By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA
Rochester Americans forward Ben Holmstrom has been suspended for eight games for using a homophobic slur during a game last week.
Holmstrom was assessed a game misconduct as the first period ended in the March 30 home game against the Utica Comets. He had brushed with a Comets player and appeared to exchange words, but there was no physical interaction or altercation.
The referees immediately assessed a game misconduct, and the American Hockey League was notified that Holmstrom had used the homophobic slur.
The league then suspended Holmstrom pending an investigation.
Following the game, Amerks coach Seth Appert claimed he didn’t know why he had lost the services of one of his players for the final two periods.
In a prepared statement issued through the team today, Holmstrom apologized.
“I made the regrettable mistake of using an inappropriate word towards an opponent,” his statement said. “It’s not something that is appropriate any time, let alone in the game of hockey.
“I made the mistake and take full responsibility for it. I apologize wholeheartedly to both the New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres organizations as well as the American Hockey League for my actions. Hockey is a great game, and my mistake is not a reflection of all the truly great people involved in it.”
Holmstrom sat out last weekend’s two games in Cleveland and will not be eligible to play until April 23. However, his professional tryout ends this week and the Amerks have not said whether it will be extended.
If he is released and has only served four games of his suspension, he would be required to serve four more should he sign again with an AHL team.
The 11th-year veteran was signed in early February after injuries and recalls depleted the Amerks roster. He had been playing for ECHL South Carolina.
In 23 games with the Amerks, Holmstrom has five assists and Appert has relied on him for faceoffs, penalty killing and the ability to be a stabilizing presence during chaotic times.
The AHL said that as part of the suspension, Holmstrom will participate in diversity and inclusion education.
“The American Hockey League is committed to building a culture that is safe, inclusive, and free from abuse, harassment and all forms of unethical behavior or misconduct,” the league said.
Without naming Holmstrom, Amerks general manager Jason Karmanos issued a statement that said:
“We were made aware of an inappropriate comment made by one of our players in a recent game. Once aware, we took immediate action through numerous conversations with the player, team, and league. To be clear, we have no tolerance for any form of hate, and regret any harm his comment inflicted. We strive to maintain an inclusive environment in which our differences are celebrated. We have sought counseling and awareness resources for the player.”
The Amerks are in Canada this week, playing tonight at Friday at Laval and Saturday at Belleville.
Just one more nail in the coffin of this very disappointing team. With the 6-2 loss tonite, its pretty clear these guys just don’t have it. They can’t win consecutive games (only time since Jan1st) and every aspect of their game is totally out of sync. They knew this one was important and they just failed miserably. Poor goaltending; ridiculous penalties at the worst possible time; a weak ‘d’ and then when they needed it most, the offense took the night off.
Very very disappointed in this outfit. I expected them to at least put up a fight.
Ted I agree too talented a team to not be able to put back to back wins together just ridiculous. I can already hear the coach saying how they have points in 8 of the last 11 games well big deal they are giving up more points then they are gaining or they wouldn’t be in 6th place getting all the players back in the last few weeks has done absolutely nothing! I really have enjoyed Appert interviews and how well he communicates but if you can’t get this talented a team into the playoffs I hope we get a new coach next year
Another awful loss in Laval. Team completely outclassed. Defense beyond awful, heck even Dom Hasek in his prime might not be able to get this team into the playoffs. This team won’t make the playoffs probably the biggest collapse I can ever remember considering where this team was at Christmas break