The phrase alludes to the controversy surrounding Jerry Sandusky, a former Penn State assistant football coach, and the allegations of child sexual abuse that led to his conviction. “Skip the games” refers to avoiding distractions or superficial activities and focusing on the core issue of justice and accountability related to the case. The term functions as a stark reminder to prioritize the victims and the seriousness of the crimes over any attempts to minimize or overlook them, regardless of the sport context.
The significance lies in its use as a moral compass in the face of potential diversions or attempts to lessen the impact of the scandal. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, ethical conduct, and victim support, especially in institutions with significant public influence. The case, and references to it, have prompted institutions nationwide to re-evaluate their child protection policies and reporting procedures, increasing the focus on safeguarding minors.
