CHICAGO— The National Hockey League suspended Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw on Wednesday for one game for using a gay slur while in the penalty box and fined him $5000 for directing an inappropriate gesture at the on-ice officials during Tuesday's game.
Shaw will not play in the Blackhawks upcoming Thursday, April 21 game against the St. Louis Blues.
The NHL released a statement Wednesday.
"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."
“That’s not the type of guy I am.” Andrew Shaw met the media before
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 20, 2016
departing for St. Louis.https://t.co/KsIvkN2rRy
When news of Shaw's comments became public, many local and national LGBT groups quickly called for Shaw to be disciplined for his actions.
You Can Play, an organization that strives for the safety and inclusion of LGBT athletes, coaches and fans in sports, tweeted their reaction to Shaw's comments last night along with reaffirming their relationship with the Blackhawks.
#AndrewShaw #ChicagoBlackhawks #NHL #YouCanPlay pic.twitter.com/ucgRZ6jOB6
— You Can Play Project (@YouCanPlayTeam) April 20, 2016
Shaw, a fan favorite for his edgy style of play, will also undergo sensitivity training mandated by the NHL.
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