Famed US college football coach Joe Paterno and the Penn State University president have been fired amid allegations of child abuse and a cover-up involving a former assistant coach and school officials.
Penn State was thrown into turmoil on Saturday when charges were filed against long-time assistant coach Jerry Sandusky.
Mr Sandusky (67) is accused of sexually abusing at least eight boys over more than a decade. Two other university officials have been charged with not reporting an incident in 2002 when Mr Sandusky allegedly was seen sexually assaulting a child.
Lawyers for all three men have said they deny the charges and maintain their innocence.
The university's board of trustees thwarted an an attempt by Mr Paterno (84), one of the most iconic names in American sports, to leave the team on his own terms. It triggered largely peaceful protests on campus from students.
"I am disappointed with the Board of Trustees' decision, but I have to accept it," Mr Paterno said in a statement. "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."
During his 46 years as head coach, Mr Paterno won two national championships, more games than any other and the adoration of Penn State's students, alumni and staff.
The coach had said yesterday he would step down at the end of this season, a few weeks from now, and suggested the trustees should not worry about his status.
But the trustees said they needed to make immediate changes "in the best interests of the university" given the grave issues now facing it.
The situation was a tragedy and "one of the great sorrows of my life," Mr Paterno said in his statement. "With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more," he said of his actions after learning of the allegations about Mr Sandusky in 2002.
Mr Spanier had been president of Penn State for 16 years. He was criticised for not speaking out earlier and was contrite. "There is wisdom in a transition in leadership so that there are no distractions in allowing the university to move forward," he said in a statement.
Reuters