ABSTRACT
The Jerry Sandusky sexual abuse scandal tarnished Penn State University’s reputation and stirred debates over organizational identity. Following the NCAA’s announcement of sanctions, team captains Michael Zordich and Michael Mauti delivered a joint address that sought to renew Penn State football’s identity. However, their address missed important opportunities for renewal. This chapter examines Zordich and Mauti’s address through the lens of crisis communication and rhetoric in the tradition of public address and suggests that analyzing communication beyond official discourse from coaches, athletic directors, and university leaders is vital for understanding the nuances of crisis communication in sport.
