BAD SPORT

Seattle Soccer Player Suspended Three Games For Anti-Gay Slur

Another day, another pro athlete in trouble for using homophobic language: Seattle Sounders defender Marc Burch has been suspended for three games for calling another player an anti-gay slur at a playoff game on Thursday.

Burch issued an apology on Friday:

I apologize for my horrific choice of words last night during our match. This is something that is inconsistent with my family values and because of that I am both disappointed and embarrassed by my level of poor judgment.

I take seriously my role as a leader in the community and this is completely regrettable and unacceptable. Character matters and I hope through hard work on and off the field to begin earning your respect and trust again.”

MLS commissioner Don Garber said the league “has a zero-tolerance policy” toward discriminatory language. “While I understand and believe that Mr. Burch is remorseful, Major League Soccer is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.”

Photo: Bo McMillan

 

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