CHICAGO— Blackhawks fan favorite Andrew Shaw found himself in the penalty box after Tuesday's game when he was caught on camera using a gay slur.
When Shaw was in the penalty box during Tuesday's game, it appeared that he uttered a gay slur towards someone on the ice. Shaw was asked by reporters after Tuesday's game about the incident.
"Emotions are high," Shaw told reporters. "I don't know what was said. Obviously, I was upset with the call. I wasn't happy with the call."
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.
We are aware of tonight's incident and will be reaching out to the NHL immediately to assist in an appropriate response.
— You Can Play Project (@YouCanPlayTeam) April 20, 2016
The Chicago Gay Hockey Association posted their reaction as well to Shaw's comments on their website and Facebook page.
Mike Bleecher, the treasurer for the Chicago Gay Hockey Association was watching the game when Shaw used the slur.
"Shaw is known for being a gritty player and what he said last night crossed the line. He showed a lack of sportsmanship," Bleecher said. But he added, "an incident like this doesn't describe him as a player and a person."
Bleecher believes that instead of shaming Shaw for his comments, the incident should be as a teachable moment.
"We can use this for an opportunity for education instead talking about that hateful word," Bleecher said. "Words like that are why gay athletes hide their sexuality."
Chris Hine, a gay man who covers the team for the Tribune, gave his thoughts on the incident as well, saying Shaw "has a reputation around the league for being an irritant on the ice, but I don't think he's a bad guy."
Shaw and the team released separate statements Wednesday.
"I am sincerely sorry for the insensitive remarks that I made last night while in the penalty box. I apologize to many people, including the gay and lesbian community, the Chicago Blackhawks fans and anyone else I may have offended. I know words were hurtful and I will learn from my mistake."
The Blackhawks echoed Shaw's sentiments, saying the team "will use this opportunity to further educate our players and organization moving forward, so we all may learn from it."
The Blackhawks released a video with You Can Play earlier this month.
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