Chicago Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw was suspended for one game after using a homophobic slur during the team's 4-3 loss against the St. Louis Blues on April 19.
During the game, cameras trained on Shaw, who was in the penalty box, captured him exclaiming to the referees, "Fuck you, fucking faggot," according to NBC 5. There was no audio for the incident.
The National Hockey League released a statement about the suspension on April 20 on its website. Shaw will also have to undergo sensitivity training, and must pay $5,000 for making an obscene gesture towards an official. He missed the fifth game of the Blackhawks' first-round Stanley Cup playoff series on April 21.
On April 20, Shaw issued a statement of apology via the Blackhawks' website.
"I am sincerely sorry for the insensitive remarks that I made last night while in the penalty box," said Shaw. "When I got home and saw the video, it was evident that what I did was wrong, no matter the circumstances. I apologize to many people, including the gay and lesbian community, the Chicago Blackhawks organization, Blackhawks fans and anyone else I may have offended. I know my words were hurtful and I will learn from my mistake."
"While Mr. Shaw was apologetic and remorseful for both the offensive comments and the inappropriate gesture directed at the on-ice officials, he must be held accountable for his actions," said NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell. "The emotion of the moment cannot and will not be a mitigating factor for the conduct that is expected of an NHL player."
The incident came shortly after the Blackhawks stepped up an initiative with the You Can Play Project, which addresses homophobia in sports.
Blackhawks management added, "We are extremely disappointed in Andrew Shaw's actions last night. His comments do not reflect what we stand for as an organization. We are proud to have an inclusive and respectful environment, and to support various initiatives such as the You Can Play Project and the Chicago Gay Hockey Association. We will use this opportunity to further educate our players and organization moving forward, so that we all may learn from it."
NBC 5's original story is at bit.ly/26fdfix .
