Joe Pa Keeps on Truckin'

Did you see that Penn St. gave football coach Joe Paterno a three-year contract extension? Normally, that would be no big deal, but given the fact that Joe-Pa (as he is affectionately known by PSU fans) turns 82 this weekend, it's pretty amazing.

Terms weren't disclosed by the university but it's conjectured he'd be making at least $500,ooo annually. Most of his contemporaries, if they choose to work and are able, probably make about 1/100th of that amount and also get to say catchy things like "Welcome to Walmart" or "Want fries with that?"

Paterno must be incredibly adaptable and resilient. Think about the type of athlete he coached in 1950 vs now. Back in "the day" football players actually went to class, didn't have rap sheets as long as their arms, and didn't dictate to the coaching staff. I doubt I could've put up with some of the prima donnas Joe's had to deal with, especially in this era of media hype. The bottom line is he must truly love coaching, there's no other explanation for his longevity in the game.

I can't imagine working at age 82. Come to think of it, I can't imagine working at age 62 either! I suppose if you've been working at the same job at the same company like Joe-Pa has for the past 58 years (yes, kids he started at Penn State in 1950!) it becomes embedded in your DNA. Heck, he just had a hip replaced and he's still going for crying out loud! I guess I'll think twice before I call in sick at work.