Sportsnet has issued an apology for comments made by Coaches Corner co-host Don Cherry.
Cherry went on a bit of a rant on the November 9th episode of Coaches Corner on Hockey Night in Canada, where he made some comments that were deemed "divisive and offensive", leading to Sportsnet's apology.
Cherry has been an open, long-time supporter of the Military and has endorsed buying a poppy every year on his program. This year, however, Cherry's comments may have stumbled across the line when he singled out residents of Canada who may not have been born there.
“You people... love our way of life, love our milk and honey. At least you could pay a couple of bucks for poppies or something like that. These guys paid for your way of life that you enjoy in Canada.”
The 85-year-old often walks the line pretty closely, but he means well, though he may not select his words wisely at times. So far, Cherry has not commented on the matter or issued an apology of his own. President of Sportsnet, Bart Yabsley had this to say regarding Cherry's comments.
"Don's discriminatory comments are offensive and they do not represent our values and what we stand for as a network. We have spoken directly with Don about the severity of this issue and we sincerely apologize for these divisive remarks."
The NHL has also issued a statement on the comments, calling them offensive.
"Hockey is at its best when it brings people together. The comments made last night were offensive and contrary to the values we believe in."
You can watch Cherry's comments here:
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