Football

Grassroots football programs provide opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the sport. These programs emphasize participation, skill development, and camaraderie, fostering a strong sense of community.

Social Impact

Football has the potential to create positive social impact. It can serve as a tool for social integration, rehabilitation, and empowerment for marginalized communities, refugees, and individuals facing adversity.

Economic Stimulus

Football can also have a significant economic impact on communities. Stadiums, tourism, merchandise sales, and youth development programs all contribute to local economies, creating jobs and revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is football called the "beautiful game"?

Football is often referred to as the "beautiful game" due to its simplicity, elegance, and universal appeal. It captures the essence of competition and teamwork while allowing for moments of individual brilliance.

2. How does football promote unity?

Football promotes unity by bringing people from diverse backgrounds together to support a common cause. Fans, regardless of their differences, can share the joy of victory and the pain of defeat, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

3. How has football been used to address social issues?

Football has been used to address social issues by raising awareness, promoting inclusivity, and advocating for change. Many footballers and organizations use their platforms to tackle discrimination, champion equality, and support charitable causes.

4. What is grassroots football?

Grassroots football refers to community-level, non-professional football. It includes youth and amateur leagues, local clubs, and programs that focus on participation, skill development, and community engagement rather than professional competition.

5. How does football contribute to economic growth?

Football contributes to economic growth through various means, including stadium revenues, ticket sales, tourism, merchandise sales, and the development of youth academies. It creates jobs and stimulates local economies.

Football is more than just a game; it's a powerful force that transcends borders, cultures, and languages. It unites people, celebrates diversity, and addresses social issues. Football's cultural significance, ability to foster community, and potential for social change make it a truly beautiful and impactful game. As fans, players, and communities continue to embrace the sport, football will undoubtedly remain a source of inspiration and connection for generations to come.