Amerks’ Ben Holmstrom suspended 8 games for ‘homophobic language’

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — The AHL has suspended Rochester Americans Forward Ben Holmstrom for eight games following the use of what the team deemed “homophobic language.”

Holmstrom was assessed a game misconduct in the 1st period of Rochester’s game against Utica last Wednesday.

As part of the suspension, the league announced that he’ll be “participating in diversity and inclusion education.”

In a statement, Rochester 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.”

He’s eligible to return on April 16 against the Wolf Pack.