(Andy Lyons / Getty Images)
(PHOENIX) The USL Championship has suspended Phoenix Rising FC midfielder Junior Flemmings for six games for using a homophobic slur during the club’s match against San Diego Loyal SC on Sept. 30.
The league announced the suspension, along with an undisclosed fine, on Tuesday following an investigation that included interviews with 11 individuals, including players, coaches and match officials.
“Phoenix Rising accepts and supports the results of this investigation,” said Phoenix General Manager Bobby Dulle. “These actions could not be more contrary to the core values of our organization, and we apologize to all who were affected.”
Loyal SC forfeited the Sept. 30 match, which it was winning 3-1, by walking off the field after Flemmings used a homophobic slur toward Collin Martin.
Martin, who is openly gay, said the next day in a video posted on Twitter that he felt personally attacked but appreciated the support of his teammates, manager Landon Donovan and the organization.
Flemmings’ suspension began with Saturday’s match against LA Galaxy and covers the entirety of the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs.
The two teams released a joint statement on Saturday announcing they are “committed to working together towards the development of educational programs where players, staff and supporters will meet to share their backgrounds and life experiences.”
Last Thursday, the league announced a partnership with The Institute for Sport and Social Justice, which will provide mandatory sensitivity training and education for players and staff.
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