The overall response to Michael Sam’s announcement that his is a homosexual athlete was very positive, however there were others who made derogatory comments.
Montreal Alouettes wide receiver Arland Bruce and Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive tackle Bryant Turner Jr. were outspoken on Sam’s coming out party.
Bruce shared this message on his Twitter:
Yow!!!!! Mr/MSam you scared to run on titties and ass and coochie you gaey, Man up and do some MFN push UPS and get on your knees and submit to God fully. Come out of her: Americas Trap…Lil homie don’t go thru with it it’s a trap bruh.
Not exactly eloquent inspiration to welcome Sam’s bravery. That was quickly followed by an apology by Bruce:
I want to say I am sorry for the comments I have made. I made the comments and have my own opinions. I would be very open to having Michael Sam in our locker room as he is a good football player. My personal belief is that God made Adam and Eve and not Adam and Steve and I will stand by my opinion even if it upsets my fans. I do want to say sorry to those I have offended, but I stand by my comments.”
Seems as though Bruce was taking the easy way out by standing by religion to mask his anti-gay comments. The Montreal Alouettes’ general manager and head coach Jim Popp issued a statement on Bruce and his commentary:
The Montreal Alouettes have a s simple criteria to determine who can be a member of our organization. We seek individuals who will make a positive contribution to our team goals and to the Montreal community. We unequivocally denounce the regrettable comments made by Bruce. The statements and feelings expressed by Bruce are disappointing and do not reflect the opinions and values of the Montreal Alouettes Football Club. Our organization supports all types of diversity. Every individual is unique and free to make his or her own choices. We evaluate players, coaches and support staff based on their skill set and not by gender, color, religion or sexual orientation.”
The CFL league commissioner Mark Cohon chimed in with a release:
The comments made are extremely disappointing and do not represent the CFL’s views or the views of the vast majority of our players. The CFL is supportive of openly gay athletes in professional sports and we commend the courage shown by Michael Sam. During the off-season, we have been working with an organization that specializes in this subject and look forward to announcing a formal partnership with them in the near future.”
Meanwhile Turner’s tweet, which was not as harsh and seemed more of a poor attempt at humor reportedly said, “Michael Sam locker room gonna come with complimentary robes.” Shortly thereafter Turner of course posted an apology saying,
I would like to apologize for my inappropriate and insensitive tweet. My tweets are solely from me, and I accept full responsibility for my actions. I am sincerely sorry for any shame that I may have caused the great city of Winnipeg, the CFL or the wonderful Blue Bomber organization.”
The amount of the fines were not disclosed and there is talk that Bruce will be released by the Als after being on the team for one year. The 36-year-old Bruce has been in the league for eleven seasons where he has been a three-time CFL all-star and two-time Grey Cup champion. Turner has played three seasons with the Bombers.
[CBC]
