Suspended Sharks prospect and the target of racist taunt issue statements on the 30 game suspension
Boko Imama was the victim of a racist taunt by Sharks prospect Krystof Hrabik. Today Hrabik was suspended 30 games for his actions, but tonight both men have issued statements on the matter.
Details of the incident can be found here
Krystof Hrabik issued the following statement:
I am ashamed of today's eventsand embarrassed by the actions that led to my suspension. want everyone to know that I'm very sorry for what has occurred and take full responsibility for my actions.
People should know that had absolutely no inappropriate intent. The gesture was made in the heat of battle and while I didn't mean anything racist by what did, I realize now through my own ignorance how my gesture could be interpreted. I alone am responsible for that, it was terrible, and make no excuses. When heard about Boko's reaction to the gesture, I was horrified by what I had done.
Boko is a player respect and I am so sorry for putting him through this situation. I sent a personal apology to Boko and sincerely hope that he will forgive me. I also want to apologize to the American Hockey League, the San Jose Barracuda, the Tucson Roadrunners, and to my teammates for my unacceptable actions.
I fully accept the consequences of my actions and am not appealing the discipline imposed by the AHL.
I will be working with Anson Carter, Kim Davis, and the NHL's Player Inclusion Committee to participate in education and training on racism and inclusion. I know will be judged by my future conduct. If given the opportunity, I will do everything in my power to atone for my actions and lead by example.
Boko Imara also issued the following statement:
I've been dealing with situations like this my entire life. As a person of color playing youth hockey, through Junior and now twice as a professional, this keeps happening to me over and over again. We have enough to worry about as pro hockey players and it saddens me when anyone has to deal with these types of issues.
It's frustrating and disheartening that this is still going on in 2022!
Even though honestly believe the sport has made positive strides, WE still have a long way to go to educate the ignorant and to make hockey a safe place for everyone.
My hope is that people learn from this and that some day hockey will truly be for everyone.
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