Shocking allegations have come to light against a former long-time Penn State University football coach.
Jerry Sandusky, who was with the team for more than 30 years, is now facing multiple child sex abuse charges.
According to court papers, Sandusky has 40 counts against him including indecent assault of a person less than 13 years old.
At Friday night's Scranton Knight's football game, fans said they're shocked and saddened.
It was a chilly night at Scranton High as fans bundled up to watch the Knights take on the comets from Abington Heights.
Some chose to wear their Penn State gear to battle the cold.
Many pledged their die hard loyalty to the school as well as the Nittany Lions football team.
One fan said, “I am a Penn State fan. I have a grandson playing for Penn State."
Others also said they have personal ties to Penn State.
Paul Prislubsky is an alumnus so is his daughter, and his son is in his senior year.
That's why news that former long-time defensive coach Jerry Sandusky is now facing multiple child sex charges is both shocking and heartbreaking.
“It's very shocking. He's been a part of Penn State for a long time, coached the defense, did a wonderful job with the student athletes there,” said Tony Caudullo of Browndale.
Court papers showed the list of 40 charges Sandusky faces, that included indecent assault of minor under the age of 13, having sex with a minor under the age of 16 and corruption of minors.
The charges accuse Sandusky of committing these acts as far back as 1996, and the most recent in 2005.
“It's really hard to believe, that's the whole story there. I met the man, I know the man" said Clarence Duffy of West Scranton.
The charges were filed in Centre County where Penn State's main campus sits.
Sandusky was an assistant coach with the Nittany Lions for 32 years and was well-known for his work with the team. He is also the founder of The Second Mile, a non-profit organization that helps at-risk youths in Pennsylvania.
Many said the hardest part about the accusations is Sandusky was seen as a role model and leader to the young men who played for him.
“He coached a lot of kids, a lot of young kids and put them through the football program and taught them a lot of life lessons, so yeah it’s hard to believe it. He’s an honorable man.” said Caudullo.
A grand jury has been investigating these allegations for about two years.
According to published reports head football coach Joe Paterno and other team officials were called to testify in front of the grand jury.