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Bob Nardella Releases Statement
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

On December 12, the American Hockey League announced a 10-game suspension for Chicago Wolves Head Coach Bob Nardella. In a press release, the AHL explained Nardella was being penalized for using homophobic language against the referees during a game on December 9.

Today, the Wolves sent out a press release with a statement from Nardella denying the allegations that he used homophobic language in the game.

The full press release is below:

I firmly deny that I made a homophobic remark during the game last Saturday, December 9. I want to state clearly that I condemn any form of homophobic language or conduct. I am a passionate and emotional coach who stands behind my players and my organization when I feel they are wronged. I accept that I lost my temper, and I was wrong to do that. I have tremendous respect for the officials and the work they do, and for the league and those involved. I regret that I did lose my temper and that is not how a coach should act. But I would like to set the record straight that I did not say what I am accused of saying.

I have had the honor of working in and around professional hockey for more than 30 years. In all of those years, I’ve done my best to make hockey a safe space for everyone involved. The accusations made against me are  incredibly upsetting because that is not the type of person I am. I look forward to returning to the bench and continuing the season, and I will remain a vocal advocate against all forms of discrimination in hockey.

This article first appeared on Full Press Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

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