Andrew Shaw and the Chicago Blackhawks released statements on Wednesday regarding an incident in the club’s Game 4 meeting with St. Louis Blues.
Shaw could be seen shouting a homophobic slur towards officials Tuesday night while seated in the penalty box after he was assessed a minor penalty for interference on Jay Bouwmeester.
Shaw, via official Blackhawks release:
“I am sincerely sorry for the insensitive remarks that I made last night while in the penalty box. 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.”
The team also issued a statement expressing disappointment with the forward’s actions:
“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.”
The 24-year-old told reporters following the game that he did not know exactly what he yelled in the penalty box.
The Blackhawks trail St. Louis 3-1 in the best-of-seven series. Game 5 goes Thursday night in St. Louis.
The NHL announced Wednesday that it was investigating the incident.
