Joe Paterno w/ Nittany Lion Crying - In MemorialI only spoke with Joe Paterno for about 5 minutes. Yet, his influence on me and my perspectives of leadership was immense. Unfortunately, near the end of his life, tragic events that occurred under his leadership challenged his perfect record of character. So when he passed away, I wanted to remember him for his greatness. “JoePa”, as his is affectionately known by his Nittany Lion family, was the greatest coach in NCAA football. He taught me the best of what it means to be a man of character, a Nittany Lion and a leader.

Joe Paterno Quotes

The name on the front of the jersey is what really matters, not the name on the back. | Share on Twitter

When a team outgrows individual performance and learns team confidence, excellence becomes a reality. | Share on Twitter

Success without honor is an unseasoned dish; it will satisfy your hunger, but it won’t taste good. | Share on Twitter

You need to play with supreme confidence, or else you’ll lose again, and then losing becomes a habit. | Share on Twitter

Publicity is like poison; it doesn’t hurt unless you swallow it. | Share on Twitter

The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital. | Share on Twitter

You guys can pick on me all you want … I don’t give a darn what you guys think, to be honest with you. | Share on Twitter

The minute you think you’ve got it made, disaster is just around the corner. | Share on Twitter

Besides pride, loyalty, discipline, heart, and mind, confidence is the key to all the locks. | Share on Twitter

To be honest, the media has not been a factor in my lifestyle or my coaching interest or how I motivate. | Share on Twitter

You have to perform at a consistently higher level than others. That’s the mark of a true professional. | Share on Twitter

Losing a game is heartbreaking. Losing your sense of excellence or worth is a tragedy. | Share on Twitter

People say to me, ‘Why don’t you give it up?’ … I don’t want to miss anything. | Share on Twitter

I want you kids to know how much we appreciate you. Have fun and behave. | Share on Twitter

Believe deep down in your heart that you’re destined to do great things. | Share on Twitter

If I had to do it over again, I’d probably play the game the same way. | Share on Twitter

 

Thank you, Joe, I will miss you…