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AHL Wolves coach denies using homophobic language

The coach of the American Hockey League's Chicago Wolves is denying he used homophobic language against an official after he was handed a 10-game suspension on Tuesday.

Bob Nardella released a statement on Wednesday, saying he lost his temper, but did not use homophobic language.

"I firmly deny that I made a homophobic remark during the game last Saturday, December 9," Nardella said. "I want to state clearly that I condemn any form of homophobic language or conduct. I am a passionate and emotional coach who stands behind my organization when I feel they are wronged. I accept that I lost my temper, and I was wrong to do that.

"I have tremendous respect for the officials and the work they do, and for the league and those involved. I regret that I did lose my temper and that is not how a coach should act. But I would like to set the record straight that I did not say what I am accused of saying."

Nardella, in his first season as the team's head coach, was assessed a game misconduct for abuse of officials at 8:48 of the third period of Chicago's 8-5 loss at Texas on Saturday.

He will be eligible to return to the Wolves bench on Jan. 6.

The Wolves do not have an affiliation with an NHL team.

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