Local athletic programs reviewed

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Colleges and Universities across the country are taking a hard look at their own athletic programs following sex abuse allegations involving former Penn State and Syracuse University athletic coaches.

Craig Poisson, the Senior Associate Director of Athletics at Springfield College, told 22News the tragic events make you pause and reflect on what you do and what your colleagues do, however Poisson said the school's policies are constantly under review and he feels the college has some of the best practices regarding coaching hires in the country.

“Our coaches are teachers. They’re full-time faculty members, they’re hired under the same principals as faculty members. I think that that’s something that sets us apart,” Poisson said.

Western New England University and American International College did not want to comment for this story. Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky and former Syracuse University assistant basketball coach Bernie Fine have each been accused of child molestation. Fine was fired Sunday.