New Jersey Devils tough guy Cam Janssen took a ton of heat Thursday evening after the Internet discovered an interview in which Janssen made disparaging remarks about gay athletes, among other insensitive comments.
The interview was pulled from YouTube quickly on Thursday, but we've saved it in it's entirety here.
Janssen apologized Friday morning for his comments in a statement released by the Devils. In full:
"Earlier this week, I participated in an Internet-based radio show in which I used some poor judgment, which I now regret. The New Jersey Devils were unaware of this interview, which I arranged myself.
"I would like to apologize for my poor choice of language. The tone of the interview was very casual and off-color, and I lost focus on what is and is not acceptable and professional. I am deeply sorry to anyone who was offended by my language. Moving forward, I hope to eliminate that type of language from my vocabulary. I would also like to take this chance to express my support for the work the You Can Play project is doing, and for the gay community in general.
"I apologize for the embarrassment my comments have caused to the New Jersey Devils management, as well as my teammates."
You Can Play was co-founded by Patrick Burke, a Flyers scout and the son of Leafs general manager Brian Burke, and its goal is to rid professional sports of homophobia while making it comfortable for gay athletes to play openly.
What do you think of Janssen's apology? Was it forced by the Devils' public relations staff, was it genuine, or was it a little bit of both?
For more on Janssen and the Devils, check in with In Lou We Trust and SB Nation New York.